Man in US illegally wanted for allegedly groping 7-year-old Texas girl on her way home from school

A Dangerous Predator on the Loose: The Case of Carlos Jose Ayala Morales

Carlos Jose Ayala Morales, a 43-year-old man with a troubling criminal history, is currently on the run after being accused of groping a 7-year-old Texas girl while she walked home from school. This alarming incident has sent shockwaves through the community, reigniting concerns about public safety and the failures of the justice system. Morales, who has been charged with felony attempted indecency with a child, is considered a dangerous predator with a history of targeting vulnerable children. His ability to evade capture has left law enforcement and residents on high alert, demanding justice for the young victim and her family.

A History of Predation and Evasion

Morales’ criminal record reveals a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior. In 2017, he was charged with four counts of indecency with a child and evading arrest. At the time, authorities linked him to at least 10 sexual assault incidents in northeast Houston and Harris County, primarily targeting school-aged girls between the ages of 7 and 15. His modus operandi was consistent: he would approach his victims from behind, often while they walked to or from school, and inappropriately touch them through their clothing. In one particularly harrowing incident, he even attempted to abduct a 7-year-old girl as she walked home with her 9-year-old brother. These crimes suggest a calculated and repeated disregard for the safety and well-being of children.

Despite his extensive history of sexual offenses, Morales was released from custody in February 2024 after serving concurrent seven-year sentences for indecency with a child, burglary, and other related charges. His release into ICE custody raises questions about the handling of his case and whether adequate measures were taken to ensure public safety. The fact that he is now a fugitive, accused of yet another heinous crime, underscores the need for a more robust system to monitor and rehabilitate individuals with such dangerous tendencies.

A Mother’s Nightmare: The Impact on the Victim and Her Family

The January 27 incident has left the young victim and her family traumatized. The girl, who was walking home from school behind her older sister and a friend, was grabbed by Morales, who touched her private parts before fleeing the scene. In shock, the girl did not scream and only confided in her older sister when they arrived home. Her mother, speaking to Fox Houston, expressed her horror and fear, saying, “A man came behind me, and he touched my private parts.” She added, “I hope he’s caught and put away much longer, so he can’t hurt other children.” Her words reflect the deep anguish and helplessness felt by parents whose children have been targeted by predators like Morales.

The mother’s reaction also highlights the broader fear that permeates the community. Knowing that a predator with such a history is still at large leaves many parents wondering how they can keep their children safe. The psychological and emotional scars left on the young victim and her family are immeasurable, and the case serves as a stark reminder of the need for stronger protections for children and stricter consequences for those who harm them.

A Pattern of Dangerous Behavior: Prior Incidents and Failures in the System

Morales’ history of sexual offenses is not just disturbing—it is alarming. In 2017, after his initial arrest, ICE filed a detainer request, recognizing him as a potential threat to public safety. However, the detainer was lifted after his conviction, and he was eventually released back into the community. This decision has raised eyebrows, particularly given his extensive criminal record and the nature of his offenses. Many are left wondering how someone with such a dangerous history was allowed to walk free, only to allegedly commit another crime.

The case also raises questions about the effectiveness of law enforcement and immigration systems in handling individuals with criminal histories. While ICE has not yet commented on the specifics of Morales’ case, the situation has sparked renewed debate about the need for tougher immigration policies and better collaboration between local and federal authorities to protect vulnerable populations. The fact that Morales was able to evade capture and remain in the community for so long underscores the gaps in the system that allow dangerous individuals to slip through the cracks.

The Ongoing Search for Justice and the Community’s Call to Action

As authorities continue their manhunt for Morales, the community remains on edge. Parents are urged to be vigilant, and schools have likely tightened security measures to protect students. The Houston Police Department and ICE are working together to apprehend Morales, but the delay in his capture has only intensified fears. The victim’s mother, like many others, hopes that Morales will be caught soon and held accountable for his actions. Her plea for justice is echoed by countless others who are tired of seeing predators like Morales evade consequences for far too long.

This case is a wake-up call for lawmakers, law enforcement, and the community at large. It demands a closer examination of how criminals with a history of sexual offenses are monitored, rehabilitated, and reintegrated into society. It also calls for stronger support systems for victims and their families, who often bear the emotional and psychological scars of such crimes for years to come. As the search for Morales continues, one thing is clear: justice must be served, and measures must be taken to ensure that no child has to endure what this young girl went through. The safety and well-being of our children depend on it.