Nigerian Fugitive Added To U.S. Marshals’ “15 Most Wanted” For Child Abuse And Murder Charges
A Nigerian man, Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi, is now on the U.S. Marshals Service’s “15 Most Wanted” list, sought by Rhode Island authorities on charges of first-degree murder, serious child bodily harm, and flight from prosecution. A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for tips that lead to his capture.
According to a U.S. Marshals Service report, Olawusi, 48, was charged following the discovery of his severely injured three-month-old son by emergency responders at a Providence residence on April 3, 2017. The infant, found in cardiac arrest, was resuscitated but died six months later after sustaining 18 documented injuries consistent with prolonged abuse, including skull fractures, brain trauma, and broken bones.
Olawusi, originally arrested for child abuse on April 20, 2017, was released but fled soon after. When his son died on October 31, 2017, the charges were raised to murder. Authorities discovered Olawusi had flown to Nigeria from JFK Airport in June 2017, with reports indicating he may be receiving support from relatives there. Officials have expressed concerns about his potential threat to other children.
“Mr. Olawusi is wanted for the abuse and murder of an innocent child and has fled the country to avoid justice,” said U.S. Marshals Service Director Ronald L. Davis. “We have placed him on our 15 Most Wanted list due to the heinous crimes he’s committed and the ongoing threat he poses. We will use all resources to bring him to justice for his family and the community.”
Olawusi, also known as Olekun Olawusi, is described as 5’8″ and approximately 185 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. Individuals with information are urged to contact the U.S. Marshals at 1-877-WANTED2 (926-8332) or through the USMS Tips App.
The “15 Most Wanted” fugitive program, initiated in 1983, focuses on the U.S.’s most dangerous and high-profile fugitives. Many on this list are considered severe threats to public safety.
