Viktor Zhadanov, 26, of Howell was charged with sexually assaulting a 13-year-old Morris County girl he met in an online kids’ chat room, after police found him alone with her in his SUV at 1 a.m. 

The girl allegedly reported that she had previously met Zhadanov on another occasion when she  performed a sex act on him.   They allegedly met in a kids’ online chat room where he used the name Slave and claimed to be 15 years old and from Newark.

Zhadanov gave a statement and told police that he drove from his home in Howell to meet the girl on a few occasions but he denied knowing her age or that he engaged in any sexual activity with her.  However, there is no indication as to how he claims met her.   

This case will likely turn on whether or not the State can prove the computer evidence.  If they can’t, the entire case will turn on the girl’s credibility.  You kind of have to wonder about a 13 year old girl that is allowed to go out at 1am and what type of family she comes from.  Thus, he may have a decent shot here.

Story is here.