After more than 20 years on the run, 70-year-old Ronald Fischer has been arrested. His capture brings an end to one of Rhode Island’s longest-running fugitive investigations.
The search for Ronald Fischer, Rhode Island fugitive who disappeared during his trial in 2005, came to an end Thursday. Members of the Rhode Island Violent Fugitive Task Force developed a credible lead that helped authorities track him down.
According to the U.S. Marshals Service, investigators discovered that Fischer was operating a 56-foot sailboat under the alias Richard Graydon.
The U.S. Coast Guard located the vessel off the coast of New Jersey. Authorities intercepted the boat and arrested Fischer without incident.
Fischer Disappeared During His Trial
Fischer disappeared in April 2005 while on trial in Newport County for first-degree sexual assault. Just before closing arguments, he reportedly emailed his attorneys and told them he had decided to leave the country rather than risk a conviction.
However, the trial continued without him. A jury later found Fischer guilty of sexually assaulting a woman aboard his yacht in Portsmouth in 2003.
A judge sentenced Fischer in absentia to life in prison. He must serve 25 years before becoming eligible for parole.
A Fugitive for More Than Two Decades
Before fleeing, Fischer lived in East Greenwich. The former anesthesiologist previously served as chief of anesthesiology at Memorial Hospital in Pawtucket. He was also an assistant professor at Brown University.
For years, authorities believed Fischer used several aliases and his extensive boating experience to avoid capture.
Fischer remained on the Rhode Island State Police’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list. He was also featured multiple times on America’s Most Wanted as investigators searched for him in the United States and overseas.
What Happens Next
Federal authorities say Fischer now faces additional charges, including failure to appear for trial and unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.
Authorities are expected to return Fischer to Rhode Island as the legal process continues.
After more than two decades, the manhunt for Ronald Fischer has finally come to an end.
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