Luke Langebartels of Lacona is heading to prison for ten years for sexual abuse of a minor. 

Langebartels learned about the decision in Marion County District Court on Thursday afternoon after being found guilty of six counts in February stemming from an incident in December of 2022.  Thirty-nine-year-old Langebartels was found guilty of a Class C felony for enticing a minor under the age of 13, sexual abuse or exploitation, as well as a Class D felony for lascivious acts with a child – solicitation. He was also found guilty of aggravated misdemeanors for two counts of indecent contact with a child and invasion of privacy and a serious misdemeanor for dissemination and exhibiting obscene material with a minor. 

The sentencing started with Langebartels being denied a new trial, which he and his attorney requested. In this case, the state asked for a 13 year sentence, and Langebartels attorney asked for probation. Two victim impact statements were made during the sentencing hearing. Judge Charles Sinnard ultimately decided that prison time was appropriate for the charges Langebartels was found guilty on, and for the impact his actions had on the victim and their family. Sinnard was also concerned with the lack of remorse by Langebartels for his actions.

Marion County Attorney Jared Harmon says he is happy with the sentence that was handed down.

“We’re certainly pleased with the outcome of today’s hearing. Mr. Langebartels received a term not to exceed ten years in prison today. The judge gave a very thoughtful sentence. We obviously argued for a bit longer of a sentence. However, we are very glad that Mr. Langebartels will be headed to prison. I think this case is an excellent example that our justice system here in Marion County is healthy. We had law enforcement do a great investigation in this matter.”

Langebartels will also be required to register a sex offender for the remainder of his life, and will have to complete the necessary sex offender treatment. This case was prosecuted by Marion County Assistant Attorney Ross Gibson, and investigated by Lieutenant Reed Kious with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.