A multi-agency ICAC operation leads to arrest in the town of Plat...

On February 6th and 7th, 2025, a multi-agency operation focused on internet crimes against children was conducted in the town of Plattsburgh.

William H. Chase, age 67, of Lyon Mountain, NY, was charged with attempted rape 2nd and disseminating indecent material to minors 1st.

Alexander G. Buck, age 22, of Plattsburgh, NY, was charged with attempted rape 2nd.

Anthony F. Yelle, age 42, of West Chazy, NY, was charged with attempted rape 2nd.

Casey A. Ratliff, age 33, of Peru, NY, was charged with attempted rape 2nd.

On February 6, 2025, State Police members, the Federal Bureau of Investigations, and Homeland Security worked together to set up arrangements for possible encounters between adults and children. An investigation determined William H. Chase believed he was going to meet a 13-year-old child and engage in sexual activity. Chase arrived at the location where he intended to meet the child and was quickly taken into custody before any encounter with a child could happen.

Chase was arrested and taken to SP Plattsburgh for processing. He was later released with appearance tickets and given a return court date at the Town of Plattsburgh Court for February 11, 2025.

On February 7, 2025, State Police members, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Homeland Security communicated with three different men who intended to meet children believed to be 13 years old. An investigation determined Alexander G. Buck, Casey, A. Ratliff, and Anthony F. Yelle were in contact with what they believed to be a 13-year-old child. They all were actively arranging a place to meet to engage in sexual activity with the 13-year-old.

At different times, Buck, Ratliff, and Yelle were scheduled to arrive at the prearranged location. However, when they arrived, they were taken into custody before any interaction with a child could take place.

They were arrested and taken to SP Plattsburgh for processing. Buck, Ratliff, and Yelle were released on pre-trial release and are required to appear in the Town of Plattsburgh Court on February 13, 2025.