FBI offers $5k reward in manhunt for Delaware YMCA child abuse suspect

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has disclosed the identity of a wanted individual linked to the sexual assault of an 8-year-old minor at a YMCA establishment in Wilmington, Delaware.

Federal investigators said the YMCA child rape suspect, identified as Nehemiah Billie J'Len Garcia, 21, remains at large.

The reported attack happened on June 13 at the Hanby Outdoor Center, situated on the unit block of Chestnut Street in Wilmington. Investigators claim that Garcia supposedly enticed the child to the showers by the pool area, where the assault occurred.

The FBI is presently looking into Garcia, who has developed ties in Philadelphia and Cape Coral, Florida. The agency is providing a monetary incentive of up to $5,000 for any information that results in Garcia's arrest, as they continue their search of the suspect.

New Castle County police have verified that the investigation for Garcia involves the assistance of the United States Marshals Service and additional law enforcement agencies. However, officials have avoided revealing the location of the search for the suspect.

Garcia has been issued arrest warrants for allegations of rape, crimes against a juvenile, and unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.  

The YMCA of Delaware issued a statement addressing the Wilmington, Delaware, assault. "We appreciate the tireless efforts of the New Castle County Police and FBI as they continue their investigation and search for the suspect in the alleged sexual assault that occurred at the Hanby Outdoor Center earlier this summer," the statement read. "We stand with law enforcement, encouraging our communities to come forward with any information that may lead to an arrest and bring justice to the family affected."

It remains unclear whether Garcia had any prior affiliation with the YMCA community. When contacted by local media, the organization did not provide additional comments on the matter.

The incident has sparked concern among residents. Charles Culbreth, from Northeast Philadelphia, expressed his outrage, stating, "There is no excuse for that, just an evil person." Another resident spoke to Action News and said, "It is an awful crime. I hope that they catch this predator soon."

Mary Lott, a resident of Claymont, emphasized the importance of apprehending the suspect quickly. "They need to find this person because if he has done this to that person then he can do it to someone else," Lott said.

Officials have asked the community to stay alert and provide any details that may help in the apprehension of Garcia. The FBI is asking individuals to report any information about Garcia's location to their nearby FBI office promptly.