@ffire nf (general @5311 July 24, 2017 The Honorable Bill Walker Governor (at: State of Alaska Of?ce of the Governor do 3rd Floor, State Capitol 13.0. Box 110001 f: Juneau, AK 99811 Dear Governor Walker: Thank you for your letter of April 3, 2017, which I have attached to this letter as Exhibit A for your convenience. I am pleased that you share my concern for public health and safety and my belief that the federal and state governments should work together to address our country?s concerns with marijuana. Congress has determined that marijuana is a dangerous drug and that the illegal distribution and sale of marijuana is a crime. The Department remains committed to enforcing the Controlled Substances Act in a manner that ef?ciently applies our resources to address the most signi?cant threats to public health and safety. I look forward to working with you on these issues. I also read with interest the statement in your letter that you ?have worked . . . to establish robust regulatory structures that prioritize public health and public safety,? and that you believe that the 2013 Cole Memorandum, its eight enforcement priorities, and related memoranda are an ?indispensable? part of the ?framework? in your state. In that regard, I would note the concluding paragraph: ?nothing herein [in the Cole Memorandum] precludes investigation or prosecution, even in the absence of any one of the factors listed above, in particular circumstances where investigation and prosecution otherwise serves an important federal interest.? Thus, the memorandum ?does not alter in any way the Department?s authority to enforce federal law, including federal laws relating to marijuana, regardless of state law.? I also recently read the report released in 2016 by the Alaska State Troopers, entitled ?2015 Annual Drug Report.? (A copy of this report is attached as Exhibit B.) This report raises serious questions about whether marijuana ?regulatory structures? will be effective in your state, including ?ndings that: ?Marijuana is available throughout the state and is often viewed as a gateway drug for young adults and teenagers?; ?19.0% of high school students used marijuana within the last 30 days,? according to the most recent data in the report; ?Demand for Alaskan-grown marijuana continues to be high as a result of its exceptional tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content?; and The Honorable Bill Walker Page 2 0 Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Alaska State Troopers Statewide Drug Enforcement Unit ?does not place an emphasis on illegal marijuana enforcement.?- These ?ndings are relevant to the policy debate concerning marijuana legalization. I appreciate your offer to engage in a continuing dialogue on this important issue. To that end, please advise as to how Alaska plans to address the serious ?ndings in the Alaska State Troopers report, including efforts to ensure that all marijuana activity is compliant with state marijuana laws, to combat diversion of marijuana, to protect public health and safety, and to prevent marijuana use by minors. I also am open to suggestions on marijuana policy and related matters as we work to carry out our duties to effectively and faithfully execute the laws of the United States. You may direct your response and suggestions to the Intergovernmental Affairs and Public Liaison within the Of?ce of Legislative Affairs, which can help coordinate any communications logistics. I look forward to your response. Attorney General ALASKA COLORADO OREGON WASHINGTON April 3, 2017 Attorney General Jeff Sessions U.S. Department of Justice 950 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Washington, DC 20530 Secretary Steve Mnuchin U.S. Department of the Treasury 1500 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Washington, DC 20220 Attorney General Sessions and Secretary Mnuchin: As governors of states that have legalized marijuana in some form, we ask the Trump Administration to engage with us before embarking on any changes to regulatory and enforcement systems. The balance struck by the 2013 Department of Justice Cole Memorandum (Cole Memo) has been indispensable – providing the necessary framework for state regulatory programs centered on public safety and health protections. We understand you and others in the administration have some concerns regarding marijuana. We sympathize, as many of us expressed apprehensions before our states adopted current laws. As governors, we have committed to implementing the will of our citizens and have worked cooperatively with our legislatures to establish robust regulatory structures that prioritize public health and public safety, reduce inequitable incarceration and expand our economies. The Cole Memo and the related Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) guidance provide the foundation for state regulatory systems and are vital to maintaining control over marijuana in our states. Overhauling the Cole Memo is sure to produce unintended and harmful consequences. Changes that hurt the regulated market would divert existing marijuana product into the black market and increase dangerous activity in both our states and our neighboring states. Likewise, without the FinCEN guidance, financial institutions will be less willing to provide services to marijuana-related businesses. This would force industry participants to be even more cash reliant, posing safety risks both to the public and to state regulators conducting enforcement activity. The Cole Memo and FinCEN guidance strike a reasonable balance between allowing the states to enact reasonable regulations and the federal government’s interest in controlling some of the collateral consequences of legalization. Attorney General Jeff Sessions Secretary Steve Mnuchin April 3, 2017 Page 2 Twenty-eight states, representing more than 60 percent of Americans, have authorized some form of marijuana-related conduct. As we face the reality of these legalizations, we stand eager to work with our federal partners to address implementation and enforcement concerns cooperatively. The Cole Memorandum and the associated FinCEN guidance are critical to the success of any collaboration. We look forward to working with you and your administration. We stand ready to have further discussion on how these important federal policies work in our states. Sincerely, _________________________ _________________________ Bill Walker Governor State of Alaska John Hickenlooper Governor State of Colorado _________________________ _________________________ Kate Brown Governor State of Oregon Jay Inslee Governor State of Washington ALASKA STATE TROOPERS ALASKA BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION STATEWIDE DRUG ENFORCEMENT UNIT 2015 ANNUAL DRUG REPORT 2015 ANNUAL DRUG REPORT TABLE OF CONTENTS Table of Contents INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................................ 2 OUR MISSION ..................................................................................................................................................................... 3 STAFFING AND SUPPORT ............................................................................................................................................ 4 NATURE OF ALASKA’S DRUG AND ALCOHOL PROBLEM ............................................................................. 5 DRUGS OF CHOICE........................................................................................................................................................... 6 ALCOHOL .............................................................................................................................................................................. 6 COCAINE ............................................................................................................................................................................... 8 HEROIN ................................................................................................................................................................................. 9 MARIJUANA ...................................................................................................................................................................... 10 METHAMPHETAMINE ................................................................................................................................................. 11 PRESCRIPTION DRUGS ........................................................................................................................................... 12 SDEU ARREST SUMMARY 2015 ........................................................................................................................ 13 SDEU Canine Teams...................................................................................................................................................... 