AUSTIN, Texas – A man who was convicted of having sexual contact with a 9-year-old girl -- and was previously listed as one of the 10 most-wanted sex offenders in Texas -- has been arrested in Missouri, officials said Monday.
Zachary Aaron Jenkins, 31, was caught Dec. 14 in Springfield, according to a news release from the Texas Department of Public Safety.
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Jenkins’ conviction took place in July 2015, and he was sentenced to 10 years of probation, but he took off within a few weeks, investigators said.
He was sought for failing to register as a sex offender, a probation violation, and for forgery and fraud, according to officials.
Officers with the Springfield Police Department’s special-response team surrounded a home where Jenkins was located, and he eventually surrendered, investigators said.
Special agents with the Texas Department of Public Safety tipped off police in Springfield as to Jenkins’ potential whereabouts. Police didn’t receive a tip through Crime Stoppers, so no reward will be paid.
Jenkins’ last known address was in Tarrant County, the same place he was convicted of indecency with a child.
The U.S. Marshals Service assisted in the investigation.
So far this year, 21 people -- who were at one time listed as 10 of the most-wanted fugitives and sex offenders in the state -- have been taken into custody. That number includes 12 sex offenders and eight gang members, officials said. Investigators have paid $42,500 in rewards for tips that led to an arrest.
Anyone with information on a wanted criminal is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 800-252-TIPS, or text the letters DPS, followed by the tip, to 274637 from a cellphone. You can also submit a tip through the DPS website or on Facebook.
All tips are anonymous.