Seven Bridges Resident Ronald Frankel Accused Of Flying Teen From Iowa For Sex In His House. Here’s What He Told A Federal Magistrate Judge.
BY: ANDREW COLTON | Editor and Publisher | DELRAY BEACH, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2026 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — Seven Bridges homeowner Ronald Frankel — taken into custody following an early morning FBI raid last year — is now officially arraigned. Frankel appeared before a federal magistrate judge on Thursday to enter a “not guilty” plea to charges related to the interstate transportation of a minor with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. The indictment alleges that the illegal activity occurred between January 31, 2025, and February 2, 2025, within Palm Beach County and other locations.
Frankel’s attorneys initially asked for a delay in the arraignment suggesting that Frankel would negotiate a plea. That did not happen.
Federal prosecutors state that Frankel knowingly transported an individual under the age of 18 across state lines for the purpose of engaging in prohibited sexual conduct. As we reported exclusively, the FBI says Frankel befriended a girl from West Des Moines online, flew her to PBI, had a car pick her up and deliver her to his home in Seven Bridges. He then allegedly engaged in repeated encounters in the home and in his hot tub.
If convicted, Frankel faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in federal prison, with a maximum possible sentence of life imprisonment. Additionally, the court could impose a lifetime of supervised release—with a five-year minimum—alongside a fine of up to $250,000. Prosecutors are also seeking the forfeiture of any property used to facilitate the alleged crime or any proceeds derived from it.
The case is assigned to Judge Donald M. Middlebrooks and Magistrate Judge William Matthewman. Assistant United States Attorney Alexandra Chase is leading the prosecution for the government. Frankel is represented by several attorneys from the law firm of Marcus Moss, LLP.
