U.S. Marshals and local law enforcement are searching for a heavily tattooed San Antonio man whom federal officials say violated the terms of his supervised release after a human smuggling conviction. James Christian Olivarez, 52, was convicted in 2023 of transporting undocumented immigrants and, according to court records cited by authorities, received a 12-year federal prison sentence followed by supervised release. Investigators now say that release has been revoked and that Olivarez is wanted by the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force.
What investigators say
According to Fox San Antonio, court records show Olivarez was sentenced to 12 years in 2023, with three years of supervised release that was later revoked. Federal authorities told the outlet that he repeatedly tested positive for cocaine, with the results confirmed through laboratory testing, and failed to complete court-ordered substance-abuse treatment. Those alleged violations prompted the U.S. Marshals to seek his arrest.
How to report tips
The U.S. Marshals' Lone Star Fugitive Task Force is leading the search and is asking anyone with information to submit a tip through the USMS Tips App or call the task force at (210) 657-8500, per the U.S. Marshals Service. The LSFTF routinely partners with the Bexar County Sheriff's Office and the Texas Department of Public Safety, the agency notes. Authorities stress that members of the public should not attempt to approach or detain any fugitive and should instead contact law enforcement.
Appearance and last known location
Investigators describe Olivarez as about 5 feet 5 inches tall and roughly 196 pounds, with several distinctive tattoos, including an infinity symbol with the word “love” and a rose on his chest, along with a bat with spread wings next to the words “tiempo perdido,” as detailed by Fox San Antonio. He was last known to be on San Antonio's Northeast Side, and investigators warn he may attempt to change his appearance to avoid being recognized. Anyone who sees him is urged to contact authorities rather than intervene.
Legal context
Transporting undocumented immigrants is a federal crime that can carry significant prison time, particularly when the conduct puts lives at risk. The Department of Justice has prosecuted similar cases in Texas, highlighting the stiff penalties that can follow. When supervised release is revoked, an individual can be sent back into custody while courts weigh further sanctions. Those legal steps are the backdrop for why the Marshals say they are turning to the public for help locating Olivarez.
If you have information that could help locate Olivarez, contact the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force at (210) 657-8500 or submit a tip through the USMS Tips App, per the U.S. Marshals Service. Officials note that tips can be submitted anonymously through official channels and emphasize that public safety should come first.
