Alaska State Senator’s Aide Arrested on Child Sex Trafficking Charges
Craig Scott Valdez, 36, of Anchorage, has been arrested and charged with sex trafficking of a minor and other child exploitation offenses, federal authorities announced Friday, February 21, 2026. Valdez, a staff member for Alaska State Senator George Rauscher, was arrested in Juneau by the FBI following an indictment by a federal grand jury.
Details of the Arrest and Charges
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska confirmed the arrest, stating that Valdez is believed to have targeted more than 10 juveniles across Alaska. The Department of Justice reported the indictment includes charges related to sex trafficking and child exploitation.
According to court documents, Valdez allegedly used Snapchat to groom and entice juvenile females for sexual exploitation. Prosecutors have identified at least 11 suspected juvenile victims beyond the one initially named in the indictment, based on a review of Valdez’s Snapchat and Cash App activity. Upper Michigan Source detailed the investigation’s findings.
Connection to State Senator George Rauscher
Valdez was employed as a staff member for State Senator George Rauscher, R-Sutton, and was listed on the Alaska Senate Minority website as working in both Anchorage and Juneau. Alaska Public Media reported that Valdez was terminated from his position on Friday, February 21, 2026, following the public disclosure of the charges.
Senator Rauscher released a statement expressing shock and stating his trust in the Justice Department to handle the investigation. He confirmed Valdez’s termination and indicated he had no further comment pending the outcome of the legal process.
Political Affiliations and Party Response
Valdez also held positions within the Alaska Republican Party, serving as chair of the Anchorage Young Republicans. Carmela Warfield, Chairman of the Alaska Republican Party, issued a statement condemning the alleged conduct and announcing Valdez’s removal from all party positions. The Upper Michigan Source quoted Warfield’s statement emphasizing the party’s zero tolerance for harming children.
Details of the Alleged Incident
The indictment relates to an incident in October 2025 involving a 15-year-vintage girl in Anchorage. Prosecutors allege Valdez lured the girl to his home with the intent to victimize her on his birthday. The girl’s mother intervened after tracking her daughter’s phone and discovering the situation, leading to Valdez fleeing the residence. The victim was reportedly intoxicated at the time.
Investigation and Call for Information
The FBI is continuing its investigation and has requested the public’s assistance. Anyone with information about Valdez or his online activity using the usernames NONAME20233132 and DOCHANK is urged to contact the FBI’s Anchorage office at 907-276-4441 or submit an anonymous tip online.
Potential Penalties
If convicted, Valdez faces a potential sentence of 15 years to life in federal prison.