Texas law enforcement scored a significant victory in 2025, with the Department of Public Safety announcing Tuesday that its Most Wanted program helped capture 65 dangerous fugitives over the past year.
The program, a collaboration between the Texas DPS and numerous law enforcement agencies across the state, has become an increasingly effective tool for removing violent criminals from Texas communities. Of those apprehended, 28 were convicted sex offenders and 13 were criminal undocumented immigrants, according to details released by the department.
“Texas is a law-and-order state, and the Texas Department of Public Safety is committed to working with our law enforcement partners and the public to keep it that way,” said Criminal Investigations Division Chief Floyd Goodwin in a statement accompanying the announcement.
While most fugitives were captured within state lines, the reach of Texas law enforcement extended beyond its borders. Sixty-two arrests occurred in Texas, with authorities making one arrest each in Louisiana, Oklahoma, and even Mexico, according to the DPS.
What’s driving this success? Public participation appears to be a key factor. The department confirmed that $41,000 in reward money was distributed to 11 anonymous tipsters whose information led directly to arrests throughout the year.
Partnership Approach
The Texas 10 Most Wanted program operates through a partnership between the Department of Public Safety and the Office of the Governor’s Texas Crime Stoppers initiative. Together, they identify and target fugitives and sex offenders who pose the greatest threat to public safety across the state.
This collaborative approach has proven effective in recent years, with local, state, and sometimes federal agencies coordinating efforts to apprehend dangerous individuals. The program’s success relies heavily on community vigilance and willingness to report suspicious activity.
For those with information about wanted fugitives, the process of reporting is straightforward. Tipsters can call the Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-TIPS (8477), submit information through the DPS website, or use Facebook to relay tips, as outlined on the department’s official channels.
Concerned about potential retaliation? The program guarantees anonymity for all tipsters. Instead of using names, those who provide information receive a tip number, ensuring their identity remains protected throughout the process.
As Texas continues to face evolving public safety challenges, the Most Wanted program represents one of the state’s more visible efforts to maintain order while involving citizens directly in the process. With 65 dangerous fugitives now off the streets, communities across Texas might sleep a little easier tonight — though tomorrow will surely bring new names to the list.
