Alaskan Wildlife Sanctuary Owner Flees to Russia After Alleged Government Crackdown

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Steve Kroschel, a 65-year-old Alaskan wildlife rehabilitator and filmmaker, says he was forced to flee to Russia after the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) systematically shut down his wildlife sanctuary outside Haines, Alaska over the past few years due to his political views. Kroschel claims the ADF&G revoked his state operating permit and colluded with the USDA to deny his federal exhibitor's license, leading to the closure of his park in 2025. Facing criminal animal cruelty charges in Alaska, Kroschel says he was granted political asylum in Russia, where he now operates a new wildlife rescue center with the support of Russian officials.

Why it matters

This case highlights growing concerns about government overreach and the targeting of private citizens for their political views, even when those views are expressed through non-political activities like wildlife rehabilitation. Kroschel's story raises questions about the balance of power between state agencies and private businesses, as well as the ability of individuals to operate independent wildlife facilities without fear of retaliation.

The details

According to Kroschel, the trouble began in 2022 when he started voicing opinions about the Ukraine conflict that differed from the mainstream media narrative. Around that time, the ADF&G began restricting Kroschel's wildlife park, banning tourists from interacting with the animals and preventing him from taking in new rescues. This effectively cut off Kroschel's primary source of income, leading him to seek refuge in Russia, where he has family connections. In 2025, the ADF&G raided Kroschel's park, seizing many of the animals and ultimately charging him with three counts of animal cruelty. Facing a potential 15-year prison sentence, Kroschel says he was granted political asylum in Russia, where he now operates a new wildlife rescue facility with the support of Russian officials.

• In 2022, Kroschel began voicing opinions about the Ukraine conflict that differed from the mainstream media.
• Around this time, the ADF&G started restricting Kroschel's wildlife park operations.
• In June 2025, the ADF&G raided Kroschel's park, seizing many of the animals.
• In September 2025, the State of Alaska filed three counts of animal cruelty charges against Kroschel.
• In late 2025, Kroschel was granted political asylum in Russia, where he now operates a new wildlife rescue facility.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Kroschel remains in Russia under fugitive status, as his criminal case in Alaska is at a standstill. He plans to use social media to argue his case directly with the state prosecutor, hoping to wear down the state's resolve to continue pursuing the charges against him.