Scumbag wanted for child rape out of Fort Smith has been on the lam for over two decades

Jose Antonio Barraso

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has renewed its call for public assistance in locating Jose Antonio Barraso, a fugitive wanted for the alleged rape of a young girl in Fort Smith spanning several years.

Barroso, now 52, has been on the run for over two decades, with authorities believing he is hiding in Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico.

Barroso, also known by aliases Juan Antonio Barroso, Jose A. Barroso, and Jose A. Barroso Martinez, is accused of committing a series of sexual assaults against a girl beginning when she was five years old and continuing until she was eleven, when the crimes were reported.

The allegations led to a state arrest warrant issued by the District Court of Sebastian County, Arkansas, on November 30, 2004, charging him with rape. On February 1, 2005, a federal warrant was issued by the U.S. District Court, Western District of Arkansas, for unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.

Described as a 5’7” Mexican national with black hair, brown eyes, and a distinctive scar on his left cheek near his mouth, Barroso is considered dangerous and an escape risk.

The FBI warns the public not to attempt to apprehend him but to report any information to local FBI offices or the nearest American Embassy or Consulate.

The case has seen renewed attention following a mistaken arrest in May 2022, when Mexican authorities detained a man in Ensenada believed to be Barroso. The individual was released after it was determined he was not the suspect, highlighting the challenges of tracking fugitives across borders.

“FBI Little Rock can confirm that Jose Antonio Barroso is not in police custody and remains wanted,” said Connor Hagan of the FBI’s Little Rock office at the time.

The FBI’s Little Rock field office has included Barroso on its most-wanted list for years, emphasizing the severity of the allegations and the agency’s commitment to bringing him to justice.

Authorities suspect Barroso fled to Mexico shortly after the 2004 warrant was issued, initially believed to be hiding in Guadalajara, Jalisco, before recent intelligence pointed to Ensenada.

The FBI has worked closely with Mexican law enforcement, including Mexico’s State Citizen Security Force, to track him down. The 2022 false arrest underscored the complexities of international cooperation, but the FBI remains optimistic.

“Our partnership with Mexican authorities is stronger than ever,” said an FBI official. “We’re confident that with public help, we can close this case.”

The FBI’s pursuit of Barroso is part of a broader effort to combat violent crimes, particularly those targeting vulnerable populations.

In 2025, the agency’s Victim Services Division has emphasized its commitment to supporting survivors of crime, with National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (April 6-12) highlighting resources available to those affected by such cases.

Community members in Fort Smith and beyond are urged to stay vigilant. Barroso, born on January 10, 1973, weighs approximately 150 pounds and may use his aliases to evade detection.

Tips can be submitted anonymously, and the FBI encourages anyone with even minor details to come forward.

As the search continues, the Fort Smith community holds onto hope for closure. “This isn’t just about one case,” said a local advocate for child abuse survivors. “It’s about sending a message that no one can hide forever—not from justice, not from the truth.”

For more information or to submit a tip, visit www.fbi.gov or contact the FBI’s Little Rock field office at (501) 221-9100.