14 LOCAL, STATE, AND FEDERAL AGENCY SEIZURES 2015............................................................................. 15 DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION ......................................................................................................... 15 UNITED STATES POSTAL INSPECTION SERVICE ............................................................................................ 17 ALASKA FBI SAFE STREETS TASK FORCE .......................................................................................................... 18 DRUGS OF CHOICE: TOTAL STREET VALUE OF SEIZURES.......................................................................... 27 EMERGING TRENDS IN 2015 ............................................................................................................................. 28 ALASKA TRENDS ........................................................................................................................................................... 29 SUMMARY ......................................................................................................................................................................... 30 1 INTRODUCTION The Alaska State Troopers’ Statewide Drug and Alcohol Enforcement Unit (SDEU), in authoring this publication, has endeavored to represent the illicit drug and alcohol situation in Alaska in a manner that provides the broadest possible representation of data related to illegal drug and alcohol investigations across the state. There are numerous municipal, borough, state and federal agencies that conduct drug and alcohol investigations in Alaska. While some agencies have less formal relationships with the Alaska State Troopers, many work closely with the SDEU. Though not every law enforcement agency participated, in order to properly represent the illicit drug and alcohol situation in Alaska, data from many agencies was included in this report. Efforts have been made to standardize the data in a way that allows for ease of review and comparative analysis. Specific inquires about data provided in this report should be directed to the source agency. Numbers alone should not be the sole component when making an assessment of the impact illegal drugs and alcohol have in Alaska. Information from other entities should be considered when attempting to measure how illicit drugs and alcohol impact the citizens of this state. To get the most accurate picture of the illicit drug and alcohol situation within Alaska, we have included links to “Additional Resources” near the end of this report. The purpose of this report is an attempt to present policy makers and the public with an accurate summary of enforcement efforts and trends as reported by front-line law enforcement personnel in 2015. Additionally, the report attempts to describe emerging threats and, to some degree, the impact the illicit drug and alcohol trade has on crime in Alaska. This report does not diagnose the causation of addiction, or evaluate the availability and effectiveness of education and treatment efforts in Alaska. The SDEU encourages cooperation and partnerships with all stakeholders who are concerned with the impact drug and alcohol abuse and addiction has on our communities. Law enforcement has a role to play in reducing the availability of illicit substances, holding offenders accountable, and preventing crime and victimization. Law enforcement also has a role to play in providing education, participating in constructive dialog, and fostering positive relationships to build safer communities. Drug and alcohol abuse in Alaska is destroying lives and damaging communities. There is no single antidote. Alaskans from across the state and from all disciplines and experiences must come together to work on solutions. 2 OUR MISSION SDEU provides a team-building role in coordinating law enforcement’s efforts to reduce the availability of illegal alcohol and controlled substances throughout Alaska. SDEU recognizes that a successful alcohol and drug interdiction program depends upon a unified effort—blending traditional law enforcement techniques with demand reduction programs that address dependency, educational, social, and community concerns. Enforcement is simply one prong of what must be a coordinated, multi-pronged approach to health, wellness, education and accountability. SDEU’s Mission is to:  Interdict and seize alcohol and controlled substances that are illegally distributed throughout Alaska  Identify and arrest distributors of controlled substances and illegal alcohol  Provide and/or coordinate training and investigative support to criminal justice agencies  Support and participate in public education programs 3 STAFFING AND SUPPORT Because of Alaska’s geographical vastness, no single law enforcement agency is capable of addressing the illegal drug and alcohol issues alone. Using a combination of federal and state funding, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) helps to fund a number of multi-jurisdictional task forces around the state. SDEU encourages cooperative efforts between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and has taken a leadership role in fostering and developing many cooperative arrangements through multi-jurisdictional and/or multi-agency efforts. The SDEU headquarters out of Anchorage and primarily participates in six (6) investigative task forces throughout the state. These teams are broken down by region as follows:       Anchorage Enforcement Group (DEA sponsored Taskforce) Fairbanks Area-wide Narcotics Team Mat-Su Narcotics Enforcement Team South Central Area-wide Narcotics Team (SCAN) Southeast Alaska Cities Against Drugs Task Force (SEACAD) Western Alaska Alcohol and Narcotics Team (WAANT) Statewide Drug Enforcement Unit map Additional specific information on the individual units can be found at: http://dps.alaska.gov/AST/ABI/SDEU.aspx SDEU participates with, and receives assistance from, several investigative agencies involved in drug enforcement. These agencies include the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; the Internal Revenue Service (IRS); Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATFE); Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the United States Coast Guard (USCG). SDEU also works closely with local law enforcement agencies. 4 NATURE OF ALASKA’S DRUG AND ALCOHOL PROBLEM Members of Alaska's law enforcement community and others who are part of Alaska’s criminal justice system have long known that the greatest contributing factor to violent crimes—including domestic violence and sexual assault—is drug and alcohol abuse. Property crimes, such as burglary and theft, often have a drug and alcohol abuse nexus. It is also widely recognized that many of the accidental deaths that occur in Alaska are related to alcohol use. This is especially true in the western regions of the state and is evident in the statistics entered into the Alaska State Trooper case management systems. Drugs and alcohol continue to be a factor in intimate partner violence and sexual assault in Alaska. According to the 2015 Alaska Victimization Survey conducted by the University of Alaska-Anchorage (UAA), for every 100 adult women in Alaska, an estimated 40 have experienced intimate partner violence, 33 have experience sexual violence, and 50 have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual violence, or both. The survey revealed 22.6% experienced at least one alcohol or drug involved sexual assault in their lifetime. 2.0% experienced at least one alcohol or drug involved sexual assault in the past year. Additionally, according the UAA Justice Center’s “Descriptive Analysis of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Incidents Closed by the Alaska State Troopers: 2008–2011” alcohol use by domestic violence suspects or victims was documented in 67.78% of domestic violence cases reported to the Alaska State Troopers from 2008 through 2011. Alcohol use by sexual assault suspects or victims was documented in 39.3% of sexual assault incidents reported to the Troopers during the same timeframe. According to a July 2015 bulletin released by the Division of Public Health, State of Alaska Epidemiology, the rate of inpatient hospital discharges coded for heroin poisoning nearly doubled from 2.4 per 10,000 in 2008 to 4.7 per 10,000 population in 2012. Heroin-related inpatient and outpatient hospital costs exceeded $2 million. Heroin-associated deaths more than tripled from 2008 to 2013. During that timeframe, 72 people died with heroin use as the primary or a contributing cause of death. The number of Medicaid health care services payment requests for heroin poisoning increased almost ten-fold from 2004 to 2013. During the years 2009–2013, heroin-related admissions to publicly- funded substance use treatment centers nearly doubled, and the majority of patients admitted for heroin use treatment were aged 21–29 years. The number of treatment admissions for all patients reporting heroin as their primary substance of choice increased by 58% and the number of treatment admissions for patients aged 21–29 reporting heroin as their primary substance of choice increased by 74%. While there is no question that many aspects of the drug and alcohol problem are unique to Alaska, SDEU strives to provide a continuing and coordinated effort that not only meets the needs of Alaska, but also supports the National Drug Control Strategy. The strategy is a useful resource for anyone interested in learning what is being done—and what other work can be done— to stop drug production and trafficking, prevent drug use, and provide care for those who are addicted. For parents, teachers, community leaders, law enforcement officers, elected officials, ordinary citizens, and others concerned about the health and safety of our young people, the Strategy is a valuable tool that not only informs but also can serve as a catalyst to spark positive change. 