Interior Alaska Law Enforcement Team Up for Crime Suppression Operation
August 23, 2023 (FAIRBANKS, AK) – Last week, multiple law enforcement agencies from around Alaska conducted a joint-effort to disrupt the drug trade and associated criminal activity in the Fairbanks and North Pole area. The three-day effort, called Operation Fall Surprise, took place last week, August 16 - 18. More than a dozen local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies were involved in the effort.
Law enforcement seized approximately 270 grams of illegal narcotics with an estimated street value of $32,500. Investigators seized 139.5 grams of fentanyl pills or powder which is 69,750 potentially fatal doses.
“Your Alaska State Troopers are committed to working with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to hold those that traffic dangerous drugs accountable for their actions,” stated Major David Hanson, Deputy Director of the Alaska State Troopers. “We will continue to conduct operations like these across the state to make Alaska a safer state to live, work, visit and raise a family.”
A total of 68 arrests were made, including 30 warrant arrests, seven felony arrests and 18 misdemeanor arrests. Nine firearms were seized, including one which was stolen, as well as $9,367 in cash. More than 10 search warrants were executed, and three vehicles were impounded. Officers also conducted 173 traffic stops and contacted over 300 people in connection with this effort.
“The results of this operation really highlight the positive impact that law enforcement has on a community, especially with the coordinated and targeted effort from all these law enforcement agencies,” said Fairbanks Police Chief Ron Dupee. “FPD is committed to supporting any effort that makes our community safer and helps get illegal drugs off the streets of Fairbanks.”
Operation Fall Surprise was a joint operation consisting of more than 40 sworn law enforcement officers from a dozen local, state and federal agencies including the Alaska State Troopers, Fairbanks Police Department, North Pole Police Department, UAF Police Department, Fairbanks Airport Police Department, Anchorage Police Department, North Slope Borough Police Department, Alaska Department of Corrections, the US Marshals, FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Homeland Security Investigation.
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Troopers Increase Patrols to Crack Down on Impaired Drivers
August 16, 2023, (STATEWIDE) – Troopers will have increased high-visibility patrols on Alaska’s highways starting this week and continuing through the Labor Day holiday to prevent fatal and serious-injury crashes. While Troopers will focus on DUI enforcement for both alcohol and drugs, they will also watch for, aggressive driving, distracted driving, speeding and people not wearing their seatbelts.
“As the Labor Day holiday approaches, I want to remind everyone of the dangers of impaired driving. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not only illegal, but also irresponsible and deadly,” said Colonel Maurice Hughes, Director of the Division of Alaska State Troopers. “If you plan to drink or use drugs, make sure you have a designated driver, a taxi, or a ride-sharing service to get you home safely. Troopers will be conducting increased patrols throughout the holiday weekend to enforce the law and protect the public. Enjoy the holiday responsibly and help us keep our roads safe.”
The 2023 impaired driving national enforcement mobilization "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" goes into effect across the country from August 17 to September 5, 2023. One of the deadliest and most often committed - yet preventable - of crimes (impaired driving), has become a serious safety epidemic in our country.
Additionally, motorists witnessing others driving dangerously are encouraged to make a REDDI report (Report Every Dangerous Driver Immediately) by calling 911. To learn more about REDDI, visit http://www.dot.alaska.gov/stwdplng/hwysafety/REDDI.shtml.
Remember that traffic fines are doubled in construction zones and safety corridors. Regardless of what your ultimate plans are for the holiday weekend, Troopers encourage you to practice safe driving behaviors when operating a motor vehicle or watercraft.
Funding for this increased highway patrol effort come from the National DUI High Visibility Enforcement Campaign with funds issued through the Alaska Highway Safety Office.
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