Boston College Admissions Worker Arrested for Alleged Sex Trafficking of High School Student

Boston College Admissions Worker Arrested for Alleged Sex Trafficking of High School Student

A college admissions worker from Boston has been arrested on serious charges after he allegedly attempted to solicit sexual favors from a 17-year-old high school student. Jacob Henriques, 29, faces accusations of offering the student $400 in exchange for sex. This shocking case has raised concerns about the integrity of college admissions procedures.

The Allegations

Federal officials reported that Henriques, functioning as an assistant admissions director at Emmanuel College, accessed the personal information of at least four prospective students. Following this, he reportedly reached out to these students with disturbing offers, including monetary compensation for sexual activities.

On April 25, he allegedly met with three students during their campus visits. After these meetings, he followed up with text messages inviting them to engage in sexual encounters. One such message included a proposition to pay for fun, alongside sharing explicit content.

Targeting Victims

The 17-year-old girl alleged to be his main victim received a text offering $400 for a sexual encounter just hours after she toured the college with her family. According to federal prosecutors, Henriques used the phone number provided on the student’s admissions application to initiate contact.

Throughout his communications, Henriques failed to disclose his identity or explain how he obtained her phone number. Even after sending multiple pornographic videos, he persisted in proposing sexual favors, including asking if she wished to participate in a gangbang.

Unwanted Advances

Despite the girl’s multiple rejections, Henriques allegedly continued his harassment. Prosecutors highlighted that he texted her late into the night, expressing that he would provide her with anything she desired if she reconsidered his offer.

Escalating Harassment

Between April 25 and April 28, Henriques reportedly accessed the girl’s profile on social media 47 times. After she blocked his number, he resorted to emailing her, further demonstrating a pattern of unwanted and aggressive behavior.

Legal Consequences

Following these allegations, Henriques was charged with one count of attempted sex trafficking of a minor. If convicted, he could face severe legal penalties, including a potential life sentence in prison. He is set to appear in U.S. District Court in Boston, where the gravity of the charges will be addressed.

Institutional Reaction

In response to the situation, an Emmanuel College spokesperson confirmed that Henriques has been terminated following an internal investigation. The institution has expressed its deep sadness, anger, and shock over the allegations, emphasizing that such actions are an affront to their core values.

The spokesperson stated, “We stand with any victimized by this incident.” This response reflects the college’s commitment to safeguarding its students and maintaining the integrity of its admissions processes.

Ongoing Investigation

As the case progresses, the FBI’s Boston Division Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force has begun a broader investigation. They are actively seeking to identify any additional victims potentially targeted by Henriques during 2024 and 2025.

Community Concerns

The incident has sparked significant concern within the local community and raises important questions about student safety in educational environments. Parents and prospective students alike may feel apprehensive as they navigate college admissions in light of this troubling case.

The disturbing nature of these allegations highlights the need for heightened vigilance and preventative measures in college admissions practices. Educational institutions must ensure that their employees act ethically and responsibly to protect the interests of their students.

This case serves as a critical reminder of the potential vulnerabilities faced by young individuals during their transitions from high school to college. As the legal proceedings unfold, many will be closely watching to see how the justice system addresses these serious allegations.