A longtime Atlantic City Beach Patrol lifeguard is facing serious criminal charges after authorities say he attempted to meet with someone he thought was a minor for sexual purposes.
Stephen M. Pagnoni, 38, of Egg Harbor Township, was taken into custody following an undercover investigation conducted by the Camden County Prosecutor's Office, officials announced. The arrest came after Pagnoni allegedly traveled to a Cherry Hill park believing he would meet a 15-year-old girl.
Prosecutors say the investigation began on July 28, 2026, when Pagnoni initiated online communication with what he believed was a teenage girl. In reality, he was chatting with a detective working undercover as part of the High Tech Crimes Unit at the Camden County Prosecutor's Office.
According to authorities, Pagnoni arranged a meeting at a park location in Cherry Hill with the intent of engaging in sexual activity with the purported minor in exchange for payment. When he arrived at the predetermined location, the Cherry Hill Police Department Tactical Response Team, working alongside prosecutors, arrested him.
The charges against Pagnoni are extensive and severe. He faces first-degree attempted manufacturing of child sexual abuse material, along with multiple second-degree charges: attempt to lure a child, attempted sexual assault of a minor, and attempted prostitution with a minor. Additional charges include attempted transmission of obscene material to a minor, two counts of attempted child endangerment, and two counts of engaging in prostitution.
Pagnoni has worked as a lifeguard with the Atlantic City Beach Patrol for nearly 20 years, according to prosecutors. He has been suspended from that position following his arrest.
Following his arrest, Pagnoni was transported to the Camden County Correctional Facility, where he remains as he awaits a detention hearing.
Authorities are asking anyone with relevant information about this case to reach out to Sergeant John Cochran at the High Tech Crimes Unit within the Camden County Prosecutor's Office by calling (856) 225-8826.
About the Author
Karen Johnson
With over 30 years of news experience in major markets like Los Angeles, Denver, and Columbus, Karen now covers our area for South Jersey NewsBeat. She also brings her articulate and conversational news delivery to WOND radio listeners every weekday. Her background includes work with the NBC Radio Network, and she thrives in fast-paced news environments.
