Fugitive wanted for rape arrested by Southern Ohio Organized & Major Crimes Task Force

Ohio Attorney General David Yost, Scioto County Sheriff David Thoroughman, Portsmouth Police Chief Debby Brewer, New Boston Police Chief Carl Compton, Scioto County Prosecuting Attorney Shane Tieman, Pike County Sheriff Tracy Evans, Pike County Prosecuting Attorney Michael A. Davis and Lawrence County Sheriff Jeff Lawless announced the arrest of a fugitive wanted for rape, following a joint investigation led by the Southern Ohio Organized & Major Crimes Task Force.

On Tuesday, May 20, agents with the Task Force, in collaboration with officers from the Portsmouth Police Department, arrested Lowell Gregory Strickland, 57, of Minford, who was wanted on an outstanding warrant for rape out of Akron.

This arrest was the result of a coordinated effort between the Task Force, the United States Marshals Service and the Akron Police Department. Investigators closely tracked Strickland’s movements, ultimately leading to his apprehension in Portsmouth. He was taken into custody without incident.

Strickland was transported to the Scioto County Jail for processing. He will be held pending extradition to Akron, where he will face the charges filed against him.

“This arrest demonstrates the strength of collaboration between local, state and federal agencies,” said Scioto County Sheriff David Thoroughman. “The Southern Ohio Organized & Major Crimes Task Force remains committed to tracking down violent offenders and ensuring they face justice.”