On Tuesday, the Parsons Police Department responded to a request for assistance at the Parsons Public Library from Bikers Against Predators, a non-profit dedicated to exposing online predators and safeguarding communities. The organization intercepted William Patrick Mansfield Jr., a registered sex offender, who allegedly had agreed to meet with a supposed 13-yearold for illicit purposes.
The organization had created a decoy profile using a consenting associate’s image on Grindr. Messages exchanged between Mansfield and the decoy revealed his intent to meet at the library and then relocate elsewhere to engage in unlawful sexual activity. The B.A.P. did not involve law enforcement until they had made contact and developed evidence to turn over to police.
Mansfield, a registered sex offender, arrived at the meeting location under the impression he was engaging with a minor. A video posted by B.A.P. on social media captured Mansfield stating that the interaction would be consensual.
Parsons Police Sgt. Charles Brown met with B.A.P. to review the evidence. This included digital correspondence. After investigation police arrested Mansfield. He now faces charges of electronic solicitation and a second offense for violation of the Kansas Offender Registration Act for failing to disclose his social networking account.
According to Parsons Police Chief Robert Spinks, “I am glad there are groups like Bikers Against Predators that can operate where government entities sometimes cannot, whether due to personnel limitations, budget constraints, or constitutional boundaries. This group did everything right: they gathered evidence, involved law enforcement, and ensured the situation remained safe for everyone involved. This wasn’t vigilantism — it was a thoughtful and thorough collaboration to protect our community.”
This continues to be an on-going investigation, and citizens are encouraged to “see it, hear it, report it.” All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If anyone has any further information on this incident or any other criminal activity, please contact the Parsons Police Department at 421-7060, call the Tip Line at 421-7057 or email [email protected].
