Nitro Man Sentenced for Enticement of Minor

A disturbing case has come to light in West Virginia as Mark Anthony Levitt, 38, of Nitro, was sentenced to 12 years in prison for enticing a minor. The sentence comes after Levitt pleaded guilty to using an app on his cell phone to entice a 14-year-old to engage in sexual activity.

According to the investigation, Levitt sent sexually explicit messages to the minor between June 2015 and July 2015, in an effort to persuade and induce the child to engage in sexual activity. The Nitro Police Department, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI conducted the investigation, which led to Levitt’s guilty plea.

Assistant United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston prosecuted the case, and the plea hearing was held before United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. The prosecution is part of an ongoing initiative by the United States Attorney’s Office to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse in the Southern District of West Virginia.

Acting United States Attorney Carol Casto stated, ‘This case sends a clear message that there are serious consequences for those who exploit and abuse minors.’ Casto emphasized that the U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue working with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to hold sexual predators accountable.

Levitt will also be required to register as a sex offender and will face 25 years of supervised release upon his release from prison. Sentencing is scheduled for October 5, 2016. This case serves as a reminder of the severity of the consequences for those who prey on children and the importance of continued cooperation between law enforcement agencies to prevent such crimes.

The investigation and prosecution of this case highlight the importance of community vigilance in preventing child exploitation and abuse. The U.S. Attorney’s Office urges parents and guardians to be aware of the risks and to educate children on online safety and how to report suspicious behavior.

As part of the ongoing initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work with local, state, and federal agencies to identify and prosecute those who exploit and abuse minors.

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