UPDATE: A Staten Island man, Marc Donato, 53, was arrested on October 23, 2023, accused of attempting to lure a person he believed to be a 15-year-old girl for sexual purposes. The arrest occurred around 4 p.m. near 1 Richmond Terrace, following a six-week undercover operation by the NYPD’s Organized Crime Task Force.
Police allege that Donato communicated with an undercover officer posing as a minor named “Bella” via text messages starting on September 10. The exchanges included sexually explicit material, with Donato reportedly acknowledging the girl’s purported age. In one text, when the officer indicated she was 15 years old, Donato replied it was “kinda exciting & forbidden to be honest.”
The investigation intensified when Donato allegedly arranged to meet the supposed minor at the Staten Island Ferry terminal on the day of his arrest. He expressed intent to meet her near the H&M store, stating she was “about to make me do something illegal.”
Upon apprehension, Donato reportedly told officers, “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.” His alarming admission has raised concerns among authorities regarding potential past victims.
Donato faces multiple charges, including attempted luring of a child, attempted rape, attempted endangering the welfare of a child, and attempted sexual abuse. Prosecutors requested bail be set at $10,000 cash/$30,000 bond, but the judge denied the request, ordering him released under supervision.
His next court appearance is scheduled for December 15 at the Criminal Court in St. George. In light of these allegations, the NYPD is urging parents to contact them if their children may have had prior interactions with Donato. They can reach the NYPD Sex Crimes Hotline at 212-267-RAPE (7273).
Donato’s attorney, Lou Gelormino, stated, “Mr. Donato categorically denies these allegations. We look forward to a full investigation into the facts where we expect Mr. Donato to be fully vindicated.”
Authorities are also encouraging any potential victims to come forward by calling the Sexual Assault Hotline at 646-610-7272 or Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS (8477). Spanish speakers can call 888-57-PISTA (74782), and tips can be submitted online at https://crimestoppers.nypdonline.org/ or through X @NYPDTips. All calls are confidential, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance in protecting children.
