A 36-year-old New Jersey man, Jermin Fordyce, was arrested after breaking into a Hackensack home through a bathroom window and attempting to sexually assault a sleeping girl early Saturday morning, according to the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office.
Police responded to the home invasion at approximately 3:40 a.m. and found Fordyce restrained by residents inside the house after intervening in the attack. Authorities said Fordyce entered the home through the bathroom window, proceeded to the girl’s bedroom, removed his pants, and attempted to sexually assault her while she was asleep. The victim was described by police only as a resident, with local reports identifying her as a girl.
During the assault, Fordyce allegedly strangled the girl. Another resident was awoken by the struggle and subdued Fordyce until police arrived. Fordyce now faces first-degree charges including home invasion, burglary, and attempted aggravated sexual assault, as well as a second-degree aggravated assault charge.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Fordyce remains in police custody awaiting a court hearing. The Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed the seriousness of the charges, classifying the attempted sexual assault and home invasion as first-degree offenses, which carry significant legal penalties under New Jersey law.
Community Response and Police Action
Hackensack police commended the prompt action of the residents who intervened during the incident. The investigation is ongoing, and law enforcement officials continue to urge residents to remain vigilant about security measures in the neighborhood.
For more stories on this topic, visit our category page.
