Manchester Police Chief Comments on Undercover Operation Targeting Online Predators

Manchester Police have arrested several men in connection to an undercover operation targeting online predators.

In September, the Manchester Police Department initiated Operation “Castle” using an undercover officer targeting predators online on several public and dark web applications. 

Manchester Police Chief Ben Davis explains:

The undercover officer portrayed a 15-year old boy and had created several profiles on several social media applications. 

The officer cannot initiate communications with a target, cannot suggest sexual activity, or even suggest meetings. 

The undercover officer stated that he was 15 years old several times during these conversations, and many of the defendants were aware that the actions suggested would be illegal. The four men arrested suggested sexual activity under their own accord, sent unsolicited nude photos, and suggested discreet meetings with the undercover officer.

The four men who Manchester Police have arrested at the conclusion of this operation include:

• 56-year old William Bockenstedt of New Vienna – Grooming, Enticing a Minor under 16 – Sexual Purpose
• 38-year old Craig Conrad of Epworth – Grooming, Enticing a Minor under 16 – Sexual Purpose
• 41-year old Seth Chambers of Dubuque – Grooming
• 32-year old Alex LaFrenz of New Hampton – Grooming, Enticing a Minor under 16 – Sexual Purpose, Exhibition of Obscene Material to Minor

Police say these four men were found with other sexual evidence, including certain sexual medications, lubrication, condoms, and items sexual in nature to further promote the intent of the cases.

Chief Davis says this has been an eye-opening issue for the community, department, and even himself about a real problem happening before our eyes. 

Chief Davis says the takedown location was selected to minimize civilian interference and ensure public safety, thereby maximizing tactical advantage. All four men were taken into custody without incident.

Four other cases have been evaluated and have been referred to outside agencies for follow-up and charges. More charges may be evaluated pending further forensic investigation.

Moving forward, Chief Davis says it’s important for the community to be informed about the dangers lurking on the internet when it comes to our kids.

The Cyber Safety Parent Night hosted by Manchester Police and the West Delaware School District will be held on Wednesday, December 3rd at 5:30 pm at the West Delaware High School Auditorium. 

In his press release, Chief Davis also notes, “Manchester Police would like to thank our local news partners, KMCH and Manchester Press, for their discretion in the operation. These media outlets reached out earlier in the operation about the arrests, but maintained that discretion to ensure the operation’s success. Initially, the operation was set to conclude on December 14th to give ample time to evaluate more suspects. Due to a recent premature news release from other news outlets, this operation is now concluded.

Lastly, I want to thank the undercover officer and all my officers employed by the Manchester Police Department. Their dedication, long hours, safety-first mindset, and professionalism shine through daily. Without their dedication to the safety of our community, Operations such as this would not be successful. Their sacrifices should be praised as this job carries a heavy mental toll; however, they show up every day to do what is asked of them.”

William Bockenstedt

Seth Chambers

Craig Conrad

Alex LaFrenz

audio courtesy of Janelle Tucker/KMCH; photos courtesy of Manchester Police Department