District of Alaska

ANCHORAGE – Stuart Ravn, 33, of Anchorage was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of more than 5,744 unique images and videos of child pornography on his computer.

>In issuing the sentence, U.S. Chief District Judge Timothy M. Burgess noted that the possession of these images perpetually victimizes the children who must live knowing that depictions of their own abuse are being distributed and possessed for the sexual gratification of pedophiles. He said: “It isn’t a momentary crime. It is a crime and violation that goes on for the rest of the victims’ lives. Not a day goes by that they are not impacted.”

Ravn was previously convicted of possession and distribution of child pornography in 2014 by the State of Alaska. While on probation for that conviction, Ravn used a computer to access, possess and view video and photographs of minors under the age of 12 engaging in sexually explicit conduct. During a routine home visit, State of Alaska probation officers seized a laptop, thumb drive and external hard drive. After obtaining a search warrant, the Anchorage Police Department found thousands of child pornography images Ravn had downloaded from the internet.

Following his release from federal prison, Ravn will face a life term of supervised release. Ravn was also ordered to pay $3,000 in restitution to one of the identified victims and $5,000 to a crime victims fund established by the Justice for Crimes of Trafficking Act of 2015.

The Anchorage Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the State of Alaska Department of Corrections, Anchorage Adult Probations conducted the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Alexander.

 This case is/was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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JUNEAU – Spencer Hill, 24, of Blaine, Washington, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin in Ketchikan, Alaska.

According to court documents, Ketchikan Police Department (KPD) searched the Alaska residence of Hill in November 2019, as part of a drug investigation. During the search, officers found 228 grams of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, a money counting machine, a stolen Kel-Tec .22 caliber pistol and keys to a safety deposit box. After obtaining a search warrant for Hill’s safety deposit box, KPD found an additional 1,485 grams of methamphetamine and 815 grams of heroin. In total, Hill had 3.7 pounds of methamphetamine which is the equivalent of 8,410 dosage units and 1.78 pounds of heroin or 8,130 doses – more than the entire population of the Ketchikan Borough. 

Records indicate Hill began travelling to Ketchikan in September 2019 to direct the possession and distribution of large amounts of methamphetamine and heroin. Hill collected drug proceeds from others which he then used to purchase more methamphetamine and heroin from his supply source in Washington via the U.S. Postal Service.  

Separately, Hill is wanted on a felony warrant in South Dakota involving the trafficking of 22 pounds of marijuana.

Acting U.S. Attorney Bryan Wilson of the District of Alaska made the announcement.

The Ketchikan Police Department, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, Alaska State Troopers and the Juneau Police Department investigated this case.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack S. Schmidt. 

This case is part of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Alaska Rural Alaska Anti-Violence Enforcement Network (RAAVEN) initiative’s ongoing efforts to increase engagement, coordination and action on public safety in Alaska Native communities. The case is also part of Alaska’s High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program and the South East Alaska Cities Against Drugs (SEACAD) task force. HIDTA was established in 2018 to enhance and coordinate efforts among local state and federal law enforcement agencies, providing equipment, technology and additional resources to combat drug trafficking and its harmful consequences in critical regions of Alaska. 

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JUNEAU – Jeremy Beebe, 47, of Sitka, Alaska, was sentenced today to 78 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally possessing firearms.  

At the sentencing hearing, U.S. Chief District Judge Timothy M. Burgess noted that the most important sentencing factor in this case was protecting the public from the potential of further crimes by Beebe. Judge Burgess stated that the defendant’s extensive criminal history and the defendant’s possession of firearms along with illegal drugs was a dangerous mix that required a significant sentence to protect the public. 

According to court documents, the Sitka Police Department searched the home of Beebe as part of a drug investigation in October 2019. During the search, officers found two rifles, two handguns and other explosive devices as well as methamphetamine, heroin and drug paraphernalia.  

Beebe was convicted in 2015 of misconduct involving a controlled substance in the fourth degree and in 2002 he was convicted of sexual assault in the second degree. As someone previously convicted of a felony offense, Beebe is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.

Acting U.S. Attorney Bryan Wilson of the District of Alaska made the announcement.

The Sitka Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack S. Schmidt prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

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FAIRBANKS – A Kalskag, Alaska, man was sentenced to four years and three months in prison followed by three years of supervised release and $1,900 in restitution to the victim of the stolen vehicle. 

According to court records, on July 9, 2020, Ethan Kerr, 29, stole a 2004 Scion from a Fairbanks home and drove it south on the Parks Highway. Near Cantwell, an Alaska State Trooper attempted to stop Kerr for speeding. Refusing to stop, Kerr fled the Troopers at speeds exceeding 105 mph. Leaving the highway to elude law enforcement, the car became stuck in a mud bog near the railroad. He abandoned the vehicle after removing a .44-caliber Smith & Wesson revolver that belonged to the car owner. Kerr was picked up by a nearby individual in a truck who flagged down the Troopers to help with the stuck car. They quickly identified Kerr and attempted to arrest him. Kerr broke free and ran into the woods where he was later found with a K-9 search by Alaska State Troopers.

Kerr has two prior felony convictions with the State of Alaska including burglary for which he was currently on parole and assault. As someone previously convicted of a felony offense, Kerr is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. In December 2020, Kerr pleaded guilty to illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

Acting U.S. Attorney Bryan Wilson for the District of Alaska; Colonel Bryan Barlow, Director of the Alaska State Troopers and Special Agent-in-Charge Jonathan T. McPherson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) made the sentencing announcement.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Doty prosecuted the case. 

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.

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ANCHORAGE – An Anchorage man was convicted on five counts of sex trafficking of minors, three counts of production of child pornography and two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The verdict came after a three-day federal bench trial with Senior U.S. District Judge Ralph R. Beistline.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, between mid-October 2018 and December 1, 2018, Tristan Jamal Grant, aka “Goo,” 35, conspired with another person to traffic two minors, a 15-year-old female and a 17-year-old female. Both minors were runaways who stayed with Grant at his co-conspirator’s apartment. While at the apartment, they created an online advertisement that was used to market the minors. Grant then assisted his co-conspirator in trafficking the victims; encouraging them to perform sex acts for money; serving as protection for the minors and driving one of the minors to a date to perform sex acts. Additionally, Grant produced child pornography with one of the minors on two separate occasions.

Grant was arrested by Anchorage Police Department following a shooting on December 12, 2018. When arrested Grant was in possession of two weapons. Because Grant had previously been convicted of a felony, possession of those guns was illegal.

Grant remained in custody and was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 15, 2019. Grant escaped from custody during a court ordered release to meet with his attorney at his attorney’s office to prepare for trial. Grant was captured and later indicted on February 23, 2021, for escape by prisoner in custody and failure to appear.

“This conviction should be a strong reminder that sex trafficking and exploitation of children will not be tolerated,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bryan Wilson of the District of Alaska. “The successful conviction of this case was due to the courage of the victims and the collaborative efforts of federal, state and local law enforcement and prosecutors. Our office will remain steadfast in our pursuit of all those who perpetuate sex trafficking of children.”

“Tristan Grant terrorized our neighborhoods and recruited minors for commercial sex acts, profiting from their exploitation. This guilty verdict is a win for our entire community,” said Robert Britt, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “The FBI is grateful for our collaborative partnerships across the state, and in this case the Anchorage Police Department, as we continue to combat crimes against Alaska’s youth.”

Sentencing is scheduled for July 14 at 9:00 a.m. in Anchorage. As a result of his convictions, Grant faces a sentencing range of not less than 15 years in prison and up to life.  Grant also faces a term of supervised release following prison of not less than five years and up to life. Each conviction carries a maximum fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Anchorage Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, working together through the FBI’s Safe Streets/Crimes Against Children/Human Trafficking Task Force. The task force marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children through sex trafficking, as well as to identify and recover victims.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices nationwide and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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ANCHORAGE - A federal grand jury in Anchorage returned an indictment that was unsealed this week charging two Mexican nationals and eight U.S. citizens for their roles in a drug trafficking organization.

Mexican National Rene Pompa-Villa, Christopher Pompa-Villa, Mexican National Victor Pompa-Villa, Carolos Camacho, Heydimar Marrero, Kimberly Mackey, Dustin Noonan, Tyler Landroche, Kyle Redpath and Jessica Twigg were indicted on multiple charges of distribution and intent to distribute heroin, methamphetamine and fentanyl powder in a multi-state operation. Nine of the 10 individuals were arrested on April 7 – 8 and are currently awaiting arraignments. Victor Pompa-Villa remains at large.

According to court documents, Rene Pompa-Villa and Christopher Pompa-Villa are the alleged ring leaders of a lucrative drug trafficking and distribution organization in Anchorage and in Arizona, California, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Beginning in March 2018 through October 2020, they regularly mailed large amounts of drugs to distributors throughout the country. They also deposited hundreds of thousands of dollars of drug proceeds into various bank accounts. During the nearly three-year investigation, law enforcement officers recovered about six kilograms of heroin, four kilograms of methamphetamine and four kilograms of fentanyl.

If convicted, the individuals face a maximum sentence of lifetime in prison, up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting U.S. Attorney Bryan Wilson of the District of Alaska made the indictment announcement today.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS); U.S. Department of Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); the Internal Revenue Service (IRS); Alaska State Troopers and the Anchorage Police Department are investigating the case. The U.S. Marshals had a significant role in making the arrests and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in Tucson and San Diego played a critical role in the indictment of this case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher D. Schroeder, Kelly Cavanaugh and Karen Vandergaw are prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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ANCHORAGE – An Anchorage man was sentenced to nine years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm during two separate armed robberies of Craigslist sellers. 

According to court records, on August 24, 2019, Cloyd Lacap Jr., 22, robbed two individuals at gun point after arranging to meet them for the supposed purpose of purchasing items each had listed for sale online.  

The first robbery took place in the parking lot of Balto Seppala Park in Anchorage where Lacap had arranged to meet the seller of a PlayStation gaming console. When the seller opened his trunk at the park to show the gaming console, Lacap pulled out a handgun, racked the slide and took the gaming console before leaving the park on foot.   

Later the same day, Lacap arranged to meet the seller of an iPhone in the parking lot of a restaurant in Anchorage’s Turnagain neighborhood. After arriving in an unidentified car, Lacap got in the back seat of the seller’s vehicle. When the seller showed him the smartphone, Lacap pointed a handgun at the victim, grabbed the phone and then exited the victim’s vehicle. Lacap left in the same vehicle that he arrived in.

Lacap was indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2020 and later pleaded guilty to one count of possessing a firearm during a crime of violence. He has been detained without bail on his federal case since January 24, 2020. 

Prior to pleading guilty in this case, Lacap pleaded guilty in State of Alaska Superior Court case 3AN-19-05391CR to assault in the first degree and misconduct involving weapons in the first degree as part of a global plea agreement. Lacap’s guilty pleas in the state case were for his role in a May 2019 armed robbery in Anchorage. That case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Saritha Anjilvel. 

Acting U.S. Attorney Bryan Wilson for the District of Alaska; Special Agent-in-Charge Jonathan T. McPherson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); and Chief Justin Doll of the Anchorage Police Department made the announcement. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison O’Leary prosecuted the case. 

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.

