Long Branch Man Charged with Sexual Crimes Against Two Child Victims

WBJB | By Michele McBride

Published November 26, 2025 at 6:07 AM EST

A Long Branch man has been arrested and charged with sexually assaulting two children.

Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond Santiago announced Monday that 45-year-old Raul F. Lopez, also known as Lee Escobar, faces multiple charges, including first-degree aggravated sexual assault and child endangerment. Investigators say the crimes involved two victims — a girl who was under 13 when the abuse began in 2020, and a boy under 16, with incidents reported last year. Lopez turned himself in earlier this month at Long Branch Police Headquarters and remains in custody following a detention hearing. Authorities are urging anyone with information about his activities to contact Long Branch Police.

Tags

Michele McBride

I’ve had my dream job of waking up with all the great listeners and members of Brookdale Public Radio since January 3, 2005. Prior to this job, I began my career in radio at NJ 101.5 FM as a producer. From there, I took time off from radio to do other things. (including becoming a mom!)

See stories by Michele McBride