5 The 2015 National Drug Control Strategy focuses on seven core areas:        Preventing drug use in our communities Seeking early intervention opportunities in health care Integrating treatment for substance use disorders into health care to support recovery Breaking the cycle of drug use, crime, and incarceration Disrupting domestic drug trafficking and production Strengthening international partnerships Improving information systems to better address drug use and its consequences DRUGS OF CHOICE Alcohol, heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, prescription drugs, and marijuana continue to be the primary substances abused. Synthetic cannabinoids appear to have impacted some communities while other areas of the state do not appear to have an appetite for them. Trends of poly-drug use (the use of two or more psychoactive drugs in combination to achieve a particular effect) are being widely reported, in particular the combination of heroin and methamphetamine. During 2015, the SDEU investigated three clandestine methamphetamine labs; there were none in 2014. Despite progress in eradicating methamphetamine labs throughout the state and enhanced methamphetamine precursor laws in 2006, methamphetamine continues to be one of the most prolific drugs in Alaska and arrives mostly from sources outside of Alaska. Alaska continues to experience a significant increase of heroin abuse and the abuse of other opiates (including various opioid-based prescription medications) primarily in the urban areas. While alcohol and marijuana continue to overwhelmingly be the drugs of choice for rural Alaska, seizures of methamphetamine, heroin, and prescription drugs were prevalent in smaller rural communities in 2015. ALCOHOL Alaska’s criminal justice professionals recognize that alcohol is the primarily abused substance in Alaska. Alcohol is often involved in many violent, suicidal, and accidental deaths, particularly in rural areas of the state. Currently, 109 communities have voted in favor of local option statutes prohibiting the sale, importation, and/or possession of all alcohol. Because alcohol remains legal in many areas of Alaska, bootlegging activities continue to be problematic in the local option communities. Alcohol is frequently transported to the villages via the U.S. Postal Service, local air carriers, private aircraft, boat, snow machines, and express mailing services. Bootlegging alcohol of all types has become a very lucrative business in rural Alaska. The United States Postal Inspector continues to support the cross deputation of investigators in SDEU’s Western Alaska Alcohol and Narcotics Team. This program is believed to be the only one of its kind in the United States. The economics of the illegal sales of alcohol is staggering. The initial purchase for the bootlegger 6 involves a minimal cash investment yields a significant cash return. For example, a bootlegger can legally purchase a 750-milliliter bottle of alcohol for $10 or less in an urban liquor store. The same bottle of alcohol in Bethel, Kotzebue, or Barrow, where the sale of alcohol is illegal, may sell for $50. In more remote communities where alcohol is banned, alcohol can easily sell for $150 to over $300 per bottle, depending on supply and demand. Alcohol Seized (Gallons) 2013 394 Alcohol Related Charges/Arrests 2013 214 SDEU Alcohol Statistics 2014 385 2015 357 2014 174 2015 196 7 COCAINE Cocaine continues to be a widely used and is a lucrative drug for sale in Alaska. Cocaine is available in most areas of the state and is seen in powder form. Crack cocaine is more common in the major urban areas such as Anchorage and Fairbanks. Cocaine is brought into Alaska concealed on passengers or in luggage, through ports of entry, such as the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. It is also shipped via the U.S. Postal Service or commercial parcel companies such as FedEx, DHL or UPS. The cocaine brought into Alaska is typically packaged in kilogram quantities and later broken down by dealers into smaller quantities for retail sale. In powder form, it is normally sold in gram quantities for $100-$150 and its primary method of ingestion is by snorting. Crack dealers use a process involving powder cocaine, water, baking soda and heat to produce crack cocaine, which is then sold in small rocks for $20. The primary method of use for crack is by smoking. The statistics below show powder and crack cocaine seized by all task forces where SDEU investigators are assigned. Cocaine Seized (Pounds) 2013 14.58 Cocaine Related Charges/Arrests 2013 37 SDEU Cocaine Statistics 2014 31.36 2015 6.40 2014 31 2015 20 8 HEROIN Heroin is a highly addictive drug derived from morphine which is obtained from the opium poppy. It is a depressant that affects the brain’s pleasure systems and interferes with the brain’s ability to perceive pain. It can be found in a variety of forms. In a powder form it ranges in color from white to brown. Heroin also comes as a tar-like substance. Heroin is used in a variety of ways, depending on the user’s preference and the purity of the drug. Heroin can be injected into a vein or muscle, smoked in a water pipe or standard pipe, mixed into a marijuana joint or regular cigarette, inhaled as smoke through a straw, or snorted as a powder via the nose. The short term effects of heroin appear soon after a single dose and disappear after a few hours. After an injection of heroin, the user reports feeling a surge of euphoria accompanied by a warm flushing of the skin, a dry mouth, and heavy extremities. Heroin use is not isolated to the urban areas of Alaska. Undercover buys and interdictions of heroin have been reported in several smaller communities. Heroin is primarily imported into Alaska via parcels and body carries. Investigations have shown that heroin use crosses socio-economic boundaries. Heroin Seized (Pounds) 2013 55.12 Heroin Charges/Arrests 2013 151 SDEU Heroin Statistics 2014 22.42 2015 6.67 2014 209 2015 233 9 MARIJUANA Marijuana is available throughout the state and is often viewed as a gateway drug for young adults and teenagers. The 2015 Alaska Youth Risk Behavior Survey conducted by State of Alaska Department of Health and Social Services indicates that 19.0% of high school students used marijuana within the last 30 days. Demand for Alaskan-grown marijuana continues to be high as a result of its exceptional tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content. In November of 2014, Alaska voters passed Ballot Measure 2, an initiative to legalize recreational use of marijuana, allowing for the regulation and taxation of the drug in a manner similar to alcohol. The initiative made the use and possession of up to one ounce of marijuana legal for persons over the age of 21, beginning February 24, 2015. With the changes to Alaska Statutes regarding marijuana, SDEU does not place an emphasis on illegal marijuana enforcement. However, investigations will occur if complaints are received from the public. Frequently, investigators respond when state law and federal law are in conflict, such as transport on federally regulated commercial carriers. It is yet to be determined how the commercial manufacturing of marijuana and associated products will impact the SDEU. SDEU Marijuana Statistics Processed Marijuana Seized (Pounds) 2013 295.79 Marijuana Related Charges/Arrests 2013 669 Marijuana Grows Eradicated 2013 38 Marijuana Plants Seized 2013 2,351 2014 169.65 2015 119.28 2014 716 2015 290 2014 38 2015 18 2014 2,621 2015 1,871 10 METHAMPHETAMINE Methamphetamine use continues to be an issue throughout the United States, including Alaska. Methamphetamine, also known as meth, speed, crank, crystal, and ice, produces an increase in energy and alertness and a decrease in appetite. The