U.S. Marshals Arrest Two Violent Fugitives Today in Northern Ohio

CLEVELAND – Today, members of the U.S. Marshals – Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) arrested Jayden Lockett, 19 and Stephen Imler, 29. Lockett was wanted by the Cleveland Division of Police for aggravated murder, and Imler was wanted by the Stark County Sheriffs Office for three counts of sexual battery and 2 counts of grooming.

On September 29, 2026, officers with the Cleveland Division of Police – 5th District, responded to a shots-fired call near the 1000 block of E. 68th Street, Cleveland, Ohio. Upon arrival, Cleveland EMS and Fire were already on scene rendering aid to two individuals who had suffered gun shot wounds. A 22-year-old male and a 21-year-old male had suffered gun shot wounds while occupying a vehicle on E. 55th Street. The 22-year-old male suffered two gun shot wounds to the head and later died at the hospital. The 21-year-old male suffered a gun shot wound to the leg; he was treated and eventually released. Today, members of the NOVFTF arrested Jayden Lockett at an address in the 5600 block of Hege Ave., Cleveland, Ohio. A firearm was also seized during the arrest.

On August 18, 2026, Northwest High School Band Director and music teacher, Stephen Imler, was placed on administrative leave following allegations and a police investigation regarding sexual battery and grooming allegations. On September 2, 2026, Imler officially resigned from Northwest High School. Imler was later charged with 3 counts of sexual battery and 2 counts of battery. Today, the NOVFTF arrested Imler at an address in the 4600 block of Hametown Road, Norton, Ohio.

U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott stated, “These two violent offenders were taken off the streets today.  Our task force works tirelessly to arrest the most dangerous fugitives, like these, who prey on our communities and citizens.”

Anyone with information concerning a wanted fugitive can contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED (1-866-492-6833), or you can submit a tip by emailing usmstips@usdoj.gov.  Reward money is available, and tipsters may remain anonymous.  Follow the U.S. Marshals on Twitter @USMSCleveland.