Nome Superior Court Judge Romano DiBenedetto Archives - KNOM Radio Mission

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Aukongak Given Flat Sentence of Four Years for Distributing Opioids and Heroin in 2016

By Davis Hovey | November 28, 2017

Alaskans awaiting arraignment in Nome's courthouse. Photo: Matthew F. Smith, KNOM file.

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.

Two Murder-Related Cases Continued Down the Line at Nome Courthouse

By Davis Hovey | August 25, 2017 |

Alaskans awaiting arraignment in Nome's courthouse. Photo: Matthew F. Smith, KNOM file.

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.