SHERIFF’S OFFICE ARRESTS MAN WANTED FOR CHILD MOLESTATION

A man wanted for aggravated sexual assault of a young boy is behind bars after he was arrested Friday afternoon in West Long Branch. Anthony Francis Maffia, 34, had a warrant out of Port St. Lucie, Florida for molesting a six year old boy.

Maffia allegedly molested the young boy over several months dating back to 2007 in Florida.

Recent tips led seven sheriff’s officers and members of the US Marshals New York, New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task Force to 103 Monmouth Road in West Long Branch Friday afternoon, where Maffia was believed to be staying. Once inside, officers arrested Maffia and found prescription drugs, narcotics paraphernalia and pornographic materials. “I commend everyone involved in the arrest for a job well,” said Sheriff Kim Guadagno. “The partnership between the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office and US Marshals Regional Fugitive Task Force is vital, and as a result communities where our children live and play are now safer.”

Long Branch Police also assisted with the arrest. Maffia is currently being held at the Monmouth County Correctional Institution.

For more information, contact Undersheriff Cynthia Scott at 732-577-6613.