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Note to editors:

From our partners with the Anchorage Police Department, here are some precautions to take when making purchases online:

• Never go to the meet alone. Have at least one other person with you. Make sure another individual, who is not with you, knows where you are, what you are doing, and any details you have about the other party you are meeting.
• Meet in a public place that has cameras and a lot of foot traffic such as a superstore parking lot.
• Meet during a busy time of day – not late at night or early in the morning when there are not many other people around.
• If the party you are meeting arrives in a vehicle, jot down the license plate and a description of the vehicle.
• Pay attention to the physical attributes of the people you are meeting with in case you need to give a detailed description of them to the police later.
• Only deal in cash. Checks and cashier checks can easily be forged. Pay attention to the money you accept. Make sure it looks and feels the way money should.
• Should you be threatened, follow the instructions of the suspect(s), leave the area as soon as possible, and call 9-1-1 as quickly as you can.

Fairbanks, Alaska – Acting U.S. Attorney Bryan Wilson announced that Ryan Dalbec, 42, Raihana Nadem, a/k/a/ Raihana Dalbec, 27, of Virginia, and Brian Lowell Nash II, 30, of Washington, have been charged in a 26 count indictment with conspiracy, bribery, and money laundering involving millions of dollars’ worth of U.S. military contracts in Alaska.    

According to the indictment, Ryan and Raihana Dalbec owned and managed Best Choice Construction, LLC (Best Choice), a federal government contractor that provided construction and other services. Through Best Choice, the Dalbecs bid on and were awarded multiple U.S. military construction contracts throughout Alaska. 

From March through November 2019, Ryan and Raihana Dalbec allegedly paid and promised Nash, an enlisted Contract Specialist in the U.S. Air Force assigned to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER), over $460,000 in bribes. In exchange, Nash allegedly supplied the Dalbecs with confidential, non-public bidding information that helped Best Choice win numerous Alaska military contracts, including a construction contract related to the F-35 aircraft program at Eielson Air Force Base and contracts to perform construction and related services at JBER. The indictment also alleges the defendants committed multiple overt acts in furtherance of the bribery conspiracy.  Additionally, between March and October 2019, the Dalbecs and Nash are alleged to have laundered payments and proceeds from the bribery scheme to conceal their unlawful activities.  

If convicted, each defendant faces up to 20 years in prison and a $500,000 fine for the most serious charges in the indictment. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan D. Tansey.

An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Fairbanks, Alaska – Acting U.S. Attorney Bryan Wilson announced that Melissa M. Lascurain, 40, of North Pole has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of Mail Theft and Delay or Destruction of Mail by a Postal Employee.    

According to the indictment, between November and December 2019, Lascurain was empgloyed as a contract delivery service mail carrier for the U.S Postal Service and allegedly stole approximately 37 letters that she was entrusted to deliver as a mail carrier. Additionally, the indictment further alleges that Lascurian destroyed, opened, delayed and failed to deliver postal cards, packages, bags, and mail intended for delivery on her assigned route.       

If convicted, the defendant faces up to 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the charges in the indictment. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) conducted the investigation leading to the charges in this case. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan D. Tansey. 

An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Anchorage, Alaska – Acting U.S. Attorney Bryan Wilson announced that a man has been sentenced to federal prison for stalking an Office of Children’s Services caseworker, and threatening an FBI Agent, while serving a 10-year sentence in Arizona.

Peter Lee Norris (aka Peter Lee Bjorn Norris, aka Bjorn Erik Haapaniemi,) 56, originally of New York, was sentenced today, by U.S. District Judge Ralph R. Beistline to serve 9 years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.

According to court documents, in July 2008, the Alaska Office of Children’s Services began investigating a report of suspected sexual abuse of minor children involving Norris. In July 2010, while the State of Alaska Child in Need of Aid (CINA) case was ongoing, Norris was indicted and sentenced to 10 years in Arizona for unlawful sexual conduct he committed against a different child.    

While Norris was serving the 10-year sentence in Arizona, he sent many threatening letters to the Alaska Office Of Children’s Services (OCS), addressed to the former caseworker who investigated the report of suspected sexual abuse of minor children in Alaska. Norris was apparently motivated to take revenge on the caseworker because she had shared information with police and the Court in Arizona. Norris believed that the caseworker’s information resulted in him serving additional time in the Arizona case. Norris sent at least 22 letters over a period of nearly nine years, even after the caseworker was no longer employed with OCS. The letters included demands and threats to harm the victim and others, cyberstalk the victim, hack the victim’s digital files, hack federal systems, State of Alaska OCS and medical and law enforcement files. The victim sought a protective order and Norris violated the order.

During the course of the investigation, Norris sent a letter to an FBI Special Agent in Alaska in which he attempted to extort special treatment regarding his upcoming sex-offender probation in Arizona. Notably, the threat related if his demands were not met, he would “order others to issue mayhem” and noted that he would be “running amok in Homeland Security gunsights.”   

At sentencing, Judge Beistline noted the seriousness of the crime, remarking that Norris committed the offenses to damage dedicated public servants who were just doing their jobs. The Court found that Norris was a danger to the community.

“Federal law enforcement will protect those public servants who protect our community’s children” said Acting United States Attorney Bryan Wilson.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of this case.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonas M. Walker. 

Anchorage, Alaska – Acting U.S. Attorney Bryan Wilson announced today that Michael Whitmore, 27, has been indicted on charges of possession and distribution of child pornography. Whitmore was arrested by the FBI on March 10, 2021.

The indictment alleges that on or about March 3, 2021 Whitmore was observed by Australian law enforcement distributing child pornography images on the WICKR social media application. The child pornography images allegedly contained prepubescent minors, or minors who have not attained 12 years of age. Australian Law Enforcement notified the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force who initiated an investigation. The investigation allegedly linked Whitmore through his username and associated information which lead to the identification of Whitmore. On March 10, 2021, the FBI executed a federal search warrant, which disclosed Whitmore possessed and accessed child pornography, including images involving prepubescent minors.

If the public has any further information regarding Whitmore,

please contact Anchorage FBI at (907) 276-4441.

If convicted, Whitmore faces a statutory minimum of five years in prison and guideline sentence of more than 20 years in prison.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Reardon.

This case is being brought as part of Project Safe Childhood.  In May 2006, DOJ launched Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Anchorage, AK – Effective today, Bryan Wilson begins serving as the Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Alaska. Mr. Wilson, who has served as First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Alaska since November 2017, assumes the position as Acting U.S. Attorney by virtue of the Vacancies Reform Act.

Mr. Wilson has served with the Department of Justice, United States Attorney’s Office as an Assistant United States Attorney since 1991. Mr. Wilson began his career with the United States Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of Florida in 1991 and served as an Asset Forfeiture Coordinator, and as the  Civil/Appellate Chief from 2003 through 2010. Mr. Wilson transferred to the District of Alaska in 2010. Mr. Wilson has served as the Chief of the Financial Litigation Units in both the Northern District of Florida and District of Alaska.  

Mr. Wilson was in private practice in Tallahassee, Florida from 1983 through 1991. He received his law degree from the University of Notre Dame Law School. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Wheaton College. 

“Our outgoing U.S. Attorney, Bryan Schroder, had a strong commitment to the employees of this office; our federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement partners; and the people throughout the State of Alaska” said Acting U.S. Attorney Wilson, “I am humbled and honored to continue those traditions.  The important work of the public servants in this Office – and their dedication to justice – continues. Our casework will persist uninterrupted.”

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced that Tae Ryung Yoon, aka Thomas Yoon, 64, Yoo Jin Management Company, Ltd. and Mush Inn Corporation were sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Joshua M. Kindred today, for asbestos work violations under the Clean Air Act.

 Yoo Jin Management Company Ltd. and Mush Inn Corporation were sentenced to 3 years of probation and ordered to jointly and severally pay $30,000 in restitution and a $35,000 fine. The government will be seeking an additional $27,081.14 in restitution for the medical monitoring costs of the victims exposed to asbestos at an upcoming restitution hearing scheduled for March 15.     

Tae Ryung Yoon, aka Thomas Yoon, was a contracted employee for the Northern Lights Center and was was sentenced to a term of 2 years of probation and ordered to complete 100 hours of community service. 

A 10-count indictment was filed in September 2019, which alleged that from January 2015 through March 2015, Thomas Yoon, Yoo Jin Management Company, Ltd., and Mush Inn Corporation knowingly violated Clean Air Act asbestos work practice standards and asbestos disposal standards with regard to the renovation of a an old boiler room at the Northern Lights Center, located at 1200 W. Northern Lights Blvd. in Anchorage. Further, the owners and operators of the facility failed to submit notification to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as required when renovating 393 square feet of Regulated Asbestos Containing Material.    

According to Court Documents, Yoo Jin Management Company Ltd. and Mush Inn Corporation, (now known as NLSC Investments, Inc.) jointly owned Northern Lights Center since 2006. In November of 2014, they entered into a contract with a handyman/contractor to remove insulation, pipe, pump, electric power lines and the unused boilers located in the old boiler room at the facility. The contractor was not a certified asbestos abatement contractor. Despite having knowledge that there had been asbestos discovered during prior renovation projects, they failed to have an asbestos survey completed prior to the renovation commencing in January 2015 and failed to inform the contractor of the possibility of asbestos in the old boiler room. Between January and March 2015, the contractor began removing the insulation that surrounded the pipes and boilers. During the months the contractor was engaged in work, three workers were required to enter the boiler room to replace filters for the heating and ventilation system (HVAC). The work in the boiler room was eventually halted when two of the HVAC workers raised concerns about asbestos. The EPA was notified, and an inspector surveyed the boiler room. The EPA inspector discovered white dust and flakes throughout the boiler room. Samples taken from the boiler room were later confirmed by the EPA laboratory to contain 2%, 5%, 7% and 17% asbestos respectively.

The EPA and Congress have determined there is no safe exposure limit for asbestos. In 1971, asbestos became the first hazardous air pollutant listed under the Clean Air Act.  Because there is no concentration of asbestos that is considered safe, the EPA disseminated work practice standards for renovations and demolition projects that direct the handling and disposal of regulated asbestos containing material.  

“The defendants’ illegal practices for the removal of asbestos containing material exposed four workers to asbestos and these workers now face extended periods of medical monitoring,” said Special Agent in Charge Scot Adair of EPA’s criminal enforcement program in Alaska. “EPA is taking action to hold the defendants accountable for their actions.”

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of this case. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charisse Arce and Karla Gebel Perrin, Special Assistant U. S. Attorney, U.S. EPA Regional Criminal Enforcement Counsel.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced that Jason Patzke, 47, has been indicted on charges of receipt and distribution of child pornography. Patzke was arrested on Feb 22, 2021 and was arraigned on the charges this morning in federal court. 

The indictment alleges that on or about June 3, 2018, Patzke knowingly received and distributed child pornography involving prepubescent minors. Additionally, Patzke has prior State of Alaska felony convictions for Sexual Abuse of a Minor and First Degree Indecent Exposure involving minors.    

If convicted, Patzke could face up to 40 years for the charges listed in the indictment. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Child Exploitation Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Doty.

This case is being brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In May 2006, DOJ launched Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced that Federal District Court Judge Sharon L. Gleason has found Eric Larsen, 51, of Anchorage, guilty of attempted sexual exploitation of a minor, coercion and enticement.

Larsen faces a penalty of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of $250,000, and a life term of supervised release.

According to evidence presented at trial, Detectives assigned to the Anchorage Police Department (APD) Crimes against Children Unit (CACU) received a report of that Larsen solicited a 13-year-old girl for oral sex and had exposed himself to her.

APD Detectives assumed the identity of the girl and continued to communicate with Larsen. Larsen used text messages and phone calls to negotiate a time and place to meet with the girl, for the purpose of engaging in sexual intercourse. On Feb 14, 2019, Larsen arrived at a prearranged location. Instead of meeting the girl however, Larsen was met by APD officers and was arrested. At the time of his arrest, Larsen was found to be in possession of condoms, personal lubricant, a vibrator, methamphetamine, a glass pipe, and a loaded handgun.

