Emmanuel College Official Faces Serious Allegations of Misconduct

May 4, 2025 at 12:23 PM

An admissions officer at Emmanuel College in Boston has been apprehended due to severe allegations involving inappropriate conduct with underage students. Jacob Henriques, aged 29, was accused by federal authorities of offering a 17-year-old prospective student monetary compensation in exchange for sexual favors. This case has drawn significant attention as it involves the misuse of personal data obtained through his professional role and subsequent improper communications. The investigation revealed that Henriques contacted multiple students under questionable pretenses, escalating into serious legal accusations.

According to reports from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Massachusetts, Jacob Henriques leveraged his position as an assistant admissions director to access sensitive information about potential students. It is alleged that he initiated contact with at least four individuals post-campus tours, including a minor who had just committed to attending the institution. His actions reportedly included sending explicit materials and making inappropriate offers to these young individuals. The timeline indicates that these events occurred between April 25 and April 28, during which Henriques accessed one particular student's profile excessively and persisted even after being blocked.

The charges against Henriques include an attempt to engage in sex trafficking involving minors, reflecting the gravity of his alleged actions. Prosecutors detailed how Henriques used private contact details provided on admission forms to reach out to unsuspecting teenagers, often pressuring them with financial incentives or suggestive content. One instance involved repeated attempts to persuade a 17-year-old girl despite her clear refusals, showcasing a disturbing pattern of behavior.

Following these revelations, Emmanuel College swiftly terminated Henriques' employment amid internal investigations. A spokesperson expressed shock and outrage over the allegations, affirming solidarity with any affected parties while condemning such violations of ethical standards. Furthermore, law enforcement agencies are actively seeking additional victims who might have encountered similar experiences within specified periods, emphasizing broader implications beyond this singular case.

Jacob Henriques is set to face trial in U.S. District Court, where if convicted, he risks facing lifelong imprisonment. This high-profile incident underscores critical issues regarding safeguarding vulnerable populations and ensuring accountability within educational institutions. As authorities continue their probe, it highlights the importance of vigilance and preventive measures against exploitation scenarios.