U.S. Marshals declare Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi wanted for child murder and abuse, offering $25,000 reward for information on his location
[dropcap]U[/dropcap].S. authorities have declared Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi, a 48-year-old Nigerian man, wanted in connection with the abuse and murder of his 3-month-old son in 2017.
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The United States Marshals Service (USMS) is offering a $25,000 reward for any information that could lead to Olawusi’s capture, as he is believed to have fled to Nigeria.
The charges against Olawusi, which include first-degree murder and two counts of causing serious bodily injury to a child, stem from an April 3, 2017 incident in Providence, Rhode Island.
On this date, emergency services responded to a call and found Olawusi’s infant son in critical condition, bleeding from his mouth and nose.
The infant was in cardiac arrest and required resuscitation upon arrival at the hospital. Medical evaluations later revealed the extent of the child’s injuries, including a skull fracture, subdural haematoma, significant brain damage, and numerous fractures to the ribs, legs, arms, and clavicle. The nature and progression of these injuries suggested long-term abuse.
Following the incident, Olawusi was initially arrested by Providence police on April 20, 2017, facing charges of first-degree child abuse.
However, after being released the same day, he subsequently fled.
Upon the infant’s death on October 31, 2017, the authorities elevated the charges to murder.
Investigators later confirmed that Olawusi left the United States on June 20, 2017, through John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, using his Nigerian passport. Authorities suspect that he may be receiving assistance from relatives in Nigeria and warn that he could pose a danger to other children.
“Mr. Olawusi is wanted for the abuse and murder of an innocent child, and he has fled the country to avoid justice,” stated Ronald L. Davis, Director of the U.S. Marshals Service.
“We have placed Mr. Olawusi on our 15 Most Wanted list due to the heinous crimes he’s committed and the threat he continues to pose to the public. The USMS will exhaust all resources necessary to bring him to justice for his family and the community.”
The U.S. Marshals urge anyone with knowledge of Olawusi’s whereabouts to come forward. Information can be reported to the U.S. Marshals by calling 1-877-WANTED2 (926-8332) or via the USMS Tips App.
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Olawusi, who may also go by the alias Olekun Olawusi, is described as standing 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighing approximately 185 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.
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