The Anchorage Police Department (APD) conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of this case. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Alexander and Assistant U.S. Attorney James Klugman.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices nationwide and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced that, on February 18, 2021, Tristan Jamal Grant, aka “Goo” 35, of Anchorage, was indicted by a federal grand jury for Escape by Prisoner in Custody and Failure to Appear.  Julissa Carter, aka “Red”, 32, of Anchorage was charged by criminal complaint February 19, 2021 for Assisting an Escape by Prisoner in Custody and Aiding and Abetting Grant’s Failure to Appear.       

According to Court documents, Grant was apprehended by Anchorage Police Department following a shooting on December 12, 2018. Grant remained in custody and was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 15, 2019 for Felon in Possession of a Firearm and ordered held by federal detainer at the Anchorage Correctional Center (ACC).  Later, a grand jury indicted Grant in a 10-count federal indictment for multiple federal offenses, including Conspiracy to Engage in Sex trafficking of Minors, Sex Trafficking of a Minor, Sexual Exploitation of a Child – Production of Child Pornography, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm. His trial on those charges was set to begin on February 22, 2021 and will be rescheduled.

On Feb 12, 2021, Grant was released by court order to meet with his attorney at his attorney’s office prior to trial. The Release Order allowed Grant to leave the Anchorage Correctional Center (ACC) on February 16 at 10:00 am and required him to return by 5:00 pm. A court-approved defense investigator picked Grant up at ACC and drove him to his attorney’s office. Upon the conclusion of the meeting, the defense investigator prepared to drive Grant back to ACC. As Grant approached the vehicle, he threw his paperwork into the vehicle and then fled from the area. The defense investigator notified law enforcement of Grant’s escape. Grant failed to return to custody at ACC by the specified time in the Release Order.   

Upon learning of Grant’s escape, the Anchorage Police Department (APD) responded and the FBI Safe Streets Task Force reviewed jail calls made by Grant. The review of jail calls revealed that immediately after learning he was to be released, Grant called Carter to learn details of the location and layout of the attorney’s office. In later calls, Grant and Carter exchanged cryptic information and discussed a meeting on February 16.

The FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force, Human Trafficking Task Force, Child Exploitation Task Force, and Anchorage Police Department worked together to locate, isolate, and apprehend Grant and Carter. Their investigation revealed Carter had rented a room at a local hotel on the morning of February 17. Law enforcement obtained a search warrant for the room and entered it a short time later. Carter and Grant were both inside and were taken into custody without incident. 

If convicted, Grant could face a sentence of up to 5 years for the Escape and 10 years for the Failure to Appear.  Any sentence for the Failure to Appear to be consecutive to whatever sentence that may be imposed on the charges previously filed in the 10-count indictment. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.  

If convicted, Carter could face a sentence of up to 5 years for Assisting an Escape and 10 years for Aiding and Abetting Grant's Failure to Appear. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Anchorage Police Department (APD) conducted the investigation leading to the indictment and complaint in this case. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Kyle Reardon.

This original case against Grant case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Grant’s case is also part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

The charges in the indictment are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced today that Roger Keeling, 54, of Fairbanks has been indicted by a federal grand jury in a superseding indictment for murder for hire. A federal grand jury indicted Keeling last month for Stalking. 

According to court documents, Keeling allegedly strangled his girlfriend in October 2020. Keeling pleaded to a misdemeanor assault charge in state court, and upon release, over the course of several weeks and while on ankle monitoring, violated court orders not to contact her numerous times. Keeling continued to harass and contact the victim by emailing her, following her and leaving notes for her, slashing her vehicle tires, and placing her in fear for her life. Keeling was arrested for stalking her. In January 2021, Keeling allegedly devised and solicited a murder for hire plot targeting her.

If convicted Keeling could face a sentence of up to 10 years for his attempt to arrange a murder for hire in addition to the sentence that may be imposed on the charges previously filed.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. 

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Alaska State Troopers (AST) conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dan Doty.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

The charges in the indictment are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced that Laquinton Tyrone Dashawn Robbins, 28, has been sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Ralph R. Beistline for possession of firearm in an Anchorage school zone. Robbins pled guilty to the offense in February 2020.  

According to court documents, on October 3, 2018, Robbins possessed and discharged a gun on school grounds. Robbins shot another male in the parking lot of Denali Montessori Elementary School, during a time where children were still being dropped off for the school day. The altercation began when Robbins dropped off his girlfriend’s daughter at the school and was confronted by the victim. Their argument ended when Robbins pulled a Sig Sauer .40 caliber handgun from his backpack and shot the victim in the neck at point blank range. The shooting occurred during school hours, causing the school to go into lockdown. The victim has recovered from his life-threatening injuries.

Robbins was sentenced to 40 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. In imposing the sentence, Judge Beistline remarked that this sentence needs to send the message that “We are not going to tolerate bringing guns into school zones.” Additionally, charges of Attempted Murder in the First Degree and Assault in the First Degree remain pending in State of Alaska Superior Court. 

The Anchorage Police Department (APD) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution in this case. This case was charged in partnership with the Anchorage Municipal Prosecutor’s Office, which, since 2007, has assigned a prosecutor to work as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA) on violent crime cases in Anchorage. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Ivers, the former SAUSA.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.  

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please visit https://www.justice.gov/ag/about-project-guardian

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced Stephen Brooker Sherman, 36, of Nome has been sentenced U.S. District Court Judge Ralph R. Beistline for being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition.

According to court documents, on January 5, 2020, a concerned citizen called Nome Police Department (NPD) and reported his neighbors were having a domestic dispute and multiple gunshots had been fired. A second citizen called NPD and reported shots fired in the same area. Police responded, and discovered Sherman intoxicated, sitting naked on a bed with a loaded Ruger SR22 .22 caliber handgun next to him and a Ruger P345 .22 caliber handgun on the floor. Police also located a Savage Model 62 .22 caliber rifle, 23 rounds of .308 ammunition, 83 rounds of .357 and .38 ammunition, 30 rounds of .22 ammunition and 371 rounds of .40 caliber ammunition in the residence. Sherman has prior felony convictions for criminally negligent homicide and assault and was on probation at the time of the offense. Based on his prior convictions, he was prohibited from possessing firearms.     

Sherman was sentenced to 42 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. In imposing the sentence, Judge Beistline emphasized Sherman’s criminal history, the seriousness of the offense and the need to protect the public. A petition to revoke probation remains pending in state court.  

The Nome Police Department (NPD) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of this case.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Doty.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please visit https://www.justice.gov/ag/about-project-guardian

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced Ralph Norman Wells, 39, of Fairbanks, has been sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Ralph R. Beistline for Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Possession of Controlled Substance with the Intent to Distribute.

According to Court documents, on April 2, 2020, a business owner reported a suspicious vehicle loitering in the parking lot. Alaska State Troopers (AST) responded and identified Wells, who was on state felony probation. Officers contacted Well’s probation officer, who requested a search of Wells’ vehicle and person.  The search revealed a loaded Ruger P345-45 caliber which had the serial number partially obliterated in a shoulder holster on Well’s person. Additionally, the search also resulted in the seizure of approximately 5 grams of methamphetamine, a digital scale, baggies and drug paraphernalia. Wells has prior felony convictions and a lengthy criminal history. Wells pleaded guilty in October 2020.       

Wells was sentenced to 120 months in prison, followed by 6 years of supervised release. In imposing the sentence, Judge Beistline emphasized Wells’ extensive criminal history, the seriousness of the offense and the need to protect the public. 

The Alaska State Troopers (AST), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of this case.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Doty.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please visit https://www.justice.gov/ag/about-project-guardian

Anchorage, Alaska – United States Attorney Bryan Schroder announced Alaska’s Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Pilot Project (Pilot Project) today. The Pilot Project, in accordance with the Justice Department’s Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Initiative, and in furtherance of and Savanna’s Act, implements tailored Tribal Community Response Plans (TCRP) in select pilot sites.  

A TCRP is a guide for how a tribal community will respond to a report of new missing or murdered person case. The TCRP is individualized and tailored to the needs, resources, and culture of the community. The Pilot Project sites include the tribal communities of Curyung Native Council (Dillingham), Native Village of Unalakleet, and Koyukuk Native Village. These three tribal communities volunteered to participate as Pilot Project sites and have completed their first weeklong project meetings with tribal stakeholders, multidisciplinary providers and law enforcement, taking the first steps toward TCRPs that will be shared with tribal communities across the state. 

The Alaska MMIP working group began meeting in early September 2020. The TCRP guidelines address the response to new missing and murdered person cases by outlining how tribal governments, law enforcement, and other partners can best work together to respond to such cases. The plans address four core components of response to a missing person case: law enforcement coordination, victim services, community outreach and public and media communications. The Alaska MMIP working group has been working on the TCRP guidelines that meet the unique challenges of Alaska communities. The TCRP guidelines cover:

• Tribal communities without law enforcement presence;
• Tribal communities with limited law enforcement (village public safety officers (VPSOs), village public officers (VPOs), tribal police officers (TPOs); and
• Tribal hub communities with municipal and/or state law enforcement.  

“The Alaska MMIP working group is a multi-disciplinary team led by the United States Attorney’s Office MMIP Coordinator, Ingrid Cumberlidge, and comprised of law enforcement representatives from Alaska State Troopers and VPSOs, FBI, Anchorage Police Department, U.S. Marshals, Fairbanks Police Department, BIA Cold Case Office, Kotzebue Police Department, Nome Police Department, Central Council of Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska VPSO supervisors, and Tanana Chief’s Conference VPSO supervisors; legal and judicial representatives from the Alaska Department of Law, U.S. Coast Guard, Kluti-Kaah Tribal Court (former Utquagvik Tribal Court); Tanana Chief’s Conference; tribal representatives from Ahtna Region, Orutsararmiut Native Council, Sun’aq Tribe of Kodiak; victim service providers; and advocates from Victims for Justice, and the Alaska Native Women’s Resource Center.”   

“Given that there are 229 Federally recognized tribes in Alaska, we have adopted a pilot program approach to establish initial Tribal Community Response Plans that can be shared with other tribal communities throughout the State,” explained U.S. Attorney Schroder. “This is truly a multi-disciplinary approach, involving the collaboration and coordination of tribal leadership, federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement, and social and victim services providers to address the complexities of MMIP response in Alaska.”      

“The Alaska State Troopers are proud to continue our robust efforts in the more rural areas of Alaska and look forward to continued advancement of cultural understanding between tribal entities and our Troopers,” stated Col. Bryan Barlow, Director of the Alaska State Troopers. “We hold steadfast to our efforts to keep and ensure strong partnerships with all of our tribal, local, state and federal law enforcement partners as well as look at what preventative efforts, survivor services, and educational programs can be implemented in communities across Alaska so that we can reduce the violence that negatively impacts all Alaskans, which includes a disproportionately high rate of indigenous people subjected to violence.”

"The opportunity to participate in this Pilot Project has provided an opportunity for the Koyukuk Native Village to address the issues and concerns they have faced in the past when tribal members went missing or were murdered.” said Shirly Sam, Tribal Victim Specialist for Koyukuk Native Village, “The development of the Koyukuk Native Village Community Response Plan for Missing Person Cases provides a guide to follow if faced with that possibility. This guide adheres to tribal traditions and cultures."  

“In Alaska, law enforcement agencies often need to think outside the box, but inside the rules, to protect the people we serve,” said Robert Britt, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “The FBI is looking forward to participating in this Pilot Project, as we continue to support the Alaska State Troopers, as well as our local and tribal partners, to find sustainable solutions that will improve public safety for all Alaskans.”    

