FREEHOLD — A borough man has been convicted on multiple first- and second-degree charges stemming from a 2023 attempted sexual assault and armed robbery at a township park, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced.
Following a two-week jury trial before Paul X. Escandon, 48-year-old Anthony Burke was found guilty of first-degree attempted aggravated sexual assault, first-degree armed robbery, second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon.
Prosecutors said the charges stem from an incident on August 14, 2023, when police were called to Thompson Grove Park shortly before 10 p.m. for a report of an armed robbery. Authorities determined the assailant forced his way into a 19-year-old woman’s vehicle, robbed her and attempted to sexually assault her while brandishing a firearm.
Investigators said the victim was able to break free after her phone, keys and cash were taken, fleeing to a nearby home to seek help.
The case was built through witness interviews, a composite sketch, surveillance footage, cellphone and digital forensic analysis, and vehicle location data, which ultimately led investigators to identify Burke as the suspect.
The investigation was led by the Manalapan Township Police Department with assistance from the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes, Special Victims and High Tech bureaus. Additional support came from the Freehold Township Police Department, Freehold Borough Police Department, Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, and the New Jersey State Police Forensic Imaging Unit.
Jurors also determined Burke qualifies as a repeat violent offender based on prior convictions. As a result, he faces a mandatory sentence ranging from 20 years to life in state prison when he is sentenced on May 18.
The case was prosecuted by Caitlin J. Sidley of the Major Crimes Bureau. Burke is represented by Michael A. Policastro.
