Alaska GOP Staffer Arrested on Federal Child Sex Trafficking Charges

Craig Scott Valdez, 36, was charged with multiple federal sex crimes involving a minor

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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A staff member for an Alaska Republican state lawmaker has been charged with multiple federal sex crimes involving a minor, according to federal prosecutors. Craig Scott Valdez, 36, was arrested in Juneau on Friday following a federal grand jury indictment. The charges include sex trafficking of a minor, sexual exploitation of a child, coercion and enticement of a minor, and receipt of child sexual abuse material.

Why it matters

The arrest of a state lawmaker's staffer on such serious federal charges related to the exploitation of a minor raises significant concerns about potential abuse of power and the need for greater oversight and accountability within political offices.

The details

Prosecutors allege that in October 2025, Valdez used social media to contact a 15-year-old girl and arranged a meeting for the purpose of sexual exploitation. Court documents indicate investigators have identified additional potential juvenile victims as the inquiry continues. Valdez had been serving as chief of staff to Republican state Sen. George Rauscher, who terminated Valdez's employment immediately after learning of the arrest.

  • Valdez was arrested in Juneau on Friday, February 21, 2026.
  • The alleged incident with the 15-year-old girl occurred in October 2025.

The players

Craig Scott Valdez

A 36-year-old former chief of staff to an Alaska Republican state senator who was arrested on federal charges related to the sex trafficking and exploitation of a minor.

George Rauscher

The Republican state senator who immediately terminated Valdez's employment after learning of the arrest.

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What they’re saying

“The allegations against Mr. Valdez are deeply disturbing. I terminated his employment immediately upon learning of his arrest.”

— George Rauscher, Republican state senator (The Tundra Drums)

What’s next

Valdez is scheduled to appear before a magistrate judge in the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska next week. If convicted, he faces significant federal prison time. Federal authorities said the investigation remains active.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for greater oversight and accountability within political offices to prevent the abuse of power and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, especially minors. It underscores the importance of swift action and zero tolerance for such egregious criminal behavior.