Jefferson Township Resident Sentenced to 23 Years for Sexual Assault and Weapons Charges

Michael Figueroa receives a lengthy prison term following a serious conviction that includes child sexual abuse.

MORRISTOWN, NJ – A significant legal conclusion has been reached for Michael Figueroa, 32, of Jefferson Township, who has been sentenced to 23 years in New Jersey State Prison on multiple charges including Aggravated Sexual Assault. Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Jefferson Township Police Chief Paul Castimore announced the details of the sentencing.

On January 17, 2024, Figueroa pled guilty to several charges: first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault, second-degree Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons, and third-degree Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Dangerous Substances (CDS). The sentencing, carried out by Judge Ralph Amirata on May 31, 2024, also includes 23 years of parole ineligibility and lifelong parole supervision, along with mandatory registration under Megan’s Law.

The final seven years of Figueroa’s sentence are designated to be served at the Adult Diagnostic and Treatment Center. This decision follows a year-long investigation initially sparked by a narcotics probe, which led to the issuance of a search warrant for Figueroa's home. This search uncovered multiple firearms, suspected heroin, cocaine, ammunition, and a digital scale.

Upon his arrest on April 19, 2023, further examination of Figueroa's smartphone revealed images depicting the sexual abuse of a child under 13, as well as additional child sexual abuse material (CSAM). These findings led to further charges specifically related to the sexual abuse, which investigators believe occurred over a two-year period at Figueroa’s residence.

Figueroa has been held at the Morris County Correctional Facility since his arrest, under the directives of the Criminal Justice Reform Act.

Prosecutor Carroll expressed his gratitude towards the Jefferson Township Police Department, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit, and the MCPO Special Operations Division for their diligent work in bringing this case to a resolution.