The New Jersey Supreme Court has ruled that the employer and co-worker of a man who sexually abused a minor can face no civil liability for failing to report their colleague to authorities.

The justices reversed a decision by the Appellate Division, which had found that common law did not preclude imposition of such a duty on the employer, GEM Ambulance of Lakewood, and the co-worker.

Although the man often shared details of his sexual relationship, there was no evidence that the co-worker knew he was having sex with a minor, the Supreme Court said. Therefore, the court found no basis to find the co-worker or employer liable. Consequently, the justices found no need to address whether a co-worker or employer has a legal duty to report that person is having a sexual relationship with a minor.