A California firefighter charged with possessing child sex abuse images may have faked his drowning death three years ago, federal authorities said.
Charles Johnathen Harris, who was charged with possession of child pornography in March 2023, allegedly drowned in a boating accident in Suisun Bay, near San Francisco, a month later on April 4, 2023.
However, the FBI on Tuesday said the circumstances surrounding the incident “warrant further scrutiny, including the possibility that his death was staged.”
A federal arrest warrant was issued for Harris on April 21, 2023, after he was charged with failing to appear at a scheduled court hearing.
Harris, 46, is currently featured on the FBI’s Most Wanted list. He reportedly uses the aliases “Chuck Harris” and “Charlie Harris.” The FBI describes him as 5 feet, 10 inches tall and 220 pounds. He has red hair and blue eyes.
Harris, who is originally from Modesto, California, also has light burn scars on his hands, according to the FBI.
Prosecutors said they began investigating Harris after receiving a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Their probe revealed that Harris had allegedly uploaded the child sex abuse material over social media platform Kik, even while he was at work at the fire station.
Following a March 2023 hearing, Harris was released on bond on the condition that his Internet access would be restricted.
About a month later, Harris allegedly drowned in a boating accident. It was not immediately clear why the FBI believes the alleged death warrants further investigation.
If Harris is convicted in the case, he faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 and restitution.
Anyone with information about Harris’ whereabouts is asked to contact their local FBI office.
The Independent has contacted the FBI for information.
