A New York City assistant district attorney has stepped down from his position following a controversial encounter with a civilian watchdog group. The organization claims they caught the prosecutor attempting to meet an underage boy.
William C.C. Kemp-Neal, who earned nearly $85,000 annually handling child endangerment cases for the Bronx DA’s office, resigned on July 17. His departure came just days after a confrontation with members of “Dads Against Predators” in nearby Mount Vernon.
The group alleges they used an online decoy to arrange a meeting with Kemp-Neal, posing as a 13-year-old male. On July 8, they confronted the 30-year-old ADA in a Target parking lot, capturing the encounter on video.
Footage shows Kemp-Neal fleeing as group members pursue him, shouting accusations. The situation escalated when a bystander physically restrained the prosecutor.
While no charges have been filed, local authorities say they are investigating the incident. A spokesperson for Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark confirmed Kemp-Neal’s resignation but offered no further comment.
The case highlights the growing phenomenon of civilian-led sting operations targeting alleged sexual predators. While these groups claim to fill gaps in law enforcement, legal experts warn their tactics can complicate official investigations.
Critics argue such vigilante actions may compromise due process and potentially taint evidence. Supporters counter that they bring attention to an urgent issue and prompt swifter action from authorities.
As the investigation unfolds, the incident serves as a reminder of the complex challenges facing both law enforcement and the justice system in addressing online predation.
