BREAKING: A 53-year-old Staten Island man has been arrested in an undercover operation for allegedly attempting to lure a person he believed to be a 15-year-old girl for sexual purposes. Marc Donato, a resident of Dinsmore Street in Bulls Head, was taken into custody on October 23, 2023, at approximately 4 p.m. near 1 Richmond Terrace.
Authorities confirm that Donato faces serious charges including attempted luring of a child, attempted rape, and attempted sexual abuse. This urgent case has alarmed local parents and prompted the NYPD to encourage anyone who may have had prior contact with Donato to contact the NYPD Sex Crimes Hotline at 212-267-RAPE (7273).
Investigators report that Donato had been engaging in explicit text exchanges with an undercover officer posing as a minor girl named “Bella” over a six-week period beginning on September 10. During these communications, Donato allegedly acknowledged the girl’s age, with alarming statements indicating his intentions. In a pivotal exchange, he remarked that it was “kinda exciting & forbidden to be honest” when the undercover officer identified herself as 15 years old.
On the day of his arrest, Donato allegedly arranged to meet the supposed minor at the Staten Island Ferry terminal in St. George. When contacted by the undercover officer, who claimed she was arriving by ferry, Donato reportedly indicated he would “wait by H&M” and that she was “about to make me do something illegal,” according to police.
Upon arrest, Donato made a shocking admission to officers, stating, “I’m talking to a bunch of girls online, this is a fantasy of mine to have sex with a stepdaughter… if she was 15 and got to my car I might have let her in.” The nature of these comments raises significant concerns about his intent and raises questions for community safety.
Prosecutors have requested bail to be set at $10,000 cash/$30,000 bond, but the judge denied this request, ordering Donato to be released under supervision. His attorney, Lou Gelormino, has publicly stated, “Mr. Donato categorically denies these allegations,” and expressed confidence that a full investigation would lead to his client’s vindication. Donato is scheduled to appear in Criminal Court, St. George, on December 15, 2023.
The NYPD is urging any additional potential victims to come forward by contacting the Sexual Assault Hotline at 646-610-7272 or Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS (8477). Spanish speakers can reach out at 888-57-PISTA (74782), and tips can also be submitted online at https://crimestoppers.nypdonline.org/ or through X at @NYPDTips. All calls are kept confidential.
This developing story has raised urgent questions about child safety and the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat such predatory behavior in the community. Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
