District of Alaska
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Anchorage Man Guilty on Drug Trafficking, Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A federal jury convicted an Anchorage Man on two felony drug counts and two firearm charges after a five-day trial.
Jerod Alexander, 33, was found guilty of possessing and distributing large amounts of illegal drugs and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on Oct. 2, 2023. Alexander was also found guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm on Oct. 4.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Alexander sold 25 grams of heroin to another person during an undercover law enforcement operation in March 2021. Agents received information that the defendant, who was on supervised release in a prior felony drug case, was using short-term vacation rentals to evade law enforcement. Roughly a month later, law enforcement found Alexander in a vacation rental with over 800 grams of a heroin and fentanyl mixture, over 60 grams of heroin, over $13,000 in cash, four firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.
U.S. District Judge Sharon Gleason presided over the trial. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 26, 2024. Alexander faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 30 years in prison. He will be held in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending his sentence.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska and Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI Anchorage Field Office and the Anchorage Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Ivers and Carly Vosacek prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Alaska’s High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA). 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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Anchorage Man Arrested, Charged with Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage man was arrested on criminal charges after he allegedly robbed a bank yesterday morning.
According to court documents, Michael Nash, 49, tried to enter the First National Bank branch located on West 36th Avenue in Anchorage just after 9 a.m. on Oct. 2. Nash was unable to enter because the bank’s lobby did not open until 10 a.m. and the doors were locked.
The defendant slipped a note through the doors to a bank supervisor stating that this was a robbery. The bank was secured immediately, and police were called. A bank security officer requested Nash leave but he refused. Law enforcement officers arrived and arrested Nash in front of the bank.
Nash is charged with one count of bank robbery, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2113(a) and §2113(f). If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska and Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI’s Anchorage Field Office, with assistance from the Anchorage Police Department, is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Brickey is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint 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 Nonprofit Directors Indicted for Stealing $1.6 million in COVID Recovery FundsRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage couple has been indicted by a federal grand jury for using their nonprofit, House of Transformations, and other corporate entities, as part of a scheme to fraudulently obtain millions of dollars in COVID-19 recovery funds.
According to court documents, Rosaline Natazha Mavaega, 41, and Esau Malele Fualema Jr., 44, submitted applications for over $1.6 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds in April 2021. The ARPA funds were being administered by the Municipality of Anchorage to help businesses who were struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the application, Mavaega and Fualema falsely claimed the nonprofit would be providing housing, treatment and vocational training services, and strengthened their request with inaccurate information on the finances, organization and management of House of Transformations.
In August 2021, the Municipality of Anchorage issued a check for $1,623,165, which was deposited into the House of Transformations checking account. According to the indictment, instead of using these funds for the purposes identified in the grant, the defendants moved the money into their personal bank accounts and accounts associated with other corporations under their control. They allegedly used the money to finance their for-profit business operations, pay tax dept on another business, secure a personal cash loan and buy cryptocurrency.
In December 2021, the defendants submitted applications for various corporate entities under their control for over a million dollars in loans from the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, a Small Business Administration fund that assists businesses impacted by major disasters, including the COVID-19 pandemic. According to court documents, the defendants falsified these applications by lying about the status of their businesses. They allegedly inflated the number of employees, made false claims about the corporations’ administration and structure, and used other people’s personal identifying information to make it appear that they were associated with the corporations’ management when they were not.
In summer 2022, Mavaega and Fualema fraudulently applied to the Municipality of Anchorage for approximately $2 million of additional ARPA grants.
Mavaega and Fualema are charged with five federal counts; one count major fraud against the United States, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §1031; one count wire fraud conspiracy, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§1343 and 1349; one count wire fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §1343; one count money laundering conspiracy, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§1956(h) and 1957; and one count aggravated identity theft, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §1028A(a)(1). Both defendants were arrested today – Mavaega was arrested at Captain Cook Hotel, and Fualema was arrested at his residence. The defendants will make their initial U.S. District Court appearances on a later date. If convicted, they face a mandatory minimum penalty of 24 months in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska; IRS Criminal Investigation, Seattle Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Adam Jobes; and Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General, Western Region Special Agent in Charge Weston King made the announcement.
The IRS Seattle Division and the Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys James Klugman and Karen Vandergaw, and former U.S. Attorney George Tran 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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Dillingham Man Indicted on Federal Cyberstalking, Threat ChargesRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment charging a Dillingham man with cyberstalking and threatening a Florida County Sheriff.
According to court documents, Joshua Wahl, 31, allegedly threatened Michael Chitwood, the Sheriff of Volusia County, Florida. The threats started after Chitwood held a news conference denouncing individuals who distributed anti-Semitic and pro-Nazi messages. Investigators discovered an online persona linked to Wahl that posted anti-Semitic and anti-law enforcement content.
The defendant’s first alleged threat was sent to Chitwood on March 31, 2023, via email. In the email, the defendant stated he was armed with lasers and explosives and included links to videos showing someone using a laser to burn a hole through a photograph of Chitwood’s face and holding explosives in front of another photograph of Chitwood.
The threats continued with the defendant allegedly posting threats against Chitwood to the online platform known as “4chan” in April 2023. The posts included direct threats to kill or harm Chitwood.
Wahl is charged with one count cyberstalking, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2261A(2), and four counts transmitting a threat in interstate commerce, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §875(c). The defendant will make his initial federal court appearance on a later date. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison on each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska; and Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI Anchorage Field Office is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Beausang is 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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Arrest Made in Recent Anchorage Credit Union, Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage man was arrested last week by the FBI on criminal charges related to recent robberies of a credit union and bank.
According to court documents, Tyler Ching, 34, entered the Global Credit Union on Industry Way in Anchorage on Sept. 19. He approached two customers who were speaking with a bank teller, and he pointed what appeared to be a handgun at them. The defendant placed a bag on the counter and demanded the teller put money inside. The defendant left the credit union with roughly $2,320.
On Sept. 20, Ching allegedly entered the Wells Fargo Bank branch on Jewel Lake Road in Anchorage. He approached a teller who was speaking to a customer and pointed what appeared to be a handgun at the customer and teller. He demanded the teller put money in a bag he brought with him. The defendant fled with around $2,820.
Law enforcement received multiple tips on Sept. 20 stating the suspect resembled Ching. After further investigation, the suspect was identified as Ching, and he was arrested in Cooper Landing on Sept. 22.
Ching is charged with two counts of bank robbery, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2113(a). If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison on each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska; and Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI’s Anchorage Field Office, with assistance from the Alaska State Troopers and the Anchorage Police Department, is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alana Weber is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint 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 Man Charged with Arson for Lighting Apartment on FireRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment last week charging an Anchorage man with intentionally lighting an apartment on fire.
According to court documents, Paul Bates, 24, started a fire in an apartment building located on East 12th Avenue in Anchorage on Oct. 30, 2022. Bates lived in the apartment complex at the time and had just engaged in a dispute with a neighbor over the neighbor’s refusal to give Bates a cigarette. After the dispute, the defendant went into his unit, lit three fires and left the scene.
Court documents say the fire spread to multiple units after a few minutes, and residents began evacuating the building, which included a woman with a child on her back and a woman in a wheelchair. The defendant was arrested the same day as the fire.
Bates is charged with one count of arson, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §844(i). The defendant will make his initial court appearance on a later date. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 5 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Seattle Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jonathan T. McPherson made the announcement.
The ATF Seattle Field Division, with assistance from the Anchorage Police Department and Anchorage Fire Department, is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Vandergaw is 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.
U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Alaska U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Alaska###
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska Celebrates $3M Awarded to Alaska Department of Public Safety for Criminal Records System UpdatesRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska is proud to announce that the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP) awarded over $3.3 million in grants to the Alaska Department of Public Safety to improve criminal records systems.
OJP awarded roughly $1.8 million through the FY2023 National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Act Record Improvement Program, and $1.5 million through the FY2023 National Criminal History Improvement Program (NCHIP).
The funds from the NCHIP will help DPS and the Alaska Court System continue to work together, ensuring that the state’s criminal history repository is accurate and complete. The grant will also help fund the replacement of Alaska’s outdated mainframe repository, known as the Alaska Public Safety Information Network (APSIN), with a new repository that will improve service to Alaska’s law enforcement officers and dispatchers.
The funds from the NICS Act Record Improvement Program will help DPS keep Alaska’s contributions to the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System accurate and up to date. This ensures that Alaskans without federal disqualifying criminal convictions can purchase firearms at legal gun sale locations in a timely manner.
“We are proud to announce this funding for the Alaska Department of Public Safety as it helps state law enforcement continue to improve their systems and responses,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “Working with state and local law enforcement to improve public safety in Alaska is one of our main priorities, and these funds are just a small portion of our continued collaboration to keep our communities safe and serve the people of Alaska.”
“This federal funding will ensure that Alaska’s criminal records systems are accurate and available to serve both Alaskans and our law enforcement officers across the state,” said Alaska Department of Public Safety Commissioner James Cockrell. “The investments enabled by these grants will keep our state on the cutting edge of technology, while protecting Alaskans’ U.S. and state constitutional rights.”
OJP provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, advance equity and fairness in the administration of justice, assist victims and uphold the rule of law. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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Anchorage Man Sentenced to 14 Years for Trafficking Fentanyl, MethRead the Press Release
FAIRBANKS, Alaska – An Anchorage man was sentenced on Sept. 5 to 14 years in prison for distributing large quantities of controlled substances in Alaska.
According to court documents, Darrell Latory Moss Sr, 45, sold over 1,300 grams of methamphetamine and 100 fake prescription pills containing fentanyl over a three-month period.
The defendant was arrested in Bethel, Alaska, in March 2023. The defendant pleaded guilty to one count of distributing a controlled substance, in violation of 21 U.S.C.§841(a)(1). Moss was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison, five years’ supervised release, and he is required to forfeit two vehicles and over $8,500 cash.
”Mr. Moss’s sentence brings us another step closer in our efforts to keep Alaskans safe,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “Drugs are affecting communities and villages large and small and create serious public safety issues. Our office will continue to prioritize working with our Federal, State and local law enforcement partners to identify, investigate and prosecute people who choose to push dangerous drugs out into our communities. Their actions will not be tolerated.”
