UPDATE: After an extensive 13-year manhunt, Anthony Lennon, a fugitive on Oklahoma’s 10 Most Wanted list, has been captured in Canton, New York. Authorities confirmed his arrest outside a grocery store, bringing an end to a long pursuit that began after he violated probation for child pornography charges.
Lennon, who was convicted in 2008 for possession of child pornography, initially received probation. However, after discovering additional child pornography on his devices in March 2012, the Moore Police Department took decisive action. “Our worst fears were confirmed… We discovered additional child pornography and exploitive images on Mr. Lennon’s electronic devices,” stated Moore Police Chief Todd Gibson.
Investigators believe Lennon staged his own robbery and kidnapping from a Super 8 Motel in Moore, Oklahoma, to escape justice. Cleveland County District Attorney Jennifer Austin emphasized, “We never believed that Mr. Lennon was deceased… He was trying to evade capture.”
For over a decade, law enforcement pursued Lennon, tracking his numerous aliases across states. U.S. Marshals and detectives from the Moore Police Department worked with the New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task Force to locate him. Their efforts culminated in his arrest, as he attended classes at a local university.
Lennon now faces federal charges for failing to register as a sex offender, alongside the eight counts of felony possession of child pornography. Austin notes, “There could be more charges on the way,” as authorities coordinate with federal partners to determine the next steps.
Currently in custody in New York, Lennon awaits a judge’s decision on extradition back to Oklahoma. This case not only highlights the persistence of law enforcement but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in addressing child exploitation.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as authorities reveal additional information about the implications of Lennon’s capture and the potential charges he faces.
