U.S. Marshals Seek Fugitive Sex Offender, Offer Reward up to $5K

Clarksburg, WV - The U.S. Marshals Service is requesting the public’s assistance in locating a West Virginia man wanted on state charges and is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to his whereabouts.  

A warrant issued out of Gilmer County on Feb. 2, 2023, charged Carl Leon Nicholson Jr., 61, with failure to update sex offender registration, sexual assault, and domestic violence.

Nicholson was last seen Dec. 23, 2022, driving a silver 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo with WV Plate 2RK964. On Dec. 30, 2022, this vehicle was found burned on Haymond Rocks Road in Mount Clare.

Investigators have learned through multiple witness interviews and cellphone records that in the last few days before his disappearance, Nicholson had been in the Coalton, Elkins, Montrose, and Kerens areas of Randolph County; the Belington and Junior areas of Barbour County; the Mount Clare and Anmoore areas of Harrison County; and the Mount Union Road and French Creek areas of Upshur County.  Multiple suspects have been identified in Nicholson’s disappearance and to date one person has been indicted for providing a false statement to federal law enforcement.

Nicholson stands 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighs approximately 150 pounds. He has brown hair and hazel eyes. He has a history of violent tendencies and should be considered dangerous.

Investigators believe Nicholson may be deceased; however, his body has not been found. Anyone with information regarding Nicholson’s whereabouts should contact the U.S. Marshals Service at 304-350-6700 or contact 911 for immediate assistance. Tips may also be sent via email to usmstips@usdoj.gov or contact the U.S. Marshals (USMS) 24-hour tip line at 1-877-WANTED2 (926-8332).

The USMS Northern District of West Virginia Mountain State Fugitive Task Force combines the efforts of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate and arrest the most dangerous fugitives.  It is dedicated to reducing violent crime by locating and apprehending wanted criminals. It also serves as the central point for agencies to share information on fugitive matters.