Woman wanted for fleeing with children

Published 1:40 pm Thursday, July 14, 2011

Kitsap County Sheriff’s deputies are on the hunt for a 46-year-old former Silverdale resident who is now on the run from authorities with her two children.

Maria Claire Gowler is believed to be driving a gray, 1999 Infinity SUV with Washington license plate 015-XAF. She does not have full custody of her children, Rebekah M. Gowler, 5, and Jacqueline M. Gowler, 23 months, who are wards of the state, according to a statement from the sheriff’s office.

Gowler has a history of narcotics abuse, suspected mental health issues and she is known to associate with convicted felons  and sex offenders, according to the statement.

Maria Gowler was scheduled to meet with case officers from child protective services, June 29, to review her case and determine if her two young daughters would need to be removed from the residence, again, and placed into foster care.

When case workers arrived for the meeting Gowler’s house was found vacated.  Authorities believe that the children’s lives are endangered.

It’s unknown if Gowler left Washington.  She has previous ties to California, Illinois,

Missouri and New Mexico.

Those with information on the woman or her location can call (360) 308-5400. Those wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers of Puget Sound at:

1-800-222-TIPS (8477).