Rabbi allegedly had sex with Lancaster teen forced into prostitution

Associated Press
Aryeh Goodman

 

EAST BRUNSWICK, N.J. (AP) — A New Jersey rabbi and two New York City residents are facing charges in connection with the alleged human trafficking of a Pennsylvania teenager.

Middlesex County prosecutors say 18-year-old Gabriella Colon and 23-year-old Richard Ortiz, both of the Bronx, coerced a 17-year-old Lancaster girl into having sex with roughly 30 men between Jan. 1 and Feb. 2 at an East Brunswick hotel. They were arrested Friday and face numerous charges, including criminal restraint and promoting prostitution.

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The rabbi, 35-year-old Aryeh Goodman of East Brunswick, was allegedly among those who had sex with the girl. He's charged with engaging in prostitution with a child and child endangerment.

Prosecutors say Goodman was working in a religious capacity at a Jewish center that operated out of his home and may have affiliation with another center in East Brunswick.

Also of interest: Sex offenders not in compliance with state law