Former Anesthesiologist Captured After Two Decades on the Run

A former anesthesiologist from Rhode Island, who had been evading law enforcement for over 20 years following a conviction for sexual assault, was arrested on a yacht in New York City this past Thursday.

According to law enforcement, the Boston FBI was involved in the arrest of 70-year-old Ronald L. Fisher. He was charged with date rape in 2003 while he was aboard a yacht with a woman in Rhode Island.

Fisher fled before his trial began in 2005, just as closing arguments were set to start. He was subsequently found guilty in absentia of first-degree sexual assault, leading to warrants being issued for his arrest due to his failure to appear and attempts to evade prosecution.

In the days leading up to his arrest, authorities tracked Fisher’s movements, realizing he had been in New York shortly before he was taken into custody. The U.S. Marshals Service played a key role in locating him along with the FBI and other agencies.

Fisher was caught as officials intercepted his 56-foot boat, named The Silver Lining, while he was navigating the East River toward Long Island Sound around 11:20 a.m. on Thursday. The arrest, reportedly, occurred without any incidents.

The Sheriff’s Office indicated that the yacht was registered under the alias Richard Graydon.

U.S. Marshal for the District of Rhode Island, Win Chau, remarked on the significance of this arrest, stating, “Responsibility does not disappear with time… For over 20 years, Ronald Fisher thought he had successfully avoided justice.” He added that the Rhode Island Violent Fugitive Task Force had worked diligently to ensure Fisher’s apprehension.

During a hearing in Manhattan Criminal Court on Friday, Fisher appeared handcuffed and dressed casually, seeming to reflect the typical attire of someone who spends time on the water. He waived his right to an extradition hearing and is expected to be transferred to Rhode Island by the end of July, where he will remain in custody until then.

Additionally, reports from the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office indicated that authorities had searched Fisher’s residence—though its specific location remained undisclosed—and found several books on evading law enforcement. It was also noted that Fisher had been sending emails to neighbors inquiring if they had experienced police searches.