FBI adds former California firefighter to Most Wanted amid doubts over his death

Former Alameda County firefighter Charles Johnathen Harris, 46, was indicted in March 2023 for alleged possession of child pornography on his iPhone and faced up to 20 years in prison. He was reported to have drowned in a boating accident on April 4, 2023, but investigators now suspect the death was fabricated and have placed him on the FBI’s Most Wanted list. The renewed focus follows possible sightings and the difficulty of remaining hidden while under federal scrutiny.

Harris had been released on bond with conditions limiting his internet use after the indictment, which stemmed from a tip by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The FBI is asking anyone with information to contact local authorities or submit a tip online.