Evergreen Reporter

Melad Fahmy, a 44-year-old resident of Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, was found guilty on February 13, 2025, for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor. The verdict was reached after a four-day jury trial overseen by United States District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson. The jury deliberated for approximately 45 minutes before delivering the verdict.

Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus explained that Fahmy's conviction resulted from a multi-agency undercover operation aimed at tackling human trafficking and child exploitation. Fahmy responded to an FBI advertisement on a website known for promoting prostitution and escort services. He communicated with an undercover agent posing as an aunt who was acting as the pimp for her minor niece, intending to entice the child into illegal sexual acts in exchange for $100. Fahmy was apprehended upon arriving at a Harrisburg hotel with the cash.

"Cases like this are brought together through the diligent work of law enforcement and their dedication to protecting all children from exploitation," stated Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. "The FBI will continue to work with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to locate, apprehend, and bring to justice those who prey on our most vulnerable."

The investigation involved several agencies: the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Dauphin County Drug Task Force, and Lower Paxton Township Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christian Haugsby and Stephen Dukes led the prosecution.

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, initiated by the Department of Justice in May 2006 to address child sexual exploitation and abuse nationwide. The initiative coordinates federal, state, and local resources to prosecute individuals exploiting children while identifying and rescuing victims.

Under federal law, this offense carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years plus supervised release post-imprisonment and potential fines. Sentencing follows consideration of applicable federal statutes and guidelines.