effects, which include an intense rush, have been reported to last up to 36 hours. It can be smoked, snorted, injected, or taken orally. The collection of hazardous materials associated with the seizure of a methamphetamine lab requires certified clean-up professionals to respond to the location to collect and containerize large items as well as various chemicals found at the site. These containers are then transported to a location for safe, long-term storage or destruction. Methamphetamine labs have been discovered in recent years in single and multi-family residences in many neighborhoods. In addition to meth labs producing illegal—and often deadly—drugs, the clandestine nature of the manufacturing process and the presence of ignitable, corrosive, reactive, and toxic chemicals at the sites, have resulted in explosions, fires, toxic fumes, and irreparable damage to human health and to the environment. Homes where methamphetamine labs are present are reported to the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation which maintains an online listing of these addresses, a link to which can be found below. Reoccupation of these properties often requires expensive remediation. Meth Labs Seized 2013 5 SDEU Meth Statistics Meth Seized (Pounds) 2013 11.53 Meth Related Charges/Arrests 2013 187 2014 0 2015 3 2014 31.15 2015 33.73 2014 232 2015 225 http://dec.alaska.gov/spar/perp/methlab/ methlab_listing.htm 11 PRESCRIPTION DRUGS Throughout the state of Alaska, the abuse of prescription drugs continues to be a significant problem. Not only does the abuse of prescription drugs create a health hazard for the users, it creates a financial impact upon the communities. The drugs vary in price and can cost anywhere from one dollar per milligram to two dollars per milligram, depending on availability. With the increased demand for drugs and a shortening of supply, many abusers may not have the money or insurance to pay for their addiction, thus increasing property and violent crimes in communities. It has been reported that tens of thousands of dollars are being spent to feed this growing abuse and addiction. The abuse of opioid medications continued to be a significant issue in 2015. These drugs are sought for their pharmaceutical purity and their ability to alter the central nervous system. Some drug manufactures have made changes to their medications to make the illicit use of those drugs more difficult and it is widely believed this has led to the increased popularity of heroin. Prescription drugs have been linked to the following crimes: homicide, assault, prescription fraud, home invasion thefts, property thefts, and pharmacy robberies. People who are addicted to prescription drugs facilitate their addiction by doctor shopping, pharmacy shopping, forgery, and purchasing the drugs via the internet. Law enforcement is especially concerned for the welfare of particularly vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, and those with severe long-term illnesses, such as cancer. It is the intent of SDEU to increase pressure on those involved in the non-medical use, abuse, and sales of these addictive drugs, by applying tried and true narcotics investigation techniques, and whenever prudent, partnering with the DEA and FBI to charge these crimes in the federal system. SDEU Prescription Drug Statistics Hydrocodone Seized (Dosage Units) 2013 1311 OxyContin/Oxycodone Seized (Dosage Units) 2013 1419 2014 796 2015 1257 2014 1183 2015 255 All Other Prescription Drugs Seized (Dosage Units) 2013 2014 2,485 955 2015 697 12 SDEU ARREST SUMMARY 2015 Charges & Arrests Previous Year Comparison SDEU Charges and Arrests by Drug Type 2014 2015 Alcohol Cocaine Marijuana Alcohol Cocaine Marijuana Heroin Prescription Meth Heroin Prescription Meth 16% 7% 2% 12% 19% 22% 2% 6% 14% 49% 28% 23% SDEU Charges and Arrests per Year* Arrests SDEU Charges and Arrests by Substance 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Alcohol Cocaine Marijuana Heroin Prescription Meth 2014 174 31 716 209 96 232 2015 196 20 290 233 59 225 *Statistics represent charges and arrests by SDEU only 13 SDEU Canine Teams The Statewide Drug and Alcohol Enforcement Unit currently utilize three canine teams. The canine teams work solely as single purpose, scent detection canines. Two of the drug detection canines are assigned to in the DEA Taskforce group based Anchorage, and the third is based in Ketchikan but will respond to any location in the state. The scent detection canine teams are frequently called to assist other agencies. The results of those individual efforts are reported in the responsible agencies seizure report, if provided. Because not all agencies provided seizure data, the following paragraph is a “stand alone” summary of the scent detection canine activity for 2015. In 2015, the SDEU Canine Teams were directly involved in 76 felony arrests, 15 misdemeanor arrests, the seizure of 1,341.54 grams of heroin, 7,565.25 grams of cocaine, 11,602.2 grams of methamphetamine, 43,148.34 grams of marijuana, and $389,019.31 cash from drug proceeds. Alaska State Trooper Canine Kilo retired this year after 10 years of service. The long haired German shepherd conducted more than 400 searches and was instrumental in the seizure of a total of approximately 122 kilos of marijuana, seven kilos of methamphetamines, 16 kilos of heroin, 19.5 kilos of cocaine, and $1.8 million in cash and property involved in the illicit drug industry. These seizures were acquired while Kilo worked as a single-purpose canine with Alaska State Troopers drug investigators. 14 LOCAL, STATE, AND FEDERAL AGENCY SEIZURES 2015 DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in Alaska is deeply committed to working with all federal, state, and local drug units to enhance and facilitate investigations of major offenders throughout Alaska. The DEA in Alaska is broken down into the Anchorage District Office (DO) and the Fairbanks Task Force Group. The Task Force Groups are comprised of DEA Agents as well as local, state and federal law enforcement officers. Each group is led by a DEA Supervisor. DEA in Alaska also has the resources to support investigations and federal prosecutions in jurisdictions outside of Anchorage and Fairbanks when requested. DEA 360 Strategy In 2015, the DEA announced its “360 Strategy” to address heroin, prescription drugs and violent crime. The program serves as a model for communities struggling to break the cycle of drug trafficking, abuse and violence. The DEA 360 Strategy comprises a three-fold approach to fighting drug traffickers: • • • Continue to provide DEA leadership with coordinated DEA enforcement actions targeting all levels of drug trafficking organizations and violent gangs supplying drugs in our neighborhoods Have a long-lasting impact by engaging drug manufacturers, wholesalers, practitioners and pharmacists to increase awareness of the heroin and prescription drug problem and push for responsible prescribing and use of these medications throughout the medical community Change attitudes through community outreach and partnership with local organizations following DEA enforcement actions to equip and empower communities with the tools to fight the heroin and prescription drug epidemic In the short term, the goal of the 360 strategy is to provide as much information as possible in many different forms to reach young people. Officials will work to form a “Community Alliance” that will comprise key leaders from law enforcement, prevention, treatment, the judicial system, education, business, government, civic organizations, faith communities, media, social services and others, to form a long-term group that will cross disciplines to help carry the prevention and treatment messages to the local population during the critical postoperation timeframe. 15 NATIONAL PRESCRIPION DRUG TAKE BACK PROGRAM This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. In an effort to address this problem, the U.S. Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration, Office of Diversion Control, in conjunction with state and local law enforcement agencies throughout the United States, work together collaboratively to provide a venue for persons who want to dispose of unwanted and unused prescription drugs. This effort has proven to be a huge success in removing potentially dangerous prescription drugs, particularly controlled substances, from our nation’s medicine cabinets. In 2015, the DEA Take Back Program collected 2,766 pounds of expired/unused prescription medicine at nine collection sites throughout the State of Alaska. Please check the following website after April 1st for an announcement on the next Take-Back Initiative. http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback/index.html 2015 DEA Drug Seizures Substance Seized Amphetamine Marijuana Cocaine Heroin Total Amount 9797.59 grams 5624.54 grams 6000 grams 2766.91 grams Total Street Value $2,939,277.00 $168,736.20 $600,000.00 $1,245,109.00 Tip Line: (907) 271-5033 16 UNITED STATES POSTAL INSPECTION SERVICE As one of the nation’s oldest federal law enforcement agencies, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) is mandated to safeguard the entire Postal Service system which includes more than 600,000 employees who process and deliver the mail and the millions of customers who use it. U.S. Postal Inspectors protect the U.S. Postal Service, and its employees, infrastructure, and customers; enforce more than 200 federal statutes that defend the nation’s mail system from illegal or dangerous use; and ensure public trust in the mail. The current Inspection Service staff in Alaska includes a Team Leader, six (6) Postal Inspectors, and an administrative support technician. USPIS has already hired an additional Inspector to backfill positions opening this year in order to maintain the current complement on hand and further maintain the scope of activities in Alaska which includes, among other things, narcotics investigations. The Alaska team is responsible for investigating all violations of federal law that utilize the U.S. Mail or affect the U.S. Post Office. These violations include burglaries of Post Offices, assaults on employees, Mail Fraud, Mail Theft and the distribution of illegal substances through the U.S. Mail. Since 2012, the USPIS proactively seeks illegal drug shipments in the mail by conducting ongoing and routine narcotics interdictions in several locations including Southeast (SE) Alaska. A multijurisdictional approach is essential in addressing the flow of illegal narcotics to and from, as well as within, Alaska. USPIS works closely with its partners in law enforcement to combat the drug problem in Alaska; not by going after the addicts, but by devoting valuable resources in investigating the dealers, suppliers, and drug trafficking organizations. USPIS also supplemented personnel resources from around the country in Seattle for periods at a time to assist with ridding the mail of illicit drug trafficking destined for SE Alaska. Seattle is the gateway for mail originating from the lower 48 states, as well as international mail parcels destined for SE Alaska. Postal Inspectors collaborated in these operations with the FBI, DEA, HSI, Alaska State Troopers, Juneau PD, Sitka PD, SEACAD, Petersburg PD, Ketchikan PD, Skagway PD, and others. These efforts have been successful as Postal Inspectors, together with its partners in law enforcement, have made numerous arrests annually and seized quantities of illegal narcotics, cash profits, weapons, and other contraband related to these investigations. Law enforcement agencies also pool valuable intelligence and continue to adjust resources jointly as criminals rotate their methods of entry and distribution of drugs in Alaska. In addition to the attention the USPIS has given to SE Alaska, it regularly conducts profiling operations throughout the rest of the state, including, but not limited to, Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Barrow. USPIS will continue to partner with all of our law enforcement partners to not only search for illegal drug shipments, but also illegal alcohol shipments. Inspectors, in addition to working in Anchorage, have traveled regularly to the North Slope Borough, Fairbanks, and villages across the state to assist the communities in ridding illegal narcotics and illegal alcohol. The state of Alaska continues to see and struggle with epidemic levels of drug and alcohol abuse that has been ravaging and disrupting villages. The U.S. Postal Service has no interest in being the unwitting accomplice to anyone using the U.S. Mail to distribute illegal drugs, alcohol, or paraphernalia. The Inspection Service is committed to the mission and will continue all efforts together with law enforcement partners to rid the mail of illicit trafficking of drugs and alcohol, preserve the integrity of the mail, and most importantly, provide a safe environment for postal employees and U.S. Postal Service customers - the American public. 17 ALASKA FBI SAFE STREETS TASK FORCE In 1991, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) started the Safe Streets Initiative. This endeavor combined subject matter experts from federal, state, and local law enforcement alongside local and federal prosecutors. The objective was to identify, investigate, and prosecute the most violent offenders, criminal enterprises, and gangs in their jurisdictional areas. Prosecution at a state or federal level was determined by one simple factor – what avenue would provide the maximum sentencing for these violent offenders. This approach was so successful it spawned multiple “Safe Streets” task forces to include those that specifically formulated to address violent gangs, violent incident crimes, and violent crimes against children. Throughout the FBI there are approximately 164 gangoriented Safe Streets Task Forces (SSTF), 70 Violent Crimes Against Children Task Forces (VCACTF), 41 Violent Incident Task Forces, and 14 Tribal Task Forces. The Alaska SSTF is dedicated to working with its state and local partners to identify, disrupt, and dismantle violent criminal organizations, violent gangs, individual repeat violent offenders, and violent drug trafficking organizations. The critical component in the Safe Streets Initiatives is to direct the task forces expertise and resources against the communities “worst of the worst”. While the SSTF conducts seizures of illegally gained assets and illegal narcotics as required by law, success is not measured in this manner nor by quantities of seizures. The SSTF rates success via disruptions1 and dismantlements2 of violent organizations and long term sentencing of repeat violent offenders as well as overall positive community impact throughout Alaska. The FBI currently operates the Safe Streets Violent Gang Task Force with members from Anchorage Police Department (3), Juneau PD (1), Kodiak PD (3), Petersburg PD (1), the ATF (1) and the United States Coast Guard Investigative Service (USCGIS) (2). Associate (or part-time) members include the DEA, Kenai PD, Alaska State Troopers, and IRS. The FBI has approximately 10 Special Agents working SSTF matters. In March of 2016, The Alaska State Troopers will join the SSTF as a full time member, making it the largest federal, state, and local law enforcement blended task force in the state of Alaska. Statistical Accomplishments Indictments Arrests Weapons Disruption Dismantlement 36 34 12 10 1 FY 14 17 40 19 11 1 FY 15 FY 16* 20 20 2 (pending 14) 2 2 *This represents a period starting in October 1, 2015 through February 29, 2016 (less than 5 months) 1Disruptions are critical SSTF statistical accomplishment which represents a law enforcement action that “disrupts” daily activities of a criminal enterprise (CE) and/or Violent Gang.2Dismantlement is the premiere task force statistical accomplishment and is the goal of every SSTF investigation. Dismantlement is claimed only when every member of the CE and/or Violent Gang has been convicted or maximum sentence achieved such as life on a primary subject. Substance Seized Cocaine Heroin Methamphetamines Prescription pills Total Amount 1999.88 grams 5.3 grams 7076.04 grams 41.6 grams Total Street Value $199,988.00 $2385.00 $2,122,812.00 No street value given 18 ANCHORAGE POLICE DEPARTMENT The Anchorage Police Department (APD) serves a growing population of more than 300,000 residents in an area of varying terrain that comprises nearly 200 square miles. APD has grown more than 30% over the last ten years in response to the population increase. With an authorized strength of 514 commissioned and civilian positions, APD is the largest law enforcement agency in the state. Substance Seized Cocaine/Crack Hash/Hash Oil Heroin Marijuana Marijuana Edibles Methamphetamine Synthetic Cannabinoids “Spice” Total Amount 7126.63 grams 5239.7 grams 4219.99 grams 70096.8 grams 25110.18 grams 8319.75 grams 9733.30 grams Total Street Value $712,663.00 $130,992.50 $1,054,997.50 $1,752,420.00 $627,754.50 $1,247,962.50 $48,666.50 *The Anchorage Police Department seized a significant amount of prescription controlled substances, both illicit medications and legitimate medications. At the time of this report, data identifying only illicit medications was unavailable therefore that data is not reported. TOTAL VALUE OF DRUGS SEIZED: $5,575,459.50 19 Synthetic Cannabinoids What is “Spice” Synthetic cannabinoids refer to a growing number of manmade mind-altering chemicals that are either sprayed on dried, shredded plant material so they can be smoked (herbal incense) or sold as liquids to be vaporized and inhaled in e-cigarettes and other devices (liquid incense). National Institute on Drug Abuse Why is Spice so Popular?  