Ames business owner sentenced for sexually exploiting teens

A former nurse and business owner from Ames, Carl Markley, has been sentenced to 15 life terms in federal prison. He was found guilty of sexually exploiting 14 boys over many years. His businesses included Inside Golf and Perfect Games, and he also operated a medical office. Markley was charged in 2023 with sex trafficking, child sexual exploitation, and possessing child pornography. He pleaded guilty to 15 counts of sex trafficking, admitting to using deceit or coercion. Prosecutors say his schemes date back to the late 1990s and might involve hundreds of victims. Markley approached young men under false pretenses, claiming he was conducting research or that he needed to perform physical exams for insurance. He used his control over their situations to pressure them into sexual acts, often recording these incidents with hidden cameras. During the sentencing, Judge Stephanie Rose addressed the victims, encouraging them to seek help. She stressed that the abuse was not their fault. Many victims and their families spoke in court, sharing their pain and confusion. One victim expressed deep regret for trusting Markley. Another victim shared his struggle with mental health, describing near-suicidal thoughts due to the trauma inflicted by Markley. Markley, through his attorney, argued for a shorter sentence and claimed many victims did not suffer significant harm. He apologized in court, saying he had a mission to help others. Judge Rose responded, saying his remarks showed a distorted understanding of his actions. Previously charged with crimes in Story County, Markley's state cases were dismissed after federal charges were filed. He is also facing several civil lawsuits from young men he allegedly harmed.