Tribal, state and federal officials in Arizona are searching for a member of the White Mountain Apache Tribe who has been charged with felony child molestation.

Ronald George, 37, escaped from detention officers on Friday while at an Indian Health Service hospital on the reservation. He was at the hospital for an examination.

Since then, law enforcement officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the White Mountain Apache Tribe, Navajo County and Apache County have been searching for George. They warn that he is considered armed and dangerous.

George is described as 5'10" tall, 290 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. He has lived on the reservation his entire life so he is very familiar with the area. Authorities say he is an outdoor survivalist and could be hiding anywhere.

Billy Kahn, acting chief of the White Mountain Apache Tribal Police, is seeking assistance from members of the public for any information concerning George's whereabouts. Information may be provided to the following offices:

Federal Bureau of Investigation at 928-367-5037
Whiteriver Police Department at 928-338-4942
Bureau of Indian Affairs Criminal Investigation at 928-338-5375

Kahn also cautions individuals against attempting to apprehend George. Kahn said anyone assisting George could face charges of aiding and abetting a fugitive.

Relevant Links:
White Mountain Apache Tribe - http://www.wmat.nsn.us