“This defendant sought to financially gain from distributing dangerous drugs, including deadly fentanyl pills disguised as oxycodone pills, at the expense of Alaska’s communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “This sentencing ensures accountability for those crimes, and is a result of law enforcement partnerships across Alaska working to keep illicit drugs out of our communities.”
The FBI Anchorage Field Office, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), IRS Criminal Investigation, Alaska State Troopers, Anchorage High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) team, Fairbanks HIDTA team and Mat-Su Valley HIDTA team investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Vosacek and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Tansey prosecuted the case.
This investigation and prosecution were part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”), which identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
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Prior Felon Sentenced for Possessing Firearms, AmmunitionRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage man was sentenced on Aug. 30, 2023, to over four years in prison for possessing firearms and ammunition as a felon and for violating his supervised release.
According to court documents, Miguel Myers, aka “Roxwell James Guiting,” 37, was pulled over for a traffic stop by local law enforcement officers in January 2021. Officers discovered Myers was wearing body armor and in possession of a “sawed-down rifle” and revolver, both loaded. He was also sitting on ammunition and had a backpack and duffle bag with multiple types of ammunition inside. Myers was a three-time convicted felon at the time of the traffic stop. He was also on supervised release for a prior conviction for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
The defendant pleaded guilty to one charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm in July 2022. He also admitted to violating his supervised release. Myers’ was sentenced to 51 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release for possessing the firearm as a convicted felon, and an additional six months in federal prison for the violations of his supervised release.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Seattle Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jonathan T. McPherson made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Seattle Field Division, with assistance from the Anchorage Police Department, investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Beausang and former Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kayla Doyle prosecuted the case.
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Kenai Man Sentenced for Failing to Re-register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A Kenai man was sentenced on Aug. 31, 2023, to 20 months in prison and seven years’ supervised release for not registering as a sex offender after moving to Alaska from Oregon.
According to court documents, Wayne Hinze, 65, was convicted of two counts of rape 1, six counts of sexual abuse 1 and three counts of attempted sodomy 1 in the state of Oregon in 1999. The defendant was sentenced to 14 and a half years in prison and five years’ probation. Hinze registered as a sex offender as part of his sentence and was advised that he must register in his new state of residence if he moved away from Oregon.
The defendant was released from prison in 2014 and was registered as a sex offender in Oregon at that time. In 2017, he absconded from parole and law enforcement could not locate him.
Hinze was located in Kenai, Alaska, and was arrested October 2022. Law enforcement learned he moved to the state in March 2018 and never registered or attempted to register as a sex offender in Alaska. The last time he registered as a sex offender was June 2017 in Oregon.
“Mr. Hinze’s manifest failure to register as a sex offender in the state of Alaska put our children at risk and will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work with the U.S. Marshals Service and local law enforcement to ensure communities are aware of sex offenders in their villages and neighborhoods. Maintaining this registry is paramount to keeping children safe.”
“The Sex Offender Task Force, which includes the U.S. Marshals Service, Anchorage Police Department, and the Alaska Wildlife Troopers, is committed to enhancing the protection of the public from unregistered sex offenders throughout the state of Alaska. Wayne Hinze posed a clear danger to the safety of community members who were unsuspecting of his prior convictions and actions. This is a case where the task force partnered with the Kenai Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to ensure the enforcement of the laws governing the Sex Offender Registry and the Adam Walsh Act,” said Rochelle Liedike, Deputy U.S. Marshal, District Sex Offender Investigations Coordinator for the U.S. Marshals Service.
The U.S. Marshals Service, with assistance from the Kenai Police Department, investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Ivers prosecuted the case.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska Celebrates Funding Awarded for Legal Services, Improved Court Responses to Domestic, Sexual ViolenceRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska is proud to announce that the Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) awarded $400,000 to an Alaska organization to provide legal services and improve the effective coordination of justice systems impacting survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking.
OVW awarded $400,000 under the Expanding Legal Services Initiative (ELSI) to H.O.P.E. – Helping Ourselves Prevent Emergencies, a victim support and advocacy organization in Craig, Alaska. ELSI, which operates under the Legal Assistance for Victims (LAV) Program, supports developing new legal services programs.
“The need for specialized legal services is both urgent and essential for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in Alaska, especially in our rural Alaska communities where women and girls are experiencing violence at a high rate,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “The announcement of ELSI funding for H.O.P.E. is another step in our efforts to support survivors and families impacted by violence in all corners of our state.”
“The Legal Assistance for Victims Grant, in conjunction with the Justice for Families Program and the Domestic Violence Mentor Court Technical Assistance Initiative, serve as a powerful multi-pronged strategy to transform the justice system's approach to supporting families affected by violence," said OVW Director Rosemarie Hidalgo. "These grants enhance court-related programs, trauma-informed training, and resources, while also providing victims with specialized legal support. This includes assistance with securing protective orders and navigating complex family law matters. Collectively, these grants advance a more comprehensive approach, aimed at ensuring that survivors and their families don't merely navigate our legal system, but genuinely find a path to justice and safety.”
OVW provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through implementing VAWA and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities nationwide that are developing programs, policies, and practices to end domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW undertakes initiatives in response to special needs identified by communities facing acute challenges. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Hosts Event for United Against Hate InitiativeRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska is partnering with Federal, State and local law enforcement to deliver a series of community events designed to educate the public about hate crimes, hate incidents and discrimination.
The first outreach event was held in Anchorage on Sept. 7, 2023. It focused on building relationships with organizations and local leaders who interact with the LGBTQ2SIA+ community in Alaska. The events are part of the U.S. Justice Department’s “United Against Hate” initiative.
United Against Hate is a nationwide initiative focused on convening local forums that connect community groups to Federal, State and local law enforcement to increase community understanding and reporting of hate crimes; build trust between law enforcement and communities; and create and strengthen alliances between law enforcement and other government partners and community groups to combat unlawful acts of hate. The program was launched in September 2022.
“The United Against Hate initiative serves as an avenue to protect our communities, share methods for reporting, encourage reporting of hateful acts, and educate community leaders and members on laws surrounding hate crimes and discrimination,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “We were honored to share the stage with leaders and first responders yesterday as we discussed this important topic. The conversations had at the recent event are a crucial step in combatting acts of hate in the LGBTQ2SIA+ community and continuing to build important relationships between law enforcement and communities in Alaska.”
Yesterday’s event featured a joint presentation from Federal, State and local law enforcement officials and prosecutors. An official from the U.S. Justice Department’s Community Relations Service was in attendance as well. The presentation included information regarding the differences between hate crimes and hate incidents, anti-discrimination laws and the importance of reporting acts of hate to law enforcement. Participants were invited to share views on how law enforcement can best support LGBTQ2SIA+ community members who experience a hate crime or incident.
The event also included a panel of Federal, State and local law enforcement personnel. Participants in the panel included:
- U.S. Attorney Tucker
- Supervisory Special Agent Andy Smith, FBI Anchorage White Collar Squad Supervisor
- Jenna Gruenstein, Alaska Department of Law, Chief Assistant Attorney General
- Captain Tony Wegrzyn, Alaska State Troopers
- Deputy Chief Sean Case, Anchorage Police Department
The U.S. Attorney’s Office will host additional events as part of the United Against Hate initiative, and future events will focus on communicating with different communities across Alaska. These events will encourage further collaboration, support hate crime prevention efforts and encourage the reporting of hate crimes and incidents.
If you are interested in holding an event for a specific community in Alaska, send an email to [email protected].
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Eagle River Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography, Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Eagle River man pleaded guilty today to one count sexual exploitation of a child for production of child pornography and one count possession of child pornography.
According to court documents, Michael V. Ross, 32, coerced a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct and documented some of the abuse through pictures and videos kept on his cell phone. It is alleged that the abuse occurred between March 2017 and August 2021, sometimes occurring weekly.
The defendant faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska made the announcement.
The FBI Anchorage Field Office and Anchorage Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Brickey and Adam Alexander are prosecuting the case.
Anchorage Man Arrested for Recent Credit Union RobberiesRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage man was arrested by the FBI yesterday on criminal charges related to recent alleged robberies of a local credit union.
According to court documents, Etuale Ioane, 20, allegedly stole more than $3,400 after robbing the Credit Union 1 branch on Debarr Road in July and August.
On July 17, around 1:15 p.m., Ioane allegedly entered the credit union and waited in line until being called forward by a teller. The defendant produced a handwritten note commanding the employee to give him money, and stated to hurry up because he had a gun and would shoot everyone inside. The defendant left the credit union with roughly $2,118.
On Aug. 28, around 2:42 p.m., Ioane allegedly entered the same credit union and presented a demand note that stated people within the building would be harmed if his demands were not met. The note said to not alert anyone, press any buttons or try to give him bait bills. The defendant fled with around $1,340.
The Anchorage Police Department received a tip on Aug. 30, stating the suspect was Ioane and he was in a van near a grocery store on East Northern Lights Boulevard. Local officers located and detained Ioane shortly after receiving the tip.
A search warrant was executed on Ioane’s residence and clothing consistent with those worn by the suspect in both July and August robberies were recovered.
Ioane is charged with four counts of credit union robbery, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2113(a) and 2113(b). If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska; and Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI’s Anchorage Field Office, with assistance from the Anchorage Police Department, is investigating the case as part of the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Schroeder is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint 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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Washington Man Receives Monumental Sentence in Indian Arts and Crafts Act CaseRead the Press Release
JUNEAU, Alaska – A Washington state man was sentenced Monday for selling Philippine produced products as authentic Alaska Native produced artwork, violating the Indian Arts and Crafts Act.
According to court documents, Cristobal “Cris” Magno Rodrigo, 59, was sentenced to two years in federal prison. He is also required to make a $60,000 donation to the Tlingit and Haida Central Counsel Vocational Program, write a letter of apology to be published in the Ketchikan Daily Newspaper and serve three years’ supervised release. According to the Indian Art and Crafts Board, this is the longest sentence a defendant has received for any Indian Arts and Crafts violation in the U.S. – 18 months longer than any other sentence.
