David Bates, Child Sexual Exploitation, Pennsylvania 2020

Two Lawrence County residents have been accused of engaging in a heinous crime that has left a community reeling. David Bates, 61, of Ellwood City, PA, and Tamara Kreitzer, 33, of New Castle, PA, have been indicted on charges of attempted production, production, receipt, and distribution of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, according to the U.S. Attorney's office.

The indictment alleges that between July 2020 and October 2020, Bates and Kreitzer conspired to use, persuade, induce, entice, and coerce a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of the minor. The images were then distributed to Bates by Kreitzer.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 70 years in prison, a fine of $750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

The government has requested detention for both defendants, pending their trial. Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. The FBI's efforts have brought to light a disturbing crime that has left many in the community shocked and concerned for the well-being of the minor involved.

An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Bates and Kreitzer are expected to face trial in the coming months, and it remains to be seen what the outcome will be.

Lawrence County residents can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that the authorities are taking swift action to bring those responsible to justice. The community can also take comfort in knowing that the FBI is working tirelessly to protect its citizens from such heinous crimes.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdpa/pr/lawrence-county-residents-indicted-child-sexual-exploitation-charges