Donald Steven Lang, a 62-year-old accused of exploiting a child on his sailboat, was apprehended in Canada. This arrest followed a warning from the FBI that Lang might be sailing across the Pacific Ocean to avoid capture.
Lang, a citizen of both the U.S. and Canada, faced indictment on one count of sexual exploitation of children in Hawaii on August 20. According to authorities, he allegedly committed the crime aboard his 55-foot sailboat, Ishi, between September and December 2024.
The Department of Justice noted that Lang is known for sailing globally, often stopping in Hawaii. However, the FBI’s search went beyond the islands.
The FBI reported that Lang may have been sailing between Hawaii and Fiji, or toward Mexico, Papua New Guinea, or Indonesia. He had connections in several locations, including Hawaii, Idaho, Washington state, California, Fiji, the Marquesas Islands, Mexico, and Canada.
Lang faces allegations that he used, persuaded, or coerced a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct, aiming to produce visual depictions. His indictment describes his vessel as a 1985 Taylor Hatfield sailboat. Prosecutors seek forfeiture of the boat, digital devices, and a Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra phone if Lang is convicted.
Lang is also wanted in Idaho over charges including lewd conduct with a minor and sexual battery involving allegations from 2003 to 2007.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva emphasized the importance of protecting children from sexual predators and the commitment to returning Lang to the U.S. for trial. FBI Criminal Assistant Director Heith Janke noted multiple victims accused Lang of sexual abuse.
The FBI offered a reward for information leading to Lang’s arrest and advised that he posed an escape risk. His capture involved cooperation between the FBI and Canada’s Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s Pacific Region.
If convicted in Hawaii, Lang could face 15 to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and supervised release ranging from five years to life.
Stepheny Price, a writer at Fox News, reports on West Coast and Midwest news, missing persons, crime stories, and border security.