From April 2016 to December 2021, while residing in Washington state, Rodrigo and his family owned and operated Alaska Stone Arts LLC. and Rail Creek LLC. in Ketchikan, Alaska. Alaska Stone Arts LLC. primarily sold stone carvings, and Rail Creek LLC. primarily sold wooden totem poles. The carvings and totem poles were sourced from Rodrigo Creative Crafts, a company owned by his wife and located in the Philippines.
The Philippine business was created for the sole purpose of producing carvings featuring Alaska Native designs and motifs using Philippine labor. The carvings were shipped to the U.S. and then to the family’s stores in Ketchikan where they were later sold as authentic Alaska Native art.
Rodrigo also hired Alaska Natives at both Ketchikan stores to represent and sell Philippine produced artwork as their own authentic Alaska Native artwork. The workers told customers they were all related family working in the store and the art was all produced from locally sourced materials and made by Alaska Natives.
Prior to the conspiracy, Rodrigo worked in Alaska at different stores and shops producing stone carvings that were sold in the tourist trade for over 20 years. He taught the styles of Alaska Native stone art and wood totem poles to the Philippine based company.
In 2019 and for part of 2021, the family and their Alaska-based company employees sold over $1 million worth of Philippine made carvings presented as Alaska Native artwork.
Co-conspirators in this case include Glenda Tiglao Rodrigo, 46, and Christian Ryan Tiglao Rodrigo, 24. Their cases are ongoing.
“The actions the defendant took to purposefully deceive customers and forge artwork is a cultural affront to Alaska Native artisans who pride themselves on producing these historical works of art, and negatively affects those who make a living practicing the craft,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “Mr. Rodrigo’s monumental sentence is a testament to the federal government’s dedication to prosecuting Indian Arts and Crafts Act violations, and the U.S. Attorney’s office will continue to work with law enforcement partners to protect Alaska Native cultural heritage and unwitting customers, and hold perpetrators accountable who carry out this type of fraud.”
“The Indian Arts and Crafts Board administers and enforces the Indian Arts and Crafts Act, a truth-in-marketing law,” said Indian Arts and Crafts Board Director Meridith Stanton. “The Act is intended to rid the Alaska Native and Indian arts and crafts marketplace of fakes and counterfeits, in order to protect the economic livelihoods and cultural heritage of Alaska Native and Indian artists and craftspeople and their Tribes and villages, as well as the buying public. Authentic Alaska Native art and craftwork is an important tool for passing down cultural traditions, traditional knowledge, and artistic skills from one generation to the next. Fakes and counterfeits, such as those marketed for huge sums of money by the Rodrigos, tear at the very fabric of Alaska Native culture, Native livelihoods, and Native communities. Mr. Rodrigo’s sentencing should send a strong message to those who prey upon authentic Alaska Native artists and vulnerable consumers that this destructive conduct will not be tolerated, and Act violators will be held accountable.”
“The Rodrigos sold imported products as Alaska Native made in their Ketchikan, Alaska store,” said Edward Grace, Assistant Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement. “This deceptive business practice cheated customers and undermined the economic livelihood of Alaska Native artists. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has a dedicated team of special agents that work on violations of the Indian Arts and Crafts Act. This sentence was the result of the strong collaboration between our special agents, the Indian Arts and Crafts Board, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
The Department of Interior – U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Office of Law Enforcement, with assistance from the Indian Arts and Crafts Board, U.S. Customs and Boarder Protections, and U.S. Department of Agriculture, investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Schmidt prosecuted the case.
If you suspect potential Indian Arts and Crafts Act violations are being committed, a complaint may be submitted through the Indian Arts and Crafts Board’s online complaint form, www.doi.gov/iacb/should-i-report-potential-violation, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 888-278-3253.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Anchorage Man on Child Pornography, Attempted Enticement ChargesRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment today charging an Anchorage man with allegedly attempting to entice a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity.
According to court documents, Peter Joseph Hickel Jr., 33, was arrested on July 25 near Sunset Park in Anchorage after communicating with and attempting to meet an individual that he believed to be a 12-year-old girl.
Hickel is charged with attempted production of child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2251(a), attempted coercion and enticement of a minor in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2422(b), and possession of child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2251A(a)(5). If convicted, Hickel faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska; and Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI’s Anchorage Field Office is investigating the case. If anyone has any information concerning Hickel’s alleged actions or may have encountered him in person, via text message or on an online messaging app, please contact the FBI Anchorage Field Office at (907) 276-4441 or anonymously online at tips.fbi.gov.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Ivers is prosecuting the case.
This case 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.justice.gov/psc.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Arizona Men Arrested, Indicted for Trafficking Fentanyl to AlaskaRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Two Arizona men were arrested over the last three weeks on warrants from a federal indictment charging them with trafficking fentanyl to Alaska.
According to court proceedings, a federal grand jury returned an indictment on July 18 charging Odarious Shaw, 24, and Corrion James, 25, with allegedly distributing large amounts of fentanyl to Alaska from their home state of Arizona over a four-month period. James was arrested at the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport when he arrived carrying a package of 40,000 fentanyl pills, and Shaw was arrested in Arizona.
James and Shaw are charged with one count conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances in violation of 21 U.S.C. §846 and 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A), and one count possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute in violation of 21 U.S.C. §841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A). If convicted, Shaw faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska; Statewide Drug Enforcement Unit Commander Captain Cornelius Sims of the Alaska State Troopers; and Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office made the announcement.
The Alaska State Troopers, Anchorage Police Department and the FBI are investigating the case as part of the FBI Safe Streets Task Force and the Alaska High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) initiative.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Schroeder is 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 Man Charged with Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A man was arrested early Saturday morning in Anchorage on criminal charges related to his alleged involvement with attempted enticement of a minor, attempted production of child pornography and possession of child pornography depicting a minor under 12 years of age.
According to court documents, Benjamin Roundy, aka “Aleks” or “Alekzander Marko”, 41, of Anchorage, attempted to produce child pornography and coerce a minor to engage in sexually explicit actions through communications on a messaging app and text messages. He is also charged with allegedly possessing child pornography on his cell phone.
Roundy is charged with attempted coercion and enticement of a minor in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2422(b), attempted production of child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2251(a), and possession of child pornography depicting minors who have not attained 12 years of age in violation with 18 U.S.C. §2252A(a)(5)(b) and (7)(b)(2). If convicted, Roundy faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum life term in prison following conviction on all counts. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska; and Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force is actively investigating the case. If anyone has any information concerning Roundy’s alleged actions or may have encountered someone using the name “Aleks” in person, via text message or on an online messaging app, please contact the FBI Anchorage Field Office at (907) 276-4441 or anonymously online at tips.fbi.gov.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Alexander is prosecuting the case.
This case 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.justice.gov/psc.
A criminal complaint 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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California Man Sentenced for Distributing Meth, Heroin through MailRead the Press Release
FAIRBANKS, Alaska – A California man was sentenced yesterday to 10 years in prison for distributing methamphetamine and heroin to a narcotics dealer through the mail.
According to court documents, in May 2019, Charles Trevino, 50, mailed over 1,300 grams of 97% pure methamphetamine and over 220 grams of heroin via the U.S. Postal Service from California to a drug dealer in Fairbanks, Alaska, for distribution. Law enforcement intercepted the package and the dealer said he planned to divide it and sell it to other dealers, who would sell it to users.
At the time of the crime, Trevino lived in Arizona. He purchased the packages of drugs from an individual in California, labeled them and shipped them to Fairbanks. He also traveled to Fairbanks multiple times to assist with drug distribution.
“Individuals who traffic dangerous drugs into Alaska present a severe risk to our communities and these actions will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “Let this sentence be a reminder that getting dangerous substances off the street is a priority for our office, and we will continue to work with our partners and dedicate resources to identifying, investigating and prosecuting individuals who threaten the health and safety of the people of Alaska.”
“The Drug Enforcement Administration and our partners are steadfast in our commitment to protect Americans from drug trafficking threats and this case is another example of our cooperative approach making a difference in our community,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “Alaska is a little safer today because of our work together in this case.”
The DEA, with assistance from the FBI, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Marshals Service, Alaska State Troopers, North Pole Police Department, Fairbanks Police Department and North Slope Borough Police Department, investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Tansey and Carly Vosacek prosecuted the case.
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Arkansas Man Pleads Guilty, Sentenced for Illegally Transporting Unlawfully Killed WildlifeRead the Press Release
DELTA JUNCTION, Alaska – An Arkansas man pleaded guilty and was sentenced on July 18, 2023, for illegally transporting a bull caribou out of Alaska, which he killed in violation of state law.
According to court documents, Edward A. Bundy, 54, was charged by the U.S. Attorney’s Office on one count of violating the Lacey Act for illegally killing and transporting a bull caribou in April 2018. Bundy claimed to be an Alaska resident and killed the animal without the proper non-resident Alaska Department of Fish and Game hunting license and locking tag.
As part of a plea agreement, Bundy was sentenced to pay a fine of $12,000 to the Lacey Act Reward Fund as restitution for five animals unlawfully killed by the defendant while hunting in Alaska. He will serve a sentence of 18 months’ probation and is prohibited from hunting anywhere in the world throughout the duration of his probation. Bundy must also forfeit two bull caribou and one black bear, all killed illegally.
“Let Mr. Bundy’s actions be a reminder that illegal killing and transportation of wildlife will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “Our office will continue to be vigilant in working with our partners to identify and prosecute individuals who choose to commit crimes in violation of the Lacey Act.”
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, with assistance from the Alaska Wildlife Troopers and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Skrocki prosecuted the case.
###Rural Alaska Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Sexually Abusing a MinorRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A man from a rural Alaskan village was sentenced July 18, 2023, to over 12 years in prison for sexually abusing a minor.
According to court documents, Melvin Andrew, 44, pleaded guilty to one count of coercion and enticement of a minor.
Court documents say Andrew sexually abused a 14-year-old girl over the course of 10 months, with abuse taking place at least once a week. The defendant engaged in physical sexual abuse and requested sexually explicit images from the minor via text message.
“Individuals who target Alaska’s most vulnerable will be held accountable for their destructive actions,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska. “Mr. Andrew’s actions have caused immense damage, and our office will continue to dedicate time and resources to identifying and prosecuting these cases on behalf of victims of abuse.”
