Convicted Sex Offender Becomes Fugitive After Fleeing During Metro Atlanta Rape Trial, Deputies Say

Deputies in metro Atlanta are searching for a convicted sex offender who authorities say fled during his trial.

According to officials, Gary Diggs, 61, was sentenced to life in prison by a Fulton County judge after being convicted of rape. Authorities said he is currently absconding from justice.

Fulton County Sheriff’s Office Calls Diggs High Risk

The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office described Diggs as a high-risk, violent Tier-3 sex offender.

Deputies said Diggs has a 30-year history involving rape convictions and is also known to have committed offenses connected to minors.

Diggs Failed to Return to Court

Investigators said Diggs failed to appear in court during one day of his recent trial and has not been located since.

Officials have not said where they believe he may be hiding.

Prior Convictions and Known Aliases

State records show Diggs was previously convicted in California in 1995 on two counts of rape with force or fear.

Authorities said Diggs has also used several aliases, including Gary Howard, Kerry Diggs and Red Howard.

Description of Wanted Fugitive

Diggs is described as being about 6 feet tall and weighing between 147 and 190 pounds.

Law enforcement officials are asking the public for help locating him.

Reward Offered for Information

Crime Stoppers Atlanta is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to Diggs’ arrest.

Anyone who knows where Diggs may be is asked to contact authorities at 404-577-8477.

Fulton County deputies are searching for Gary Diggs, a convicted sex offender sentenced to life in a rape case after he failed to appear during his trial. Authorities consider him a high-risk fugitive and are urging anyone with information about his location to contact Crime Stoppers Atlanta.