Acting Essex County Prosecutor Robert D. Laurino announced today Uvaldo Melgar, 46, of Newark was sentenced to 18 years in state prison for sexually assaulting two young girls.
“This sentence brings finality and a sense of closure to the victims and their families,’’ said Assistant Prosecutor Peter Polidoro, who tried the case.
Following a three-week trial, on Nov. 17, 2016, Melgar was convicted of one count of first degree aggravated sexual assault, one count of second degree sexual assault and two counts of second degree endangering the welfare of a child.
Today, the Honorable John I. Gizzo, Judge of the Superior Court, sentenced Melgar to 12 years in state prison with an 85 percent period of parole ineligibility for the aggravated sexual assault and an additional six years for endangering the welfare of a child.
Melgar faces possible deportation upon the completion of his sentence. He also must register as a Megan’s Law offender and is subject to parole supervision for life.
Melgar and his wife were caregivers for the girls, ages 7 and 10, at his family’s home while their mother worked. He was found guilty of sexually assaulting the youngest girl between August 2012 and May 2013, and endangering both girls.
