Dangerous Man on Parole in Oregon For Rape Flees Authorities

In addition to the Oregon rape conviction, Howard Thomas has a string of convictions in Washington, California and New York for theft, weapons-related charges, receiving stolen property and public lewdness.

Howard Thomas as he appeared in 1993 Photo courtesy: Multnomah County Sheriff

(PORTLAND) - An Oregon man on parole for rape is now a fugitive and may be in the San Francisco Bay Area, authorities said Wednesday.

54-year-old Howard Thomas, dumped the electronic ankle bracelet used to track his whereabouts in downtown Portland on June 14th. Thomas has a history of moving up and down the West Coast, and authorities have posted a multi-state warrant for his arrest.

"We have reason to believe he may be in the San Francisco Bay Area," said Rob Freda-Cowie, spokesman for the Multnomah County Department of Community Justice.

He is very dangerous, antisocial, violent, and sadistic," Freda-Cowie said.

Thomas was released from prison last month.

He is on parole for a rape conviction.

In 1987, Thomas forced a woman to perform sex on him at gun point, authorities said. He had lured the victim into his car, and, with the apparent intent of keeping her from escaping, he had removed the door- and window handles.

Thomas is described as: 5`11, 150 pounds and blue eyes.

He was last seen with graying brown hair.

He also uses the last name "Phoenix," and has been known to solicit prostitutes.

Authorities ask that anyone who sees him call 9-1-1 to report his location to police and do not approach him.

Anyone with information on Thomas`s whereabouts is urged to contact Multnomah County parole officers Steve Padilla at (503) 988-3190, ext. 227, or Rick Sothern at (503) 988-3190, ext. 242.