U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman announced the progress of Operation Take Back America in Alaska, revealing that 39 defendants have been criminally charged within just over four months of the operation’s start. This initiative is part of a national effort to dismantle cartels and transnational criminal organizations, combat illegal immigration, and protect communities from violent crime and drug trafficking.
“Operation Take Back America has already been a huge success in Alaska,” stated U.S. Attorney Heyman. He emphasized the importance of focusing on national law enforcement priorities to enhance public safety, acknowledging the contributions of federal, state, and local partners.
David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Seattle Field Division, expressed pride in collaborating with partners in Alaska for this operation. “The amazing results so far speak to DEA’s commitment to work with our partners to make Alaska safe,” he said.
Rebecca Day, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Anchorage Field Office, highlighted the threat posed by transnational criminal organizations to both community safety and national security. She assured Alaskans that they can expect continued efforts against these threats through Operation Take Back America.
Jonathan Blais from the ATF Seattle Field Division noted that when various law enforcement agencies unite their strengths, it enhances overall safety against violent crime.
Among the cases charged between January 21 and June 10, 2025:
– In U.S. v. Mobley: Sean Mobley allegedly distributed carfentanil leading to one fatal overdose and faces up to life imprisonment if convicted.
– In U.S. v. Clifton et al: Corey Clifton and Elizabeth Cruickshank are accused of conspiring to distribute fentanyl and laundering drug proceeds; they face up to life imprisonment if convicted.
– In U.S. v. Kawanishi: Alexander Kawanishi allegedly shot an individual during a narcotics transaction; he faces up to 15 years if convicted.
A full list of cases charged under this operation includes offenses related to drug trafficking (DT), violent crime (VC), and immigration (I).
U.S. Attorney Heyman commended various federal agencies for their investigative roles leading to these charges and thanked state and local law enforcement partners for their assistance.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Alaska’s Criminal Division are prosecuting these cases while sentences will be determined by a federal district court judge considering guidelines and statutory factors.
All defendants remain presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
