A potentially violent predator has moved into the Fort Smith area, and it has residents worrying about the safety of their children.

Sex Offender Moves Into Fort Smith Neighborhood

Dustin Markel -- also known as Neil Jones -- moved from Clarksville and now lives near Towson Avenue in Fort Smith, police said.

Markel is 66 years old and has committed several sexual crimes against children and adults. He is registered as a level four sex offender, the highest level there is.

Police said they will be sending out letters to residents this week, alerting them of their new neighbor.

"He does have a history of molesting children as well as an adult, which means he is a sexually violent predator likely to re-offend. He's one of three in Fort Smith, " said Fort Smith Police Department spokesman Jarrad Copeland.

Residents who live in that area said they are shocked.

"My daughter's 2 years old. Anything could happen, especially to her. She's not able to defend herself," said Marlina Prieto a mother of three.

Marlina said living in fear is not something she wants for her children

"All it takes is a second, and they could be gone for the rest of your life," she said.

Neighbors are taking extra steps to insure their children's safety.

"They're not allowed to come out here without us, and the gate being closed and locked," Marlina said.

Police said the crimes Markell committed date back to 1962. Markell was also just released from federal prison, so officials want parents to be cautious when letting children play outside alone.

There are 226 registered sex offenders from level 1 to level 4 in Fort Smith.