SAN DIEGO - The U.S. Marshals Service in San Diego stepped up its manhunt Thursday for an alleged sexual predator on the agency's 15 "most wanted" fugitives list.
Authorities asked the public for help in finding Frederick McLean, 57, who is sought on multiple counts of sexual assault on a child.
Supervising Deputy U.S. Marshal Steve Jurman of the San Diego Fugitive Task Force said "multiple counts" is an understatement.
"We believe McLean's abusive acts against young victims span over a 20-year period and are likely to continue until he is caught," he said.
One alleged victim claims McLean assaulted her more than 100 times over seven years, Jurman said.
In 2004, family members confronted McLean when a young female said she was molested, according to authorities. McLean allegedly admitted guilt, and the alleged victim's family decided to call the Riverside County Sheriff's Department.
Authorities said McLean soon liquidated his assets, left letters for his family in his truck and then disappeared.
McLean is white, 5 feet 11 inches tall and 170 pounds, with brown hair peppered with gray and hazel eyes.
A former auto mechanic who once owned a race-car restoration business, he is an outdoorsman who frequents camping areas, authorities said.
McLean should be considered armed and dangerous and possibly suicidal, according to the U.S. Marshals Service. A $25,000 reward has been posted for information leading to McLean's arrest.
Anyone with information should call the U.S. Marshals Service at its toll-free number, 1-800-336-0102.
