FBI believes alleged rapist might be hiding in Costa Rica

Harold Eugene Smith, 60, wanted by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for allegedly raping a young girl in Pennsylvania, is believed to be hiding in Costa Rica or Panama.

Police in the U.S. arrested Smith in September 2010 for the alleged rape, which targeted a 12-year-old girl and occurred over the course of at least a year. 

Smith was charged with rape, aggravated indecent assault, indecent assault, incest and corruption of a minor. He made bail, but failed to attend a subsequent hearing, and a bench warrant was issued on Jan. 10, 2011.

A federal arrest warrant was issued for Smith in October 2012, after he was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.

According to the FBI alert, Smith – who is known by the aliases of Harold E., Harold Smith or Smitty – is considered very dangerous and could be armed.

Anyone with information about Smith’s whereabouts can call a confidential tip line at: 800-8000645. Information also can be sent by email to Judicial Investigation Police’s (OIJ) Confidential Information Center: cicooij@poder-judicial.go.cr, or in person at OIJ-Interpol, located on the first floor of OIJ’s facilities in downtown San José.