Arrest of Donald Steven Lang

Donald Steven Lang, an alleged child predator, was arrested in Canada after evading authorities by sailing across the Pacific Ocean. Lang was apprehended at the request of the United States, concluding an extensive search for this globe-trotting individual.

Charges Against Lang

Lang, who holds dual citizenship in the U.S. and Canada, was indicted on August 20 in Hawaii for sexual exploitation of children. Authorities allege he exploited a minor between September and December 2024 on his 55-foot sailboat, Ishi. The Department of Justice revealed Lang’s global sailing habits, with frequent stops in Hawaii, prompting a search that extended far beyond.

Details on Lang’s Activities

Lang was last seen aboard Ishi in Hawaii in January 2025. The FBI warned he could be sailing between Hawaii and Fiji or Mexico, possibly heading to Papua New Guinea or Indonesia. Lang had connections in numerous locations, including Hawaii, Idaho, Washington state, California, Fiji, Marquesas Islands, Mexico, and Canada.

Legal Proceedings

Federal prosecutors claim Lang attempted to persuade, induce, or coerce a minor into sexually explicit conduct for producing visual depictions. His indictment seeks the forfeiture of his sailboat, digital devices, and other media.

Lang faces existing charges in Idaho for child sex abuse, reflecting a history of alleged offenses dating from 2003 to 2007.

Response from Authorities

Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva emphasized the importance of protecting children from sexual predators. He pledged continued efforts with law enforcement to bring Lang back to the U.S. for trial. Multiple victims have accused Lang of such crimes, noted FBI Criminal Assistant Director Heith Janke.

The FBI remains vigilant, working to bring offenders to justice, with a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to Lang’s arrest.

Collaboration Between Agencies

Lang’s capture resulted from cooperation between the FBI and Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s Pacific Region, including several detachments and teams. If convicted in the Hawaii case, Lang faces a minimum of 15 years and up to 30 years in prison, along with potential fines and supervised release.