Marion couple sentenced to federal prison for enticing minor

CEDAR RAPIDS - A Marion couple was sentenced to federal prison Wednesday for enticing a 15-year-old girl to have sex and share explicit photos with them.

U.S. District Chief Judge Linda Reade sentenced Michael Darling, 21, to 30 years in prison and Jennifer Darling, 27, to more than 19 years in prison following guilty pleas in June to one count of enticement of a minor.

Evidence at both sentencing hearings and in previous hearings showed that both the husband and wife communicated with the 15-year-old girl through Facebook, as well as texting with her and sharing explicit videos with her.

Both defendants also sent the victim sexually explicit photos and asked her to share photos. The victim also met the Darlings at their residence for sexual acts. Initially, the girl told the couple she was 16 but they continued to pursue her, even after knowing her real age, according to testimony at a previous hearing.

Both defendants must comply with all sex offender registration and public notification requirements.