Texas DPS Announces First Arrest from Governor Abbott’s Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrants List
Swift Action Leads to Capture
In a significant development, just over 24 hours after Governor Greg Abbott unveiled Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrants List, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has announced the first arrest from the list. This swift action underscores the efficiency and coordination of law enforcement agencies in the state.
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The Arrest of Servando Trejo Duran Jr.
Servando Trejo Duran Jr., 62, was apprehended this afternoon in Baytown, Texas. The arrest was executed by DPS Special Agents and Troopers assigned to the Texas Anti-Gang (TAG) Center in Houston. The operation also saw significant contributions from the Baytown Police Department Special Investigations Division, highlighting the success of multi-agency collaboration in tackling criminal activities.
Duran, a criminal illegal immigrant from Mexico, has a notorious history with strong ties to eastern Harris County, including the cities of Baytown and Deer Park. Following his arrest, Duran was booked into the Chambers County Jail. It is noteworthy that a Crime Stoppers reward will not be paid in relation to Duran’s capture.
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A History of Crime
Duran’s criminal record is extensive and troubling. In 1980, he was arrested by the Baytown Police Department for burglary of a residence and was subsequently sentenced to 10 years’ probation. His criminal activities escalated, and in 1986, he was convicted of homicide in Harris County and received a life sentence. After being released on parole from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) in January 2009, Duran was removed from the United States later that year.
Despite his removal, Duran returned and continued his criminal behavior. In February 2023, he was arrested by the Deer Park Police Department for tampering with a government record and was released on bond. Subsequently, on March 1, 2023, the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles issued a warrant for his arrest due to a parole violation related to his original offense of murder with a deadly weapon.
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Texas Crime Stoppers Initiative
The Texas Crime Stoppers program, funded by the Governor’s Public Safety Office, plays a crucial role in apprehending fugitives. It offers cash rewards for information leading to the arrest of individuals on Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrants List. To be eligible for these rewards, tipsters must provide information through one of the following methods:
- Hotline: Call 1-800-252-TIPS (8477).
- Web Tip: Submit a tip through the DPS website by selecting the fugitive’s picture and clicking the link under it.
- Facebook Tip: Click the “SUBMIT A TIP” link under the “About” section on the DPS Facebook page.
All tips are anonymous, and tipsters are provided a tip number instead of using their name, ensuring confidentiality and safety.
Ongoing Efforts and Public Safety
DPS Special Agents continue to work tirelessly with local and federal law enforcement agencies to apprehend all criminal illegal immigrant fugitives identified on the list. The fugitives are carefully selected for the Texas 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrants List based on various criteria, ensuring the most dangerous individuals are prioritized.
For the latest information, including photos of current fugitives, the public is encouraged to visit the DPS website. However, authorities warn against attempting to apprehend these fugitives, as they are considered armed and dangerous.
The arrest of Servando Trejo Duran Jr. marks a significant achievement in the ongoing efforts to maintain public safety in Texas. It demonstrates the effectiveness of Governor Abbott’s initiative and the relentless dedication of law enforcement agencies. As the state continues to tackle criminal activities, the cooperation and vigilance of the community remain essential in bringing fugitives to justice.
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