Carlos Arias Perez-Fugitive
Date Issued: April 22, 2025
Issued By: U.S. Marshals Service, Wisconsin
The U.S. Marshals Service is urgently seeking the public's assistance in locating Carlos Arias Perez, a dangerous fugitive wanted for serious crimes in the Whitewater, Wisconsin area. Perez is considered a significant threat due to his violent criminal history and affiliation with a transnational criminal organization.
Details of the Suspect
Name: Carlos Arias Perez
Aliases: "Erik," last name "Garcia"
Age: 20 years old
Physical Description: 5’8" tall, 185 pounds
Last Known Location: Whitewater, Wisconsin, or surrounding rural areas
Criminal Affiliations: Known member of the Tren de Aragua cartel, a transnational criminal organization designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. State Department in February 2025
Alleged Crimes and Criminal History
Carlos Arias Perez has a documented history of violent and criminal behavior, with offenses escalating in severity. His known criminal activities include:
Sexual Assault of a Minor: In September 2023, Perez was arrested for sexually assaulting a young teenager he met in an English class in Whitewater, Wisconsin. The assault resulted in the victim’s pregnancy, indicating the severity of the offense. This charge reflects a predatory pattern targeting vulnerable individuals.
Drug Trafficking: Days after his release on bail for the sexual assault charge, Perez was arrested in a drug bust for possessing and distributing cocaine in the Whitewater community. These activities are linked to his role within the Tren de Aragua cartel, known for drug trafficking, human smuggling, and extortion across Latin America and the U.S.
Cartel Involvement: Perez is an identified member of Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan gang notorious for its brutal violence, including kidnappings, contract killings, and sexual exploitation. The cartel’s operations in the U.S. include drug distribution and human trafficking, with Perez contributing to these activities in Wisconsin.
Pattern of Escalating Criminal Behavior: Authorities have noted a clear escalation in Perez’s criminal activities, from local offenses to involvement in organized crime. A U.S. Marshal stated, “You could see there was a pattern of his behavior where it has slowly escalated to where we are now,” suggesting prior unreported or uncharged incidents that may include theft, extortion, or other cartel-related activities.
Fugitive Status: Since his second arrest in September 2023, Perez has been evading law enforcement, accumulating additional charges during his time as a fugitive. His ability to evade capture for nearly two years indicates a level of sophistication, likely supported by cartel networks.
Current Status
Carlos Arias Perez has been on the run since September 2023, following his arrests for sexual assault and drug charges. He was released on bail after the initial sexual assault charge but violated bail conditions by engaging in further criminal activity. He is believed to be hiding in the Whitewater area or nearby rural regions, possibly working odd jobs to avoid detection. His affiliation with Tren de Aragua increases the likelihood of his using cartel resources to remain at large.
Public Safety Advisory
Perez is considered extremely dangerous due to his cartel affiliations, history of violent crimes, and ongoing evasion of law enforcement. The public is advised to:
Do Not Approach: If you see Perez, do not attempt to confront or apprehend him, as he may be armed or supported by cartel associates.
Stay Vigilant: Be aware of individuals matching his description or using his known aliases, especially in the Whitewater area or rural Wisconsin.
Call to Action
The U.S. Marshals Service urgently needs your help to apprehend Carlos Arias Perez and protect our communities from his continued criminal activities. To aid in his capture:
Share This Bulletin: Spread the word by sharing this page with friends, family, neighbors, and on social media platforms to increase awareness and help locate Perez.
Contact the U.S. Marshals Tip Line: If you have any information about his whereabouts, call 414-297-3707 immediately.
Anonymous Tips Accepted: Your identity will remain confidential.
Report Suspicious Activity: Even minor details could be critical in locating Perez and disrupting his cartel connections.
Your efforts in sharing this bulletin can make a critical difference in bringing this fugitive to justice. Help us ensure the safety of our communities by spreading the word today.
Share this page now to help find Carlos Arias Perez.
