CLEVELAND, Ohio — Federal law enforcement officials have launched an intensive manhunt for Jerad Tatum, a 35-year-old fugitive accused of shooting his girlfriend nine times in a brutal act of violence that left the victim critically wounded but alive. Authorities say Tatum, who was due in court to face charges of felonious assault, failed to appear and has since vanished, prompting a nationwide alert and a substantial cash reward for his capture.
The U.S. Marshals Service and the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force are leading the search, describing Tatum as armed and extremely dangerous. Investigators believe he may still be hiding in the Cleveland or Akron areas, where he has known connections. Law enforcement officers are urging anyone who spots him to avoid confrontation and immediately contact authorities.
According to officials, the violent assault occurred earlier this year when Tatum allegedly shot his girlfriend multiple times during a domestic dispute. The victim miraculously survived despite being hit nine times, a testament, authorities say, to both her will to live and the quick response of emergency medical teams who treated her.
Federal investigators said the attack was “deliberate and vicious,” and that Tatum’s decision to flee rather than face trial only deepens the gravity of his crimes. “This individual has shown a complete disregard for human life,” said a spokesperson for the task force. “He must be located and brought to justice before anyone else is harmed.”
Tatum is described as 5 feet 7 inches tall, weighing around 205 pounds, with a muscular build. He is known to frequent the Cleveland and Akron regions and may be receiving help from acquaintances attempting to shield him from capture. Authorities warn that anyone caught assisting him could also face federal charges for harboring a fugitive.
To encourage public cooperation, the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a cash reward for any credible information leading to Tatum’s arrest. The exact amount has not been disclosed for security reasons, but officials say the reward reflects the seriousness of the case and the potential threat Tatum poses to the community.
Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and to contact law enforcement if they recognize him or have any information about his whereabouts. Tips can be submitted by calling 1-866-4WANTED (1-866-492-6833) or anonymously online through the U.S. Marshals Service tip portal at www.usmarshals.gov.
The victim, whose identity has not been released for privacy reasons, continues to recover from her injuries. Her survival, authorities note, has become a driving force behind renewed efforts to capture Tatum and deliver justice. “She endured something unimaginable,” one investigator said. “She survived being shot nine times—she deserves peace and closure.”
Law enforcement agencies are also using social media and community outreach programs to spread awareness about the fugitive. Flyers featuring Tatum’s photo and physical description have been distributed across Ohio and neighboring states, urging residents to “share the image, stay alert, and speak up.”
As the manhunt intensifies, officials stress the importance of public involvement. “Jerad Tatum is dangerous, and he’s on the run,” the task force emphasized in a public statement. “With the community’s help, we can bring him in safely and ensure justice is served for the victim who fought to survive.”
