The FBI is currently on the lookout for a fugitive from Georgia, Ronald Scott Watson, who faces federal charges related to arson during the 2020 riots. Authorities suggest he could be disguising himself in women’s clothing.
Watson, 28, from Kennesaw, Georgia, was recently convicted of associated charges in January 2023, now facing new accusations concerning the destruction of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building during a summer protest in 2020.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) stated that Watson’s involvement included arson and related damages resulting from the attack in Atlanta, which saw significant destruction of property. On July 25, a crowd gathered to protest outside the ICE facility, and reports indicate that some individuals breached the perimeter, leading to extensive vandalism.
Investigations have revealed the mob caused damages exceeding $78,000 using various items such as rocks, cinder blocks, and incendiary devices. Inside the facility, authorities discovered evidence, including blood near a broken window and flammable materials.
Watson’s identification arose from a combination of evidence gathered during the investigations and his prior conviction for assaulting a security officer in Oregon. Leading up to the incident, Watson had posted provocative anti-ICE statements on social media, suggesting aggressive actions such as throwing bricks at officers.
U.S. Attorney Theodore Hertzberg emphasized that while peaceful protests are crucial, violence—including property destruction—is unacceptable and those who engage in such acts must be held accountable.
FBI officials noted that Watson is believed to be armed and dangerous, and they’ve offered a reward of up to $10,000 for information that leads to his capture. They suspect he may have connections to both Portland and Atlanta, and there’s concern he could attempt to blend in by changing his appearance.
