Iowa sting operation nabs 4 predators yearning for young boys

MANCHESTER, IOWA – A small Iowa police department initiated a sting operation, and it ended early due to media interference, but despite the setback, still nabbed four alleged predators who traveled to meet young boys for atrocious activities.

In September of this year, 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.

Manchester police said that, initially, the operation was set to conclude on December 14th, 2025, to give ample time to evaluate more suspects, but 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,” said Manchester Chief of Police Benjamin A. Davis. “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 3, 2025, 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.

“I want to thank the UC Officer and all my officers employed by the Manchester Police Department,” Chief Davis concluded. “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.”