Former debt collector is on the run

U.S. Marshals are looking for a former debt collector convicted of weapons possession.

Authorities say he's the flashy former owner of area debt-collection companies. Now, he's wanted after failing to surrender and begin serving a lengthy state prison sentence.

If you see this man, authorities want to know about it.

Erie County District Attorney Frank Sedita said, "He's the real deal. He's the real deal. He's a violent criminal."

45-year-old Tobias Boyland was supposed to surrender and begin serving a 15 year state prison sentence. But that didn't happen. And now Sedita says he's worried.

"Let me tell you what I'm most concerned about here, what keeps me awake at night. I'm thinking there's going to be some poor deputy sheriff or some poor state trooper that's going to pull this guy over for some kind of speeding ticket or failure to keep right or something like that. He's going to go up and ask Mr. Boyland for a license and registration and be greeted by a .357 Magnum."

>> Boyland arrested after raid on his home

>> Boyland found guilty of weapons possession

>> Boyland sent to prison and given a $1,000 fine

>> Boyland released on appeal bond

Boyland is a former owner of buffalo-area debt-collection companies. Known as "Bags of Money," he was convicted of weapons charges stemming from a June 2009 raid at his Buffalo home and four other places of business. Several weapons, including an AK-47 assault rifle, were discovered. He's already been convicted and sentenced, but Boyland was released on bail by a state appellate court despite strong objections by Sedita.

Sedita said, "We also felt he was an incredible flight risk, and he also has a lengthy violent criminal history."

Boyland's conviction was later affirmed by the appellate division. He was supposed to surrender and return to state prison, but he didn't. And now he's a fugitive, who authorities consider to be armed and dangerous.

Authorities are asking for the public's help in finding Boyland. If you have any information contact authorities. A reward is being offered.