Texans may see an increased reward this November for tips leading to the capture of one of the state's most wanted fugitives. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has named Miguel Angel Gomez, a 51-year-old Houston resident, as their Featured Fugitive of the month. Information provided that results in his arrest could receive a boosted reward of $8,500 if the tip arrives within November, according to DPS officials.
Gomez, who has been on the run since 2022 after being charged with murder in Harris County, has a notable criminal history. In 2009, he was convicted for the sexual assault of a 16-year-old girl, resulting in a 15-year sentence. His rap sheet also includes convictions for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and burglary of both a vehicle and a building, DPS noted. Furthermore, Gomez has been wanted for a parole violation since December of last year.
Identifiable by tattoos on his neck, hands, leg, and arm, as well as scars on his face, lip, and forearm, Gomez is described as 5 feet 5 inches tall and about 150 pounds. DPS has released more information and updates regarding his status, which can be found on their website. Those with knowledge of his whereabouts are encouraged to come forward, as Texas Crime Stoppers is offering cash rewards for information that leads to an arrest of any individual on the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List.
Anonymous tipping is a cornerstone of the Crime Stoppers program, ensuring that individuals can report their information without fear of retribution. Tipsters must utilize one of three methods to qualify for the cash rewards: call the hotline, submit a tip online through the DPS website, or use the "SUBMIT A TIP" link on their Facebook page. Each method is designed to protect the identity of the informant, providing only a tip number in lieu of a name.
This year, DPS and their partners have apprehended 40 individuals from the Texas 10 Most Wanted list, thanks to tips from the public. These captures include 15 sex offenders, 10 gang members, and four criminal illegal immigrants, alongside others, with payouts totaling $24,000 for information leading to these arrests. The complete list of the Texas 10 Most Wanted, complete with photos, is available for public viewing on the official DPS website.