Hennepin County Jail Booking Photo
Published: September 21st, 2026.
HENNEPIN COUNTY MN: — A 37-year-old St. Louis Park man is facing a gross misdemeanor charge in Hennepin County following allegations of sexual conduct in the presence of a minor.
Mark William Gerold was charged with fifth-degree criminal sexual conduct, specifically engaging in masturbation or lewd exhibition of the genitals in the presence of a child under 16, according to a criminal complaint filed by prosecutors.
The complaint alleges that the incident occurred between June 1, 2026, and September 1, 2026, within Hennepin County. Investigators allege Gerold engaged in the conduct knowing, or having reason to know, that a minor under the age of 16 was present.
If convicted, Gerold faces a maximum sentence of up to 364 days in jail, a $3,000 fine, or both under Minnesota law.
As with all criminal proceedings, the charge represents an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.