Authorities in Cuyahoga County are actively searching for a Cleveland man they say tried to rape a child younger than 10 years old back in April 2017. The suspect, identified by the sheriff’s office as Lonnie Dickerson, is charged with attempted rape with a sexually violent predator specification, along with kidnapping and gross sexual imposition, and is already listed as a registered sex offender. Court records state that investigators allege Dickerson restrained the child during the attempted assault, and he remains at large.
Police describe the suspect and charges
According to Cleveland19, court filings and the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s most-wanted listing show Dickerson has a criminal record that dates back to 1997 and that he previously pleaded guilty to sexual battery in 2005. The outlet also reports that the sheriff’s office describes Dickerson as about 5'10" and 192 pounds, with a cross tattoo on his back.
Tip line and reward
Investigators are asking anyone with information about Dickerson’s whereabouts to contact Crime Stoppers at 216-252-7463. Tips to the anonymous hotline could be eligible for a cash reward if they lead to an arrest and conviction. As noted by Crime Stoppers of Cuyahoga County, the program can offer rewards of up to $5,000, and tipsters may remain anonymous.
What 'sexually violent predator' means under Ohio law
The attempted rape charge against Dickerson includes a sexually violent predator specification, a legal enhancement that can result in longer minimum prison terms and additional penalties if proved at trial. The statutory framework for these specifications, including the potential for permanent sexual-predator classification and registration obligations, is set out in Ohio Revised Code §2971.03.
Where this fits locally
The Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office routinely posts "Most Wanted" bulletins on social media to draw in tips from the public, a practice that local coverage has highlighted, and community leads have helped officers close cases in the past, according to reporting on community-assisted arrests. Anyone who sees Dickerson or has information about his location is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at the number above or reach out directly to the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office.