“The U.S. Marshals Service looks forward to continuing and growing their partnership as part of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Working Group,” said U.S. Marshal Robert Huen, “This opportunity to collaborate with federal, state and local agencies, as well as tribal members and entities creates partnerships to improve interagency communication and cooperation. The U.S. Marshals Service recognizes the importance of this initiative and are dedicated to allocating resources in response to this problem plaguing our Alaskan communities.”

“The Alaska Department of Law is committed to addressing the epidemic of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People. These Pilot Projects are the first step, and we look forward to collaborating with local, state, and federal partners in the future.” Deputy Attorney General John Skidmore

“We are deeply engaged with our federal and state law enforcement partners as well as our community partners to help address the MMIP issue,” said Chief Justin Doll with the Anchorage Police Department. “For example, our new Cold Case Unit is currently collaborating and supporting this important project.”

“I am so happy to be part of this working group with Ingrid (Cumberlidge- U.S. Attorney’s Office  District of Alaska - MMIP Coordinator) and other tribes,” said Lucille Lincoln of AHTNA, “I am thankful that we are finally getting the different agencies working together with us and learning about our people and problems to help our Native people and present them somewhere to turn in these situations.”  

“Participating in this Pilot Project not only demonstrates to our families that we care deeply about the traumas they’re experiencing, but also asserts our sovereignty in addressing this issue for our people by developing an action plan relevant to Curyung’s culture and community.” said Curyung Tribal Council Tribal Administrator, Courtenay Carty.

“The Native Village of Unalakleet joined the Alaska MMIP Tribal Community Response Plan Project.  I serve as the Tribal President and during my past experience as a law enforcement officer, we lost and never found a couple of our tribal members,” said Unalakleet Tribal President Katchatag, “My hope is that this project will continue to raise awareness, gather resources, and develop protocols for Unalakleet and all Alaska Tribes to respond to cases of missing and murdered indigenous people.”

The U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Alaska would like to thank the Pilot Project tribal communities, law enforcement partners, community stakeholders, and victim service providers for their willingness and dedication to the undertaking of this monumental effort of addressing MMIP responses in Alaska.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced Carlito Marcilino Velasco, 61 of Juneau and Don Irenio Castro Santiago II, 37, a citizen of the Philippines residing in  Anchorage, have been sentenced by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Timothy M. Burgess to federal prison for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy in Kodiak.

According to court documents, Velasco and Santiago II allegedly devised a plan involving themselves and others to possess and distribute methamphetamine in Kodiak. During the drug conspiracy, Velasco travelled to California to purchase methamphetamine from sources in California for distribution in Alaska. Velasco then packaged and mailed the methamphetamine via United States Postal Service (USPS) to Juneau, where a co-conspirator repackaged it and then mailed it via USPS to Santiago II in Kodiak. Santiago II received the parcel, distributed the methamphetamine, and collected drug proceeds from the sale of the methamphetamine in Kodiak. Santiago II subsequently mailed the drug proceeds back to Juneau in a parcel, and the proceeds were later used by Velasco to purchase more methamphetamine for subsequent distributions.                

Additional Court documents detail that on or about June 4, 2019, U.S. Postal Inspectors identified, intercepted, and seized a suspicious package mailed from Juneau to Kodiak. Further inspection of the package revealed approximately 233.45 grams of methamphetamine hidden inside a coffee bag. Law Enforcement Officers removed the original narcotics and installed two tracking devices in the package.

On June 6, the parcel was delivered to a residential parcel locker in Kodiak, where Velasco and Santiago II retrieved the package, and left in a vehicle. A short time later, Velasco and Santiago II opened the package, and upon realizing there was a tracking device, hid the parcel under a nearby pile of lumber. Law Enforcement Officers of the South East Alaska Cities Against Drugs (SEACAD) Taskforce apprehended both men. They have remained in custody since their arrest. Velasco and Santiago II purportedly successfully imported four other packages into Kodiak in the same manner, introducing over 680 grams of methamphetamine into the small community of Kodiak.

Today, Velasco was sentenced to 120 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, after previously pleading guilty to drug trafficking conspiracy in January 2020. Velasco has a lengthy criminal history, with prior felony convictions for drug trafficking, murder, and domestic violence. In imposing the sentence, Judge Burgess noted the serious of the offense, and the need to protect the public given Velasco’s violent criminal history.  

On December 10, 2020, Santiago II was sentenced to 23 months in federal prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, after previously pleading guilty to drug trafficking conspiracy in February 2020. Santiago could face deportation upon the completion of his sentence.   

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service (USCGIS), Alaska State Troopers (AST), the Juneau Police Department (JPD), and Kodiak Police Department (KPD), in support of Alaska’s High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Program, and the South East Alaska Cities Against Drugs (SEACAD) Taskforce, contributed to the investigation leading to the successful prosecution in this case. Established in 2018, the Alaska HIDTA Program enhances and coordinates efforts among local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, providing equipment, technology, and additional resources to combat drug trafficking and its harmful consequences in critical regions of Alaska. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack S. Schmidt.

This case is also part of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Alaska Rural Alaska Anti-Violence Enforcement Network (RAAVEN) Initiative’s ongoing efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and action on public safety in Alaska Native communities. 

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced today that two Anchorage men were sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Ralph R. Beistline for their roles in the December 4, 2019 armed robbery of an Anchorage Wells Fargo Bank branch on Debarr Rd.  

Totoe Opeti Sakaria, Jr., 24, and co-defendant, Brandon David McDonald, 24, both of Anchorage, were indicted by the grand jury in December 2019 for their roles in the armed robbery and have been detained without bail since December 10, 2019.  Sakaria pleaded guilty to bank robbery and use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence in October 2020 and was sentenced yesterday to 126 months in prison. McDonald pleaded guilty to accessory after the fact to bank robbery in October 2020 and was sentenced today to 28 months in prison.

According to documents filed in the case, on Dec. 4, 2019, two masked men entered the Wells Fargo bank on Debarr Road during business hours. One of them, later identified as Sakaria, pointed a shotgun at patrons and employees while demanding that everyone get on the ground.  The other man, who has not been identified, approached a teller and demanded money, obtaining $2,624. As Sakaria and the other man left the bank, Sakaria struck a security guard in the head with the buttstock of his shotgun, causing serious injury to the guard. Sakaria and the unidentified coconspirator subsequently met with McDonald, who was aware the two had committed the bank robbery and agreed to hide the shotgun and clothing used in its commission.  On December 6, 2019, FBI special agents recovered the shotgun from the crawlspace of McDonald’s residence.      

Sakaria and McDonald were identified as suspects after still photos from surveillance footage were released to the public via Nixle alerts and the media. The coconspirator remains at large.  

If the public has any information regarding the coconspirator who robbed the bank with Sakaria, please contact Anchorage FBI at (907) 276-4441.

In sentencing Sakaria to a term of 126 months, followed by 3 years of supervised release, the court noted the terrifying nature of the crime for the bank patrons and employees, Sakaria’ s dangerous use of a shotgun, and the rapid succession of serious crimes Sakaria committed in 2019, including a vehicle theft conviction from the State of Alaska. The Court also ordered Sakaria to pay $7,652 in restitution for the loss to Wells Fargo Bank and the cost of medical care and worker’s compensation insurance for the injured security guard.  

In sentencing McDonald to a term of 28 months followed by 3 years of supervised release, Judge Beistline emphasized the foolishness of McDonald’s decision to help the robbers. McDonald has pending felony charges from the State of Alaska stemming from a May 2019 armed robbery and a February 2019 failure to stop at the direction of an officer.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Anchorage Police Department (APD) conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of this case.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison O’Leary.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced that a Palmer man was sentenced to serve 24 months in prison for Wire Fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1343.  

Faunus Michael Doney, fka Christopher Michael Wold, 37, of Palmer, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Joshua M. Kindred to serve 24 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release.  He was also ordered to pay $377, 946.14 in restitution to the victims of his fraudulent scheme. Doney pleaded guilty to Wire Fraud on September 22, 2020.

According to a Felony Information filed in August of 2020, Doney devised and participated in a scheme that defrauded three victims beginning in August 2018 and continuing until at least June 2019. Additional court documents reveal that Doney, a licensed insurance broker in Alaska, worked for a life insurance and annuity company based in Iowa. Doney was responsible for marketing life insurance and annuities to new and existing clients in Alaska, many of whom were elderly and purchased those products to secure income in retirement or for estate planning. Doney travelled throughout Alaska and hosted seminars designed to encourage elderly Alaskans to invest in his products. Although Doney was aware that the three victims identified in the Information had limited retirement savings, he convinced them to invest much of their savings with him by promising significant guaranteed returns. In reality, there were no investments: Doney simply redirected the victims’ funds to his personal and business accounts, created fictitious balance sheets, account statements, and other doctored evidence and to allay his victims’ concerns.   

In imposing prison time, Judge Kindred remarked that he hoped the sentence would send a message to Doney and others that fraudulent conduct on this scale will be met with serious consequences.

The IRS-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution in this case, with support from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the State of Alaska Division of Insurance. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James Klugman.

Combatting elder abuse and financial fraud targeted at seniors is a key priority of the Department of Justice. Elder abuse is an intentional or negligent act by any person that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to an older adult. It is a term used to describe five subtypes of elder abuse: physical abuse, financial fraud, scams and exploitation, caregiver neglect and abandonment, psychological abuse, and sexual abuse. Elder abuse is a serious crime against some of our nation’s most vulnerable citizens, affecting at least 10% of older Americans every year. Together with our federal, state, local and tribal partners, the Department of Justice is steadfastly committed to combatting all forms of elder abuse and financial exploitation through enforcement actions, training and resources, research, victim services, and public awareness. This holistic and robust response demonstrates the Department’s unwavering dedication to fighting for justice for older Americans. To learn more about the Elder Abuse Financial Exploitation Resources, visit the DOJ Elder Abuse Resource Roadmap.  

Anchorage - This morning FBI Special Agent Daniel Alfin and Special Agent Laura Schwartzenberger were killed in the line of duty and three other agents were wounded while executing a federal court-ordered search warrant in a crimes against children investigation in Sunrise, Florida.

U. S. Attorney Bryan Schroder issued the following statement:

“We honor the lives of Special Agent Daniel Alfin and Special Agent Laura Schwartzenberger of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, killed this morning in Sunrise, Florida. We also hope for a full recovery of the three agents that were injured. These agents were serving a court-ordered search warrant in a case involving violent crimes against children. Protecting those who cannot protect themselves, especially children, is one of the most sacred responsibilities in law enforcement. These agents died and were injured fulfilling that duty. Let this also be a stark reminder of the dangers all law enforcement officers face every day. They risk their lives to protect us, and I remain grateful for that sacrifice.”

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced today that Leo James Chaplin, 62, of Anchorage, was found guilty of International Parental Kidnapping after a two-day federal bench trial. Chaplin was charged by criminal complaint June 23, 2017 in the District of Alaska and later indicted by a federal grand jury on October 18, 2019. Sentencing is scheduled for April 28, 2021 before United States District Court Judge Sharon L. Gleason.

According to evidence presented at trial, Chaplin kidnapped two children he shared with his then-spouse during a family vacation to the Philippines in November of 2014. Both children were born and lived in Anchorage prior to their kidnapping. Chaplin retained the children in the Philippines with intent to obstruct their mother’s exercise of lawful parental rights until July of 2019, a period of over four-and-a-half years. Chaplin was deported from the Philippines and returned to the United States in September of 2019. He was arraigned on the criminal complaint in the Central District of California September 25, 2019. 

