Former NJ Trooper Says Teen Sex Sting Charges Will Cost Him Years in Prison

After admitting to an undercover sting that caught him trying to meet a juvenile girl for sexual activities, a former New Jersey State Police trooper faces several years in prison. The former valued officer’s plea is a shocking fall from grace.

Last Wednesday, Brick resident Shane H. Dempsey, 32, pleaded guilty to second-degree attempted sexual assault and third-degree official misconduct. A month-long investigation by an undercover officer as a 14-year-old girl led to the accusations. Prosecutors said the detective communicated with active-duty Dempsey on Whisper.

Investigators said Dempsey had graphic talks with the detective, thinking he was talking to a child. He allegedly demanded sexual photographs and offered rewards. Dempsey drove his police vehicle to a meeting after the internet conversation, which exacerbated his legal issues.

As part of his plea deal, prosecutors will ask for a seven-year prison sentence in state prison, with Dempsey spending at least two years in prison before he can get out on parole. Megan’s Law says that he has to register as a sex offender for life, which means he will be watched even after he gets out of jail. A judge has also permanently banned him from working in the public sector.

Dempsey had been working for the State Police since 2017 and had made more than $80,000 before he was detained. The DA for Monmouth County said his term is November 21.

In this case, authorities stressed how important it is to keep kids safe from being abused, especially when the abused person is someone the public trusts. They also said that the secret operation is a part of a bigger plan to catch and punish online predators who prey on kids.

This well-known case makes it clear: people who break the law will be held accountable. Dempsey has to change out of his uniform and into jail clothes. He will be punished for life.