Easily Purchased Over the counter at local smoke shops & Mom and Pop Store generally behind the counter or in back rooms  Ordered Through Internet About $5 per gram  Hard to Prosecute Field test kits can’t keep up Has to be sent to State Crime Lab Labeled not for human consumption Alaska Division of Public Health/CDC Investigation revealed:  The investigation documented the first large-scale outbreak of illness associated with synthetic cannabinoid use in Alaska  The outbreak was protracted, affected a large number of persons,  Was associated with severe health outcomes including death  Relative to recent and similar outbreaks in other states, unique features of the MOA outbreak included: • Significant impact on homeless population • Multiple chemicals in circulation simultaneously • Majority of tested samples contained a mix of distinct chemicals • Evidence of liquid products that could be ingested by vaping 20 Anchorage Airport Police and Fire Anchorage Airport Police and Fire is responsible for law enforcement and aircraft rescue firefighting at the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. All of its officers have attended a police academy and are Alaska Police Standards Council certified. Additional training includes a firefighting academy, aircraft rescue, and emergency trauma technician certification. There is an extensive field training program. Those on police duty are familiar with city, state, and federal laws and regulations. Since 9-11 the officers have additional duties at the airport’s screening checkpoints. Other specialized duties include Ice Rescue team and Explosive Disposal Team. One officer is assigned to the Statewide Drug Detail and DEA Task force. Substance Seized Marijuana Heroin Methamphetamine Cocaine Hydrocodone Oxycodone Methadone Xanax Total Amount 3182 grams 11 grams 11.7 grams 4 grams 100 pills 16 pills 8 pills 8 pills Total Street Value $95,460.00 $4,950.00 $3,510.00 $400.00 $2,500.00 $400.00 $200.00 $200.00 TOTAL VALUE OF DRUGS SEIZED: $107,620.00 Bristol Bay Borough Police Department Located on the Alaska Peninsula in southwestern Alaska at the head of Kvichak Bay, Bristol Bay Borough was organized in 1962 and is Alaska’s oldest borough. The population of 900 spikes to more than 10,000 in the late spring and summer months to help support the world’s largest commercial Sockeye Salmon fishery. King Salmon serves as a hub for most of the Alaska Peninsula. In addition to providing police services for Bristol Bay Borough, which is comprised of the communities of King Salmon, Naknek and South Naknek, the Bristol Bay Borough Police Department (BBBPD) dispatches for police, AST, AWT, Fire Department, EMTs, and after hours for Katmai National Park Rangers. They also operate a contract detention facility, DMV. In 2015, BBBPD seized 21.88 grams of heroin with an estimated value of $43,800.00. 21 Craig Police Department The city of Craig is located on Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska and is surrounded by the Tongass National Forest. The island is the third largest in the United States. Craig Police Department serves an 11.5 square mile area, with a population that varies between 2,000 and 6,000, depending on tourism and commercial and charter fishing. The 24-hour dispatch center is the only one on the island and provides varied services for multiple agencies. The dispatch center handles an average of over 21,000 calls for service annually and operates a five-cell jail facility. In 2015, Craig Police Department made nine drug-related arrests with 5 five drug charges and served eight search warrants in relation to these arrests. Substance Seized Methamphetamine Marijuana Vicodin Percocet Oxycodone 5 MG Total Amount 82.1 grams 9 grams 1 pill 1 pill 2 Pills Total Street Value $16,420.00 $265.00 $20.00 $40.00 $200.00 TOTAL VALUE OF DRUGS SEIZED: $16,945.00 Fairbanks Police Department Fairbanks, the Golden Heart City, was founded in 1902 as a trading post in the Tanana Valley. With the discovery of gold that same year, a boom followed as Fairbanks became a service center supporting nearby gold mining operations. Today, Fairbanks has a population of 32,000. With an authorized strength of 47 commissioned personnel, the Fairbanks Police Department (FPD) is unable to maintain a designated drug investigation unit. The FPD does however provide support to the SDEU (Fairbanks Area-wide Narcotics Team) with a fulltime investigator on a rotational basis. The regional Dispatch Center, formerly a component of Fairbanks Police Department, was reorganized into its own department in 2006. In 2015, Fairbanks Police Department made 48 drug-related arrests with 63 drug charges. Substance Seized Crack Cocaine Cocaine Amphetamine/Methamphetamine Marijuana Heroin Percocet Total Amount 6.14 grams 230.5 grams 242 grams 526 grams 222.8 grams 60 pills Total Street Value $614.00 $23,050.00 $72,600.00 $15,780.00 $100,260.00 $1,500.00 TOTAL VALUE OF DRUGS SEIZED: $213,804.00 22 Homer Police Department Homer is located on the southern tip of the Kenai Peninsula along Kachemak Bay. The city limits cover about 21 square miles with a population of 5,000. The major industry is fishing; other industry includes various types of construction and tourism. The Homer Police Department (HPD) provides dispatch service to the Homer fire department, EMT services and rescue units, State Park Rangers, harbor officers, and public works department. HPD operates a contract jail facility for arrestees and prisoners serving sentences up to 10 days. In 2015, Homer Police Department made 17 drug-related arrests with 34 drug charges and served seven search warrants in relation to these arrests. Substance Seized Methamphetamine Heroin Marijuana Cocaine Alprazolam/Xanax Clonazepam/Valium Oxycodone Hydrocodone/Vicodin Suboxone Total Amount 5.6 grams 5.56 grams 9.4 grams 3.2 grams 17 tablets 3 tablets 16 tablets 1 tablet 33 tablets Total Street Value $1,680.00 $2,502.00 $282.00 $320.00 $425.00 $75.00 $400.00 $25.00 $825.00 TOTAL VALUE OF DRUGS SEIZED: $6,534.00 Juneau Police Department The Juneau Police Department (JPD) provides general police services to the citizens of Juneau, Alaska covering an area of 3,081 square miles and a population nearing 32,000. The department consists of two divisions: Administrative Support Services and Operations. Within these divisions, there are six units: Patrol, Criminal Investigations Unit, Drug Enforcement Unit, Community Service, Records and Dispatch. The department also maintains specialized teams: Special Weapons and Tactical (SWAT), Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) and Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT). In 2015, the Drug Enforcement Unit initiated 38 cases with 15 controlled buys, three controlled deliveries, seven agency assists, and one airport interdiction. Additionally, 17 search warrants were served. Sixteen defendants were charged with 29 crimes, and two arrest warrants were served. Substance Seized Marijuana Marijuana Plants Heroin Methamphetamine Cocaine Prescription pills Total Amount 5502.05 grams 148 337.76 grams 1572.89 grams 197.79 grams 312 pills Total Street Value $137,551.00 $296,000.00 $270,184.00 $416,816.00 $25,024.00 $15,880.00 TOTAL VALUE OF DRUGS SEIZED: $1,161,455.00 23 Ketchikan Police Department Ketchikan is located in Southeast Alaska. Commonly referred to as “Alaska’s first City,” Ketchikan is the first city reached by vessels traveling up the inside passage. The city and borough populations are around 7,500 and 14,500, respectively. Ketchikan is visited by close to a million tourists annually. Ketchikan Police Department has an active bike patrol team. Other programs include Crime Stoppers, Officer Friendly and Drug Enforcement Team. In 2015, Ketchikan Police Department made 35 drug-related arrests with 65 drug charges. Substance Seized Marijuana DAB/WAX Heroin Methamphetamine Total Amount 674 grams 157.5 grams 505.2 grams Total Street Value $33,700.00 $78,750.00 $252,600.00 TOTAL VALUE OF DRUGS SEIZED: $365,050.00 Kenai Police Department Kenai lies on the east shore of Cook Inlet at the mouth of the Kenai River. The city of Kenai has a base population of 7,100 which expands during the summer months due to tourism and an active commercial fishing industry. The community also acts as a base for the local oil industry, both on and offshore. The Kenai Police Department was formed in 1969. Community programs include D.A.R.E., Crime Stoppers, Neighborhood Watch, and Business Watch. In 2015, Kenai Police Department made 44 drug-related arrests with 99 drug charges. Substance Seized Marijuana Methamphetamine Heroin Prescription Pills Cocaine Total Amount 32.29 grams 138.13 grams 156.6 grams 57.5 pills .4 grams Total Street Value $968.70 $41,439.00 $70,470.00 $6,337.50 $40.00 TOTAL VALUE OF DRUGS SEIZED: $119,255.20 24 Kodiak Police Department The Kodiak Archipelago covers nearly 5,000 square miles and is roughly the size of the state of