WOODBURY, N.J. – Nicholas Bounasis, 41, of the Sewell section of Mantua, pled guilty to one count of first-degree aggravated sexual assault and one count of second-degree distribution of child sexual abuse material before the Honorable Kevin T. Smith on Monday.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in open court:
Bounasis was arrested on June 27, 2024 following the execution of a search warrant of his residence by the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Unit. During the search, detectives found devices belonging to Bounasis containing images of child sexual abuse and exploitation, and evidence that Bounasis had sent those images to other individuals via the internet. Further investigation found Bounasis had sexually assaulted a child under the age of twelve.
The State will recommend an aggregate sentence of 30 years in prison with no eligibility for parole. As part of his sentence, Bounasis will be placed on parole supervision for life and must register under Megan’s Law upon release from prison. A final sex offense restraining order will also be entered to protect the victim.
“This case demonstrates the seriousness with which we pursue those who exploit and harm children,” Prosecutor Andrew B. Johns said. “Through the dedication and cooperation of our law enforcement partners, we ensure that offenders are held fully accountable and that victims are protected.”
The County of Gloucester complies with all state and federal rules and regulations against discrimination in admission to, access to, or operations of its programs, services, and activities. In addition, County encourages participation of people with disabilities in its programs and activities and offers special services to all residents 60 years of age and older. Inquiries regarding compliance may be directed to the County’s ADA Coordinator at (856) 384-6842/ New Jersey Relay Service 711.
Johns thanked the Philadelphia Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the Special Agent in Charge Wayne A. Jacobs, the New Jersey State Police, under the direction of Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, and the Mantua Police Department under the direction of Chief Darren White, for assistance with the investigation. The matter is scheduled for sentencing on April 10, 2026.