“The defendant’s predatory behavior involved the repeated sexual abuse of a minor – a heinous crime that must be met with consequences,” said Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “The FBI, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and our partners remain steadfast in our commitment to protect Alaska’s youth from predators, no matter where they lurk.”
The FBI’s Anchorage Field Office and the Alaska State Troopers investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Brickey prosecuted the case.
This case 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.justice.gov/psc.
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Anchorage Man Guilty on All Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A federal jury convicted an Anchorage man yesterday on three felony counts, including one count of possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute, and two firearm related charges, following a trial spanning a week and a half.
The charges included one count of possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute, one count of possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and one count of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Charles Rashid Malik Lee, aka “Cheese”, 41, had been under investigation by federal authorities. The FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) executed a search warrant on Lee’s residence and vehicle in Anchorage, Alaska, on Oct. 12, 2021.
Agents made contact with Lee inside the residence and discovered a total of over 150 grams of methamphetamine, over 100 grams of heroin and over 90 grams of cocaine. According to evidence presented at trial, these controlled substances had a total street value of over $54,000. Agents also found tools commonly used by drug traffickers, including digital scales, branded baggies and two loaded handguns, among other findings. It was later determined that one of the digital scales had Lee’s fingerprint on it. Agents also discovered over $165,000 in cash that was hidden in multiple locations around the residence, including a crawl space.
Lee was indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2021.
Senior U.S. District Judge Timothy M. Burgess, who presided over the trial, scheduled sentencing for a later date. Lee faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years. He will be held in the custody of the U.S. Marshals pending sentence.
“Charles Lee’s conviction is yet another step in our joint effort with local, state and federal law enforcement partners to make Alaskan communities safer for everyone,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska. “Our office and partners are committed to using our resources to hold individuals accountable for the destruction their actions have on our communities.”
“Those responsible for trafficking dangerous drugs into our communities, threatening the health and safety of Alaskans in the process, will continue to face justice in this District,” said Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “Unyielding in our pursuit, stopping the flow of deadly drugs into our communities continues to be a priority for the FBI and our law enforcement partners.”
The FBI’s Anchorage Field Office and the DEA investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Seth Brickey and Alana Weber prosecuted the case.
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Fairbanks Men Indicted on Federal Charges for Wildlife Conspiracy, Wire Fraud, Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
FAIRBANKS, Alaska – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment on July 20 charging two Fairbanks men with eight federal charges linked to an illegal big-game guide-outfitter operation.
According to court documents, Jun “Harry” Liang, 59, and Brian Phelan, 51, of Fairbanks, conspired to provide guide-outfitter services for caribou and brown bear hunts in Fairbanks, while neither were licensed by the state of Alaska to do so. Liang collected around $11,000 in 2021 and $60,000 in 2022 for guided hunts.
Liang is charged with eight counts: one count Lacey Act conspiracy in violation of 18 U.S.C. §371; two counts wire fraud in violation of 18 U.S.C. §1343; one count Lacey Act false labelling in violation of 18 U.S.C. §3372(d)(2); two counts illegal alien in possession of a firearm in violation of 18 U.S.C. §922(g)(5)(A); and two counts money laundering, one in violation of 18 U.S.C. §1957(a) and another in violation of 18 U.S.C. §1956(a)(1)(A)(i). Phelan is charged with one count Lacey Act conspiracy in violation of 18 U.S.C. §371 and one count Lacey Act false labelling in violation of 18 U.S.C. §3372(d)(2).
Liang was arrested and made his initial court appearance on July 14 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Scott A. Oravec of the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska. Phelan is scheduled to make his initial court appearance in August. If convicted, Liang faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, and Phelan faces a maximum of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska made the announcement.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations and the IRS, with the assistance of the Alaska State Troopers, Wildlife Investigations Unit, are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Steven Skrocki and Carly Vosacek 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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Alaska Man Sentenced to 18 Months for Hate Crimes, Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
ANCORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage man was sentenced today to 18 months in prison for two acts of hate-motivated property damage and a drug trafficking offense.
According to court documents, in May 2021, Luke Foster, 28, placed stickers with a swastika and the text “WE ARE EVERYWHERE” at eight locations around Anchorage, including the Alaska Jewish Museum, the University of Alaska Anchorage campus and a site associated with the LGBTQ+ community. In September 2021, Foster returned to the Alaska Jewish Museum, where he placed another sticker and carved a swastika into the door. Foster was convicted of two counts of damaging religious property in connection to this conduct.
During the investigation into the vandalism, investigators also discovered that Foster was using social media to traffic psilocybin mushrooms, a Schedule I controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. Foster sold psilocybin to an undercover agent and boasted about his large collection of weapons and his intent to use them to protect his illegal drugs from law enforcement, if necessary.
Federal agents executed a search warrant on Foster’s residence and recovered psilocybin mushrooms, associated drug production items, multiple firearms, firearm ammunition, several thousand dollars in cash, and Nazi-inspired imagery, including a box of swastika stickers. Foster was convicted of an additional count of possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute for this conduct.
“Mr. Foster’s hateful acts of pro-Nazi vandalism across our city have caused significant harm to multiple communities and his trafficking of drugs put the people of Alaska in danger,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “Anti-Semitic crimes and those targeting the LGBTQ+ community have no place here. Our U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify, investigate and prosecute crimes that target our communities to instill fear and distrust.”
“Mr. Foster’s hate-fueled crimes were meant to threaten and intimidate entire communities, having a wide-ranging impact beyond that of property damage,” said Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “This is why civil rights investigations are among the FBI’s highest priorities. Together with our law enforcement partners, we stand ready to investigate and hold accountable those who commit civil rights violations against any person or group, and ensure justice for victims of bias-motivated crimes.”
The FBI’s Anchorage Field Office, with support from the Anchorage Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration, investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney James Klugman prosecuted the case.
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Minnesota Man Indicted for Assaulting a Flight Attendant, Interfering with Flight CrewRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment yesterday charging a Minnesota man with assaulting a flight attendant and interfering with a flight crew’s normal duties.
According to court documents, Christian David Burch, 37, allegedly caused a disturbance on an Alaska Airline flight from Minneapolis to Anchorage in June 2023. During the disturbance, Burch became unresponsive due to an alleged drug overdose. Flight crew members and two passengers, who are medical professionals, tried to give Burch a dose of Narcan, but he started violently resisting and pushing people back, eventually grabbing a female flight attendant near her throat.
A passenger, who was a medical professional, was able to administer two half doses of Narcan through his nose, and members of the flight crew and a few passengers were able to restrain Burch for the reminder of the flight. Burch’s behavior forced the flight attendants to stop performing their normal duties.
Burch was indicted for one count of interference with flight crew members and attendants, in violation of 49 U.S.C. § 46504, and one count of assault in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States, in violation of 49 U.S.C. § 46506(1) and 18 U.S.C. § 113(a)(5). The defendant made his initial court appearance on June 29, 2023, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew M. Scoble of the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska. If convicted, he faces a possible maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 or both time in prison and a fine. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska made the announcement.
The FBI’s Anchorage Field Office, with help from the Anchorage Police Department (APD), is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Schroeder is 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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Indiana Man, Anchorage Woman Plead Guilty to Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Indiana man and Anchorage woman pleaded guilty to conspiracy to produce child pornography.
According to court documents, Darin Schilmiller, 25, and Denali Brehmer, 22, conspired to murder Cynthia Hoffman on or about June 2, 2019, while Schilmiller was residing in Indiana. While they were conspiring to murder Hoffman, they also conspired to coerce a minor victim to produce sexually explicit images, which Brehmer took and sent to Schilmiller via text message.
Schilmiller and Brehmer’s sentencing hearings will be scheduled by the court at a later date. The defendants face a mandatory-minimum 15-year term of incarceration on the child pornography charges. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
“This case shows that our U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to pursue justice on behalf of the victims of child pornography,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska. “Our attorneys will prosecute offenders who are a danger to the children of our Alaskan communities.”
“In our pursuit of justice, Mr. Schilmiller and Ms. Brehmer now stand convicted for the multitude of crimes they’ve committed and the immeasurable trauma they’ve inflicted,” said Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “The FBI will aggressively continue to identify, investigate, and hold accountable those who exploit and abuse our most vulnerable.”
The FBI’s Anchorage Field Office and Anchorage Police Department investigated the case as part of the FBI's Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Alexander is prosecuting the case.
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Anchorage Man Sentenced to 9 Years for Stealing 22 GunsRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage man was sentenced yesterday to nine years in federal prison
for stealing 22 firearms from an Anchorage gun store in 2019.
According to court documents, Muna Junior Rhode, 24, pleaded guilty in September 2022 to stealing
22 firearms from Granny’s Guns, a federally licensed firearms dealer located in Anchorage, on June
6, 2019, along with three co-conspirators.
Rhode and his co-conspirators drove a stolen Chevy Trailblazer to Wrightway Auto Carriers in
Anchorage where they broke into the building and stole license plates, filing cabinets and a GMC
Sierra pickup. Rhode and the three co-conspirators then stole another vehicle, drove it through the
front window of Granny’s Guns, loaded 22 firearms into the back of the GMC truck and drove away.
They later lit the stolen GMC Sierra pickup on fire in an effort to destroy evidence and escaped in a
black SUV.
Later the same day, officers with the Anchorage Police Department tried to stop Rhode, who was
driving the black SUV, and his co-defendants driving another pickup, but they fired shots into the
air and fled at high speeds across Anchorage. On June 20, 2019, Rhode and two others were caught
on video attempting to jump the fence of a tow yard to recover one of the stolen guns left in an
impounded vehicle. All four co-conspirators were indicted in October 2020 and subsequently
arrested. Rhode is also facing charges in state court.
“The blatant disregard for public safety and law enforcement, both during and after this series of
violent crimes, by Rhode and his co-conspirators show they are a danger to our community and all
Alaskans,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “We will continue to work
closely with local, state and federal law enforcement to fight violent crime and keep our communities
safe from people who endanger our neighborhoods.”
“All of the involved defendants demonstrated a complete indifference to the safety of others
through their actions in their violent crime spree,” stated Police Chief Michael Kerle. “From the
theft of multiple vehicles, to firing shots in public, driving erratically on our streets, and stealing
multiple firearms; it is imperative they are held accountable for their behavior. Rhode’s sentencing
is a big part of that. We are grateful for the efforts of all our law enforcement partners who were
involved in seeing this case through.”
