8 Charged After 2-Day Child Exploitation Operation in Onondaga

Eight men are facing felony charges following a two-day online child exploitation investigation in Onondaga County, according to New York State Police.

Eight Arrested During Two-Day Operation

The investigation was conducted on August 27 and 28 by members of the New York State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and several partner agencies.

Authorities said the operation targeted individuals allegedly attempting to have unlawful contact with children under the age of 15. Eight people were arrested and each was charged with attempted rape in the second degree, a Class E felony.

The following individuals were arrested during the first day of the operation:

Jarod M. Groah, 42, of Frankfort
William D. Sheehan, 53, of Syracuse
John L. Dejesus, 34, of Syracuse
Peter B. Schaktman, 66, of New Hartford
Xiaoqing Qi, 37, of Syracuse

Three more individuals were arrested during the second day:

Marvin D. Knapp, 44, of Syracuse
William D. Whitfield, 41, of Seneca Falls
Kevin M. Lapoint, 65, of Cicero

All eight individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Multiple Law Enforcement Agencies Participated

The operation included members of the FBI, the State Police Computer Crime Unit in Troop D, the Special Investigations Unit in Syracuse, State Police in North Syracuse and Homeland Security Investigations in Syracuse.

The New York State Police ICAC Task Force investigates crimes involving the online exploitation of children. The task force works with federal, state and local agencies to identify and apprehend individuals accused of targeting children online.

State Police Asking for Information

Anyone with additional information about the alleged criminal activity or who believes they may be a victim is asked to contact New York State Police at 315-366-6000.

Tips may also be emailed to Crimetip@troopers.ny.gov.

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