In 2012, Jason Barnum, a notorious American criminal, gained global attention for his distinctive appearance – a tattoo covering the white of his right eye, earning him the moniker “Eyeball.” The then-37-year-old pleaded guilty to shooting a police officer in Anchorage, Alaska. Despite his troubled past, Barnum’s shocking tattoo made him an online sensation.
The incident occurred during a police investigation into vehicle break-ins in Anchorage. When confronted by the police in a hotel room, Barnum opened fire, injuring Officer Dan Thyen. He was subsequently sentenced to over 20 years in prison.
Barnum’s eyeball tattoo, a relatively new practice at the time, drew widespread interest. However, the true reasons behind his criminal behavior went beyond his unique appearance. Barnum had a history of criminal activities, including theft, assault, and resisting arrest.
Claiming he couldn’t secure a job due to his face tattoos, Barnum attributed his criminal choices to societal rejection. Despite facing risks associated with eyeball tattoos, including blindness and infections, he defended his right to self-expression.
In 2015, Barnum was convicted and sentenced to 22 years after pleading guilty to attempted murder and other charges. While his sentence was considered fair, the potential risks of eyeball tattoos highlighted the dangers of such extreme body modifications.
Rumors later circulated, falsely linking Barnum to actor Harrison Ford as his alleged son. This misinformation spread online, showcasing the negative consequences of irresponsible claims. As of 2017, Barnum’s Facebook profile suggested he was serving his sentence at the Spring Creek Correctional Center in Seward, Alaska.
