A former New Jersey elementary school aide faces 61 criminal charges after investigators allegedly found images and videos of students on his electronic devices. Prosecutors say Shaun M. Stebbins, 44, worked with pre-K students at Woodbine Elementary School from February 2022 until his arrest on March 29, 2026. The charges include aggravated sexual assault, sexual assault by contact, manufacturing child sexual abuse material and endangering the welfare of a child. Stebbins remains detained while the investigation and court proceedings continue.
The case expanded into Cape May County after authorities in neighboring Atlantic County and Somers Point alerted prosecutors to a separate sexual assault investigation involving Stebbins at his home. Court documents reportedly allege that sexual acts involving children were recorded at the school, including in a bathroom and during nap time. Authorities have not publicly identified the number of students involved or disclosed when the alleged recordings were made.
| 1) | Charges and alleged conduct |
| 2) | School employment and investigation timeline |
| 3) | Potential penalties under New Jersey law |
| 4) | Authorities’ response and public safety efforts |
| 5) | Custody status and next steps |
Charges and alleged conduct
Cape May County prosecutors announced 61 charges against Shaun M. Stebbins on October 30. The counts include 29 allegations of manufacturing child sexual abuse material, five counts of aggravated sexual assault, 13 counts of sexual assault by sexual contact and 14 counts of endangering the welfare of a child. Prosecutors say the allegations arose after a search of electronic devices allegedly revealed numerous images and videos involving students from Woodbine Elementary School.
Court documents reportedly allege that Stebbins filmed and carried out sexual acts involving children in a school bathroom and during nap time. The allegations remain accusations, and the case must proceed through the criminal justice system. Officials have not released the identities of any alleged victims or provided a public count of the students involved.
School employment and investigation timeline
Stebbins worked as a teacher’s aide at Woodbine Elementary School in Cape May County from February 2022 until his arrest in Atlantic County on March 29, 2026. The school serves elementary-age children, and prosecutors said his duties included working with pre-K students for approximately four years.
The investigation reached Cape May County after Atlantic County authorities and Somers Point officials notified local prosecutors in April about a separate sexual assault investigation involving Stebbins at his home. Investigators then examined potential evidence connected to the school. The resulting inquiry led prosecutors to file the additional charges announced in October.
Potential penalties under New Jersey law
The manufacturing and aggravated sexual assault allegations are first-degree offenses under New Jersey law. Prosecutors said those offenses can carry prison sentences ranging from 10 to 20 years if a defendant is convicted. The remaining allegations are second-degree offenses that are typically punishable by five to 10 years in prison.
The charges reflect the severity of the conduct alleged by investigators, but the filing of criminal counts does not establish guilt. Any penalties would be determined by the court after further proceedings, including decisions on evidence, potential motions and, if necessary, a trial or plea resolution.
Authorities’ response and public safety efforts
Cape May County Prosecutor Jeffrey H. Sutherland said the investigation remains active and emphasized the responsibility of authorities to protect children. His office is working with the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office as investigators review the allegations and any additional information that may identify related conduct or potential victims.
“Children are among our most vulnerable population, and we have a responsibility to protect their safety and well-being. Anyone who harms a child will be held accountable through our justice system.”
The Woodbine School District and the two county prosecutors’ offices had not publicly provided additional details in response to requests for comment. Officials have limited information about the alleged victims and recordings to protect the integrity of the investigation and the privacy of children.
Custody status and next steps
Shaun M. Stebbins remains at the Atlantic County Correctional Facility pending court proceedings. The case is expected to continue through the New Jersey courts, where prosecutors must pursue the charges and the defense will have the opportunity to respond to the allegations.
Authorities are asking anyone with information about the investigation to contact the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit at 609-465-1135. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through the office’s tip service. Investigators have not said when the inquiry will conclude.
| Number | Key Point |
|---|---|
| 1 | Stebbins faces 61 charges connected to alleged abuse involving students. |
| 2 | Investigators allegedly found images and videos on his electronic devices. |
| 3 | He worked at Woodbine Elementary School from February 2022 until his March 2026 arrest. |
| 4 | The most serious charges could carry 10 to 20 years in prison upon conviction. |
| 5 | He remains detained while prosecutors continue investigating. |
Summary
The case involves serious allegations against a former school aide who worked with young children in New Jersey. Prosecutors say electronic evidence and a related investigation led to 61 charges, while authorities continue to protect the identities of potential victims and gather information. Stebbins remains in custody, and the allegations will be tested through the court process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is facing charges?
Shaun M. Stebbins, 44, a former teacher’s aide at Woodbine Elementary School, is facing the charges.
How many charges were announced?
Cape May County prosecutors announced 61 charges, including aggravated sexual assault, sexual assault by contact, manufacturing child sexual abuse material and endangering the welfare of a child.
Where is the defendant being held?
Stebbins remains at the Atlantic County Correctional Facility while court proceedings continue.
How can the public provide information?
People with information may contact the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit at 609-465-1135 or submit an anonymous tip through the office’s tip service.
