KINGMAN – On Dec 4 Paul John Carlton,34 of Kingman, was sentenced to 12 years in prison for luring a minor for sexual exploitation, attempted molestation of a child and attempted sexual conduct with a minor. The sentence was ordered by Mohave County Superior Court Judge Derek Carlisle. Prior to the sentencing, relevant parties were given the ability to speak for or against Carlton’s behalf. Carlton declined to say anything on his own behalf. The victim’s mother detailed a prior history with Carlton and explained the physical and emotional effects of Carlton’s behavior. She requested that Carlton receive the maximum sentence.
Judge Carlisle considered the possibility of mitigating factors, and the previously submitted pre-sentencing report. Ultimately Judge Carlisle decided to sentence Carlton to five years for the luring of a minor for sexual exploitation and seven years for the attempted molestation of a child. The conviction will begin on the day of sentencing and the charges will run consecutively. For attempted sexual conduct with a minor, Carlton was given probation. His probation will last the rest of his life. He will also have to register as a sex offender, a status that will also last the rest of his life.
Carlton was initially arrested in Apr 2019. He was one of nine men who were arrested in an online sex sting carried out by the Mohave County Sheriff’s office in tandem with support from other law enforcement agencies. The sting operation involved an undercover cop posing as a 13 year old, with the intention of catching potential predators.
This is real police work, protecting and serving. Keep up the good work MCSO!