An Egg Harbor Township High School teacher’s aide has been arrested and charged in connection to an investigation into the distribution of child abuse and sexual exploitation images through Snapchat.

Mark Balesteri, Jr. - Photo: ACPO
Mark Balesteri, Jr. - Photo: ACPO
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Atlantic County Prosecutor Damon Tyner says 29-year-old Mark Balesteri, Jr., of Egg Harbor Township was arrested on Thursday following a long investigation into his on-line activity.

In a press release, Tyner said, "Sadly, the transmission of child pornography is a pervasive problem throughout our community that does not always receive enough attention. Child predators lurk behind their computer screens and exploit defenseless children with the stroke of a keyboard. These predators occupy many positions of trust from teachers and coaches to many other professions. The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office remains vigilant in rooting them out."

Balesteri, Jr., has been charged with Endangering the Welfare of Children – Distribution of Child Abuse and Sexual Exploitation Images (Second Degree), Endangering the Welfare of Children – Possession of Child Abuse and Sexual Exploitation Images with the Intent to Distribute (Second Degree), and Endangering the Welfare of Children – Possession of Child Abuse and Sexual Exploitation Images (Second Degree).

Balesteri was arrested and processed without incident and transported to the Atlantic County Justice Facility.

NJ.com reports Balesteri was making $23,457 annually at the start of the latest school year. Some swimming websites identify him as a one-time standout diver at EHT High School and Rowan University.

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