FBI Intensifies Manhunt for Canadian Sailor Accused of Child Sex Crimes
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has launched an extensive international search for Donald Steven Lang, a 62-year-old professional sailor from British Columbia, Canada. Lang is wanted on multiple charges related to alleged sexual offenses against a minor in Idaho, with authorities believing he is currently evading capture somewhere in the expansive South Pacific Ocean.
Serious Criminal Charges and International Search
According to official documents from Idaho's District Court of the First Judicial District, Lang faces three counts of lewd conduct with a minor under 16 and one count of sexual battery of a minor. These charges were formally filed on April 9, 2025, stemming from alleged incidents that occurred between 2003 and 2007.
The FBI's Salt Lake City Field Office is collaborating closely with the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office in Idaho to locate Lang. Investigators describe him as an escape risk with significant international connections that complicate the search efforts.
Elusive Fugitive with Maritime Experience
Lang, whose home port is in Hawaii, was last confirmed to be aboard his sailboat named ISHI in January 2025. The experienced sailor is believed to be navigating the Pacific Ocean, potentially traveling between Hawaii and various international destinations including Fiji, Mexico, and the Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia.
Physical Description and Vessel Details:
- Height: 5-foot-8, Weight: 210 pounds
- Blue eyes, brown hair
- Several tattoos including a faded conch shell with "captain" above it on his right arm
- Vessel: 1985 Hatfield 55' sailboat "ISHI" (white and red)
- License plate: HA-5665-G
Previous Disappearance and Current Reward
This isn't the first time Lang has vanished under mysterious circumstances. In January 2023, he was reported missing after setting sail from Oahu to Maui and north through the Hawaiian Islands on October 12, 2022. He was last heard from the following day while at sea and had been scheduled to return to Hawaii in January 2023 but remained unaccounted for until he eventually reappeared.
The FBI is now offering a reward of up to US$5,000 for information that leads directly to Lang's arrest. Authorities emphasize that he has connections not only in Hawaii and Idaho but also in Washington State, California, and several other countries, making his apprehension particularly challenging.
How to Provide Information
Anyone with information regarding Donald Steven Lang's whereabouts is urged to contact their nearest American embassy or consulate. Tips can also be submitted securely online through the FBI's official tip website at tips.fbi.gov. The international nature of this search requires cooperation across borders to ensure this fugitive is brought to justice for the serious crimes he is accused of committing.