Co-conspirators in this case include:
Gian Carlo Pangilinan, aka “G,” 27, pleaded guilty to stealing firearms from a licensed dealer
and was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment.
Kao Chiang Saelee, aka “Robbie,” 41, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to steal firearms from a
licensed dealer and was sentenced to 5 years’ imprisonment.
Hans Mikaele Wells, aka “Mika,” 26, pleaded guilty to stealing firearms and was sentenced
to 9 years’ imprisonment.
The Anchorage Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
(ATF) investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Ivers 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.
###Anchorage Felon Sentenced for Possessing Stolen Firearms, and Possessing Fentanyl and Heroin While in PrisonRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage man was sentenced on July 10, 2023, to six years in prison for possessing stolen firearms in September 2020, while being a twice-convicted felon for separate burglaries. He was also sentenced, the same day, to an additional 1.5 consecutive years in prison for possessing fentanyl and heroin while in prison in February 2023. After his release from prison, he will begin a three-year term of supervised release.
According to court documents, Max Reder, 37, was hired by an elderly victim to help her clean her garage in September 2020 after her late husband, a retired military officer, had passed away. Reder used this opportunity to burglarize the victim’s home. He stole over 40 firearms, her engagement ring, her late husband’s Rolex watch, which was a gift from his squadron, and other irreplaceable items.
After stealing these items, Reder quickly sold 41 firearms to a second victim, a firearms collector, for $12,000 before any firearms were reported stolen by the first victim. The second victim did not know about the theft and fully cooperated with investigators. Only the stolen firearms were recovered.
The United States Attorney’s Office indicted Reder for the firearms crime in August 2022, following a referral from the State of Alaska under the Project Safe Neighborhoods program.
Court documents further show that Reder was in custody as a federal inmate at the Anchorage Correctional Complex, for the above firearm matter, and that on or around Feb. 12, 2023, Reder possessed over eight grams of heroin and about 69 fentanyl pills in his jail cell. He was indicted on contraband charges in March 2023.
“Crimes against elderly victims are an egregious threat and will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “The defendant was held accountable for crimes committed against this elderly grieving victim and the pain he further inflicted upon her by taking exceptionally sentimental items. Additionally, the trafficking of stolen firearms—especially by convicted felons—is a threat to the safety of all Alaskans, and we will continue to work closely with all law enforcement partners to keep or communities safe. The defendant further showed his blatant disregard for rules by possessing significant quantities of heroin and fentanyl—both extremely
deadly drugs—in our custodial institutions. Drugs in prison endangers the safety of all those working and housed in these facilities.”
“Weapon and drug crimes are not only serious offenses on their own, but routinely lead to other criminal activities,” stated Anchorage Police Chief Michael Kerle. “These types of cases are often solved due to the close working relationships we have with other law enforcement entities in the state. It’s also common for successful prosecution of suspects to be aided by citizens who choose to come forward with information they have regarding crimes. Without all these partnerships in play, closing out investigations would be so much more difficult.”
The Anchorage Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated the firearms case. The United States Marshals Service (USMS) investigated the prison contraband case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney George Tran 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.
###Bookkeeper Sentenced for Embezzling Funds from Native VillageRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE – A Minto woman was recently sentenced for embezzling money from the Native Village of Minto while employed in a position of trust.
According to court documents, Melanie Gail Titus, 52, was employed as the bookkeeper for the Minto Village Council, which is the federally recognized native governing body for the Native Village of Minto. Starting in January 2015, the defendant began embezzling funds from the Minto Village Council’s accounts by issuing herself multiple payroll checks for the same pay periods, tendering duplicative deposits, and falsifying reimbursements for work expenses over the years for personal enrichment. She never returned the money. In May 2019, the defendant confessed her theft to the Minto Village Council, and a federal investigation ensued, revealing that her scheme resulted in an actual loss of $55,753.99.
The defendant entered a preindictment plea agreement with the United States following the conclusion of the investigation, and on February 21, 2023, she pleaded guilty to a felony violation, charging her with violating 18 U.S.C. § 666(a)(1), Theft Concerning Programs Receiving Federal Funds. On June 29, 2023, U.S. Chief District Judge Sharon L. Gleason sentenced the defendant to 300 hours of community service work to be completed within 3 years, a 5-year probation term, and $55,753.99 in restitution, among other conditions.
At sentencing, the defendant described her past addiction to cocaine and alcohol as a factor that clouded her judgment and fueled the scheme. The government emphasized the seriousness of the defendant’s conduct in a position of trust and the economic harm faced by the native village due to her scheme. In sentencing the defendant, the Court was emphatic that the defendant must make reasonable payments toward restitution and that the 300 community service hours must benefit the Native Village of Minto and its members.
“Over the years, the defendant stole from the Village of Minto to fuel her substance addiction at the expense of her community,” said U.S. Attorney Lane S. Tucker of the District of Alaska. “The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to prosecuting those who seek to victimize our rural communities.”
“Through her years-long embezzlement scheme, the defendant deliberately chose personal enrichment at the expense of her own community, causing economic harm to a village already faced with limited resources,” said Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “The FBI will continue to pursue and hold accountable those who abuse their positions to steal public funds.”
The Fairbanks Resident Agency of the FBI Anchorage Field Office conducted the investigation, with assistance from the Alaska State Troopers.
Assistant U.S. Attorney George Tran is prosecuting the case.
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Former Police Officer Sentenced to 37 Months for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE – A Wasilla man was sentenced today to 37 months in federal prison for possessing child pornography in his home. According to court documents, Matthew William Schwier, 39, knowingly possessed over 100 still images and multiple videos depicting children being sexually abused. Schwier pled guilty on August 31, 2022, to knowingly possessing child pornography. After serving his sentence, Schwier will be on federal supervised release for 7 years. Schwier will have to pay $15,000.00 in restitution to his victims. Schwier must register as a sex offender and, after release, may not access the internet without permission of the U.S. Probation Office.
Schwier’s child pornography collection, which spanned multiple computers, included images depicting the sexual abuse of infants or toddlers, as well as children being violently abused. The evidence indicates that Schwier may have used specialized law enforcement training, and his advanced computer skills, to facilitate and attempt to hide his crimes.
Schwier’s previous employment included jobs in technical support, computer repair, and as a supervisor of video surveillance for a private security company. He failed to complete probationary employment as a police officer in Phoenix, Arizona; Roswell, New Mexico; and Elk Point, South Dakota, before working as a police officer in Nome, Alaska. The FBI investigation began in approximately 2016 when Schwier distributed child pornography to an undercover law enforcement officer over the internet. Schwier was employed as Justice Director for the Chickaloon Village Traditional Counsel when he was arrested in 2017. The Government indicated that, if this case had gone to trial, the prosecution was prepared to present evidence that Schwier had a reputation within the law enforcement community of being untruthful.
“The Department of Justice will relentlessly pursue, arrest, and prosecute offenders who traffic in child pornography,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska. “This case demonstrates that the U.S. Attorney’s Office will hold criminals accountable without fear or favor, including corrupt former law enforcement officers like Mr. Schwier.”
“May this sentencing serve as a reminder that no one is above the law, and concealing evidence of child exploitation will not go undetected,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Donald W. Lee II of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “As these crimes perpetuate the re-victimization of innocent children, the FBI remains steadfast in its commitment to identify and hold accountable those who contribute to the online sexual exploitation of children.”
The court proceedings were delayed for years for several reasons, including the COVID pandemic. Over the six years the case was active, it was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam Alexander, Charisse Arce, Kelly Cavanaugh, Kyle Reardon, Christopher Schroeder, and Jonas Walker. The FBI investigated the case.
This case was part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), 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.
Please report online child exploitation to the FBI. https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/parents-and-caregivers-protecting-your-kids#:~:text=To%20report%20online%20child%20sexual,%2D800%2D843%2D5678.
Justice Department Launches Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Regional Outreach ProgramRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Justice Department today announced the creation of the Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Regional Outreach Program, which permanently places MMIP Assistant U.S. Attorneys (AUSA) and MMIP Coordinators in five designated regions across the United States to aid in the prevention and response to missing or murdered Indigenous people and provide specialized support to United States Attorneys’ offices to address and combat the issues of MMIP.
The Alaska U.S. Attorney’s Office received three AUSA positions and one Regional MMIP Coordinator. These AUSAs will prosecute violations of federal criminal law that occur in Indian country and help foster and improve relationships among federal, Tribal, state, and local partners. In addition, these AUSAs may participate in special district programs and initiatives designed to partner with and assist federally recognized Tribes in combatting emerging public safety issues.
“Our office is committed to combating violence in Alaska Native communities across the state and reducing the high rates of domestic violence, sexual assault, and trafficking in these communities. These resources are an essential part of that effort” said U.S. Attorney Lane Tucker.
The Alaska positions were allocated as part of the Justice Department’s effort to promote public safety in Indian Country. U.S. Attorney’s Offices with Indian Country were allocated a total of 39 AUSAs and 5 MMIP Coordinators dedicated to enhancing the capacity of U.S. Attorney’s office to promote public safety in Tribal communities and prioritize crime reduction.
“This new program mobilizes the Justice Department’s resources to combat the crisis of Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons, which has shattered the lives of victims, their families, and entire Tribal communities,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The Justice Department will continue to accelerate our efforts, in partnership with Tribes, to keep their communities safe and pursue justice for American Indian and Alaska Native families.”
“These new positions represent the Justice Department’s continuing commitment to addressing the MMIP crisis with urgency and all of the tools at our disposal,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. “MMIP prosecutors and coordinators will work with partners across jurisdictions and alongside the Tribal communities who have been most devastated by this epidemic.”
More broadly, this MMIP Program will complement the work of the Justice Department’s National Native American Outreach Services Liaison, who is helping amplify the voice of crime victims in Indian country and their families as they navigate the federal criminal justice system. Further, the MMIP Program will liaise with and enhance the work of the Department’s Tribal Liaisons and Indian Country Assistant United States Attorneys throughout Indian Country, the Native American Issues Coordinator, and the National Indian Country Training Initiative Coordinator to ensure a comprehensive response to MMIP.
