An Oklahoma man who was added to Attorney General Gentner Drummond’s 10 Most Wanted list last July has been convicted of failing to register as a sex offender, according to an April 21 announcement.
The conviction highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement and state officials to address serious crimes and ensure public safety. The case also demonstrates the role of collaborative work between state and federal agencies in capturing fugitives.
Anthony Lennon, formerly of Moore, was found guilty Friday by a federal jury. Lennon had previously been convicted in 2008 for five counts of aggravated possession of child pornography. In 2012, he disappeared and spent the next thirteen years evading authorities before being captured in upstate New York last October. His capture came just three months after he was featured on Drummond’s 10 Most Wanted list. Lennon had been living under the alias “Justin Phillips,” with his true identity confirmed through fingerprint analysis.
“Anthony Lennon evaded justice for too long, but now he is facing the consequences of his actions,” Drummond said. “I appreciate the work of our law enforcement partners to capture this fugitive and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their successful prosecution.”
The Oklahoma Attorney General focuses on combating crime, ensuring government transparency, strengthening tribal relations, and upholding the rule of law, according to the official biography. Gentner Drummond heads the office leveraging extensive legal experience according to his official biography. The office also advocates for policies supporting energy interests, educational safeguards, and tougher laws against crimes such as rape and drug distribution according to its official biography.
Collaboration with state and federal partners is part of addressing organized crime as noted by official sources. The Oklahoma Attorney General operates within public legal services in Oklahoma according to background information.
Lennon now faces up to ten years in prison and a fine that could reach $250,000 at sentencing.