Bikers Against Predators: Collaboration with Law Enforcement to Make Tuesday Arrest

On January 21, 2025, the Parsons Police Department responded to a request for assistance at the Parsons Library from Bikers Against Predators (B.A.P.), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to exposing online predators and safeguarding communities. The request was prompted by B.A.P.'s efforts to intercept William Patrick Mansfield Jr., a registered sex offender, who had agreed to meet with a supposed thirteen-year-old for illicit purposes.

B.A.P., known for their work in exposing online predators, had created a decoy profile using a consenting associate's image on the social media platform Grindr. Messages exchanged between Mansfield and the decoy revealed his intent to meet at the library to engage in unlawful sexual activity. They agreed to meet at the library and then relocate to a more secluded place. B.A.P. set this operation up to expose Mansfield, they did not involve law enforcement until they had made contact and developed evidence to turn over to police.  

Mansfield, a registered sex offender with prior convictions for sexual assault (pled down to aggravated battery) and a 2023 violation of the Offender Registration Act, 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, a claim that did little to disguise the illegal nature of his intentions.

Parsons Police Sergeant Charles Brown met with B.A.P. at the scene to review the evidence they had collected. This included digital correspondence that established probable cause for an arrest. After ensuring the situation was under control and no physical altercations occurred, law enforcement officers conducted their own thorough investigation before they arrested Mansfield. He now faces charges of Electronic Solicitation and a 2nd Offense Violation of the 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."

Mansfield is currently held at the Parsons Police Department Lockup facility, awaiting his first court appearance and bond hearing.

Bikers Against Predators is a Northern Indiana-based organization with a mission to expose online predators, promote awareness, and foster education in communities. Driven by deeply personal experiences of survival and resilience, B.A.P. represents a diverse group of individuals united in their commitment to protecting vulnerable populations and breaking the cycle of abuse.

Members of B.A.P. come from all walks of life, and their stories highlight the pervasive nature of sexual abuse. Through their work, they aim to shine a light on an often-hidden problem, empowering survivors and educating the public to create safer environments for all.

While B.A.P. is proactive in exposing predators, they emphasize the importance of law enforcement involvement. By collaborating with local authorities like the Parsons Police Department, the group ensures that predators are not only exposed but also held accountable through the judicial system. Their approach balances activism with adherence to legal standards, ensuring justice is served while prioritizing the safety of all involved.

B.A.P.'s president, known as Boots, stated on their website, "We do this work because we have all been affected by abuse in one way or another. Whether it's us, our loved ones, or our communities, the pain and injustice of sexual abuse drives us to act. Enough is enough. We will not remain silent, and we will continue to use our voices to stand up for those who cannot."

The Parsons Police Department and B.A.P. both stress the importance of community involvement in addressing the issue of sexual abuse. Chief Spinks noted, "This partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration between community groups and law enforcement. Together, we can close gaps, prevent harm, and ensure that those who prey on the vulnerable are brought to justice."

This case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing fight against online predators and the need for vigilance in our communities. Organizations like B.A.P. are vital in this fight, amplifying voices that demand accountability and safeguarding those who are most at risk.

For more information about Bikers Against Predators, their mission, and how you can support their work, visit their official website at www.bikersagainstpredators.com  

The successful collaboration between Bikers Against Predators and the Parsons Police Department highlights the importance of community activism in addressing the issue of sexual abuse. By exposing predators and working with law enforcement to bring them to justice, B.A.P. demonstrates the power of collective action in creating safer, more resilient communities.

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 or call the Tip Line at 421-7057 or email at tips@parsonspdks.gov.

# # # # #