Matthew Baratucci, a 29-year-old Harrisburg man, was sentenced to 240 months (20 years) imprisonment for attempting to obtain children for sexual activity, according to the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.
On November 6, Senior United States District Court Judge Sylvia H. Rambo handed down the sentence, which also includes a $1,100 fine and ten years of supervision following Baratucci’s release from imprisonment. Baratucci pleaded guilty to coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity on May 21, 2014.
The charges against Baratucci stem from an incident in October 2013, in which he solicited two women with the intention of obtaining children for sexual activity. One of the women reported that Baratucci threatened her with violence if she did not provide two children she babysat, ages five and nine. Investigators assumed the woman’s identity and arranged to meet Baratucci for the exchange of $150 for the two children.
When investigators attempted to arrest Baratucci, he tried to flee, crashing into a vehicle before being stopped by law enforcement. The case was a collaborative effort between federal and state law enforcement agencies, including the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, and the Pennsylvania State Police with the assistance of the Lower Paxton Township Police Department.
Attorney General Kathleen Kane commented on the case, stating, “we will continue to work with our Federal, State and Local partners to hunt down and convict these predators.” The investigation and subsequent sentencing serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting children from exploitation and abuse.
The sentence imposed on Baratucci is a significant one, reflecting the severity of the crime he committed. The 20-year prison term and $1,100 fine are a testament to the seriousness with which the court views such offenses. As the community moves forward, it is essential that we continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of our children.
The case serves as a warning to would-be perpetrators that such crimes will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The cooperation between federal and state law enforcement agencies is a crucial aspect of keeping our communities safe and bringing those responsible to justice.
Related Federal Cases
- Brian L. Turek, Coercion and Enticement of a Minor, PA 2024 · Pennsylvania
- Brian Tate, Attempted Minor Enticement, PA 2016 · Pennsylvania
- Mike Lozano, Attempted Enticement of a Minor, TX 2024 · Pennsylvania
- Jeremy Batey, Attempted Enticement of a Minor, OK 2018 · Oklahoma
- Thomas Perry Stultz, Attempted Coercion and Enticement, PA 2019 · Pennsylvania
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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