U.S. Marshals Place $25,000 Reward for Nigerian Man Wanted in Child Abuse Case
U.S. authorities are actively searching for 48-year-old Nigerian national Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi, who is wanted on severe charges related to the abuse and eventual death of his infant son in Providence, Rhode Island. In an effort to apprehend Olawusi, officials have offered a $25,000 reward for any information leading to his arrest.
Background of the Case: April 2017 Incident
The charges against Olawusi stem from a distressing incident on April 3, 2017, when emergency responders arrived at his Rhode Island residence to find his 3-month-old son in critical condition. The infant, suffering from apparent abuse-related injuries, was bleeding from his mouth and nose and had to be rushed to the hospital. Despite extensive medical intervention, which included resuscitation due to cardiac arrest, the infant’s injuries were devastating. A thorough examination at the hospital revealed 18 separate injuries in various stages of healing, suggesting a prolonged history of abuse.
Medical Findings and Investigation
Doctors identified severe injuries to the child, including a skull fracture, significant brain trauma, subdural hematoma, and multiple bone fractures affecting the ribs, clavicle, legs, and arms. These findings pointed to sustained and repeated physical trauma. Initially placed on life support, the infant succumbed to his injuries six months later in October 2017.
Following the incident, Providence police swiftly arrested Olawusi on April 20, 2017, charging him with first-degree child abuse. However, he was released on the same day. Authorities believe that Olawusi, upon his release, fled the United States to avoid facing these charges.
The Ongoing Manhunt and International Coordination
Providence Police and the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office requested the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) to locate Olawusi after he was discovered to have left the country. Investigations revealed that Olawusi departed from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport on June 20, 2017, using his Nigerian passport. Since then, he is believed to be in Nigeria, where authorities suspect he may be receiving support from family members. U.S. Marshals are concerned that he could pose a danger to others, particularly children, while evading justice.
To intensify efforts to capture Olawusi, the U.S. Marshals Service has added him to their 15 Most Wanted list, with officials calling attention to the serious nature of his alleged crimes and the potential risk he poses to the public. Ronald L. Davis, Director of the U.S. Marshals Service, issued a strong statement: “Mr. Olawusi is wanted for the abuse and murder of an innocent child and has fled the country to avoid justice. We will exhaust all resources necessary to bring him to justice for his family and the community.”
Description and Contact Information
Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi, also known by the alias Olekun Olawusi, is described as being 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighing around 185 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Authorities are urging anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts to come forward and assist in his apprehension. Tips can be reported to the U.S. Marshals at 1-877-WANTED2 (926-8332) or through the USMS Tips App.
This case shows the commitment of U.S. law enforcement agencies to bring individuals accused of serious crimes to justice, regardless of national or international borders.