Craig Scott Valdez, left, is shown alongside a Snapchat avatar, NONAME20233132, prosecutors allege he used to contact minors with the intent of sexually exploiting them, according to the federal detention memorandum in U.S. v. Valdez.
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | February 2026
The Anchorage Police Department and federal investigators are pressing forward with an active child exploitation investigation after the arrest of a former Alaska political staffer accused of targeting minors online. Officials are asking anyone with information to come forward.
Craig Scott Valdez, 36, a former chief of staff to Republican Wasilla state Senator George Rauscher and past leader within the Anchorage Young Republicans, was arrested Feb. 20 in Juneau following a federal grand jury indictment.
Prosecutors allege Valdez engaged in sex trafficking of a minor, production of child pornography, coercion and enticement of a juvenile, and possession of child sexual abuse material. The alleged conduct began in October 2025 and involved a 15-year-old victim. Investigators say digital evidence indicates other minors may have been targeted.
Authorities say Valdez used Snapchat to groom and lure juvenile girls in Anchorage and Juneau, including through accounts identified as “NONAME20233132” and “DOCHANK.” Law enforcement has not ruled out additional victims.
The case is being investigated jointly by the Anchorage Police Department and the FBI Anchorage Field Office through the Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska says the investigation remains open as agents review online communications, forensic records, and emerging leads.
Valdez made his initial federal court appearance in Juneau, with future hearings expected in Anchorage. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum 15-year prison sentence and could be sentenced to life in prison. He is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Officials are urging anyone with information about Valdez or his alleged online aliases to assist investigators. Tips involving Valdez or interactions connected to the usernames “NONAME20233132” and “DOCHANK” can be submitted anonymously at tips.fbi.gov or by calling the FBI Anchorage Field Office.
The case is listed as APD Case 25-31749 and remains under active investigation as authorities continue searching for potential additional victims.
