Ocean Gate Suspect Charged in 10-Year-Old Child Abuse Case

An Ocean Gate 41-year-old is charged with sexually abusing two children in Brick Township nearly a decade ago, and Ocean County investigators believe there might be more victims. 

Michael LeTrent III was charged with incidents involving a six-year-old and a 12-year-old. Information from county Prosecutor Joseph Coronato says that LeTrent is a registered Tier 2 offender under Megan's law.

His bail on charges of aggravated sexual assault, sexual assault and child endangerment was set at $500,000, cash only, with no option for release on payment of 10 percent. LeTrent is also barred from contact with the victims under terms of Nicole's Law.

 According to investigators, the female victim traveled to Brick Township Police in late May to report the incidents that also involved a boy. Detectives visiting his home June 1 did not find LeTrent there, but advised his girlfriend that he was sought.

 Authorities say LeTrent vanished after several futile attempts to contact him. An arrest warrant was issued on June 4, followed by visits to co-workers, family members, friends and acquaintances. LeTrent surrendered a week later at the Manchester Police Department.

 Anyone who may have been victimized, or has knowledge of related incidents, is urged to contact the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office, 732-929-2027; or Brick Township Police, 732-477-8300.