YOUNGSTOWN — Michael T. Alexander, 50, of Quentin Drive on the West Side, pleaded guilty Thursday to two counts of rape for engaging in sexual conduct with a child from 2018 through 2023. Prosecutors are recommending that Alexander get 15 to 20 1/2 years in prison when he is sentenced April 10.

His indictment states that he “purposely compelled (the victim) to submit by force or threat of force,” and his crimes were a first-degree felony punishable by up to 11 years in prison.

Alexander worked as a mechanic at the Youngstown Police Department for more than 10 years, up until his arrest in this case. He has been in the Mahoning County jail since April 19, 2024, according to jail records.

He was indicted in April of 2024 on six counts of rape, two counts of gross sexual imposition and three counts of sexual battery. But his plea eliminated all but the two counts of rape. Three of the rape charges being dismissed carried a possible life prison sentence if he had been convicted.

Authorities have said the offenses began when the child was less than 13 years old. Alexander will be a tier 3 sex offender, required to register with the sheriff’s office in the place where he lives every 90 days for life when he leaves prison.

Rhys Cartwright Jones, Alexander’s attorney, will argue for less prison time than prosecutors are recommending. Cartwright-Jones mentioned during the hearing that a psychological report was generated on Alexander. Cartwright-Jones said the report “and other material will form the basis of what I will present … on behalf of Mr. Alexander” at his sentencing.

CERVELLO

Staff photo / Ed Runyan
Michael T. Alexander, 50, of Youngstown, center, pleaded guilty to two counts of rape Thursday in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court and will receive a recommendation of 15 to 20 1/2 years in prison. His attorney, at right, is Rhys Cartwright-Jones.

Ashley N. Cervello, 39, of the same address on Quentin Drive as Alexander, was indicted on bribery and misdemeanor intimidation of an attorney, victim or witness in connection to Alexander’s crimes.

She is accused of making statements to the victim following the victim’s disclosures regarding the offenses, according to prosecutors.

Cervello was in the courtroom a couple of hours after Alexander’s plea hearing, but her plea and sentencing hearing in the case were postponed to the same day and time as Alexander’s sentencing hearing in April. She remains free on bond.