Alaska State Troopers Uncover Massive Stolen Gun Cache and $25K+ in Property
ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Police have recovered 15 stolen firearms and property valued at more than $25,000 following the arrest of a woman caught hiding inside an Anchor Point home on April 26. The ongoing investigation reveals a complex burglary operation involving multiple suspects and stolen items spread across two locations.
Cerina P. Richards, 29, was arrested after troopers responded to a report of a suspicious person entering a residence on Kutafya Road. The homeowner confirmed no one had permission to be inside. Richards was found hiding beneath a pile of household items in a bedroom, according to official court documents and an Alaska State Troopers affidavit.
During the arrest, troopers discovered a small pipe wrench in Richards’ back pocket, which she admitted to picking up from the home. Richards told investigators she was dropped off by a man who claimed the property belonged to his uncle and that she was there to clean it. This same man later emerged as a key figure in moving stolen property, though he has not been charged at this stage.
Second Search Warrant Uncovers 15 Guns, Valuable Tools, and Collectibles
On May 4, troopers executed a search warrant at a North Fork Road residence in Anchor Point linked to the same investigation. Authorities found 15 firearms, including pistols, rifles, and shotguns, alongside collectible coins, a commercial-grade toolbox, fishing gear, and numerous valuable tools.
Wade L. Wunderlich, 23, residing at that address, was charged with first-degree theft plus 15 counts of second-degree theft involving firearms. Court records reveal Wunderlich admitted suspicion that the property was stolen and implicated the same unidentified man as the source of the stolen goods. He also said he was promised two firearms if “everything worked out” and reported threats after Richards’ arrest.
Investigators confirmed that some guns matched descriptions and serial numbers from the burglary victims. Property once owned by the victim’s late husband was also found scattered throughout Wunderlich’s home. Troopers emphasize the case is still unfolding, with potential for more charges.
Investigation Continues as Alaska Residents React
The Anchorage community and wider Alaskan public are watching closely as authorities piece together this significant recovery operation. The volume of stolen guns raises concerns about weapons trafficking and public safety, especially amid national debates on gun control and crime.
Alaska State Troopers have confirmed the burglary cases are connected through testimony and evidence but noted that charges against the third individual named by both Richards and Wunderlich have not been pursued yet. As always, those charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
This investigation spotlights the challenges law enforcement faces in tracking stolen property networks. The recovery of over $25,000 in property and a major cache of firearms underscores the urgency of cracking down on such criminal activity to protect communities in Anchor Point and beyond.
Readers should stay tuned as The Alaska Insider continues to monitor this developing story and will report new details as they become available.
