FBI seeks Tag Gilkeson after missed court appearance

Dallas—The FBI is seeking Tag Gilkeson, a Carrollton architect accused of helping another man avoid federal prosecution, after he failed to appear for a June 8 federal court hearing in Dallas.

A federal arrest warrant was issued for Gilkeson on June 8, 2026, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas after he missed the required appearance while on pre-trial release.

Indictment and allegations

A federal grand jury charged Gilkeson with accessory after the fact after prosecutors alleged he helped an associate evade authorities who were investigating allegations involving child sexual-abuse material. Gilkeson allegedly arranged a hotel room, discussed a cruise-ship route out of the United States and concealed evidence in the ceiling of his office.

Federal court documents detail that Gilkeson also offered to maintain the associate’s employment after he escaped international borders.

Following his indictment on March 25, 2026, Gilkeson was arrested on April 2 and released under pre-trial supervision, which required him to wear a GPS ankle monitor.

Pre-flight preparations 

Investigators state that in the days leading up to his scheduled court date, Gilkeson took deliberate steps to flee authority:

Gilkeson's severed ankle monitor was later recovered near Streetman, Texas.

Suspect Description and Regional Ties

Authorities caution that Gilkeson should be considered armed and dangerous.

 | Profile Trait | Details | Full Name / Aliases | Tag Gilkeson; Thomas Allen Gilkeson; Jon Smith
| Date of Birth | October 13, 1975
| Physical Description | White male, 5'10", 165 lbs, brown hair, hazel eyes
| Occupation | Real Estate Development / Architecture
| Known Ties | Little Elm, Carrollton, Butler, and Southern Texas; West Virginia
| Property Access | Access to ranches in Butler and Ozona, Texas

How to Submit Tips

The investigation is being led by the FBI Dallas Field Office. Anyone with information regarding Gilkeson's whereabouts is urged to contact their local FBI office, the nearest American Embassy or Consulate, or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

SOURCE FBI