What is the purpose of the FBIs “Ten Most Wanted Fugitives” Program?
The “Top Ten” is a publicity program founded by the FBI in March, 1950, in conjunction with the Nation’s news media. It is designed to publicize particularly dangerous fugitives who might not otherwise merit nationwide attention. The FBI recognizes the need for public assistance in tracking fugitives. One hundred twenty-nine of the “Top Ten” apprehensions have been the result of citizen recognition of “Top Ten” fugitives through this publicity program. 2. How did the Program originate? A newspaper story in late 1949 led to the creation of the list. A reporter for the International News Service (the predecessor of the United Press International) asked the FBI for the names and descriptions of the “toughest guys” the FBI would like to capture. The story had so much appeal and generated so much positive publicity that, on March 14, 1950, former Director J. Edgar Hoover implemented the “Ten Most Wanted Fugitives” Program. 3. Who actually decides which fugitives go on the list? Special Agen
