New Jersey man charged with traveling to Norway to engage in sexual activity with a 14-year-old girl.

A New Jersey man, Jacob Bauer, has been charged with federal crimes after allegedly traveling to Norway to engage in sexual conduct with a 14-year-old girl. The 27-year-old, a resident of Toms River, reportedly made the approximately 3,600-mile journey from December 1 to December 10, 2023. Allegations suggest that he checked into a hotel in Norway from December 6 to December 9, during which he is said to have engaged in sexual activities with the minor at least once.

Following his return to the United States, Bauer is accused of maintaining communication with the victim via multiple social media platforms, including Discord. Reports indicate that the conversations included discussions about their sexual encounters, and Bauer allegedly recognized the girl’s age and her status as a minor during these exchanges. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey reported that Bauer also shared details about his encounter with the 14-year-old with others online.

The case took a significant turn when several Discord users became aware of Bauer’s claims and proceeded to doxx him. Doxxing, the act of publicly revealing private information about an individual, is often used as a form of retribution. The information disseminated by these users ultimately reached federal authorities, including the FBI, aiding in Bauer’s arrest earlier this year.

U.S. Attorney Alina Habba described Bauer’s alleged actions as both reprehensible and egregious, emphasizing the serious nature of the charges, which include traveling with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct and engaging in such conduct in a foreign country. Habba highlighted the importance of protecting vulnerable populations, stating that these charges reflect a commitment to combatting the sexual abuse of children. She recognized the collaborative efforts of various law enforcement entities, including the FBI and local and international partners, in bringing Bauer to justice.

The unfolding case underscores the ongoing issues surrounding child exploitation and the lengths to which individuals may go to exploit minors. As investigations continue, law enforcement remains vigilant in addressing such crimes and ensuring that offenders are held accountable for their actions.