Man charged in 'sex for scholarship' scheme

OAKLAND Bergen County Sheriff Leo McGuire and Oakland Chief Edward Kasper announced the arrest of Hackensack resident Joel Brodsky on charges of criminal trespass, endangering the welfare of a child and abuse of a child.

On March 26th, the Oakland Police Department was notified of a suspicious incident which occurred at the Indian Hills High School in Oakland, New Jersey. Authorities say the 48-year-old Brodsky, identifying himself as "Mark Adams," approached four students that were attending a SAT prep course at the school.

During the conversation, police say Brodsky stated that he worked for ESPN and was carrying a New York Giants football helmet that was allegedly signed by Eli Manning. He then allegedly told the students that he would like to meet with a 16- or 17-year-old girl for sex. In exchange for being arranged with a girl, he would provide the student with a scholarship for college.

"Mr. Brodsky's actions are despicable enough, but the fact that he pursued our children right into their school is beyond belief," McGuire said. "As a parent and a member of law enforcement, I have no tolerance for those who prey on our kids, particularly in a place that is supposed to be a safe haven for them."

Brodsky was arrested late Wednesday evening by Detectives with the Oakland Police Department and the Bergen County Sheriff's Office.

Brodsky's bail was set at $50,000, with no 10 percent option.

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