"There is no safe haven for parents who abduct their children and hide them in foreign countries. I cannot fathom the emotional tragedy of these separations. In this case, the mother and her children were apart for over 4 years. That is time this family will never get back,” said U.S. Attorney Schroder. “We are committed to working with the FBI and foreign governments to ensure the return of abducted children and holding the kidnappers accountable." 

“The FBI takes crimes against children seriously, including international parental kidnappings,” said Robert Britt, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “Chaplin sought to deprive his children’s mother of lawful parental rights, which can have a destructive impact on the entire family.  These children have been returned home due to the far-reaching and combined resources of the FBI and our law enforcement partners.”

As part of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Crimes Against Children Human Trafficking Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Customs and Border Protection, United States Department of State, and United States Marshals Service conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of this case. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Allison O’Leary and George Tran.

To learn more about the FBI’s Crimes Against Children Program, visit fbi.gov.  For more information and resources on International Parental Kidnapping, visit DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section webpage.                                                                          

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced today that Bryron Shontell McFadden, 41 and Roberta Ruth Sielak, 30, of Utqiagvik were indicted on drug trafficking charges, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and attempt to possess controlled substances with intent to distribute.

The criminal complaint alleges that on or about January 12, U.S. Postal Inspectors identified a suspicious package mailed from Arizona to Utqiagvik resident Roberta Sielak. On January 13, 2021 the package was intercepted in Anchorage by U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS). Further inspection of the package revealed approximately 200 blue pills hidden inside. Preliminary test results, subject to laboratory confirmation, indicated the pills contain fentanyl.

Postal inspectors state they installed a tracking device in the package and delivered it to Sielak’s mailbox.  Sielak retrieved the package, placed it in a vehicle and drove to McFadden’s residence. McFadden took the package from Sielak’s vehicle and went into his residence, and allegedly opened the package. Upon realizing there was a tracking device, he fled the residence with the tracking device and disposed of it in a nearby dumpster. McFadden was located by the North Slope Borough Police Department and taken into custody. Sielak was located in her vehicle by Borough police and detained for questioning.

If convicted, Sielak and McFadden may be sentenced to up to 40 years in prison. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the North Slope Borough Police Department, and Alaska's High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Anchorage Airport Interdiction Team conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. The Anchorage Airport Interdiction Team is a Trooper-led drug interdiction task-force staffed by investigators and agents from the Alaska State Troopers, Anchorage Police Department, North Slope Borough Police Department, Anchorage Airport Police Department, Sand Point Police Department, DHS – Homeland Security Investigations, US Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, and the US Coast Guard Investigative Service. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dan Doty.

This case is part of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Alaska Rural Alaska Anti-Violence Enforcement Network (RAAVEN) Initiative’s ongoing efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and action on public safety in Alaska Native communities. 

An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced today that Wally Roy Carter, 61, of Kotzebue, Alaska, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for sex trafficking of a minor. Carter was arrested on Thursday, Dec. 17, and has remained incarcerated since his arrest.   

According to a criminal complaint, Carter became the subject of a federal investigation in November 2020, when the FBI received a tip alleging a minor had been sexually abused by Carter approximately 15 times over the course of three years, with the first instance occurring when the victim was just 10 years old. Carter allegedly gave the victim money after each instance of sexual abuse, and often gave her alcohol and marijuana before or after the sexual abuse.  The complaint further alleges that the sexual abuse happened in Carter’s home, his vehicle and on one occasion, Carter took her by boat to a cabin, where the victim tried to escape from Carter at least five times.

If the public has any further information regarding Carter’s activities, please contact Anchorage FBI at (907) 276-4441.

If convicted, Carter faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Anchorage Police Department (APD) Task Force Officers investigated this case collectively as part of the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, with assistance from the Alaska State Troopers (AST) and Kotzebue Police Department (KPD). This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dan Doty.

The investigation is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

This case is also part of the Rural Alaska Anti-Violence Enforcement Network (RAAVEN), the U.S. Attorney’s Office is increasing engagement, coordination, and action on public safety in Alaska Native communities.

The charges in the criminal complaint are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced today that Bradley Kruger, 20, of Fairbanks, has been indicted for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

According to state court documents, on July 27, 2020, Kruger was stopped by Alaska State Troopers for a traffic violation.  During the stop, Troopers observed loose ammunition on the front passenger seat of the vehicle. Kruger self -identified that he was on felony probation and his probation officer requested a search of Kruger and the vehicle for prohibited weapons and controlled substances. During the search, Troopers located drugs and drug paraphernalia, a loaded Smith and Wesson 22 caliber pistol, 2 loaded AR15 magazines, and a backpack containing a pry bar, bolt cutters, screwdriver and wire snips. Further investigation revealed the pistol had been reported as lost one week earlier. Kruger has a prior felony conviction and is prohibited from possessing firearms.         

If convicted on the federal charges, Kruger faces a maximum of 10 years in prison.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Alaska State Troopers (AST) conducted the investigation leading to the charges in this case.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dan Doty.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please visit https://www.justice.gov/ag/about-project-guardian

The charges in the indictment are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced today that Roger Keeling, 54, of Fairbanks has been indicted by a federal grand jury for stalking.

 According to court documents, Keeling allegedly strangled his girlfriend in October 2020. The victim obtained a Domestic Violence Protective Order. Keeling pleaded to a misdemeanor assault charge in state court, and upon release, violated the DVPO numerous times over several weeks while on ankle monitoring. Keeling continued to harass and contact the victim by emailing her, following her and leaving notes for her, slashing her vehicle tires, and placing her in fear for her life.  

If convicted, Keeling could face a sentence of up to five years. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. 

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Alaska State Troopers (AST) conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dan Doty.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

The charges in the indictment are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced today that Alfred Morgan, 35, of Aniak, has been indicted for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

According to court documents, on September 6, 2020, Alaska State Troopers (AST) responded to a domestic violence report at a residence in Aniak. During the interaction, Troopers contacted a male at the residence, who brandished a knife at the responding Trooper. Morgan then allegedly approached the Trooper, positioned himself between the male and the Trooper, then raised the barrel of a Ruger Mini 14 rifle at the Trooper. The Trooper gave commands to drop the rifle, which the defendant did, only to retrieve the rifle again when a second Trooper arrived on scene. Troopers were able to secure Morgan and the rifle, then began to apprehend the other male on scene. While Troopers were apprehending the other male, Morgan fled the scene in handcuffs. He was apprehended and transported to the Aniak jail. Morgan has 2 prior felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing firearms.              

If convicted on the federal charges, Morgan faces a maximum of 10 years in prison.  Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Alaska State Troopers (AST) conducted the investigation leading to the charges in this case.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dan Doty.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please visit  https://www.justice.gov/ag/about-project-guardian

Additionally, this case is part of the Rural Alaska Anti-Violence Enforcement Network (RAAVEN), the U.S. Attorney’s Office is increasing engagement, coordination, and action on public safety in Alaska Native communities.

The charges in the indictment are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced that Sanh Sunni Thampithak, a/k/a “Allysia” or “Ally”, 54, of Anchorage, was sentenced to one year and one day in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release for Aiding and Advising False Income Tax Returns, while preparing fraudulent income tax returns on behalf of other individuals. Thampithak pleaded guilty to the charges in September 2020.  

According to court documents, Thampithak had been filing fraudulent tax returns as an informal tax preparer, for tax years 2015-2017. Thampithak routinely misrepresented herself to her clients as a legitimate tax preparer. Thampithak did taxes for the Lao community and others in Anchorage, charging them $100-$300 per return, but would obtain unwarranted refunds for her clients by inflating certain Schedule A deductions and expenses. All tax return preparers who are paid to prepare or assist substantially in the preparation of any U.S. federal tax return, claim for refund or other tax form submitted to the IRS must have a PTIN. It is further alleged that Thampithak consistently fabricated the figures in order to generate refunds for her clients, and although she had a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), she failed to input her PTIN on her client’s returns. Thampithak filed at least 89 fraudulently prepared tax returns.  

Thampithak became the subject of a federal investigation after her IP addresses were linked to questionable Form 1040’s that had been referred to IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI).  During the investigation, Thampithak knowingly prepared a fraudulent return for an IRS-CI  undercover agent, and then lied to investigators to conceal the criminal conduct. 

U.S. District Judge Sharon L. Gleason noted the need for general deterrence in the imposition of the 1 year and 1-day sentence. In addition to the term of imprisonment, Thampithak was ordered to complete 1 year of supervised release and pay restitution in the amount of $348,759.   

The IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution in this case. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Alexander of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska.

Return preparer fraud is one of the IRS’s Dirty Dozen Tax Scams and taxpayers seeking a return preparer should remain vigilant. The IRS has information on its website for choosing a tax preparer and has launched a free directory of federal tax preparers.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced today that U.S. District Court Judge Sharon L. Gleason sentenced Michael Don Robertson, 68, a former Anchorage psychiatrist, to 12 months home confinement and 5 years of probation for conspiracy to commit controlled substance fraud and one count of health care fraud. Robertson knowingly and intentionally distributed controlled substances outside the usual course of professional practice and without a legitimate medical purpose.

According to court documents, from May 2015 to March 2018, Robertson issued 465 prescriptions of meperidine to 30 different recipients, totaling 32,109 meperidine pills, knowing that the recipients did not truly need the medication for a legitimate medical purpose.  The investigation revealed that Robertson issued the meperidine prescriptions as part of a conspiracy in which the recipients filled the meperidine prescriptions and, then, distributed the meperidine to Robertson.  In exchange for the recipients diverting the meperidine to Robertson, Robertson provided prescriptions for controlled substances, including fentanyl and oxycodone, to the recipients.  Meperidine, commonly known as Demerol, is a Schedule II controlled substance, and is an opioid with an abuse liability similar to morphine. 

The investigation further revealed that Robertson failed to make and preserve accurate records regarding approximately 790 prescriptions for controlled substances and failed to keep any medical records whatsoever regarding five patients to whom he wrote prescriptions for controlled substances.  In a scheme to obtain money from Medicaid, Robertson caused claims to be submitted to Medicaid regarding these 790 prescriptions, resulting in Medicaid paying $3,286.87 to Robertson’s medical practice.  Further, Medicaid paid $3,601.52 to pharmacies for these 790 controlled substance prescriptions. 

Robertson pleaded guilty to the charges on July 31, 2019.  At sentencing today, Robertson apologized to the people that he involved in the scheme, the medical profession, and his family. Robertson surrendered his medical license and DEA Registration after being questioned by law enforcement.

The Court held that 12 months of home incarceration was appropriate due the COVID pandemic and the need to impose a just sentence due to the severity of the crime, while also avoiding disparity with sentences for other similar drug crimes.  In addition to the 12-month home confinement, Robertson was ordered to complete 5 years of probation and pay restitution in the amount of $6,888.39 to Medicaid to reimburse the cost of the illegally prescribed drugs.

United States Attorney Bryan Schroder commended the law enforcement team that investigated this case. “This conviction is a reminder that COVID is not the only pandemic confronting America and Alaska; fighting the opioid epidemic remains an important priority for the Department of Justice. Federal law enforcement investigates and prosecutes unlawful drug distribution, including that crime committed by doctors.”

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS OIG), the State of Alaska Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution in this case.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonas M. Walker.

Anchorage, Alaska –U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced today that the United States has collected $7 million dollars of Iranian funds that will be allocated to provide compensation to American victims of international state-sponsored terrorism.