Connecticut. Kodiak Island is the largest island in Alaska and the second largest island in the United States. The Kodiak Police Department (KPD) is the principal law enforcement agency and provides twenty-four patrol, criminal investigation support, animal control and parking enforcement services. The KPD Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) provides communication support and dispatch services to all police, fire and EMS agencies operating in Kodiak. They also operate the Kodiak Jail, the newest and busiest non-state jail in the entire state of Alaska. In 2015, Kodiak Police Department made 59 drug-related arrests with 59 drug charges and served five search warrants in relation to these arrests. Substance Seized Heroin Methamphetamine Prescription pills (opiates) Total Amount 126 grams 171 grams 5 grams Total Street Value $63,000.00 $51,300.00 $1,000.00 TOTAL VALUE OF DRUGS SEIZED: $115,300.00 North Pole Police Department The City of North Pole is located 13 miles southeast of Fairbanks and got its start in 1944, when the area was homesteaded. The city of North Pole has about 35 miles of roads and 2,100 residents. The population doubles daily during the school year as children from the surrounding area are brought in to attend city schools. With Eielson AFB eight miles south and Fort Wainwright seven miles north, the city has a surrounding population of about another 15,000 people. Dispatch is currently contracted out to Fairbanks Dispatch Center. In 2015 North Pole Police Department made 13 drug-related arrests with 13 drug charges and served 1 search warrant in relation to these arrests. Substance Seized Methamphetamine Crack Cocaine Hydrocodone Marijuana Opium Total Amount 1.1 grams 1 gram 2 grams 29.21 grams 2 milligrams Total Street Value $109.99 $300.00 $10.44 $289.54 $80.00 TOTAL VALUE OF DRUGS SEIZED: $798.97 25 Seward Police Department Seward is located at the head of Resurrection Bay, with a population of 2,800 people. Seward is the site of Spring Creek Correctional Facility, a maximum security institution, and the terminus for the Alaska Railroad. Each Fourth of July, thousands of spectators come to watch hundreds of runners participate in the grueling Marathon Mountain Race, which is possibly the toughest running race on the American continent. Seward Police Department provides dispatch service for Seward Volunteer Ambulance Corps, three fire departments, Alaska State Troopers, United States Coast Guard, Forest Service, Park Service, National Marine Fisheries, Harbor Master, and Seward Public Utilities. The agency is the hub in all emergency situations, coordinating all emergency services and civil defense. The department is also responsible for running the Seward Community Jail. In 2015, Seward Police Department made 20 drug-related arrests with 41 drug charges and served six search warrants in relation to these arrests. Substance Seized Marijuana Heroin (black tar) Methamphetamine Cocaine Psilocybin Mushrooms Hydrocodone Clonazepam Total Amount 79.15 grams .1 grams 2.7 grams .4 grams 33 grams 2 pills 12 pills Total Street Value $1,147.67 $50.00 $432.00 $70.00 $495.00 $20.00 $120.00 TOTAL VALUE OF DRUGS SEIZED: $2,334.67 26 Soldotna Police Department The Soldotna Police Department serves a resident population of more than 4,000 year-round residents and a local population of more than 15,000 residents who come into the area for services and daily work. Located in the center of Alaska’s beautiful Kenai Peninsula, there is a summer influx of sportsmen and visitors numbering in the tens of thousands, which adds to the demands placed upon city services. In 2015, Soldotna Police Department made 27 drug-related arrests with 41 drug charges and served nine search warrants in relation to these arrests. Substance Seized Marijuana Cocaine Methamphetamine Methamphetamine (powder) Heroin (Black) Heroin (brown) Brown Heroin Diazepam Oxymorphone Hydrochloride Oxycodone Xanax Alprazolam Acetaminophen/Hydrocodone Hydromorphone Total Amount 20.44 grams .12 grams 32.99 grams .63 grams 2.11 grams .63 grams 25 ml from needle 15 pills 1 pill (10 mg) 7 pills (30mg) 30 pills 1 pill 7 pills (325mg/7.7mg) 10 pills (8mg) Total Street Value $613.20 $12.00 $9,897.00 $189.00 $949.50 $283.50 $50.00 $375.00 $25.00 $420.00 $750.00 $25.00 $175.00 $250.00 TOTAL VALUE OF DRUGS SEIZED: $14,014.20 Unalaska Department of Public Safety The city of Unalaska is an Aleutian Island community located 800 air miles southwest of Anchorage. Incorporated in 1942, it is best known for its International port of Dutch Harbor, the top producing fishing port in the nation. There is a resident population of 4,500 and a large transient population during peak seasons. Unalaska Department of Public Safety has several divisions; police, fire, EMS, communications and corrections. The department is further augmented by a strong group of volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel. In 2015, Unalaska Department of Public Safety made seven drug related arrests with 11 drug charges and served six search warrants in relation to these arrests. Substance Seized Methamphetamine Cocaine Heroin (black tar) Marijuana Lorazepam pills TOTAL VALUE OF DRUGS SEIZED: $9,291.00 Total Amount 25.26 grams 7.7 grams 2 grams 32 grams 48 pills Total Street Value $4,075 $1,392.00 $2,000.00 $1,344.00 $480.00 27 Wasilla Police Department The Wasilla Police Department (WPD) was established in 1993. WPD serves a city population of about 10,497; however the Mat-Su Borough has created an area population of nearly 100,000, many of those residents utilize city services on a daily basis. WPD continues to be involved in many community projects such as Youth Court, Police Reserves, School Resource Officer, and regional multi-disciplinary teams. In 2015, Wasilla Police Department made 115 drug related arrests with 66 drug charges and served 54 search warrants in relation to these arrests. Substance Seized Cocaine Heroin Marijuana Methamphetamines Prescription pills Total Amount 19.5 grams 141.03 grams 48.41 grams 122.61 grams 2000.5 pills Total Street Value $1,950.00 $63,463.50 $1,452.30 $36,783.00 $50,012.50 TOTAL VALUE OF DRUGS SEIZED: $153,661.30 28 DRUGS OF CHOICE: TOTAL STREET VALUE OF SEIZURES (Local, State, and Federal Seizures) Substance Street Value* Cocaine/Crack Cocaine $ 1,855,733.00 Methamphetamine $ 9,512,563.49 Heroin $ 4,320,861.00 Prescription Drugs $ 137,915.44 Synthetic Cannabinoids $48,666.50 Marijuana $ 4,128,519.31 Other(Hash/Edibles) $758,747.00 Other (Hash/Hash Oil/Marijuana edibles), $758,747.00 Prescription Drugs, $137,915.44 Synthetic Canabanoids , $48,666.50 Cocaine/Crack Cocaine, $1,855,773.00 Marijuana, $4,128,519.31 Heroin, $4,320,861.00 Methamphetamine , $9,512,563.49 *Geographic area street values are estimates only. Street value was determined by the average prices across the state, or provided by the local agency. The street value of prescription medications can vary widely depending upon dosage strength. When street value could not be accurately determined, it was not included in this report. 29 EMERGING TRENDS IN 2015 It is the intent of this section to familiarize the reader with some current and anticipated trends within Alaska. To do so, it is important to look at the current Pacific Region picture, as Alaska tends to follow suit in the following years. The National Drug threat Assessment Summary breaks the nation down into eight regions; the Pacific Region is comprised of Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Nevada, Hawaii, Guam, and Northern and Central California. Methamphetamine PACIFIC REGION TRENDS According to the DEA’s 2014 National Drug Threat Assessment, 76.5% of Pacific Region survey respondents report high availability of methamphetamine in their areas. It is further reported that the supply of Mexican methamphetamine is increasing in the amount of United States. Seizures of methamphetamine coming across the Southwest border saw an increase of 18.5% between calendar year 2012 and 2013. Controlled Prescription Drugs (CDPs) According to the DEA’s 2014 National Drug Threat Assessment, 64.1% of Pacific Region survey respondents report high availability of CDPs in their areas. Opioid analgesics or pain relievers are the most common type of CPD abused. Demand and treatment data indicate the abuse of CPDs is a continuing and significant problem. Heroin According to the DEA’s 2014 National Drug Threat Assessment, 40.2% of Pacific Region survey respondents report high availability of heroin in their areas. 