The FBI’s 10 Most Wanted Fugitives list has been a crucial tool in helping law enforcement locate dangerous criminals since it was first established in 1950. Criminals on the list are publicized through various media channels to bring attention to fugitives that may not be well-known to the public. The list has led to the capture or location of nearly 500 criminals since its inception. Individuals are added to the list based on the severity of their crimes and their potential danger to society.
True crime podcasts and TV programs, such as “America’s Most Wanted,” have also played a significant role in helping solve criminal cases and locate dangerous criminals. “America’s Most Wanted” originally aired in 1988 and helped capture over 1,190 criminals during its original run. The show was rebooted in 2024, highlighting the importance of viewer tips in apprehending fugitives. The public’s assistance in providing information has been crucial in achieving justice for victims and their families.
To be added to the FBI’s 10 Most Wanted Fugitives list, an individual must have a record of serious crimes, be considered a danger to society, and not be well-known to the public. The FBI’s field offices submit potential candidates to FBI headquarters for review, with final approval from FBI executive management. Once a fugitive is added to the list, they are publicized online and on social media, providing opportunities for citizen tips to aid in their capture.
The person who has spent the longest time on the FBI’s list is Victor Manuel Gerena, wanted for an alleged robbery in 1984. He has yet to be apprehended. The shortest time a fugitive spent on the list was two hours before being arrested. Individuals are removed from the list if they are apprehended, charges are dropped, or if they no longer meet the criteria for being on the list. The list has included criminals involved in various crimes over the years, with a shift in the types of crimes prominent based on the era.
As of November 2023, there have been 532 fugitives on the FBI’s list, with 494 captured or located. One hundred and sixty-three of those captured or located were found due to tips from the public. The types of crimes prevalent on the list have evolved over the years, ranging from bank robberies and burglaries to organized crime and terrorism. Modern-day fugitives on the list include those involved in crimes against children, white-collar crime, gang violence, and more. The FBI’s 10 Most Wanted Fugitives list continues to be an essential tool in apprehending dangerous criminals and achieving justice for victims.
