Aukongak Given Flat Sentence of Four Years for Distributing Opioids and Heroin in 2016
The District Attorney in Nome, John Earthman, reminded the courtroom that Rayne Aukongak had a prior conviction from 2011 for similar charges to what he faces now. Judge Romano DiBenedetto ultimately decided to sentence Aukongak to serve one consecutive year for each count against him, adding up to a flat sentence of four years.
Nome Driver Involved in Vehicle Rollover is Arrested, Charged With DUI
According to Alaska State Troopers, Michael Hahn Jr. of Nome was driving a vehicle that rolled over at mile seven of the Council Highway on Tuesday evening. Troopers say the two passengers in Hahn’s vehicle suffered serious injuries and were medevac’d to Anchorage for medical care.
Two Murder-Related Cases Continued Down the Line at Nome Courthouse
Back in July, 38-year-old Frank Johnson of Nome allegedly stabbed a Nome Police officer with a kitchen knife. In a separate case, 43-year-old Frank Lee of Teller allegedly stabbed and killed 31-year-old William A. Johnson of Utqiagvik. Both cases were granted a continuance and will have further hearings in the coming months.
Driver in Teller Road Wreck Charged with Manslaughter
After an Alaska State Troopers investigation, James Bloomstrand has been charged with driving under the influence and manslaughter for the vehicle rollover on the Teller highway that ejected and killed an 18-month-old infant.