by Alamosa, CO — Authorities have captured 62-year-old Paul Sandoval, a fugitive child rape suspect, after a four-year manhunt across the mountains of Colorado. Sandoval was arrested on Sunday in Alamosa County by a team of over 70 law enforcement officers from multiple agencies.
Sandoval’s arrest brings an end to a years-long search that began in 2021 when he was accused of tying up an 8-year-old girl and raping her in Albuquerque, New Mexico. After the assault, Sandoval fled into the mountains, evading capture with a rifle and evading authorities for several years.
According to KRQE News (reported via KRQE), the U.S. Marshals coordinated with local law enforcement in a multi-state search operation, which finally led to his arrest in southeastern Colorado.
“This was a huge effort by a team of over 70 officers,” said a spokesperson for the U.S. Marshals Service. “We’re glad to bring this fugitive to justice after he evaded capture for so long.”
How Authorities Tracked Sandoval
The search for Sandoval began after the 2021 assault. He allegedly abducted an 8-year-old girl, tied her up, and raped her before fleeing the scene. Despite law enforcement’s best efforts, Sandoval was able to disappear into the mountains of Colorado.
With a rifle in hand and a knowledge of the rugged terrain, Sandoval managed to evade capture, living off the grid for years. Authorities have said that he remained hidden in isolated areas throughout the mountains, making the search more difficult.
“Sandoval used the mountainous terrain to his advantage, and for years, we were unable to find him,” said an investigator on the case. “But the determination of our team paid off.”
Authorities believe that during his time on the run, Sandoval remained in contact with few people and took extraordinary measures to avoid detection.
Collaboration Among Multiple Law Enforcement Agencies
The U.S. Marshals worked alongside local police and federal agencies to track down Sandoval. This multi-agency operation brought together resources from across the region to conduct a large-scale search that ultimately led to Sandoval’s arrest.
“This arrest wouldn’t have been possible without the cooperation of local and federal agencies working together,” said a U.S. Marshals official.
The Colorado State Police, FBI, and several local sheriff’s offices joined the operation, which finally concluded with Sandoval’s capture early Sunday morning.
Legal Proceedings
Sandoval now faces several serious charges, including rape of a child and sexual assault. He will be held in Colorado as authorities prepare to begin legal proceedings.
Investigators said they are working closely with prosecutors to ensure that Sandoval faces the full weight of the law for the crime he committed.
What are your thoughts on the capture of Paul Sandoval and how law enforcement handled the years-long manhunt? Share your views in the comments below.
