Canadian Sailor Sought by FBI for Alleged Sex Crimes Against Minors
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced a reward for information leading to the capture of a Canadian man accused of sexual offenses against a minor in Idaho. Authorities suspect he may be sailing across the Pacific Ocean, evading law enforcement.
Charges and Allegations
Donald Steven Lang, a 62-year-old Canadian citizen, was charged in Idaho on April 9, 2025, with three counts of lewd conduct with a minor under 16 and one count of sexual battery of a minor. The alleged abuse is reported to have occurred in Kootenai County between 2003 and 2007, highlighting a historical case that has recently come to light.
The FBI is offering a $5,000 reward for any information that results in Lang's arrest. This initiative underscores the seriousness of the charges and the agency's commitment to bringing him to justice.
Last Known Whereabouts and Sailing Patterns
According to FBI reports, Lang was last seen in January 2025 aboard his sailboat, named ISHI, in Hawaii, which serves as his home base. He is known to be an experienced sailor who travels globally, often taking on odd jobs such as boat repairs to sustain his lifestyle.
Investigators believe Lang could be navigating various routes in the Pacific. "He may be sailing somewhere between Hawaii and Fiji, Hawaii and Mexico, towards Papua New Guinea, or possibly Indonesia," the FBI stated. This wide range of potential locations complicates the search efforts.
Physical Description and Connections
Lang has been photographed with varying appearances, from clean-shaven to having a long, full beard, making identification challenging. He is described as having multiple tattoos, including a faded conch shell with the word "captain" above it on his right arm, which could be a key identifying feature.
The FBI notes that Lang has ties to several regions, including Hawaii, Idaho, Washington State, California, Fiji, the Marquesas Islands, Mexico, and Canada. These connections suggest he may have support networks or familiar havens that could aid in his evasion.
Public Appeal for Information
Authorities are urging anyone with information about Lang's whereabouts to contact their local FBI field office or the nearest American Embassy or Consulate. The public's assistance is crucial in locating him, given the vast and remote areas he might be traversing by sea.
This case highlights the challenges of pursuing fugitives in international waters and the importance of cross-border cooperation in law enforcement. The FBI's reward offer aims to incentivize tips that could lead to a breakthrough in the investigation.
