Manhunt Underway Near Rangeley for 2 Men Charged with Sex Crimes

A manhunt is underway in western Maine for two men who are charged with sex crimes.

Shawn Batchelder is on probation, after a 2012 rape conviction and jail term. He's supposed to report regularly to a probation officer, and was reported missing when he failed to do so. Officials say he was last seen in Augusta in mid-August. The Maine Department of Corrections has released his photo and caution residents not to approach him, if he's spotted, as he's considered to be a danger to himself or others.

Officials told WMTW-TV that Batchelder is believed to be traveling with Steven Peterson, who is currently out on bail for gross sexual assault charges in York County. A picture of Peterson has not yet been released.

Police began the search after receiving a tip that the men had been dropped off along Route 4, near the Appalachian Trail, in the Byron area. Anyone who sees either of these men is asked to contact local law enforcement or email Doc.Wanted@Maine.gov.