10 Year Sentence for Aggravated Sexual Assault and Robbery on Morristown Trail

The incident involved an armed attack on the victim by two suspects, including a juvenile, in May 2022.

Lizandro Osorio-Mejia, 20, was sentenced to 10 years in state prison on December 6, 2024, for his role in an aggravated sexual assault and robbery that occurred on May 3, 2022, along the Traction Line Recreation Trail in Morristown. The sentence, handed down by Judge Claudia Jones, J.S.C., includes eight years and six months of parole ineligibility under the No Early Release Act, lifetime parole supervision, and registration under Megan’s Law. Osorio-Mejia is also prohibited from contacting the victim.

Details of the Incident

On the day of the crime, Osorio-Mejia and a juvenile accomplice, later identified as Kenneth Barios Aviles, approached a female victim and demanded money. When the victim did not comply, Osorio-Mejia used a rock to threaten her, pushed her to the ground, and sexually assaulted her while Aviles stood nearby. The suspects, who were strangers to the victim, fled the scene after the assault.

The incident prompted an immediate investigation by the Morristown Police Department, Morris Township Police Department, Morris County Sheriff's Office, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. Both suspects were arrested three days after the crime on May 6, 2022.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

• Osorio-Mejia: On August 19, 2024, he pled guilty to first-degree aggravated sexual assault, first-degree robbery, and third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. His 10-year prison sentence mandates significant parole restrictions and includes lifetime supervision.
• Aviles (Juvenile Accomplice): Aviles pled guilty to conspiracy to commit theft, a third-degree offense. On December 18, 2023, he was sentenced to 18 months of probation with credit for 40 days of time served. He is also barred from contacting the victim.

Acknowledgment of Law Enforcement Efforts

The case was successfully prosecuted through collaboration among the Morristown and Morris Township Police Departments, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit.

This sentencing reinforces the commitment of Morris County law enforcement to securing justice for victims of violent crimes and ensuring community safety.