According to U.S. Attorney Schroder, the funds are the United States’ share of a civil forfeiture investigation that is part of the Government’s pursuit of a complex international conspiracy which spanned the globe. The conspiracy’s purpose was to violate the U.S. imposed international economic sanctions regime on Iran and included several Iranian nationals and others, who fraudulently transferred approximately one billion dollars-worth of Iranian-owned funds to accounts around the world.

Beginning in 2011 and continuing up to 2014, the conspirators, including three Iranian nationals and, allegedly, one U.S. citizen, defrauded South Korean banks by submitting false documents purporting to show that Iranian companies were doing legitimate business with Korean companies. Based on these false documents, the conspirators succeeded in unlawfully transferring approximately one billion dollars-worth of Iranian-owned funds out of South Korea and into the world’s financial markets.

The American who is an alleged conspirator, Kenneth Zong, was indicted in December 2016 in the District of Alaska, for 47 counts of violating the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and the Iranian Transaction and Sanctions Regulations (ITSR), Providing Unlawful Services to the Government of Iran, Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering, and Money Laundering. Kenneth Zong remains in South Korea, where he recently completed serving a sentence of longer than five years for violating Korean law as part of the same scheme. 

The conspirators transferred the Iranian-owned funds to accounts worldwide, including to Anchorage, Alaska. In 2018, a federal judge sentenced Mitchell Zong (i.e. Kenneth Zong’s son) to two and a half years imprisonment for his role in laundering approximately $968,000 of Iranian-derived funds, knowing the funds came from his father’s illegal transactions with Iranian nationals. In a separate forfeiture civil action, Mitchell Zong and other members of his family were ordered to forfeit to the United States approximately $10 million in assets, which were purchased with funds traceable to Kenneth Zong’s 2011 illegal IEEPA activity in Seoul, South Korea. 

In addition to the prosecutions of Kenneth Zong and Mitchell Zong, the U.S. Attorney’s Office filed a forfeiture complaint seeking to seize money held in a sovereign wealth fund in the United Arab Emirates. These funds, which are also traceable to the scheme, were part of a down-payment made by the Iranian co-conspirators for the purchase of a Sheraton Hotel in Tbilisi, Georgia in 2011 and 2012. The agreement announced today resolves that forfeiture case with a proposed order that $7 million be forfeited to the United States. The forfeiture case, Civil No. 3:20-cv-00126-JMK, was filed and remains pending in the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska.

The $7 million dollars will be allocated to the U.S. Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Fund, which Congress established to provide compensation to certain individuals who were injured in acts of international state-sponsored terrorism, including victims of the 1979 U.S. embassy hostage situation in Iran, among others.

The United States  acknowledged and expressed appreciation for the cooperation of UAE authorities, the Dubai Police Department’s Anti-money Laundering and Financial Crimes Division and the Government of Ras al Khaimah, the Office of the Prosecutor General of Georgia, and the Supreme Prosecutor’s Office and Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Korea, without whom this resolution would not have been possible.

U.S. Attorney Schroder commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) for the successful investigation. “I thank our law enforcement partners for their long-term and dedicated diligence in securing these funds for victims of state-sponsored terrorism.”

“The FBI will aggressively pursue those who aid terrorist financiers and those who abuse the U.S. financial system in the process,” said Robert Britt, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “Due to the collaborative effort put forth by the FBI and our partners, it is with great satisfaction that a portion of these successfully forfeited funds will go to American victims of international state-sponsored terrorism.” 

“IRS-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) special agents are experts at tracing the flow of funds and throughout this investigation their skills were on display,” said IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Justin Campbell. “We are pleased that victims of state sponsored terror will receive these funds, and we will continue working with our partners to unravel financial transactions that promote terrorism.”

The forfeiture case and the case against Mitchell and Kenneth Zong were litigated by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Steven Skrocki and Jonas Walker.  Former Deputy Chief Woo S. Lee and Senior Trial Attorney Michael Olmsted of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section litigated the forfeiture cases with Assistant U.S. Attorneys Steven Skrocki and Jonas Walker. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance in this matter.

An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

For more information regarding the U.S. Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Fund, see U.S. VICTIMS OF STATE SPONSORED TERRORISM FUND (usvsst.com)

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced that on December 18, 2020, U.S. District Judge Sharon L. Gleason sentenced Keon Aspaas, 33, of Eagle River, to 180 months in federal prison for of sexual exploitation of a child - production and attempted production of child pornography.

According to court documents, in early March of 2019, Aspaas entered an Eagle River residence where he knew that minors were having a sleepover. While in the residence, he took explicit photos of a sleeping 16-year-old victim with his cell phone. The victim awoke and Aspaas fled the residence. The victim’s family contacted law enforcement. Law enforcement officers located and arrested Aspaas the same day and he has remained in custody since the initial arrest. In February 2020, Aspaas pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of a child - production and attempted production of child pornography.  

U.S. District Judge Sharon L. Gleason noted in the imposition of the 180-month sentence, “Such a sentence would afford adequate deterrence to criminal conduct and protect the public from further crimes of Mr. Aspaas.” In addition to the 180-month sentence, Aspaas was ordered to complete 10 years of supervised release, comply with registration requirements as a sex offender, perform 200 hours of community service and pay restitution.     

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Anchorage Police Department (APD) conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of this case. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Alexander.

This case is being brought as part of Project Safe Childhood.  In May 2006, DOJ launched Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced Wally Roy Carter, 61, of Kotzebue, Alaska, has been named in a federal complaint for sex trafficking of a minor. Carter was arrested on Thursday, Dec. 17, and was ordered detained.  

The complaint alleges that Carter became the subject of a federal investigation last month, when the FBI received a tip alleging a minor had been sexually abused by Carter approximately 15 times over the course of three years, with the first instance occurring when the victim was just 10 years old. Carter allegedly gave the victim money after each instance of sexual abuse, and often gave her alcohol and marijuana before or after the sexual abuse.  The complaint further alleges that the sexual abuse happened in Carter’s home, his vehicle and on one occasion, Carter took her by boat to a cabin, where the victim tried to escape from Carter at least five times.

If the public has any further information regarding Carter’s activities, please contact Anchorage FBI at (907) 276-4441.

If convicted, Carter faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Anchorage Police Department (APD) Task Force Officers investigated this case collectively as part of the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, with assistance from the Alaska State Troopers (AST) and Kotzebue Police Department (KPD). This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dan Doty.

“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is focused on protecting the citizens of rural Alaska, especially young people.” said U.S. Attorney Schroder, “With the additional prosecutors provided by Attorney General Barr after his visit to Alaska in June 2019, we are charging more cases in the remote areas of the state, fulfilling his admonition that all citizens deserve public safety protection.”

“The FBI is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of Alaska’s youth, and today’s charges send a clear message that crimes against children, in both urban and rural Alaska, will never be tolerated,” said Robert Britt, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Anchorage Field Office.  “Our collective efforts to promote public safety in rural Alaska remain steadfast, and by using a multi-agency approach, the FBI will continue to investigate, disrupt, and hold accountable those who prey upon the children of our communities.”

The investigation is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

Under the Rural Alaska Anti-Violence Enforcement Network (RAAVEN), the U.S. Attorney’s Office is increasing engagement, coordination, and action on public safety in Alaska Native communities.

The charges in the criminal complaint are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced Blake Lincoln Smith, 34, of Anchorage, Alaska, has been sentenced on charges of possessing heroin with intent to distribute and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to Court documents, the charges stemmed from a July 23, 2019 search warrant execution of Smith’s vehicle, which resulted in the discovery and seizure of a loaded Springfield Armory XD-40 semiautomatic pistol and 179 grams of heroin.  At the time, Smith was on state probation for drug possession and felony eluding convictions in Alaska. He also had a prior felony conviction for vehicle theft.

In imposing the 77-month sentence, District Court Judge Joshua M. Kindred emphasized Smith’s extensive criminal history and the seriousness of possessing a gun while possessing drugs as justification of the sentence.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), Alaska State Troopers (AST), Anchorage Police Department (APD), Anchorage International Airport Police, Sand Point Police, and North Slope Borough Police, in support of Alaska’s High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Program, contributed to the investigation leading to the successful prosecution in this case. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison O’Leary.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please visit https://www.justice.gov/ag/about-project-guardian

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced Brian James Tepner, 48, of Fairbanks, Alaska, has been sentenced to 108 months in federal prison followed by 8 years of supervised release on charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and for being a felon in possession of a stolen firearm.

At 3:30 a.m. on March 22, 2019, Tepner was found slumped over in the driver’s seat of a vehicle parked at a Sourdough Fuel station in Fairbanks. Alaska State Troopers saw an open container of alcohol, hypodermic needles, and a spoon with burnt heroin residue in plain view during the contact. Troopers obtained a search warrant for the vehicle and seized 191 grams of methamphetamine, three grams of heroin, and a stolen S&W .22 caliber pistol. Troopers also located drug dealing paraphernalia, including ledgers, two scales, and multiple plastic baggies and cell phones. Tepner was apprehended, but left Alaska shortly after being released.

Tepner was indicted by a Grand Jury in the District of Alaska on May 22, 2019. On June 25, 2019, he was arrested in Phoenix, Arizona and transported back to Alaska.

In imposing the 108-month sentence, the Court noted Tepner’s long criminal record and recent threats he made towards his wife on recorded jail calls as justifying the lengthy sentence.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Alaska State Troopers (AST), and the Fairbanks Area Narcotics Team conducted the investigation leading to the sentence in this case. The Fairbanks Area Narcotics Team is part of Alaska’s High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program. Established in 2018, the Alaska HIDTA Program enhances and coordinates efforts among local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, providing equipment, technology, and additional resources to combat drug trafficking and its harmful consequences in critical regions of Alaska. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Tansey.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please visit https://www.justice.gov/ag/about-project-guardian

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced Marcus Catalin Rosu, 39, was charged in an Information for possession of access device-making equipment in connection with an alleged ATM skimmer fraud scheme affecting hundreds of bank and credit union customers in Alaska and elsewhere.

According to public court filings, Rosu became the subject of a federal investigation when the United States Postal Inspection Service intercepted a package containing hundreds of fraudulent banks cards in February 2019. USPIS and the Alaska State Troopers investigated allegations of ATM-skimming occurring at credit unions in Anchorage and the Mat-Su Valley. Following the investigation of a report of ATM-skimming occurring at a Matanuska Valley Family Credit Union in Willow, law enforcement arrested Marcus Rosu at a rental car company in July 2020. After his arrest, law enforcement searched Rosu’s hotel room. Hidden above the hotel room’s ceiling tiles, they found more than 1,000 magnetic strip cards, a laptop computer and a magnetic strip reader-encoder. 

Due to the large number of potential victims in this case, United States Magistrate Judge Matthew M. Scoble issued an order permitting the government to employ alternative victim notification procedures so that any member of the community at large who believes they may be a crime victim is made aware of their potential rights.

The government is asking that members of the community who believe they may be a victim of Rosu’s criminal activities, to contact the Victim-Witness Unit at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Alaska at (907) 271-3041. The Victim-Witness Program of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Alaska, provides information, services, and support to individuals during federal prosecutions.

Case updates will be provided on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Alaska website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-ak/case-updates.

An Information is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. A virtual hearing in this case is scheduled for January 5, 2021 at 10 a.m.

This case was the product of an investigation conducted by the United State Postal Inspection Service, the Alaska State Troopers, with assistance from the Airport Police. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Vandergaw. 

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced that Dillinger Jay Graham, 39, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Timothy M. Burgess to 87 months in federal prison and four years of supervised release for a drug trafficking conspiracy.

