The manhunt for a 64-year-old convicted rapist is now a full-court press, with federal marshals stepping in to help Baltimore police track down a fugitive they say is flouting sex-offender rules. Authorities identify the suspect as Leon Barber, and court records and law enforcement sources describe him as non-compliant on the state sex-offender registry. Local and federal partners say they are ramping up efforts to locate him because of concerns about recidivism and public safety.
U.S. Marshals Step In
The U.S. Marshals Service has joined the search, bringing federal fugitive-hunting resources and task-force partners into the mix. According to a U.S. Marshals Service press release on recent Maryland operations, marshals in the District of Maryland regularly run multi-agency sweeps that prioritize locating non-compliant registrants and violent fugitives. U.S. Marshals Service says those operations are designed to close outstanding warrants and improve community safety.
Barber's Record And Timeline
Online court records and reporting show Barber was convicted of first-degree rape in 2001 in Baltimore City and was sentenced to more than 35 years in prison, followed by mandatory supervised release. He was released on probation in February 2023, and authorities say a warrant for a probation violation was issued in August 2025 after officials alleged he failed to properly register as a sex offender. As reported by FOX45 News, those alleged registration failures are central to the outstanding warrant.
Alleged 2023 Arrest And Registry Status
Court documents reviewed by local reporters show Barber was arrested in September 2023 on armed-robbery and assault allegations in north Baltimore after a witness helped identify him by photo. Prosecutors later declined to prosecute when a witness failed to appear. The Maryland sex-offender registry lists Barber as "non-compliant," and authorities say the outstanding probation warrant stems from those registration violations. In a statement to FOX45 News, Al Maresca of the U.S. Marshals Service said, "We believe it is in the interest of public safety that we find and locate Barber."
What Failing To Register Means Under Maryland Law
Maryland law requires registrants to report changes of address, employment, and other key details within short statutory windows, and knowingly failing to register or to provide required updates is a criminal offense. The Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services notes that first offenses can carry jail time and fines, and court opinions point to Criminal Procedure § 11-721 for penalties that increase on repeat violations. Maryland DPSCS and appellate rulings outline the registration duties and consequences.
How To Help
Anyone with information about Barber's whereabouts is asked to contact the U.S. Marshals Service tip line at 202-819-5058 or use the USMS tips channels. Authorities advise residents not to approach the subject if spotted and to call law enforcement immediately. For media or other public inquiries, see the U.S. Marshals Service District of Maryland contact information. U.S. Marshals Service - District of Maryland.
