Jeffrey Weber, Child Enticement, New York 2018

MANHATTAN, NY – Jeffrey Weber, 59, of Seaford, New York, will spend the next decade behind bars after being sentenced yesterday for attempting to entice a minor. The former home-school tutor pled guilty on December 12, 2018, to engaging in sexually explicit communications with an undercover law enforcement agent posing as a 13-year-old girl.

The sentencing was handed down by U.S. Circuit Judge Richard J. Sullivan, following an investigation by the New York City Police Department’s Computer Crime Squad, part of the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman minced no words, stating that Weber “pled guilty to attempting to engage in sex with a 13-year-old girl. He has now been sentenced to a lengthy term in prison, where he will not be able to prey on children.”

According to court filings, Weber initiated contact with the undercover agent through a Craigslist listing advertising “a younger girl looking for an older guy.” Between January 30, 2018, and February 14, 2018, Weber exchanged sexually suggestive emails and text messages with the agent, detailing his desires and planning a rendezvous. The planned meeting was to take place at a Manhattan diner, with the intention of continuing to the agent’s apartment for sexual activity.

On February 14, 2018, Weber was arrested at the diner, carrying condoms and other items indicating his intent. Prior to his arrest, Weber worked as a tutor, giving him regular access to vulnerable children. The investigation revealed a disturbing pattern of online solicitation and a clear intent to exploit a minor.

Beyond the 10-year prison sentence, Weber will face five years of supervised release upon his eventual discharge. He will also be required to register as a sex offender, a permanent mark that will follow him for the rest of his life. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Cecilia Vogel of the Office’s General Crimes Unit.

This conviction serves as a harsh reminder of the dangers lurking online and the dedication of law enforcement to protecting children. The NYPD’s Computer Crime Squad and the ICAC Task Force continue to actively pursue predators who attempt to exploit minors through the internet. Weber’s attempt to fulfill his depraved desires has landed him where he belongs: behind bars, away from potential victims.

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