WARNING: Some details in this article may be graphic to readers.
(ALAMOSA COUNTY, Colo.) — The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) in Colorado, alongside the Alamosa County Sheriff’s Office, is conducting a multi-agency manhunt near Blanca Peak for Paul Sandoval, who is wanted for felony Sexual Assault of a Child and other charges. Law enforcement sent out an alert on Friday, Oct. 10, after Sandoval was spotted recently in Alamosa County; he has been on the run since March of 2021.
According to the USMS, on March 15, 2021, Sandoval was asked to babysit his girlfriend’s 8-year-old daughter from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. But when the little girl was asleep, Sandoval allegedly tied her up and sexually assaulted her in a shed on the property.
In response, deputies issued a warrant on March 19, 2021, at which time, Sandoval disappeared into the mountains.
Most recently, in August, according to USMS, he was identified in Alamosa County after breaking into a house and a vehicle in the area, and US Marshals believe he is hiding amongst the trails leading to Blanca Peak on the southwest part of the mountain. According to USMS, he is confirmed to be armed with a rifle.
Sandoval is described as a white man, roughly 5’11”, 140 lbs, with brown eyes and brown hair. He was last seen wearing a gray shirt and a red backpack. According to USMS, he is likely traveling with a dog and was observed with the rifle on Friday, Oct. 10.
USMS asks anyone with information as to his whereabouts or sightings near Blanca Peak to call 911. Those with information or a sighting can also submit a tip through the USMS website or by calling 1-877-WANTED2.
Any hunters or hikers in the area are also advised to be aware of a large law enforcement presence and not attempt contact with Sandoval, as he is armed and actively evading law enforcement. Should anyone see him, they’re asked to call 911 immediately.
The USMSDenver X Page will also provide the most up-to-date information on the manhunt.
Anthony Sutton is a business strategist and writer with a passion for management, leadership, and entrepreneurship. With years of experience in the corporate world, he shares insights on business growth, strategy, and innovation through management-opleiding.org.