On or about April 6, 2018, Graham and another person boarded flight 67, traveling from Seattle, Washington to Juneau, Alaska. When the two passengers exited the plane in Juneau, they were immediately detained and searched by the Juneau Police Department (JPD) drug investigators who had received drug trafficking information on Graham from the Port of Seattle Police Department.

Graham was carrying approximately 75.5 grams of heroin and 75.4 actual grams of meth, which were purchased in Seattle and intended to distribute to others for subsequent distribution in Juneau, Alaska. In May of 2019, Graham pled guilty to the allegations in Count 1 of the indictment, a drug trafficking conspiracy to import and sell significant quantities of meth, heroin, and other drugs to the community.

Graham has two felony convictions for drugs in 2009 and a felony conviction for theft. Graham did not have any other criminal convictions between his supervision release in 2014 and this current conviction.

The South East Alaska Cities Against Drugs (SEACAD) Drug Taskforce conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of this case. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Schmidt.

Juneau, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced Herman Joseph Brown III, 27, of Ketchikan, Alaska, has been sentenced to 54 months in federal prison and 3 years of supervised release on charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.

On July 16, 2020, Brown pleaded guilty to the federal charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Ketchikan Police Department received multiple reports alleging many postal parcels from different manufacturers of firearm parts being delivered to Brown. An investigation commenced in January 2020 and KPD confirmed that Brown had received out-of-state parts for an AR-15 and a Glock style handgun. Due to Brown’s previous conviction for misconduct involving a controlled substance, a search warrant was obtained and during the execution of the warrant, KPD located unregistered firearms such as a "Polymer 80" 9mm pistol, AR-15 rifle, and a Mossberg 12-gauge pump action shotgun. Additionally, a variety of ammunition was located, including 2,741 rounds of .223, 136 rounds of 9mm, 115 rounds of .45 ACP, and 117 rounds of 12-guage, and various materials to assemble pipe bombs and other explosive devices.

In imposing the sentence, Chief Judge Timothy M. Burgess emphasized the seriousness of the offense and the need for deterrence in justifying the sentence.

Ketchikan Police Department and Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosive (ATFE) conducted the investigation leading to the sentence in this case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Schmidt.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please visit https://www.justice.gov/ag/about-project-guardian

Fairbanks, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced that 40-year-old Sherman Kay Howard, of Fairbanks, Alaska, has been sentenced on charges of possessing with intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine and over 100 grams of heroin.

Court records state that on February 11, 2019, Alaska State Troopers conducted a traffic stop on Howard’s vehicle and learned he had outstanding arrest warrants. Troopers later searched Howard’s vehicle and seized approximately 971.5 grams of 99% pure methamphetamine and 198.5 grams of heroin, as well as other drugs and drug dealing paraphernalia. When questioned, Howard told Troopers that he sold over 50% of the methamphetamine available in the Fairbanks area. Howard committed these charged offenses while on parole from a 9-year sentence for drug trafficking and weapons misconduct.

In imposing the 150-month sentence, Senior District Court Judge Ralph R. Beistline emphasized Howard’s extensive criminal history and his designation as a "career offender" as justifying the sentence.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Alaska State Troopers, Fairbanks Police Department and the North Pole Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the sentence in this case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Tansey.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced today that Kek Nyathor Bol, 22, of Anchorage, was sentenced to 157 months imprisonment for bank robbery and discharging a firearm during separate violent crimes on June 1, 2019, and June 15, 2019. Senior U.S. District Judge Ralph Beistline also ordered Bol to serve a five year period of supervised release after his prison sentence.

As part of a plea agreement, Bol admitted to entering a Cash America store on Gambell Street in Anchorage on June 1, 2019, with a Glock pistol. He fired a shot into the ceiling, threatened to shoot the employees if they called the police, and then escaped with approximately $383.75 in cash.

Two weeks later, Bol entered a Credit Union 1 branch located on Debarr Road in Anchorage with the same pistol. He immediately fired a shot into the ceiling and demanded money from the tellers while he pointed the pistol at each of them.  He escaped with more than $8,000 in cash.

Federal agents executed a search warrant on Bol’s apartment and vehicle later that week, and recovered thousands of dollars and a Glock pistol. Serial numbers of currency bills were confirmed of those stolen from the bank.  Ballistics testing matched the pistol to shell casings recovered from both the Cash America and Credit Union 1 robberies.

At sentencing, several victims came forward to describe to Judge Beistline the horrifying events, emphasizing that Bol’s crimes continue to traumatize them.

“The impact of this robbery is far beyond financial. Mr. Bol’s actions have made a deep and irreparable impact on our employees, members and local Anchorage community. Beyond the scope of monetary loss, his reckless, premeditated actions threatened lives and permanently damaged the emotional wellbeing of innocent people in a manner that can never be truly fixed,” said Rachel Langtry, Credit Union 1 Chief Operating Officer.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Anchorage Police Department (APD), as part of the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force, conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of this case. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys James Klugman and Jennifer Ivers.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced today four Anchorage men were indicted on charges related to the June 6, 2019 burglary of Granny’s Guns, a federally licensed firearms dealer located in Anchorage.

In a recently unsealed indictment, Gian Carlo Clemente Pangilinan aka “G,” 24; Muna Junior Rhode, 21; Kao Chiang Saelee, aka “Robbie,” 38; and Hans Mikaele Wells, aka “Mika,” 24, have each been charged with conspiracy, theft of firearms, possession of stolen firearms, and tampering with evidence. Additionally, Rhode and Saelee were also charged with felon in possession of firearms.

The indictment alleges that on June 6, 2019, Pangilinan, Rhode, Saelee, and Wells drove a stolen Chevrolet Trailblazer to Wrightway Auto Carriers. The defendants burglarized Wrightway Auto Carriers and stole several items, including a GMC Sierra. The defendants then drove both stolen vehicles to Whaley School and abandoned the Chevrolet Trailblazer. Sometime later, the defendants obtained another stolen SUV and crashed it into the front windows of Granny’s Guns in order to gain access to the business. Defendants Pangilinan, Rhode, and Wells loaded 22 firearms into the bed of the stolen GMC Sierra, and all four defendants fled the scene, abandoning the stolen SUV. The defendants transferred the stolen guns into a black GMC Denali, and Wells and two others set the stolen GMC Sierra ablaze in an effort to destroy evidence.

Later that day, Anchorage Police Department (APD) officers tried to stop Rhode, who was driving the black GMC Denali, when multiple shots were fired from a nearby truck occupied by Pangilinan and Wells. APD officers discontinued pursuit, and both vehicles successfully eluded police.  The indictment further alleges that between June 18, 2019 and June 20, 2019, Pangilinan, Rhode, and Wells attempted to recover an impounded vehicle which contained one of the stolen firearms from the Granny’s Guns burglary.

According to the indictment, Rhode and Saelee were previously convicted of felony offenses and were prohibited from possessing firearms.

 If convicted, they each face a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment.

In January of this year, Pangilinan was found guilty in federal court of one count of possession with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine after a three-day federal jury trial. Read the detailed press release here. The Anchorage Police Department (APD) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Ivers.

The charges in the indictments are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Schroder announced $1,875,130 in Department of Justice grants to fight and prevent violent crime in Alaska. The grants, awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs, are part of more than $458 million in funding to support state, local and tribal law enforcement efforts to combat violent crime in jurisdictions across the United States.

“One of the fundamental missions of government is to protect its citizens and safeguard the rule of law,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The Department of Justice will continue to meet this critical responsibility by doing everything within its power to help our state, local and tribal law enforcement and criminal justice partners fight crime and deliver justice on behalf of all Americans.”

The funding announced today continues the Trump Administration’s commitment to reducing crime and improving public safety. In the two years before President Trump took office, America had experienced a precipitous rise in crime, particularly in serious violent crime. The President elevated community safety to the top of his domestic agenda and crime rates have fallen steadily since. Recent data from the FBI and the Bureau of Justice Statistics for 2019 show a drop in crime and serious victimization for the third year in a row. However, a number of cities are experiencing conspicuous countertrends. Today’s grants will bolster crime-fighting efforts in those communities and in jurisdictions throughout the United States.

“Violence has become a tragic reality in too many of America’s communities,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “Working with officials across the Trump Administration and with thousands of state, local and tribal crime-fighters across the country, the Department of Justice is leading the response to this urgent challenge. OJP is pleased to make these resources available to support innovative, tested and diverse solutions to violent crime.”

Of the more than $458 million awarded nationwide, OJP’s Bureau of Justice Assistance made 1,094 grants totaling more than $369 million to support a broad range of initiatives, including efforts in enforcement, prosecution, adjudication, detention and rehabilitation.

OJP’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention awarded more than $10 million across 24 jurisdictions to intervene in and suppress youth gang activity as well as $1 million to the Institute for Intergovernmental Research to continue operating the National Gang Center. OJP’s National Institute of Justice awarded $7.8 million to fund research and evaluation on the prevention and reduction of violent crime. OJP’s Bureau of Justice Statistics provided more than $69 million to strengthen the quality and accessibility of records within the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.

The Alaska Department of Public Safety received funding under two programs:

•           National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Act Record Improvement Program (NARIP) $899,032

•           National Criminal History Improvement Program (NCHIP) $976,098

For a complete list of individual grant programs, award amounts, and jurisdictions that will receive funding, click here. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced that Justin J. Seley, 36, of Craig, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy M. Burgess, to serve one year and one day in prison, followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a registered firearm by an unregistered person.   

According to court documents, on October 23, 2018, Seley possessed 7 rifles, 2 handguns and a receiver. All firearms were seized. One of the seized firearms was a short barreled DSA ZM4 .300 caliber rifle, which was not registered with the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.  As someone previously convicted of a felony, Seley was prohibited from possessing firearms. In May of 2020, Seley plead guilty to possession of a registered firearm by an unregistered person. 

At the sentencing hearing, Judge Burgess cited the seriousness of the offense, and noted the need for general deterrence. All firearms seized in the case were forfeited.         

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of this case.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Schmidt.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please visit https://www.justice.gov/ag/about-project-guardian

The Justice Department announced today that additional charges have been brought in a superseding indictment against members and associates of a white supremacist gang known as the 1488s. The 1488s have been charged as a criminal organization that was involved in narcotics distribution, arson, obstruction of justice, and acts of violence including murder, assault, and kidnapping.

Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder of the District of Alaska, Special Agent in Charge Robert Britt of the FBI’s Anchorage Field Office, and Alaska State Trooper Captain David Hanson, Commander of the Alaska Bureau of Investigation, made the announcement.

Two new defendants were added to the recently unsealed superseding indictment. Felicia King, 55, of Wasilla, Alaska, was charged with accessory after the fact for her role in the August 2017 beating, kidnapping, and murder of Michael Staton, aka “Steak Knife.”  

Justin Eaton, aka “Skulls” 45, of Anchorage, Alaska, who had been previously charged in a separate indictment as a felon in possession of a firearm, was charged with RICO conspiracy, kidnapping and assault for his role in the April 2, 2017, beating of a former 1488 member.    

Original defendants Filthy Fuhrer, (formerly Timothy Lobdell), 42; Roy Naughton, aka “Thumper,” 40; Glen Baldwin, aka “Glen Dog,” 37; Craig King, aka “Oakie,” 53; and Colter O’Dell, 26, were all charged in a RICO Conspiracy.  Fuhrer and Naughton also face additional charges for federal kidnapping, as well as kidnapping and assault in aid of racketeering for incidents occurring in April and July of 2017. 

