PALM BAY, Fla. – Palm Bay police said a registered sex offender on probation is on the run after removing the GPS ankle bracelet used to track him.
Police said Johnny Ray Morgan was convicted in 1995 of sexual battery on a child under 12. Police said the crime occurred in Brevard County and after his release from prison, Morgan was required to register with the county in which he resided.
Police said his last registered address is a homeless camp in a wooded area behind a Walgreens located at the intersection of Minton Road and Malabar Road.
Just before noon Sunday, police said Morgan removed the GPS tracker which triggered an alarm to alert probation officers. Probation officers immediately contacted Palm Bay Police, officials said.
Palm Bay officers searched the area where Morgan was last known to stay and located the campsite along with the tracking device, police said.
Police said it appears all of Morgan's personal belongings are gone indicating he has fled the area.
Police said Morgan was last seen riding a blue mountain bike wearing shorts, T-shirt and a black hat.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Central Florida CRIMELINE at 1-800-423-TIPS. Callers can remain anonymous and can be eligible for cash rewards of up to $1,000 in this case.