Drugs bound for Utqiagvik seized, arrests made

The Alaska State Troopers Statewide Drug Enforcement Unit recently conducted a focused enforcement effort to interdict illicit drugs and alcohol destined for Utqiagvik and the North Slope Borough. During the multi-day effort, 259 grams of methamphetamine, 48 grams of fentanyl powder, 600 counterfeit fentanyl pills, and 100 bottles of illicit alcohol were seized. The Utqiagvik street value of the seized narcotics and alcohol is over $220,000.

On December 8, 2023, drug investigators in Anchorage contacted 28-year-old Utqiagvik resident Christina Frantz. Further investigation revealed that Frantz had concealed 12 bottles of distilled spirits, 1.8 grams of methamphetamine, and 100 counterfeit M30 pills in her checked luggage. On December 13, 2023, Frantz was arrested and remanded to Hiland Mountain Correctional Center on charges of MICS 2, MICS 5, and Alcohol Beverages Transported By Common Carrier.t

On December 9, 2023, drug investigators detained 37-year-old Utqiagvik resident Salomi Nageak in Anchorage due to suspicious traveler behavior. Further investigation revealed 48 grams of methamphetamine and 500 counterfeit M30 fentanyl pills concealed on her person. Nageak was remanded to Hiland Mountain Correctional Center in Anchorage on charges of MICS 2, MICS 3, and VCOR.

On December 11, 2023, drug investigators identified a suspicious Utqiagvik-bound passenger at the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. Investigators contacted 41-year-old Utqiagvik resident Jessika Hopson. Further investigation determined that Hopson concealed roughly 210 grams of methamphetamine and 8 bottles of alcohol on her person and in checked baggage. Hopson was arrested and remanded to Hiland Mountain Correctional Center on charges of MICS3, MICS4, and Alcohol Beverages Transported By Common Carrier.t

Additional investigations are active and ongoing. The Alaska State Troopers are committed to interrupting drug trafficking and bootlegging that occurs across the State of Alaska. These efforts are led by the Alaska State Troopers Statewide Drug Enforcement Unit and our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners.