New York: Former Rhode Island anesthesiologist Ronald L. Fischer, who spent over two decades on the lam after escaping prosecution at his 2005 trial for sexually assaulting a child, was finally caught this week when he was arrested aboard the sailboat he’d been using as refuge along New Jersey’s coast.
Who Is Ronald L. Fischer?
Ronald L. Fischer is a former anesthesiologist from Rhode Island who became one of the state’s longest-wanted fugitives. He gained national attention after fleeing during his 2005 child sexual assault trial. He was later convicted in absentia of first-degree sexual assault. Authorities said Fischer spent more than 20 years living under the alias “Richard Graydon” while avoiding arrest.
What Did Ronald Fischer Do?
Fischer disappeared while his trial was still underway in 2005. Despite his absence, the trial continued, and a jury found him guilty of first-degree sexual assault. Since then, law enforcement agencies searched for him for more than two decades, making him one of Rhode Island’s most wanted fugitives.
How Was Ronald Fischer Captured?
According to the FBI, investigators received “a tip from an online sleuth,” which led them to a 56-foot sailboat named The Silver Lining. The boat was registered under the alias “Richard Graydon.” Authorities tracked the vessel to waters off the New Jersey coast, where the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and U.S. Coast Guard carried out a joint operation and arrested Fischer without incident. FBI Boston Special Agent in Charge Ted E. Docks said the online tip helped investigators develop new intelligence that ultimately led to Fischer’s capture.
What Is the Current Status of the Case?
After his capture, Fischer was transported on board a US Coast Guard vessel to Coast Guard Station Staten Island, where he was then turned over to deputy US marshals and local law enforcement officials.
“This arrest demonstrates that time does not erase accountability,” US Marshal Wing Chau told reporters at an afternoon press conference. “Rhode Island’s state police are commending the incredible investigators on this case over the past two decades.”
Authorities haven’t yet revealed more info on Fischer’s life during his years on the run or if they’ll release photos/videotapes from the arrest.
