An Essex County jury sentenced a Newark man to 154 years in prison for the sexual assault of three minors.

The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office said 42-year-old Terrance Mells was convicted of three counts of first-degree aggravated sexual assault, three counts of second-degree sexual assault, one count of third-degree aggravated criminal sexual assault, three counts of second-degree endangering the welfare of a child, and one count of first-degree witness tampering.​

Prosecutors proved Mells abused the minors multiple times between March 2015 and November 2023. The abuse began when the victims were 12, 13, and 14. They also proved Mells threatened one victim after learning he was under investigation.​

Assistant Prosecutor Cynthia Teller said: “This sentence sends a clear message that those who prey on the vulnerable will be held fully accountable. The defendant’s actions were abhorrent and reprehensible. Because of the victims’ courage and the diligent work of law enforcement, justice has been served.”​