Former Alaska Advanced Nurse Practitioner Sentenced to 30 Years for Illegally Prescribing Millions of Opioids Causing Five DeathsRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, ALASKA—Former Advanced Nurse Practitioner Jessica Joyce Spayd (52) was sentenced in U.S. District Court yesterday to 30 years (360 months) imprisonment for illegally prescribing and dispensing opioids outside the scope of legitimate medical practice that resulted in the deaths of five people between 2014 and 2019. United States District Judge Joshua M. Kindred handed down the sentence.
A jury convicted Spayd on October 27, 2022, of 10 crimes including five counts of illegal drug distribution that resulted in death and one count of maintaining a drug involved premises. She was also ordered to forfeit $117,000 in unlawful proceeds.
The parties presented 51 witnesses during the four-week trial. Government witnesses included pharmacists who refused to fill prescriptions from Spayd, law enforcement agents and officers who investigated the deaths, Spayd’s employees, individuals who received pills from Spayd, medical experts, every Medical Examiner in Alaska (each of whom performed autopsies on different overdose victims), and family members of the victims.
Evidence presented during the trial showed that Spayd prescribed and dispensed 4.5 million dosages of opioids in just over five years including fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, and hydromorphone. Many times she combined those prescriptions with prescriptions for dangerous other drugs like valium and muscle relaxers, known as the “holy trinity,” greatly increasing the chances of overdose death. She wrote these prescriptions with little to no medical justification or treatment plan; minimal, if any, tests or physical examinations; and little, if any, considerations of non-opioid treatment. Many of her patients were vulnerable and suffering from chronic pain, addiction, and mental illness, yet Spayd disregarded their medical histories, risk factors, past overdoses, symptoms, and pleas to reduce or taper their doses. She also ignored warnings from patients’ family members, pharmacists, and other medical providers, and defied thousands of warning letters sent by insurance companies about the dangers of her practices.
In imposing the sentence, Judge Kindred emphasized the trust that society places in medical practitioners like Spayd and remarked that “when [practitioners] fail in their responsibilities, [they] can do far greater harm than the drug dealer on the street corner.” He also acknowledged that Spayd “knew she was in effect killing people, and she just kept doing it,” for nearly two decades.
“This is the deadliest drug case in this district’s history. And disturbingly, the five deaths the Defendant was convicted of at trial are just the tip of the iceberg” because “Spayd may have caused or contributed to the deaths of dozens: 20 total confirmed drug overdoses and many others suspected. She was a serial killer with a ‘poison pen,’” Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan D. Tansey wrote in a sentencing memorandum filed with the court. “[H]er conduct was far more insidious” than that of a street level dealer “because she sanctioned (and supplied) lethal levels of drugs for her patients, day after day, year after year, under the shroud of a prescribing license, assuring them that it was safe and necessary. In the process, she abused her authority and violated her oath as a medical professional, prescribing higher doses per patient than any other prescriber in Alaska during the charging period.”
“Medical practitioners who abuse their positions of trust by supplying millions of opioids for no legitimate medical purpose wreak havoc on our community,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker. “Let this sentence send a clear message to any other medical practitioners considering similar conduct in Alaska: our office and law enforcement partners will work tirelessly to investigate and prosecute these cases, and you will be punished severely.”
“Ms. Spayd betrayed the trust of her profession, those under her care, and her community by prescribing a staggering amount of opioids along with other powerful narcotics,” said Jacob D. Galvan, Acting Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “This lengthy sentence emphasizes the seriousness of Ms. Spayd’s actions and should be seen as deterrent to those who aim to bring harm to our communities.”
“Spayd callously abused her dispensing authority, while fueling the opioid epidemic and poisoning our communities in the process,” said Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “This investigation and subsequent prosecution was about seeking justice for the victims and their families, and holding Spayd accountable for her destructive and lethal crimes. With Spayd’s abuse linked to a significant loss of life, this sentence will undoubtedly have a direct public safety impact on our community.”
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Tansey and Michael Heyman prosecuted the case.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted the investigation leading to the charges in this case, with invaluable assistance from members of the North Slope Borough Police Department, the Alaska Health Care Fraud Task Force, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services-Office of the Inspector General, Internal Revenue Service (IRS), U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Office of Law Enforcement and Security, Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Alaska State Parks Rangers, Alaska State Troopers, Anchorage Police Department, Alaska Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, and the State of Alaska Division of Insurance.
The Alaska Health Care Fraud Task Force (AHCFTF) is a partnership of local, state, federal, and private agencies focused on the investigation of health care fraud, waste, and abuse in Alaska or affecting Alaskan interests.
Juneau Man Pleads Guilty to Bank and Credit Union TheftRead the Press Release
JUNEAU – A Juneau man pleaded guilty to charges of Theft, Embezzlement, and Misapplication of Funds by a Person Connected in a Capacity with a Bank and Credit Union.
According to court documents, Austin Nolan Dwight Rutherford, 29, of Juneau plead guilty to Bank and Credit Union Theft. Between January 21, 2019, and March 2022, Rutherford was an armed transport guard for Axiom Armored Transport (Axiom), which provided armed transportation of U.S. Currency for U.S. Bank, Wells Fargo Bank, Key Bank, NuVision Credit Union, and Alaska USA Federal Credit Union and their customers Automatic Teller Machines (ATM). Rutherford started to steal funds when he was transferred to Axiom’s Juneau branch in March 2020 through May 2022. Rutherford was terminated March of 2022 but continued to make cash deposits into his bank accounts through May 2022 that were above and beyond any legitimate sources identified during the investigation. An internal audit determined that Rutherford stole a total of $579,400.00 in bank and credit union funds.
Rutherford is scheduled to be sentenced on August 17, 2023 and faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000.00, and up to life on supervised release. Rutherford has agreed to pay restitution in the amount of $579,400.00 as part of his guilty plea. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Schmidt is prosecuting the case.
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Anchorage Man Guilty of Felon in Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE – A federal jury convicted an Anchorage man on May 23, 2023, on one count for being a felon in possession of firearms following a two day trial.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on January 16, 2019, Zachary Lawrence Torres, 35, of Anchorage, Alaska sold three firearms to a confidential source working for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Torres sold the three firearms for $1,100 to the ATF confidential source through a deal brokered by another convicted felon who pleaded guilty to the same charges in 2019. Torres is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law. Torres’ felony conviction is for a 2011 assault during which Torres and another individual instigated a street brawl outside of an Anchorage bar, leaving the victim with a fractured jaw and orbital socket.
According to the evidence presented at trial, on January 16 Torres drove his Cadillac to a parking lot on Northern Lights Boulevard in Anchorage, Alaska. Before arriving, Torres told his partner, “All right, I am coming over. If anything happens, I’m shooting everybody.” Inside of his Cadillac, Torres possessed a Romarm/Cugir WASR-10 7.62x39mm semiautomatic rifle, a Legion Izhevsk Saiga 5.45x39mm semiautomatic rifle, and an AR-15-style .223 semiautomatic rifle with a 9-inch barrel and no serial number.
Torres was indicted in August 2019 but remained at large until he was located and arrested in Arizona in December 2021.
Senior U.S. District Judge Ralph Beistline, who presided over the trial, scheduled sentencing for September 13, 2023. Torres faces a potential sentence of 10 years imprisonment. He will be held in the custody of the U.S. Marshals pending sentencing.
“Zachary Torres’ conviction should serve as a warning to felons who are considering illegally trafficking in dangerous weapons that their plans to endanger our community will fail,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska. “Our office and law enforcement partners are committed to protecting Alaskan communities from the threat of armed criminals.”
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas C. Bradley and Ainsley McNerney prosecuted the case.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation and controlled buy leading to the charges in this case.
Washington Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment charging a Washington man with failure to register as a sex offender and as a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, Dylan Scott Valin, 31, fled active felony warrants issued in the State of Washington for Burglary in the First Degree and Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. According to the affidavit supporting the complaint, the United States Marshals Service learned of Valin’s whereabouts after he sent emails to friends in custody in Washington, advising them he was fleeing Washington to commercial fish in Alaska because “they don’t extradite.”
Deputy United States Marshals then searched for commercial fishing licenses issued by the State of Alaska and ascertained that Valin was residing in Craig, Alaska, where he was ultimately apprehended without incident.
Valin was indicted for one count of failure to register as a sex offender in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2250(a) and one count of being a felon in possession in violation of 18 U.S.C. §924(g). The defendant made his initial court appearance on May 23, 2023, before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Scoble of the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska and United States Marshal Rob Heun made the announcement.
The United States Marshals are investigating the case with the assistance of the Alaska State Troopers. Law enforcement urges anyone with knowledge of Valin’s activities to contact the USMS.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Alexander is 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 Man Indicted on Federal Guns and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment charging an Anchorage man with possession of fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and multiple firearms.
According to the indictment, Paul Thomas Baldwin Jr., 32, possessed with the intent to distribute over 40 grams of fentanyl and 100 grams of heroin in September 2022. Between March 22 and April 21, 2023, he again possessed with the intent to distribute over 40 grams of fentanyl, 100 grams or more of heroin, and more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. It is alleged that Baldwin also possessed over $25,000 in cash that was involved in the drug offenses. Baldwin, who has a prior serious drug felony conviction and is prohibited from possessing firearms, was also charged with possessing two pistols.
The defendant is scheduled for his court appearance on May 24, 2023, before United States Magistrate Judge Kyle F. Reardon of the United States District Court of Alaska. If convicted, based on his prior conviction for a serious drug felony, he faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Anchorage Police Department (APD), and Alaska State Troopers (AST) are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney George Tran is 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 Inmate Indicted for Orchestrating Purchase of Firearms with Oregon WomanRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment last week, charging an Oregon man and woman with conspiracy to straw purchase firearms while the man was in prison.
According to the indictment, Dominique Kyle James Swain, 25, was arrested in Oregon in January 2022 for violating his supervised release from a previous federal criminal case in the District of Alaska. He was transported from Oregon to Alaska following his arrest. As a convicted felon, Swain was prohibited from purchasing and possessing firearms. While he was in custody in Anchorage, Swain orchestrated and directed Abigail Corinne Elaine Sturdevant, 25, who was in Oregon at the time, to purchase firearms on his behalf. Sturdevant agreed and throughout July and August 2022, she purchased several specific models of firearms at Swain’s direction, falsely claiming she was the actual buyer when they both knew the firearms were purchased for Swain. It is alleged that Swain was on the phone with Sturdevant as they made the firearm purchases. Sturdevant then stored the purchased firearms at her residence for Swain.
