Branchburg Woman, 69, Charged in Somerset County Child Pornography Investigation

Branchburg Resident Accused of Possessing and Sharing Child Sexual Abuse Materials

Authorities in Somerset County have charged 69-year-old Kathleen Amberg, a resident of Branchburg, with distributing and possessing child sexual abuse materials following a criminal investigation prompted by a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).

According to the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, the New Jersey State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and local investigators acted swiftly after receiving the tip involving exploitative content shared via an internet service platform.

Digital Devices Seized During Investigation

On August 13, 2025, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Amberg’s home and seized multiple electronic devices for forensic analysis. Investigators believe the devices contain files depicting the sexual exploitation of minors.

As a result of the search, Amberg was charged with:

• Second-degree distribution of child sexual abuse materials
• Third-degree possession of child sexual abuse materials

Both charges are serious felonies in the state of New Jersey. If convicted, Amberg could face significant prison time.

Legal Representation and Release

Amberg was initially held in Somerset County Jail but has since been released after appearing in Superior Court. Her attorney, Keith Oliver, issued a public statement saying, “At this time, I am still gathering the facts and reviewing the allegations. As always, my client is presumed innocent, and we look forward to addressing the matter through the appropriate legal channels.”

Ongoing Investigation Encourages Public Input

The investigation remains active, and authorities are encouraging anyone with information related to this case to come forward. Tips can be reported directly to:

• Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations and Computer Crimes Unit: (908) 231-7100
• Branchburg Township Police Department: (908) 526-3830
• STOPit App: For anonymous tips
• Somerset County Crime Stoppers Tip Line: 1-888-577-TIPS (8477)

Standing Up for Victims of Child Sexual Exploitation in New Jersey

Cases like this are a sobering reminder that child sexual exploitation and online abuse can happen in any community, regardless of age or background. At Survivors of Abuse NJ, we are committed to supporting victims and their families as they seek justice and healing.

Attorney Joseph L. Messa, Jr., Esq. leads our dedicated legal team in representing survivors of child pornography, sexual abuse, and online exploitation throughout New Jersey. We understand the lifelong trauma these crimes can cause and work tirelessly to ensure those responsible are held accountable.

Legal Support for Victims and Their Families

If you or someone you know has been affected by child sexual abuse or exploitation—whether through direct victimization or exposure to child pornography—we are here to help. Our legal team offers confidential consultations and a compassionate approach tailored to the needs of survivors.

You don’t have to face this alone. Legal remedies may include civil litigation against perpetrators, institutions that failed to intervene, and others who enabled the abuse.

Contact Survivors of Abuse NJ for a Free Consultation

Don’t wait to take action. If you believe you or your child may have been impacted by the actions of Kathleen Amberg or others involved in child exploitation crimes, reach out today.

Call us at (856) 596-8000 to schedule your free and confidential consultation with Joseph L. Messa, Jr., Esq. and the team at Survivors of Abuse NJ.

Together, we can pursue justice and begin the path to healing.

Source:

https://nj1015.com/branchburg-woman-child-exploitation/