A Seneca Falls man is among eight people facing felony charges following a two-day online child exploitation operation in Onondaga County, according to New York State Police.
William Whitfield, 41, was arrested Friday as part of the operation conducted Aug. 27 and 28 by the NYSP Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, FBI, Homeland Security Investigations and several State Police units.
Investigators said all eight suspects allegedly attempted to engage in unlawful contact with children under the age of 15. Each was charged with attempted second-degree rape.
Five people from Frankfort, Syracuse and New Hartford were arrested Thursday, state police said. Whitfield and two others — Marvin Knapp, 44, of Syracuse, and Kevin Lapoint, 65, of Cicero — were arrested the following day.
Anyone with additional information about the suspects’ alleged criminal activity or who believes they may be a victim is asked to contact NYSP at (315) 366-6000 or Crimetip@troopers.ny.gov.