Press Releases

Wanted: Vitivano Salazar-Lopez
May 3, 2008

A violent criminal who preys on young women continues to evade authorities.

An accused child molester, a wife beater, and an attempted murderer – they’re the descriptions of a man wanted from coast to coast – who remains one of Collier County’s most wanted fugitives.

“He has unlimited potential for the damage he can do to a child, and unlimited potential to an adult who tries to get in his way – he has a history of violence – extreme violence," said Detective Dave Hurm.

Detectives say Vitivano Salazar-Lopez has evaded law enforcement for the last several years. He’s defined as a violent man with no moral compass, who takes whatever he wants – when he wants it.

Salazar’s crime spree started in 2000, when he came to the US from Mexico with his 12-year-old wife. They moved to Portland, where Salazar was soon after accused of trying to stab a man. He fled the state before authorities could arrest him. The couple then moved to the Miami area, where Salazar was accused of beating his teenage wife – nearly to death. His travels then took him to Naples.

It was in 2004 that investigators say he found a new girlfriend in Collier County – who had a 14 year old daughter. Within a few months, Salazar is accused of molesting the young girl who had grown to trust Salazar.

“That’s the worst part about this. You break that vow of trust and you take someone’s innocence – and at that age, they don’t know any better," Hurm said.

Shortly after the incident, Salazar left – escaping the law yet one more time. Salazar has a history of preying on young women and children – and detectives fear he may have moved on to yet another victim – maybe in another city – or possibly still right here in Southwest Florida. Arrest warrants are still active in Portland and Miami – and investigators hope someone can provide information on where he’s at now.

“He does whatever he feels at that time, and there are no consequences if he injures somebody or takes someone’s innocence,” Hurm said.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Vitivano Salazar-Lopez is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS (8477). All callers will remain anonymous and will be eligible for up to $1,000 in cash rewards. Tips may also be made online at www.swflcrimestoppers.org.