Former Emmanuel College Admissions Director Arrested for Attempted Sex Trafficking of Underage Applicant

In a shocking development, Jacob Henriques, a 29-year-old assistant admissions director at Emmanuel College in Boston, has been arrested under serious allegations of attempting to solicit commercial sex from a 17-year-old prospective student. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts reported that Henriques misused his professional position to access sensitive personal information of admitted and prospective students, leading to inappropriate and explicit communications with multiple minors. On April 25, Henriques allegedly conducted tours with prospective students, during which he unlawfully obtained their contact information. Within hours, he began reaching out to at least four individuals, including the 17-year-old, offering payments for sexual activities and sending pornographic material. Despite repeated rejections from the victim, Henriques continued to harass her through both texts and emails, displaying a disturbing level of persistence that raises serious concerns about his judgment and professionalism. Emmanuel College’s response has been a mix of disbelief and condemnation. The institution expressed deep regret and outrage, stating that the actions of their former employee are contrary to their core values. They have taken swift action by terminating Henriques upon learning of the situation and cooperating with federal authorities throughout the investigation. This incident has not only shaken the college community but has also highlighted important conversations around safeguarding students and the responsibilities of educational institutions in protecting minors. The charge of attempted sex trafficking of a minor is a grave one, carrying a potential sentence of 10 years to life in prison. This case emphasizes the critical need for vigilance in academic environments, especially as they relate to the safety and well-being of young individuals navigating the transition to higher education. It is vital to recognize the courage of the victim who reported the harassment, which not only serves as a strength for themselves but also as a call to action for others who may face similar situations. Advocacy groups and authorities are urging anyone who might have been targeted by Henriques to come forward, reinforcing the importance of accountability in cases involving power imbalances and exploitation. The incident has also generated significant media attention, underscoring the troubling trend of abuse of power within educational institutions. Henriques's position allowed him to access data that should have been protected, raising questions about the safeguards in place at colleges and universities to prevent such abuses. As this case unfolds, it may spark broader discussions about admissions practices, employee screening procedures, and the ethical obligations that academic professionals hold towards the students they serve.