On August 27, and August 28, 2026, members of the New York State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, along with members from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Computer Crime Unit – Troop D, Special Investigations Unit–Syracuse, State Police-North Syracuse, and Homeland Security Investigations–Syracuse, conducted a two-day online child exploitation operation in Onondaga County.
During the investigation officers arrested eight individuals who were attempting to engage in unlawful contact with children under the age of 15.
These eight individuals were arrested and charged with Attempted Rape in the Second Degree (Class E Felony).
Individuals Arrested on August 27, 2026:
Jarod M. Groah, age 42, from Frankfort, NY
William D. Sheehan, age 53, from Syracuse, NY
John L. Dejesus, age 34, from Syracuse, NY
Peter B. Schaktman, age 66, from New Hartford, NY
Xiaoqing Qi, age 37, from Syracuse, NY
Individuals Arrested on August 28, 2026:
Marvin D. Knapp, age 44, from Syracuse, NY
William D. Whitfield, age 41, from Seneca Falls, NY
Kevin M. Lapoint, age 65, from Cicero, NY
The New York State Police ICAC Task Force investigates crimes involving the online exploitation of children and works collaboratively with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to identify and apprehend individuals who target children online.
If you have additional information concerning these individuals’ criminal activity or believe you may be a victim of these crimes, please contact State Police at 315-366-6000 or email at [email protected]