Swain and Sturdevant are each charged with one count of conspiracy to straw purchase firearms. Swain is further charged with one count of being a felon in possession of firearms. If convicted, each faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and Eugene Police Department, are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney George Tran is prosecuting 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.
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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Montana Man Sentenced for Assault on Flight Crew on Flight to Juneau, AlaskaRead the Press Release
JUNEAU – A Montana man was sentenced on May 19, 2023, for assaulting a flight crew member on a commercial airline flight while the plane was landing at the Juneau airport.
According to court documents, on April 1, 2023, Eric Richard Bruns, 42, was a passenger aboard Alaska Airlines Flight 67 with service from Sitka, Alaska to Juneau, Alaska. While the aircraft was in flight, Bruns started acting erratically and refused crew members instructions to remain seated while the plane was on approach to the Juneau airport. Bruns remained standing in the aisle and began moving towards the front of the aircraft and was physically obstructed by the flight crew member. Bruns made verbal threats to assault the flight crew member and physically tried to shove his way past the flight crew member, striking the crew member with his hands. At that time, while the aircraft was landing at the Juneau airport, two federal law enforcement officers and a civilian assisted the flight crew member and physically restrained Bruns in an unoccupied seat until the plane arrived at the gate.
The defendant pled guilty on May 17, 2023, before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew S. Scoble to an Information charging Assault in the Special Aircraft Jurisdiction of the United States, in violation 49 U.S.C. § 46506 and 18 U.S.C. § 113. He was sentenced to time served.
“The safety and security of air travel is paramount, and we will continue to prosecute offenders in order to ensure that all passengers are able to travel without fear of assault or harm,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker. “We hope that this case will serve as a warning to others who may consider committing similar acts in the future, and that it will encourage everyone to follow the rules and regulations designed to keep our skies safe and secure.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Schmidt prosecuted the case.
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Wasilla Man Indicted for Operating Aircraft without an Airman’s Certificate Following 2022 CrashRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment on April 21, 2023, charging a Wasilla man with serving as an airman without an airman’s certificate and displaying false or misleading marks about the registration of an aircraft.
According to court documents, Michael Anthony Roberts, 61, served as an airman without an airman’s certificate when he piloted Piper PA-18 registered as N99640, at Wolf Lake Airport, Wasilla, Alaska on February 27, 2022. The aircraft crashed on takeoff. The indictment also charges that Roberts displayed a false or misleading mark on the Piper PA-18 about the registration of the aircraft.
Roberts is charged with one count of serving as an airman without a pilot certificate, in violation of 49 U.S.C. § 46306(b)(7) and one count of displaying false or misleading marks about the registration of an aircraft, in violation of 49 U.S.C. § 46306(b)(3). If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a $250,000 fine on each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The defendant had his initial court appearance on May 9, 2023, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew M. Scoble of the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska, where he was ordered to be detained pending trial.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska made the announcement.
The Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Transportation, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the Alaska State Troopers are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Brickey is 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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Alaska Couple Charged in $700,000 Investment Fraud Scheme Based on Fictitious Alaska Marijuana “Bud and Breakfast”Read the Press Release
FAIRBANKS – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment charging a husband and wife from Delta Junction, Alaska, with conspiracy and wire fraud for perpetrating a years’ long scheme that defrauded nearly two-dozen investors out of over $700,000 dollars.
According to court documents, from 2017 until 2020, Brian Keith Corty, 52, and his wife Candy Corty, 47, used false and fraudulent claims to solicit investors to buy shares of stock in Ice Fog Holdings, LLC, a company purportedly established to grow, extract, develop, manufacture, and sell products in the medical and recreational marijuana markets in Alaska and other future markets. The defendants purchased the Midway Lodge along the Richardson Highway near Delta Junction, Alaska, and represented to investors that their money would be used to turn it into a “Bud and Breakfast” that would be a “marijuana theme park” and include glass ceilings so Ice Fog’s customers could lie in bed and watch the northern lights. Defendants also represented that they would grow, cultivate, and sell marijuana from the location.
The defendants and their co-conspirators made numerous material misrepresentations to Ice Fog investors, including that Ice Fog was already generating income via contracts for security services, that Ice Fog would make over $3.85 million in annual sales by year one; over $13.05 million in annual sales by year two; and over $23.24 million by year three with an expected return to investors of 30 times their initial investment. The defendants also represented that inspectors from the Alaska Marijuana Control Office had performed inspections on the Midway Lodge to create the impression that their application to become a licensed marijuana grow and dispensary was in the final stages of approval. Defendants made these representations while knowing that Ice Fog had no meaningful current or prospective revenue stream and little to no prospect to obtain a license from the Alaska Marijuana Control Office.
Over the course of the scheme, the defendants caused at least 22 individuals to invest in Ice Fog, and raised approximately $722,000 dollars through the sale of “shares” in Ice Fog Holdings, the majority of which the defendants misappropriated for their own personal use.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating this case with assistance from investigators at the Alaska Department of Law. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Tansey and Tom Bradley for the District of Alaska 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.
Washington Family Pleads Guilty to Indian and Arts and Crafts Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
JUNEAU – A Washington family has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to violate the Indian Arts and Crafts Act for crimes committed when they owned and operated several businesses in Ketchikan, Alaska, involving the sale of Philippine produced stone carvings and wood totem poles as authentic Alaska Native produced artwork.
According to court documents, between April 2016 through December 8, 2021, Cristobal “Cris” Magno Rodrigo, 59, Glenda Tiglao Rodrigo, 46, and Christian Ryan Tiglao Rodrigo, 24, operated Alaska Stone Arts, LLC, Rail Creek, LLC, and Rodrigo Creative Crafts. During the course of the conspiracy the Rodrigos operated Alaska Stone Arts, LCC, which primarily sold stone carvings, and Rail Creek, LLC, that primarily sold wood totem poles in Ketchikan, Alaska. Those carvings were sourced from Glenda Rodrigo’s company, Rodrigo Creative Crafts, located in the Philippines. This Philippine business was created for the sole purpose of producing carvings featuring Alaskan Native designs and motifs through the use of Philippine labor. The carvings were shipped to the United States and subsequently to the Rodrigo’s stores in Ketchikan, and were then sold as authentic Alaskan Native art to unsuspecting customers in Alaska and elsewhere.
As part of the conspiracy, the Rodrigos also hired Alaskan Natives at Alaska Stone Arts, LLC and Rail Creek, LCC to represent and sell Philippine produced artwork as their own authentic Alaskan Native artwork in order to deceive customers into believing they were purchasing authentic Alaskan Native produced carvings. The investigation is still ongoing.
The defendants were arraigned and pled guilty on April 28, 2023, before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew S. Scoble. If convicted, the Rodrigos face a maximum of 10 years in prison. A sentencing hearing has been set on August 17, 2023, before Senior District Court Judge Timothy M. Burgess in federal district court. The judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
“This type of fraud directly affects Alaska Native artisans and their ability to make a living and is an affront to Alaska Native artists that have produced these beautiful works throughout the history of their culture” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker. “The United States Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners will continue to work to protect this cultural heritage, protect unwitting consumers, and prosecute and hold accountable those who perpetrate this type of fraud.”
“Protecting Alaska Native and American Indian culture and traditions is a critical part of the Indian Arts and Crafts Act,” said Edward Grace, Assistant Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement. “The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has a dedicated team of special agents that work on Indian Art and Crafts Act violations on behalf of the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Indian Arts and Crafts Board. Their investigative efforts protect consumers from those who choose to misrepresent Indian arts and crafts products. This exploitation of Alaska Natives for personal and financial gain is unacceptable. We thank our partners at the U.S. Department of Justice and the Indian Arts and Crafts Board for their assistance with this investigation.”
“Alaska has a very rich cultural heritage in which Alaska Native arts and crafts play a central role, including the passing down of cultural traditions from generation to generation. Accordingly, the Indian Arts and Crafts Board (IACB) is very pleased that these defendants have been brought to justice for their roles in producing as well as selling counterfeit Tlingit totem poles and stone carvings,” said U.S. Department of the Interior IACB Director Meridith Stanton. The IACB is responsible by statute for administering the Indian Arts and Crafts Act, an anti-counterfeiting statute enacted to rid the Alaska Native and American Indian arts and crafts market of fakes like those being misrepresented by defendants Cristobal M. Rodrigo, Glenda T. Rodrigo, and Christian Ryan T. Rodrigo. “Cases like these, particularly in popular Alaska tourist destinations which attract consumers from all over the world, are critical to preserving the integrity and viability of authentic Alaska Native art and craftwork, culture, and economies,” Director Stanton added. “The IACB applauds the diligent work of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Alaska and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Indian Arts and Crafts Act Enforcement Division in investigating and prosecuting these important cases.”
The Department of Interior – U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service/Office of Law Enforcement lead the investigation with the assistance of the Indian Arts and Crafts Board, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Schmidt is prosecuting the case.
If you were a customer of Alaska Stone Arts, LLC or Rail Creek, LLC and purchased a stone carving or wood totem pole believing that it was an authentic Alaskan Native artwork, please contact U.S. Fish and Wildlife Special Agent Sherrell at 907-586-7545.
If you suspect potential Indian Arts and Crafts Act violations being committed, a complaint may be submitted through the Indian Arts and Crafts Board’s online complaint form, www.doi.gov/iacb/should-i-report-potential-violation, email, [email protected], or toll free number, 888-278-3253.
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Ketchikan Man Pleads Guilty to Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
JUNEAU – A Ketchikan man pleaded guilty to distribution of child pornography charges.
According to court documents, Walter William Onstad, of Ketchikan, plead guilty to a charge of distribution of child pornography. Onstad admitted in court that he was an administrator of a Kik group “Anything Goes,” which was used exclusively for the purpose of distributing child pornography. As administrator of the group, Onstad solicited images of child pornography to be posted to the group from others as a requirement to be admitted to the group. Once images were verified and approved by Onstad, those individuals were admitted to the group where they had complete access to images of children being sexually exploited on the Kik group “Anything Goes.”