29.1% of respondents to the 2014 National Drug Threat Assessment report that heroin was the greatest drug threat in their area. This was more than any other drug with the exception of methamphetamine (31.8%). Powder Cocaine The DEA’s 2014 National Drug Threat Assessment also identifies powder cocaine as a significant issue in the Pacific Region. The national trend for 2014 showed that the availability of cocaine in the United States as a whole has slightly increased. Cocaine is smuggled into the United States by Mexican drug trafficking organizations that supply independent dealers and street gangs. Independent dealers and street gangs often process the powder cocaine into crack cocaine prior to distribution. Marijuana Marijuana is the most widely available and commonly abused drug throughout the Pacific Region. The Pacific Region leads the country in marijuana cultivation. ALASKA TRENDS Methamphetamine In July of 2006, pseudoephedrine regulations were adopted by the state of Alaska. This armed law enforcement professionals with a valuable tool to combat meth labs in the state. While three meth labs were discovered by SDEU in 2015, methamphetamine is most commonly smuggled into Alaska through parcel service providers or body carries. As previously mentioned in this publication, methamphetamine abuse remains a significant issue within Alaska. Although the number of labs has remained low, it appears that use and abuse of the drug is prevalent. Controlled Prescription Medications (CPDs) Controlled Prescription Medications continued to be abused and trafficked illegally. SDEU saw significant seizures of prescription medications in 2015. It is believed the largest portions of these medications are being obtained through illicit means, either by theft, prescription fraud, or overseas mail order. Many CPD drug abusers have transitioned to heroin due to its availability. Heroin Heroin continues to be pervasive in Alaska. While SDEU seizures were lower in 2015, this is not reflective of the availability on the street as witnessed by investigators. SDEU recognizes that there has been an increase in the availability of heroin throughout the state and it is no longer isolated to the urban areas. Drug traffickers have adopted practices to avoid detection from law enforcement and scent detection canines such as internal body secretion. Additionally, known drug traffickers have employed additional associates (known as “mules”) who will actually body carry the substances as they are not yet known to law enforcement. It’s common for the “mules” to have no known ties to Alaska. According to a bulletin released by the State of Alaska Epidemiology on March 24, 2016, overdose deaths associated with heroin are trending upwards. Synthetic Cannabinoids Synthetic cannabinoids is a term used to describe a variety of a psychoactive herbal and chemical substances which when consumed allegedly mimic the effects of smoking marijuana. Synthetic Cannabinoids are commonly referred to as spice, as well as a litany of other street names. Marketed as incense and herbs, these products are sold on the internet and in smoke shops. Although complete studies have not been conducted, some of the side effects of synthetic cannabinoids consumption are heart palpitations, extreme agitation, vomiting, delusions, hallucinations, panic attacks, and, in some cases, may contribute to death. In July of 2011, Alaska passed legislation prohibiting the sale and possession of a number of the common chemical compounds found in these synthetic cannabinoids. In October of 2014, Alaska legislation prohibited the improper packaging of spice. This law greatly hindered the ability for it to be sold in Alaska. There still are individuals shipping spice into Alaska, predominately through the USPS. In 2015, The Municipality of Anchorage saw a significant increase in distress calls effecting the homeless population related to the use of spice. Bath Salts Products containing MDPV (3, 4 methylenedioxypyrovalerone)—marketed as “legal alternatives to cocaine or Ecstasy (MDMA)” emerged in the U.S. designer drug market during 2009. These synthetic cathinone type products have caused users throughout the country to experience severe adverse effects, and the number of calls to U.S. poison control centers related to them has trended upward. Retailers often sell these products labeled as “bath salts.” In 2012, state legislation banning the substances most commonly found in these substances was enacted. Fentanyl Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opiate analgesic similar to, but more potent than, morphine. It is typically used to treat patients with severe pain, or to manage pain after surgery. It is also sometimes used to treat people with chronic pain who are physically tolerant to opiates. Street names for the drug include Apache, China girl, China white, Dance Fever, Friend, Goodfella, Jackpot, Murder 8, TNT, as well as Tango and Cash. Like heroin, morphine, and other opioid drugs, fentanyl works by binding to the body's opiate receptors which are highly concentrated in areas of the brain that control pain and emotions. When opiate drugs bind to these receptors, they can drive up dopamine levels in the brain's reward areas, producing a state of euphoria and relaxation. Mixing fentanyl with street-sold heroin or cocaine markedly amplifies their potency and potential dangers. Effects include: euphoria, drowsiness/respiratory depression and arrest, nausea, confusion, constipation, sedation, unconsciousness, coma, tolerance, and addiction. International drug trafficking organizations have begun mixing fentanyl with heroin to increase the drug’s effect. This tactic is of grave concern as users are often unaware of the increased potency and risk accidental overdose that very likely can result in death. SUMMARY The Statewide Drug and Alcohol Enforcement Unit, along with its local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, has a unique ability to interdict and investigate illicit drug and alcohol manufacturing and trafficking across the state. SDEU recognizes that substance abuse is not confined to any one geographical location or economic strata. Drug and alcohol abuse and addiction affects all Alaskans, irrespective of social, ethnic, racial, and economic differences. SDEU also recognizes that the ill-gotten gains of drug traffickers and alcohol smugglers promote an increase in lawlessness of all types. This lawlessness is not isolated to the use of controlled substances; it includes, but is not limited to, burglary, theft, domestic violence, assault, and homicide. Through the eradication of such activity, and the arrest of those who would profit off the misery and addiction of others, we will make Alaska a better, safer place to live and to raise a family. The Statewide Drug and Alcohol Enforcement Unit, along with partner agencies across the state, diligently dedicate resources and energy towards this goal. The Statewide Drug and Alcohol Enforcement Unit is committed to working with interested agencies in efforts to find solutions and protect against crime and victimization. This is accomplished through partnerships, collaboration, and the utilization of innovative concepts to disrupt the illegal sale and distribution of alcohol and drugs. SDEU is also committed to increasing awareness and knowledge of drug and alcohol abuse through educational presentations to the Public Safety Academy and in public forums, such as schools, service organizations, and other community groups. Finally, it is important to recognize that drug and alcohol addiction is a disease. Enforcement and education is not the sole solution to the substance abuse crisis in Alaska. Treatment availability and treatment services are perhaps the most critical component to helping Alaskans get healthy. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES  Office of National Drug Control Policy https://www.whitehouse.gov/ondcp  Drug Enforcement Administration: National Drug Threat Assessment Summary 2015 http://www.dea.gov/docs/2015%20NDTA%20Report.pdf  Drug Enforcement Administration: National Heroin Threat Assessment Summary http://www.dea.gov/divisions/hq/2015/hq052215_National_Heroin_Threat_Assessment_Summary.pdf  Center for Substance Abuse Research http://www.cesar.umd.edu/  National Institute on Drug Abuse https://www.drugabuse.gov/  The Partnership for Drug Free Kids http://www.drugfree.org/  Department of Health and Social Services : Youth Risk Behavior Survey http://dhss.alaska.gov/dph/chronic/pages/yrbs/yrbs.aspx  Office of Diversional Control http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov  State of Alaska Epidemiology http://dhss.alaska.gov/dph/Epi/Pages/default.aspx  State of Alaska Epidemiology-Overdose Deaths in AK, 2009-2015 http://www.epi.alaska.gov/bulletins/docs/b2016_06.pdf  2015 National Drug Control Strategy https://www.whitehouse.gov/ondcp/national-drug-control-strategy The 2015 Annual Drug Report is authored by the Alaska State Troopers, Statewide Drug and Alcohol Enforcement Unit. It can be accessed via the Department of Public Safety internet site; therefore, there is no publication cost. It is intended to inform Alaskans about the type and frequency of drug-related crime reported in Alaska during 2015.