10‑8 News: Ashtabula County’s Most Wanted

Ashtabula, Ohio — November 26, 2025

Law enforcement agencies across Ashtabula County are intensifying their efforts and seeking the public’s assistance in locating several fugitives wanted on felony warrants. Many of the county’s most wanted individuals are linked to serious crimes, including narcotics trafficking, burglary, violent assaults, and offenses against children. Authorities emphasize that community awareness and cooperation are crucial to maintaining public safety and reducing crime throughout the region.

Detailed Profiles of Current Fugitives

Jason Montague

• Age: 35
• Charges: Aggravated robbery
• Background: Montague is wanted for a violent robbery that occurred in Lorain, but he has established ties to Ashtabula County. Law enforcement considers him armed and dangerous, and he may be moving between counties to evade capture.

Sherman Jackson

• Age: 44
• Charges: Rape and molestation of a minor
• Background: Jackson, originally from Warren, has been listed among Northern Ohio’s most wanted fugitives. He is believed to have connections in Ashtabula County and may be receiving assistance from acquaintances in the area.

Shawn Johnson

• Age: 39
• Charges: Homicide
• Background: Johnson is wanted in connection with a homicide case in Warren. Authorities suspect he may be hiding in Ashtabula County and urge residents to report any sightings immediately.

Dennis Nagle

• Age: 50
• Charges: Sex offender parole violation
• Background: Nagle failed to comply with parole conditions and is wanted for violating supervision terms. He has prior convictions for sexual offenses and is considered a risk to public safety.

Local Drug‑Related Fugitives
According to the Ashtabula County Sheriff’s Office and jail exchange records, several fugitives are wanted for illegal manufacture of drugs, possession, permitting drug abuse, conspiracy to manufacture, and trafficking. These cases highlight the county’s ongoing struggle with narcotics, particularly fentanyl and methamphetamine, which have contributed to rising rates of addiction and overdose deaths in the region.

Public Safety and Reporting

Authorities strongly advise residents not to approach or attempt to apprehend any fugitives themselves, as many are considered dangerous and unpredictable. Anyone with information about the whereabouts of these individuals is encouraged to contact law enforcement through the following official channels:

• Call 911 for immediate sightings or emergencies
• Ashtabula County Sheriff’s Office: (440) 576‑0055
• Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force tip line: 1‑866‑4‑WANTED (1‑866‑492‑6833)
• Submit tips online through the U.S. Marshals Service website

Community Impact

Sheriff William Niemi emphasized the importance of community cooperation in reducing crime throughout Ashtabula County. “Every arrest removes a dangerous element from our neighborhoods,” he stated. “Community cooperation is essential to making our communities safer and ensuring that justice is served.”

Additional Resources

Residents can view the full list of fugitives and obtain additional information at the official Sheriff’s Office page. The page is regularly updated with new cases, details, and safety tips for the public.

10‑8 News will continue to monitor developments in Ashtabula County and provide timely updates as law enforcement works to bring these fugitives to justice and enhance public safety across the region.