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A Massachusetts man, Mark Nacht, was arrested on Friday (April 10) in Albany after attempting to meet a person he believed to be a 13-year-old girl. The arrest was part of an undercover sting operation conducted by Albany law enforcement and the FBI. Nacht, 65, from Waltham, Massachusetts, allegedly communicated online with undercover agents posing as the girl's relative and the girl herself, exchanging explicit messages over several months.
According to the FBI, Nacht believed he had arranged to meet the minor in Albany for sexual contact. When he arrived at the location, law enforcement officers arrested him. Authorities discovered items in Nacht's car, including children's socks, lubricant, condoms, and a pink vibrator, which were intended for the encounter.
Nacht is charged with attempted coercion and enticement of a minor, a charge that carries a maximum sentence of life in prison and a mandatory minimum of 10 years if convicted. He could also face a fine of up to $250,000 and a term of supervised release ranging from five years to life. Additionally, Nacht would be required to register as a sex offender.
First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III praised the sting operation, stating, "As alleged, this defendant sought to prey on an innocent young girl and inflict terrible harm on her. Thanks to this incredible sting operation and others like it, parents can sleep more soundly tonight."
Nacht is currently in the custody of the United States Marshals Service, awaiting a detention hearing scheduled for Tuesday. The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to protect children from online predators.
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