In the original indictment, Fuhrer, Naughton, Baldwin, King, O’Dell, and Beau Cook, 32, were charged with murder in aid of racketeering, kidnapping in aid of racketeering, assault in aid of racketeering, kidnapping, and conspiracy to commit assault and kidnapping in aid of racketeering.  Two other key members, Nicholas M. Kozorra, aka “Beast,” 29, and Dustin J. Clowers, 34, previously pleaded guilty to murder in aid of racketeering in unsealed court documents.  Additionally, Cook has pleaded guilty to kidnapping for his role in the Staton homicide.

According to the superseding indictment, the 1488s are a violent prison-based gang operating inside and outside of state prisons throughout Alaska and elsewhere.  The 1488s employed Nazi-derived symbols to identify themselves and their affiliation with the gang.  The most coveted tattoo of 1488s members was the 1488s “patch” (an Iron Cross superimposed over a Swastika), which could be worn only by “made” members who generally gained full membership by committing an act of violence on behalf of the gang.

According to the indictment, as part of their operations, 1488s members and associates engaged in illegal activities under the protection of the enterprise, including narcotics trafficking, weapons trafficking, and other illegal activities to promote the influence of the gang.  The 1488s allegedly had an organizational structure, which is outlined in written “rules” widely distributed to members throughout Alaska and elsewhere. 

Members of the 1488s allegedly acted in different roles in order to further the goals of their organization, including “bosses” who had ultimate authority in all gang matters. “Key holders” were allegedly responsible for all gang matters within penal facilities where 1488s had a presence, and in “free world” Alaska (outside of prison).  “Enforcers” were allegedly responsible for enforcing the rules and performing tasks as assigned by higher-ranking gang members.  “Prospects” for membership were required to familiarize themselves with Nazi-inspired white supremacist ideology.  Violence against law enforcement was also a means of gaining standing within the 1488s.  Female associates of the gang were referred to as “lady-eights”.

In or about 2016, Fuhrer allegedly became more aggressive in his efforts to impose discipline within the gang. He allegedly believed that members who were defying the 1488 code of conduct were diminishing the power and influence of the gang.  As outlined in the superseding indictment, this culminated in the kidnapping and assault of former members on April 2, 2017, and July 20, 2017, and the kidnapping, assault, and murder of Staton on Aug. 3, 2017.  These acts were allegedly ordered by leadership of the 1488s acting from within and from outside of the prison system.

The charges in the indictment are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force, and the Alaska State Troopers, Alaska Bureau of Investigation, investigated this case in conjunction with the District of Alaska U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Organized Crime Division and the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section (OCGS).  Investigative Assistance was provided by IRS Criminal Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, Anchorage Police Department (APD), and the State of Alaska’s Department of Corrections. 

This case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Chad McHenry of OCGS and Assistant U.S. Attorneys William Taylor, James Klugman, and Chris Schroeder of the District of Alaska. 

The charges in the indictments are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice.  Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced today that additional charges have been brought in a superseding indictment against members and associates of a white supremacist gang known as the 1488s. The 1488s have been charged as a criminal organization that was involved in narcotics distribution, arson, obstruction of justice, and acts of violence including murder, assault, and kidnapping.

Two new defendants were added to the recently unsealed superseding indictment. Felicia King, 55, of Wasilla, Alaska, was charged with accessory after the fact for her role in the August 2017 beating, kidnapping, and murder of Michael Staton, aka “Steak Knife.”  

Justin Eaton, aka “Skulls” 45, of Anchorage, Alaska, who had been previously charged as a felon in possession of a firearm, was charged with RICO conspiracy, kidnapping and assault for his role in April 2, 2017, beating of a former 1488 member.    

Original defendants Filthy Fuhrer, (formerly Timothy Lobdell), 42; Roy Naughton, aka “Thumper,” 40; Glen Baldwin, aka “Glen Dog,” 37; Craig King, aka “Oakie,” 53; and Colter O’Dell, 26, were all charged in a RICO Conspiracy.  Fuhrer and Naughton also face additional charges for federal kidnapping, as well as kidnapping and Assault in Aid of Racketeering for incidents occurring in April and July or 2017. 

In the original indictment, Fuhrer, Naughton, Baldwin, King, O’Dell, and Beau Cook, 32, were charged with murder in aid of racketeering, kidnapping in aid of racketeering, assault in aid of racketeering, kidnapping, and conspiracy to commit assault and kidnapping in aid of racketeering.  Two other key members, Nicholas M. Kozorra, aka “Beast,” 29, and Dustin J. Clowers, 34, previously pleaded guilty to murder in aid of racketeering in unsealed court documents.  Additionally, Cook has now pleaded guilty to kidnapping for his role in the Staton homicide.

According to the superseding indictment, the 1488s are a violent prison-based gang operating inside and outside of state prisons throughout Alaska and elsewhere.  The 1488s employed Nazi-derived symbols to identify themselves and their affiliation with the gang.  The most coveted tattoo of 1488s members was the 1488s “patch” (an Iron Cross superimposed over a Swastika), which could be worn only by “made” members who generally gained full membership by committing an act of violence on behalf of the gang.

According to the indictment, as part of their operations, 1488s members and associates allegedly engaged in illegal activities under the protection of the enterprise, including narcotics trafficking, weapons trafficking, and other illegal activities to promote the influence of the gang.  The 1488s allegedly had an organizational structure, which is outlined in written “rules” widely distributed to members throughout Alaska and elsewhere. 

Members of the 1488s allegedly acted in different roles in order to further the goals of their organization, including “bosses” who had ultimate authority in all gang matters. “Key holders” were allegedly responsible for all gang matters within penal facilities where 1488s had a presence, and in “free world” Alaska (outside of prison).  “Enforcers” were allegedly responsible for enforcing the rules and performing tasks as assigned by higher-ranking gang members.  “Prospects” for membership were required to familiarize themselves with Nazi-inspired white supremacist ideology.  Violence against law enforcement was also a means of gaining standing within the 1488s.  Female associates of the gang were referred to as “lady-eights”.

In or about 2016 Fuhrer, became more aggressive in his efforts to impose disciple within the gang. He believed that members who were defying the 1488 code of conduct were diminishing the power and influence of the gang.  As outlined in the superseding indictment, this culminated in the kidnapping and assault of former members on April 2, 2017, and July 20, 2017, and the kidnapping, assault, and murder of Staton on Aug. 3, 2017.  These acts were ordered by leadership of the 1488s acting from within and from outside of the prison system.

The FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force, and the Alaska State Troopers, Alaska Bureau of Investigation, investigated this case in conjunction with the District of Alaska U.S. Attorney’s Office Organized Crime Division and the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section (OCGS).  Investigative Assistance was provided by IRS Criminal Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, Anchorage Police Department (APD), and the State of Alaska’s Department of Corrections. 

The charges of VICAR murder and kidnapping resulting in death are punishable by mandatory life sentences.

The joint investigation into the 1488 gang began in late 2017. To date, the investigation has yielded 14 additional federal indictments against members and associates of the gang. The charges have included: carjacking, narcotics conspiracy, weapons offenses, and mail theft.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys William Taylor, James Klugman, and Chris Schroeder of the District of Alaska and Trial Attorney Chad McHenry of OCGS. 

The charges in the indictments are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced today that an Anchorage police officer has been indicted for Deprivation of Civil Rights Under Color of Law.

According to the indictment, Cornelius A. Pettus Jr., 33, of Anchorage, was charged with Deprivation of Civil Rights stemming from an incident which occurred while he was on duty as an Anchorage Police Officer.

The indictment alleges that on September 30, 2019, Pettus, while acting under color of law, assaulted and injured another person, thereby violating that person’s United States Constitutional rights to be free from the use of unreasonable force by a law enforcement officer. Pettus was previously charged in state court for the same incident.

Section 242 of Title 18 makes it a crime for a person acting under color of any law to willfully deprive a person of a right or privilege protected by the Constitution or laws of the United States.

The offense is a felony punishable by imprisonment up to 10 years.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case with the assistance of Anchorage Police Department.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James Klugman.   

The charges in the indictments are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Anchorage – U.S. Attorney Schroder announced awards of $3,204,331 in Department of Justice grants to fight drug abuse and addiction in Alaska. The grants were awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP) and are part of more than $341 million going to communities nationwide.

“The addiction crisis has taken an enormous toll on America’s families and communities, eroding public health, threatening public safety and claiming tens of thousands of lives year after year,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “Through comprehensive measures taken by this administration, we have been able to curtail the opioid epidemic, but new and powerful drugs are presenting exceptional challenges that we must be prepared to meet. The Justice Department’s substantial investments in enforcement, response, and treatment will help us overcome these challenges and work towards freeing Americans from abuse and addiction.”

Illegal drugs and illicit drug use have claimed the lives of nearly 400,000 Americans since the turn of the century. Powerful synthetic opioids like fentanyl are exacting an enormous toll on families and communities, and an emergence in the use of methamphetamines and other psychostimulants is drawing drug traffickers and driving up overdose rates. Three years ago, President Trump declared a Public Health Emergency and initiated a whole-of-government approach dedicated to ending this national tragedy. The Department of Justice has invested unprecedented levels of funding in combating the addiction crisis. The awards announced today build on those earlier investments.

“If we hope to defeat an enemy as powerful, persistent and adaptable as illicit drugs, we must be at least as determined and versatile, focusing our ingenuity and resources on curbing abuse and fighting addiction,” said OJP’s Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “These grants will enable criminal justice officials and substance abuse, mental health and other medical professionals to pool their assets and bring the full weight of our public safety and treatment systems down on this epidemic that has already caused so much harm.”

Authorized by the 2016 Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act, the Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Site-based Program encourages and supports the development of comprehensive, locally driven responses to the opioid and stimulant epidemics that expand access to supervision, treatment and recovery support services across the criminal justice system; support law enforcement and other first responder diversion programs for non-violent drug offenders; promote education and prevention activities; and address the needs of children impacted by the opioid and stimulant epidemics. All projects are expected to involve multiple agencies and partners.

The following organizations received funding:

• Central Council Tlingit and Haida Indian tribes was awarded $599,673
• Koyukuk Native Village was awarded $312, 953

 
Drug courts have been demonstrated to reduce recidivism and substance abuse among high-risk, high-need participants and increase their likelihood of successful rehabilitation. These courts integrate evidence-based substance abuse treatment, mandatory drug testing, sanctions and incentives, and transitional services in judicially supervised court settings. BJA’s Adult Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Court Discretionary Grant Program provides financial and technical assistance to states, state courts, local courts, units of local government and tribal governments to develop, implement and enhance drug courts and veterans treatment courts.
 
The following organizations received funding:

• Alaska Court System was awarded $736,129
• Tanana Chiefs Conference was awarded $400,000

 
BJA awarded $28 million to support the Residential Substance Abuse Treatment for State Prisoners Program, which helps states develop and implement residential substance abuse treatment programs within state and local correctional facilities.
 
The following organizations received funding:

• The Alaska Department of Corrections was awarded $141,718

 
In addition, BJA awarded $28.1 million to 17 states to fund the Harold Rogers Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, which enhances the capacity of regulatory and law enforcement agencies and public health officials to collect and analyze controlled substance prescription data and other scheduled chemical products through a centralized database administered by an authorized agency. Prescription drug monitoring programs help state and local governments to detect and prevent the diversion and abuse of pharmaceutically controlled substances such as opioids and other prescription drugs.
 
The following organizations received funding:

• State of Alaska Division of Public Health was awarded $1,013,858

 
Funding is made available through OJP’s Bureau of Justice Assistance, National Institute of Justice, Office for Victims of Crime and Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. For a complete list of individual grant programs, award amounts, and jurisdictions that will receive funding, click here. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years