El fiscal del condado de Ocean, Bradley D.. Billhimer anunció que en mayo 9, 2025, David Taber, 67, del municipio de Berkeley, fue sentenciado por el Honorable Kenneth T.. Palmero, J.S.C., a 120 días en la cárcel del condado de Ocean como condición de libertad condicional – as a result of having been found guilty of Criminal Sexual Contact in connection with an incident that occurred in Berkeley on March 22, 2023. En marzo 5, 2025, following an almost week-long jury trial before Judge Palmer, the jury concluded beyond a reasonable doubt that Taber, while a patient at the Crystal Lake Rehabilitation Facility in Berkeley Township, committed an act of criminal sexual contact upon a nurse at the facility.
En marzo 22, 2023, aproximadamente a 6:50 pm., Officers from the Berkeley Township Police Department responded to the Crystal Lake Rehabilitation Center for a report of a patient touching a female nurse in an inappropriate manner. An investigation by responding Officers determined that while the victim was attempting to administer medication to Taber, he touched her breast without her consent, placed her in a bear-hug, and attempted to pull down her pants. A co-worker then intervened and separated the two.
Taber was charged accordingly and served with the charges via summons pending future appearances in Ocean County Superior Court.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the diligence and dedication of Assistant Prosecutor Julie Peterson who handled the case on behalf of the State. The Prosecutor likewise extends his gratitude to the Berkeley Township Police Department for their efforts in connection with this investigation.