Oklahoma’s Most Wanted Anthony Lennon Captured After 13 Years

UPDATE: After 13 years on the run, Anthony Lennon, a fugitive on Oklahoma’s 10 Most Wanted list, has been captured. Law enforcement officials confirmed his arrest just outside a grocery store in Canton, New York, where he was reportedly living as a student.

Lennon, who was convicted in 2008 for possession of child pornography, evaded authorities following a probation violation. In March 2012, the Moore Police Department uncovered additional evidence of child pornography on his devices, leading to eight felony charges against him. “Our worst fears were confirmed,” stated Moore Police Chief Todd Gibson regarding the new findings.

Authorities believe Lennon staged a robbery and kidnapping from his job at a Super 8 Motel in Moore to escape capture. “We never believed he was a victim of a crime,” emphasized Cleveland County District Attorney Jennifer Austin. For over a decade, he managed to evade justice, using various aliases to conceal his identity.

The breakthrough came when local deputy U.S. Marshals, alongside the New York/New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task Force, tracked Lennon down. “They closed in on him, and we were able to make the arrest,” said U.S. Marshal Johnny Kuhlman.

Currently, Lennon faces a federal charge for failing to register as a sex offender, in addition to the existing charges. Prosecutors are reviewing potential additional charges against him. “We will work together with our partners in the federal system to determine next steps,” Austin noted.

As Lennon remains in custody in New York, authorities are preparing for his return to Oklahoma to face justice. This long-awaited capture marks a significant victory for law enforcement and highlights the importance of continued vigilance in tracking fugitives.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as it unfolds.