Manchester Police Make Arrests in 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 (UC) officer targeting predators online on several public and dark web applications. The UC officer was trained specifically to handle these types of cases, including information gathering, criminal prosecution, evidence collection, and managing suspects. The UC Officer cannot initiate communications with a target, cannot suggest sexual activity, or even suggest meetings. The UC 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 UC Officer portrayed a 15-year-old boy and had created several profiles on several social media applications. The individuals arrested in this press release suggested sexual activity under their own accord, sent unsolicited nude photographs, and suggested discreet meetings with the UC officer.

The takedown location was selected to minimize civilian interference and ensure public safety, thereby maximizing tactical advantage. All defendants listed in this release were taken into custody without incident.

Defendants were found with other sexual evidence to include certain sexual medications, lubrication, condoms, and items sexual in nature to further promote the intent of the cases. The following are the defendants Manchester Police have arrested at the conclusion of this operation:

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

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.

“Manchester Police would like to thank our local news partners, KMCH and Manchester Press, for their discretion in the operation,” says Manchester Police Chief Ben Davis. “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.

This has been an eye-opening issue for the community, department, and me about a real problem happening before our eyes. Access to our youth on social media platforms and the dark web. Have discussions with your children regarding their internet use and be honest with them about the dangers that lurk. On December 3rd, Manchester Police are partnering with the West Delaware School District, hosting a Cyber Safety Parent Night at 5:30 pm. This is an opportunity to learn about these cases, the dangers lurking online, and a chance to ask questions before it is presented to students.

Lastly, I want to thank the UC 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

top photo courtesy of Janelle Tucker/KMCH; mugshots courtesy of Manchester PD