News Summary
The FBI has launched its inaugural Houston Most Wanted fugitives list to combat violent crime in the area. Collaborating with local law enforcement, the list features ten criminals sought for serious offenses such as murder and robbery. In a swift response, one fugitive was captured just hours after the list’s release, showing the community’s engagement in tackling crime. Authorities emphasize ongoing vigilance as nine fugitives remain at large, with rewards for information leading to their capture ranging from $5,000 to $50,000.
Houston Launches First Most Wanted Fugitives List, Immediate Capture Achieved
The FBI has introduced its first-ever Houston Most Wanted fugitives list, aimed at targeting the Houston area and addressing the rising issue of violent crime. This move is part of the broader Summer Heat Initiative spearheaded by the FBI.
Created in collaboration with local law enforcement authorities such as the Houston Police Department, Harris County Sheriff’s Office, US Marshall Service, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, and the Texas Department of Public Safety, the list includes ten individuals sought for serious offenses, including murder and robbery.
Remarkably, just two hours after the list was revealed, one fugitive, Gerrode Terrel Smith, was apprehended following a tip from the public. Smith is facing federal bank robbery charges, and the FBI had offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to his arrest. With Smith now in custody, there are still nine fugitives on the run, with varying rewards between $5,000 to $50,000 for information leading to their capture.
Details on Fugitives
The initial list of fugitives showcases individuals with extensive violent criminal backgrounds, all considered armed and dangerous. Among them is Hector Manuel Birriel Carrasquillo, wanted for the murder of Leslie Reyes and Esly Erzo, whose bodies were discovered by family members in June 2021. Another fugitive, Luis Argueta, is charged with the murder of Eddie Clark III and remains at large.
Additionally, Christian Xavier Rucker is wanted for both murder and racketeering, while Rafael Antonio Hernandez faces capital murder charges. There is also Elvio Emilio Mancebo, who failed to appear for a sentencing court after admitting to killing two individuals during a robbery in 2017. The list further includes fugitives like Anthony K. Johnson, Jose De La Cruz Borjas Machado, Glen Holmes, and Jamale N. Jones.
Community Involvement and Ongoing Efforts
Houston authorities have previously dealt with cases involving several fugitives listed, reflecting the importance of community vigilance. The FBI aims to enhance public awareness about these dangerous individuals actively. Special Agent Doug Williams stated that the Houston Most Wanted list would receive regular updates, ensuring that residents remain informed about fugitives on the run.
Given that investigators believe many of those listed are still in the local area, the FBI is strongly encouraging community members to report any tips regarding the fugitives by contacting 1-800-CALL-FBI. The initiative seeks to significantly bolster support from the public in tracking down these wanted individuals. Authorities urge the community to remain vigilant and play an integral role in restoring safety to the area.
Conclusion
The launch of the Houston Most Wanted fugitives list is a proactive approach to combat violent crime in the region, allowing local law enforcement and the FBI to collaborate more effectively while involving the public in their efforts. As law enforcement continues their search for remaining fugitives, the hope is that community engagement provides the necessary leads to ensure justice is served.
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Additional Resources
- ABC 13 News
- Wikipedia: FBI Most Wanted
- Fox 26 Houston
- Google Search: Houston Most Wanted
- Houston Chronicle
- Google Scholar: Houston Fugitives
- Click 2 Houston
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fugitive
- KHOU 11 News
- Google News: FBI Houston Most Wanted
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
