ARRESTED: PETER SANTIAGO
POHATCONG, NEW JERSEY
AGE: 49
On Tuesday, March 16, 2026, following an investigation into the reported sexual assault of an (8) eight year old child, Peter Santiago was taken into custody. During the course of the investigation, it was determined that the suspect was known to the victim. Santiago was arrested, processed, and lodged in the Warren County Correctional Center pending his first appearance in Warren County Superior Court. Peter Santiago was charged on a Complaint Warrant with the below offenses:
- (2 counts) Aggravated Sexual Assault, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2a(1), a crime of the first degree;
- (3 counts) Sexual Assault, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2b, a crime of the second degree;
- Endangering the Welfare of a Child in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C: 24-4a(1), a crime of the second degree.
Santiago faces a sentence of 25 years to Life in New Jersey State Prison, subject to the Jessica Lunsford Act. He will also be subject to Megan’s Law and Parole Supervision for life. Second degree crimes carry a maximum sentence of (10) ten years in New Jersey State Prison.
The charges are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The investigation was conducted by the Warren County Special Victims Unit and the Pohatcong Township Police Department.