U.S. Marshals Join Hunt for Man Accused of Killing a Mom and Dad, Leaving 12 Children Behind

A substantial reward totalling up to £18,000 is being offered for information that could lead to the apprehension of a man wanted in connection with a double homicide in North Carolina. The U.S. Marshals are taking an active role in the investigation, particularly focusing on the suspect, Dexter Lamar Scales Sr.

The Reidsville Police Department responded to reports of gunfire on 12 June 2025, leading to the grim discovery of two deceased individuals, Shanika Penn, aged 37, and Samuel Brooks, aged 42. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene from gunshot wounds. Authorities believe that Scales, a 46-year-old man, is the perpetrator of this violent crime.

Authorities report that Shanika Penn left behind seven children, while Samuel Brooks had five children, including an infant. The familial connections between the two deceased individuals were revealed by police, confirming that Penn and Brooks were cousins. The tragic implications of the murders extend beyond the immediate victims, as their children are now left to cope with their loss.

Scales is wanted on two counts of first-degree murder but has not been seen since shortly after the incident. It is believed that he may have fled the area following the crime, raising concerns about his whereabouts. The urgency to locate him has led to the involvement of the U.S. Marshals Service, which has increased the reward for information on Scales, offering an additional £8,000 to the initial £10,000 previously promised by local law enforcement.

In July 2025, in a development related to the investigation, Scales’ daughter, Deaja Lamiya Scales, was arrested. She has been charged with accessory after the fact concerning the killings. The legal proceedings concerning her case remain unclear, as it has not been disclosed whether she has entered a plea or secured legal representation.

As part of the ongoing efforts to capture Scales, the Reidsville Police Department has made concerted efforts to raise awareness. They circulated various images of the suspect alongside descriptions of his tattoos, hoping that the public might provide valuable leads that could assist law enforcement in locating him.

The community continues to rally for justice as authorities work diligently to resolve this tragic case. The Reidsville Police Department, alongside the U.S. Marshals, is urging anyone with information regarding Dexter Scales’ whereabouts to step forward.

The investigation highlights not only the immediate nature of the crime but also the long-lasting impact on the victims’ families and the broader community. The loss of Shanika Penn and Samuel Brooks illustrates the devastating consequences of violence and poses a solemn reminder of the urgent need for justice.

Community stakeholders, local authorities, and national law enforcement agencies remain committed to bringing Scales to justice. As the search continues, individuals are urged to come forward with any tips or information that may assist in securing his arrest and bringing closure to both families affected by this tragedy.