Onstad was detained at his change of plea hearing pending his sentencing scheduled on August 17, 2023. Onstad faces a mandatory minimum of five years and/or maximum penalty of life in prison and five years to life on supervised release. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Schmidt is prosecuting the case.
This case is 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.justice.gov/psc.
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Haines Man Sentenced for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
JUNEAU – A Haines man was sentenced today to 2 years in prison and 5 years of supervised release for drug conspiracy.
According to court documents, Fredrick Daniel Folletti, 63, of Haines, Alaska pleaded guilty to drug conspiracy involving the transportation of 79.67 grams of actual methamphetamine from Washington state to Haines, Alaska. Folletti facilitated and arranged the travel of a drug courier located in Washington to acquire methamphetamine to deliver it to Folletti in Haines, Alaska.
“Drug trafficking has a disproportionate effect in small rural communities in Southeast Alaska,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker, District of Alaska. “This sentence serves as a reminder that we will prosecute and hold accountable those who are harming our communities, and with our law enforcement partners, will persist in the disruption of narcotics into this district.”
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska made the announcement.
The Southeast Alaska Cities Against Drugs and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Schmidt prosecuted the case.
Homer Man Indicted for Illegal Transportation of Black Bears and Making False Records, Lacey Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
Anchorage – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment on April 21, 2023, charging a Homer man with unlawful transportation of four black bears and making false records in violation of the Lacey Act.
According to court documents, Travis Larson, 47, of Homer, and his company Alaska Premier Sportfishing, LLC, were named as defendants in the six-count indictment. The indictment alleges that in May 2018, Larson and Alaska Premier Sportfishing illegally transported four black bears they knew had been unlawfully harvested by four Norwegian hunters. The defendants used a 65-foot vessel, the Venturess, and a 16-foot motorboat to commit these offenses. The indictment further charges that Larson and Alaska Premier Sportfishing made and submitted false records, which stated the four bears had been transported from Nuka Island, when in truth they had been transported from Beauty Bay and Surprise Bay on the Kenai Peninsula.
Larson is charged with four counts of Unlawful Transportation of Wildlife, in violation of 16 U.S.C. § 3372(a)(2)(A); and two counts of Making False Record, in violation of 16 U.S.C. § 3372(d). If convicted, he faces a maximum of five years in prison and a $20,000 fine on each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The defendants are scheduled for their initial court appearance May 11, 2023, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew M. Scoble of the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska made the announcement.
The United States Fish Wildlife Service, National Park Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Alaska State Troopers are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Brickey is 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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Washington Man Charged with Three Counts of Assault on Flight to Anchorage, AlaskaRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment today charging a Washington man with three counts of assault in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States.
Adam David Seymour was arrested on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, and was originally charged by complaint. The Complaint charged that on April 5, 2023, while aboard Alaska Airlines Flight 49 inbound to Anchorage, Alaska from Seattle, Washington, Adam David Seymour of Seattle, Washington, 37, assaulted a female passenger intending to make sexual contact, and assaulted two male passengers. According to court documents, flight crew had to remove Seymour from his seat and restrain him in the jump seat at the front of the airplane for the remainder of the flight.
On April 19, 2023, the grand jury indicted Seymour with one count of assault in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States, with the intent to commit abusive sexual contact, and two counts of assault in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States. If convicted he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on the count of assault with intent to commit abusive sexual contact, and 6 months in prison on the two assault counts. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ainsley McNerney is 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.
St. Mary’s Man Charged with Illegal Moose Guiding and Wire FraudRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE – A federal Grand Jury in Anchorage, Alaska returned an indictment on Friday, April 21, 2023, charging Michael Mikhail Beans of Saint Mary's Alaska with two (2) felony counts for violations of the Lacey Act and nineteen (19) felony counts for wire fraud in connection with the sale of the illegal moose hunts.
From October of 2021 to the present Beans collected over $59,000 from hunting parties, over thirty hunters in total, for moose hunts to be conducted in Alaska in September of 2022 and September of 2023.
According to court documents, Beans, 34, was charged by the grand jury for Lacey Act violations for guiding two hunters for bull moose when not licensed as a Big Game Guide or Transporter by the State of Alaska. The Lacey Act makes it illegal to transport and illegally sold wildlife in interstate commerce.
Beans was also charged with wire fraud in connection with booking guided moose hunts, receiving over $59,000 in electronic payments from clients, and then canceling the hunts without providing a refund.
If convicted Beans faces up to five (5) year imprisonment and a fine of $250,000.
An arraignment date has not been set. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska and Special Agent In-Charge Jeff Mihan made the announcement.
The investigation is being handled by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Alaska Wildlife Troopers Investigations Unit.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ainsley McNerney and Steve Skrocki 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.
Anchorage Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, ALASKA – U.S. District Judge Joshua M. Kindred sentenced an Anchorage man on April 19, 2023, to 10 years and 5 months imprisonment followed by eight years of supervised release for distributing heroin.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Jason McAnulty, aka “Snoop,” 40, distributed approximately 126 grams of heroin to a law enforcement source during two undercover operations in June 2020, netting himself $6,300. Law enforcement began investigating McAnulty after learning that he was a source of heroin supply in the Anchorage area. In July 2020, law enforcement executed a search warrant at McAnulty’s residence where they found more than $34,000 cash and other distribution contraband. An Alaska jury convicted McAnulty of the heroin distribution following a five-day trial in March 2022.
McAnulty was previously convicted in 2004 for first-degree robbery, a serious violent felony, that mandated a minimum 10-year prison sentence. The United States also presented evidence of McAnulty’s extensive and violent criminal history at the sentencing hearing in support of the sentence, including McAnulty’s 2015 federal conviction for attempted witness tampering in another federal criminal trial.
“Dangerous opiates such as heroin pose an ongoing threat to communities throughout Alaska,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “This sentence serves as a reminder that we will prosecute and hold accountable those who are harming our communities, and with our law enforcement partners, will persist in our disruption of heroin trafficking operations in this district.”
“McAnulty supported the opioid and heroin epidemic through his illegal drug distribution activities, posing a significant threat to communities in Alaska,” said Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “The FBI and the Anchorage Police Department will continue working together to hold drug traffickers accountable, and to stop the flow of deadly drugs into our communities.” The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Anchorage Police Department (APD), in support of Alaska’s High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program, investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys George Tran and Stephan Collins prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Alaska’s High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA). 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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Air National Guard Member Arrested, Charged with Distribution and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment on Friday, April 21, charging Air National Guard Technical Sergeant of the 176th Maintenance Group on Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson (JBER) with production, distribution, and possession of child pornography.
Richard Anthony Dougherty was arrested on Thursday, April 6, 2023, and was originally charged by complaint. The complaint filed in the case charged that, between 2017 and 2023, Richard Anthony Dougherty distributed child pornography over the internet and possessed “terabytes” of child pornography on a computer and mobile phone. According to court documents, Dougherty confessed to hoarding child pornography for approximately 20 years, some of which he produced using the camera feature of a mobile phone that he had installed behind a mirror in a bathroom at his house in Anchorage.
On April 21, 2023, the grand jury indicted Dougherty with three counts of production of child pornography, one count of receipt and distribution of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years to life in prison on each production count, a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 to 20 years on the receipt and distribution count, and maximum of 10 years in prison for the possession count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other legal factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska made the announcement.
Homeland Security Investigations is investigating the case with substantial assistance from the Alaska State Troopers, and additional assistance from the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. The investigation is ongoing.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonas M. Walker and Seth Brickey for the District of Alaska are prosecuting the case.
An indictment and complaint are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Fairbanks Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Attempted Drug Distribution and Firearms PossessionRead the Press Release
FAIRBANKS - On April 14, 2023, Senior District Judge Ralph R. Beistline of the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska sentenced Jason Benjamin O’Bryan, 30, of Fairbanks, Alaska, to 121 months of imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release for attempting to distribute 897 grams of methamphetamine and possession of nine firearms.
On March 9, 2021, agents from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) received a suspicious package. USPIS obtained a search warrant for the package and seized 897 grams of methamphetamine. On March 11, 2021, USPIS replaced the 897 grams of methamphetamine with a representative sample and “sham” drugs and performed a controlled delivery. Law enforcement observed Jason O’Bryan retrieved the package and take it inside his residence. An hour later, surveillance observed O’Bryan leave the residence in his truck; law enforcement initiated a traffic stop and searched the vehicle where they found 50 grams of methamphetamine, 1 gram of heroin, and multiple fentanyl patches and pills. A subsequent search of O’Bryan’s residence resulted in the seizure of additional methamphetamine, heroin, and nine firearms. O’Bryan later confessed that he sold methamphetamine in Fairbanks and intended to distribute the 897 grams. O’Bryan, having a prior felony conviction, also admitted that he knew it was illegal for him to possess the nine firearms.
O’Bryan previously pled guilty to attempted possession and distribution of the 897 grams of methamphetamine and felon in possession of multiple firearms.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska made the announcement.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), North Slope Borough Police Department, Fairbanks Police Department (FPD), North Pole Police Department (NPD), and Alaska State Troopers (AST) investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Tansey and Carly Vosacek prosecuted the case.
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Arkansas Man Charged with Transportation of Unlawfully Killed WildlifeRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE – An Arkansas resident was charged on April 11, 2023, relating to unlawfully transporting illegally taken wildlife from Alaska to his residence in Arkansas.
According to court documents, Edward A. Bundy, of Tuckerman, Arkansas, 54, was charged by the United States Attorney’s Office for transporting a bull caribou from Alaska to his home in Arkansas which he killed in violation of Alaska Fish and Game laws. It is alleged that Bundy falsely claimed Alaska residency when he was not a resident of the state of Alaska, making his take of the bull caribou illegal.
Bundy is charged with a violation of the Lacey Act, which prohibits transportation of unlawfully taken wildlife over state lines. If convicted, Bundy faces up to a year imprisonment and a fine of $100,000. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska; and Resident Agent in Charge David Rippeto made the announcement.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, with the assistance of the Alaska Wildlife Troopers is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Skrocki is prosecuting the case.
An information 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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