Manchester Police arrest four on charges of Grooming, Enticing a Minor under 16

In September 2025, 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 – 56 Years Old – Grooming, Enticing a Minor under 16 – Sexual Purpose

• Seth Chambers – 41 Years Old - Grooming

• Craig Conrad – 38 Years Old - Grooming, Enticing a Minor under 16 – Sexual Purpose

• Alex LaFrenz – 32 - Grooming, Enticing a Minor under 16 – Sexual Purpose, Exhibition of Obscene Material to Minor

4 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.

William Bockenstedt

Craig Conrad

Alex LaFrenz

Seth Chambers