MANCHESTER — This Northern Iowa police force’s relentless crackdown on online predators claimed another suspect recently, proving that despite frequent public warnings, individuals continue to travel to the area seeking illicit encounters with minors.
On Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, officers with the Manchester Police Department arrested 62-year-old Richard Mathis of Atalissa, Iowa, as part of an ongoing undercover sting operation.
According to authorities, Mathis traveled roughly 80 miles from his home in Muscatine County to Manchester under the belief that he was meeting a juvenile for sexual activity. Instead of a child, Mathis had been communicating with an undercover officer. upon his arrival, he was met by law enforcement and taken into custody.
Mathis (pictured at top) has been charged with Grooming, a Class D Felony.
This arrest marks the latest in a series of similar apprehensions by the Manchester Police. In a statement released following the arrest, the department expressed frustration—and determination—regarding the continued activity of predators in the region.
“Even though we continue to push out releases in accordance with the operation, Manchester Police continue to arrest and charge suspects with these crimes,” the department said in the press release.
Authorities made it clear that the sting operations will not be stopping anytime soon, issuing a stern warning to potential offenders: “We will absolutely continue to track down and arrest as many as we can as we continue.”
Mathis was processed locally; further details regarding his court appearance have not yet been released.