The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has issued an alert regarding Ismael Arias, a 52-year-old Cuban national with a history of severe sexual offenses. Arias has been designated as the "Notable Fugitive" for the month of November on Texas' Top 10 Most Wanted List for Illegal Immigrants. The department has increased the reward for information leading to his arrest to $4,000, as stated on their official website.
The DPS reports that Arias has been on the run since April 2025 in Harris County for failing to comply with sexual offender registration requirements. His criminal record dates back to 2005, when he was apprehended in Florida on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, battery, and criminal mischief.
In 2006, Arias was detained in Hudspeth and Culberson counties in Texas, facing accusations of aggravated sexual assault of a minor, kidnapping, and sexual assault. He was later convicted of indecency with a 13-year-old, for which he served time in a Texas Department of Criminal Justice facility. Arias was paroled in 2013 and fully discharged from the penal system in 2015.
Authorities describe the fugitive as standing 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighing approximately 225 pounds, and having tattoos on both arms.
The DPS urges anyone with information about Arias to contact them anonymously at 1-800-252-TIPS (8477), through the form on the DPS website, or via the "Submit a Tip" option on the department's Facebook page.
Funded by the Office of the Governor's Public Safety Office, the Texas Crime Stoppers program provides cash rewards for the capture of the state's most sought-after criminals.
In 2025 alone, authorities have apprehended 60 fugitives, including 24 sex offenders and 13 illegal immigrants with criminal records, disbursing $41,000 in rewards for tips leading to successful arrests.
Frequently Asked Questions about Texas' Most Wanted List
Who is Ismael Arias?
Ismael Arias is a 52-year-old Cuban fugitive with a history of serious sexual offenses, currently wanted by Texas authorities.
How can the public help in the capture of fugitives like Arias?
The public can assist by providing anonymous tips to the DPS through their hotline, website form, or Facebook page.
What rewards does Texas Crime Stoppers offer?
Texas Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards for information that leads to the capture of the state's most wanted criminals.