Gerald Araya, a 44-year-old resident of Ewing Township and owner of the Mill Hill Saloon several other local establishments, was apprehended by law enforcement authorities on Wednesday afternoon, June 19, 2024.
The arrest followed a comprehensive investigation into multiple allegations of sexual assault and related offenses in Mercer County.
Araya faces a litany of charges, including five counts of first-degree aggravated sexual assault, one count of first-degree sexual assault, two counts of second-degree sexual assault, one count of first-degree kidnapping, two counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual contact, and one count of third-degree endangering the welfare of a child.
The charges stem from incidents involving multiple victims, according to Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri.
The investigation began last month when a young woman reported a sexual assault to the Trenton police, which led authorities to Araya.
The victim alleged that she met Araya during a job interview at one of his establishments, after which he allegedly assaulted her at a motel in Lawrence Township while she was incapacitated.
Subsequent inquiries by police identified three additional victims who had previously worked for Araya.
“This investigation exemplifies the success achieved through collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies,” said Onofri, who commended the cooperation of lead detectives and the courage of the victims who came forward to assist in the case.
Trenton Police Director Steve Wilson echoed Onofri’s sentiments, emphasizing the dedication and persistence of the investigative teams involved in bringing Araya to justice. He praised the collaborative efforts between the Trenton Police Department, Lawrence Township Police Department, and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office.
Lawrence Township Police Chief Christopher Longo underscored the significance of partnership in addressing serious crimes like sexual assault. He highlighted the collective commitment to supporting victims and ensuring justice.
The arrest followed the execution of search warrants at Araya’s residence in Ewing Township and three of his establishments in Trenton: El Catador Lounge Restaurant, Dubai Restaurant & Lounge, and Mill Hill Restaurant & Lounge.
Araya was taken into custody without incident outside of his Mill Hill establishment.
The Mill Hill Saloon is an iconic establishment situated on South Broad Street in Trenton that has carved out a unique place in the city’s social and cultural landscape.
During the day, it is a popular spot for lawmakers, judges and lawyers, who frequent the large bar area for burgers and beers for lunch or after court and legislative sessions.
As night falls, the Saloon transformed into a vibrant hub for Trenton’s underground music and art scene.
Referred to affectionately as the “Mill Hill Basement,” the subterranean space pulsates with creativity and energy, reminiscent of famed venues like CBGB in New York and Gilman Street in Berkeley, California.
Over the years, local musicians, emerging bands, visual artists, and performers found a welcoming stage to showcase their talents, contributing to Trenton’s cultural identity and fostering a community of creativity.
In 2017, Musician Joseph Wolstenholme described the Mill Hill Basement as “our island of Misfit Toys,” but in a June 19 post on Facebook, he said: “Unfortunately tonight at Millhill Basement is cancelled. More to come laters.”
Its dual role as a daytime eatery and nighttime cultural hotspot reflects its enduring significance in Trenton’s evolving narrative, drawing patrons from all walks of life who seek both a meal and a dose of local artistic flair.
“The Saloon is an intimate venue with a capacity of 250 music lovers upstairs, in the main dining room, and 75 fans in the Basement lounge,” says one account.
“Well, if they say the Judges and Lawyers drink upstairs in the Saloon, the basement is for the Scoundrels and Thieves,” according to another. “This basement hideout is dark, cozy and always pumping out music. Live bands play every Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights featuring the best of local, original music and great acts that are just passing through.”
Onofri expressed gratitude to the various agencies and individuals involved in the investigation, including members of the Special Victims Unit and assisting law enforcement teams. He acknowledged their efforts in coordinating the operation and securing evidence crucial to the case.
The investigation remains active, and authorities encourage anyone with information relevant to contact the prosecutor’s SVU at (609) 989-6568 or mcposvu@mercercounty.org.
Araya, who is presumed innocent until proven guilty, faces severe penalties if convicted, ranging from prison terms of up to 20 years for first-degree crimes to fines reaching $200,000.
As the legal proceedings continue, the community awaits further developments in this significant case of alleged criminal misconduct.