Farrell Couple Charged with Sexual Abuse of 10-Year-Old in Mercer County

Bond Set for Couple Accused in Shocking Abuse Case

In Mercer County, a troubling child abuse case has led to felony charges against two adults from Farrell, PA. Nicole Fortunato, 29, and Dustin Hahne, 34, face multiple charges for the alleged child sexual abuse of a 10-year-old girl, dating from 2022 to late 2024. Both are held on $100,000 bond each.

Charges Against Nicole Fortunato and Dustin Hahne

Nicole Fortunato’s charges include:

• Sexual exploitation of children

• Endangering the welfare of children

• Obstruction

• Conspiracy

Dustin Hahne faces more severe charges such as:

• Rape of a child

• Involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a minor

• Aggravated indecent assault of a child

• Statutory sexual assault

• Indecent assault

• Endangering the welfare of children

Investigation Details: Allegations Spanning Two Years

The case began after Mercer County Children and Youth Services made a referral, prompting an investigation led by Sharpsville Police that commenced on December 16, 2024.

Court documents indicate that Hahne allegedly assaulted the victim—engaging in penetration and other sexual acts—over two years, both in a former Sharpsville home and their current Farrell residence. A forensic interview at Akron Children’s Hospital revealed the child provided explicit details of the abuse.

Fortunato initially gave inconsistent statements to authorities but later admitted to witnessing the alleged abuse, though she failed to report it. She has since been arraigned.

Legal Advocacy for Survivors in Pennsylvania

At Survivors of Abuse PA, we stand with survivors of child sexual abuse and recognize the profound impact such trauma has on families and communities. Cases like this reinforce the vital need for legal advocacy, psychological support, and accountability.

Under the leadership of Ashley DiLiberto, Esq., our team offers compassionate legal counsel for victims, helping them navigate criminal proceedings and civil claims. Whether in cases involving parents, guardians, institutional actors, or acquaintances, survivors deserve just recourse.

Take the First Step Toward Justice

If you or someone you love has experienced child sexual abuse in Pennsylvania, help is available. Survivors should not face these hardships alone—you have the right to seek justice, safety, and healing.

Contact Survivors of Abuse PA today for a free, confidential consultation with Ashley DiLiberto, Esq. We are here to support you and fight for your rights.

Disclaimer: The individuals named are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. This post is based on publicly available reporting as of the date cited.

Source:

https://www.wfmj.com/story/52544666/farrell-woman-man-charged-in-child-sexual-abuse-case