FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 12, 2020
ANCHORAGE, AK – Today, Mayor Ethan Berkowitz issued the following statement:
I apologize to the people of Anchorage for a major lapse in judgment I made several years ago
when I had a consensual, inappropriate messaging relationship with reporter Maria Athens. I’m
embarrassed and ashamed for the hurt I’ve caused my family and our community. I take
responsibility for my actions. A joint investigation into the recent allegations made by Ms. Athens
was completed by the Anchorage Police Department and FBI and found no evidence of criminal
conduct.
It takes time to rebuild trust and I hope you afford me the opportunity to do so. During the
remaining months of my term, I will continue working on the important issues we face.
Please consider my family’s privacy during this difficult time.
###
Media contact: Carolyn Hall, Communications Director, Office of the Mayor, carolyn.hall@anchorageak.gov