FBI Knoxville
Public Affairs Officer Darrell DeBusk
(865) 544-0751
November 17, 2023

Escapee Spotted in Sylva, North Carolina

A man who escaped from federal custody while being transported from Laurel County, Kentucky, to Greenville, Tennessee, was spotted in Sylva, North Carolina, on November 17. The FBI has confirmed an eyewitness saw Sean Christopher Williams around 11:30 a.m. on the morning of November 17 in the Jackson Plaza shopping area in Jackson County, North Carolina.

Williams escaped on October 18, 2023. He was facing state charges in Tennessee related to rape of a child, aggravated sexual battery of a child under 13, and especially aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor. He is also facing several federal charges, including escape.

The FBI, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, and other law enforcement partners are currently searching for Williams. He is familiar with the area and should be considered dangerous. Law enforcement is asking the community of Sylva, North Carolina, to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings. Homeowners should secure their outbuildings and other property, if possible and if they can do so in a safe manner. If you see the fugitive, call 828-631-HELP.

Williams is 5’11” and weighs 170 pounds. He has brown hair and hazel eyes. His hair is currently more grown out than in this picture.

Williams has several tattoos on his arms and one of his fingers. For additional photos, follow this link: fbi.gov/wanted/additional/sean-williams.