US Marshals Offer Reward for 'Fugitive Sex Offenders' in Northern Ohio

Three suspects wanted for failing to register addresses and sexually-oriented crimes

Feb. 4, 2026 at 9:23am

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The U.S. Marshals' Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is seeking information on three suspects, described as "fugitive sex offenders," who are wanted by various law enforcement agencies in Northern Ohio. Authorities are offering a reward for any information that would lead to the capture of these suspects.

Why it matters

Sex offenders who fail to register their addresses pose a risk to public safety, and the U.S. Marshals are working to apprehend these individuals and hold them accountable. The Northern Ohio region has seen a number of high-profile cases involving sex offenders, underscoring the need for vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement and the community.

The details

The three suspects wanted by the U.S. Marshals are David Dowd, Shannon Riley, and Ernest Scales. Dowd is wanted for failing to register his address and was originally charged with unlawful sexual conduct with a minor. Riley is wanted for failing to register his address and was originally charged with rape. Scales is wanted on charges of rape, sexual battery, and gross sexual imposition.

  • The U.S. Marshals are currently seeking information on these three suspects.

The players

U.S. Marshals' Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force

A law enforcement task force dedicated to apprehending violent fugitives in Northern Ohio.

David Dowd

A 36-year-old male, 6'3" and 163 lbs, wanted for failing to register his address and was originally charged with unlawful sexual conduct with a minor.

Shannon Riley

A 55-year-old male, 5'9" and 190 lbs, wanted for failing to register his address and was originally charged with rape.

Ernest Scales

A 55-year-old male, 6' and 250 lbs, wanted on charges of rape, sexual battery, and gross sexual imposition.

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The takeaway

The apprehension of these three fugitive sex offenders is crucial for protecting public safety in Northern Ohio. The U.S. Marshals are relying on community tips and cooperation to locate and arrest these individuals, highlighting the important role citizens can play in supporting law enforcement efforts.