Alaska State Senator’s Chief of Staff Arrested on Federal Child Sex Trafficking Charges

Published: February 22, 2026

Craig Scott Valdez, the former chief of staff to Alaska Republican State Sen. George Rauscher, was arrested on February 19, 2026, in Juneau on federal charges including sex trafficking of a minor, sexual exploitation of a minor, and coercion and enticement of a minor. The 36-year-old Anchorage resident allegedly used Snapchat to groom and exploit underage girls, with court documents detailing “high-volume” predatory behavior and at least 11 potential victims identified so far.

Key Details of the Arrest and Indictment

• A federal grand jury indicted Valdez on Tuesday for crimes stemming from an October 2025 incident in Anchorage.
• He allegedly lured a 15-year-old girl via Snapchat to his home “to celebrate his birthday,” where he sexually exploited her after providing drugs or alcohol.
• The girl’s mother tracked her using a family app, entered the home, punched Valdez in the face, and rescued her severely intoxicated daughter; Valdez fled the scene.
• The victim reported knowing Valdez since age 13 or 14 through other children; investigators believe this was not her first encounter with him.

Broader Scope of Allegations

Federal prosecutors describe Valdez’s actions as involving multiple victims in Anchorage and Juneau. The FBI is seeking tips on usernames “NONAME20233132” or “DOCHANK” and has identified at least 11 other potential underage victims. If convicted, Valdez faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in federal prison, up to life.

Professional and Political Ties

Valdez served as Rauscher’s chief of staff since November 2025 and was chair of the Anchorage Young Republicans, later becoming the group’s state committee chair until his arrest. He was fired the same day the charges surfaced. Sen. Rauscher’s office referred questions to public court documents.

Next Steps

Valdez’s next court hearing is scheduled for Monday. Prosecutors are pushing for pretrial detention due to flight risk and community danger. The public is urged to contact the FBI Anchorage Field Office at 907-276-4441 or tips.fbi.gov with any information.