A Bronx assistant district attorney has stepped down from his position following allegations he attempted to meet a minor for illicit purposes. The accusation stems from a confrontation with a civilian watchdog group that claims to target online predators.
William C.C. Kemp-Neal, who ironically handled child endangerment cases, abruptly resigned from his $84,990 annual role at the Bronx District Attorney’s office on July 17. His departure came just days after a run-in with members of “Dads Against Predators” in nearby Mount Vernon.
The group alleges they used an online decoy to lure Kemp-Neal, posing as a 13-year-old boy. On July 8, they confronted the 30-year-old prosecutor outside a Target store, capturing the encounter on video.
Footage shows Kemp-Neal attempting to flee as group members pursue him, loudly accusing him of seeking an underage encounter. The situation escalated when a bystander intervened, physically restraining the ADA.
Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark’s office confirmed Kemp-Neal’s resignation in a brief statement: “William Kemp-Neal worked here as an ADA from June 28, 2020, until July 17, 2024. He resigned from the office.”
While no arrests have been made, local authorities say they are investigating the matter. The incident has raised concerns about the vetting process for those working in sensitive legal roles, particularly those dealing with child welfare cases.
Conservative voices have pointed to this case as evidence of moral decay within the justice system. Many are calling for stricter background checks and oversight for prosecutors, especially those handling cases involving minors.
The incident also highlights the growing trend of civilian groups taking law enforcement matters into their own hands. While some praise these efforts as filling gaps in official investigations, legal experts warn of potential complications in future prosecutions.
As the probe continues, the case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing law enforcement in combating online predation and protecting vulnerable youth in the digital age.
