Alaska Department Of Public Safety,State Troopers Public Information Office

Dispatch Text:

Update: On January 29, 2026, at approximately 4:00 pm, the Alaska State Troopers Fairbanks Criminal Suppression Unit located Benjamin Cross at a short-term rental in Fairbanks. Cross was arrested on his outstanding felony arrest warrants and taken to Fairbanks Correctional Center, where he is being held on $500,000 bail. During the course of the investigation, troopers have recovered 31 stolen firearms, accounted for 44 oz of stolen gold, and over $100,000 of purchases made with the stolen property. Troopers also seized two vehicles that were purchased with the money from the stolen property. The investigation has resulted in the arrest of multiple suspects. The Fairbanks CSU would like to thank the public for their assistance in locating Cross. The investigation into the burglary is ongoing. 

Update: On January 23, 2026, at approximately 10:00 am, Alaska State Troopers Criminal Suppression Unit in Fairbanks arrested Joshua Reed, age 37, of Fairbanks, and Caitlin Kutina, age 36, of North Pole, for their involvement in the burglary and theft at the property in Ester. Reed was charged with first-degree theft and is being held on $500,000 bail. Kutina was charged with one count of first-degree theft and is being held on $100,000 bail. Additional charges are expected. During the investigation, troopers have seized four vehicles, around 20 guns, and accounted for 40 ounces of stolen gold. The investigation into the theft continues, and Alaska State Troopers are still searching for Benjamin Cross. Anyone with information as to his whereabouts is asked to contact the troopers at (907) 451-5100. You can also submit anonymous tips through the AKTips app.

Original: On January 10, 2026, Alaska State Troopers in Fairbanks received a report of a burglary at a property in Ester, Alaska. Alaska State Troopers responded to the property and determined that a safe, containing gold, jewelry and guns, had been emptied. Troopers estimate the value of the stolen items to be worth over $500,000. There was also significant damage caused to the property during the burglary. Troopers identified Benjamin Cross, age 37 of North Pole, as a suspect in the case. A search of his property identified 13 guns that were stolen from the safe. Cross is wanted on a $500,000 warrant for Burglary, Theft 2 and Misconduct Involving a Weapon. Troopers also identified Gene Utley, age 39, of North Pole, as a person of interest in the case.

Anyone with information regarding Cross’ or Utley’s location is asked to contact the Alaska State Troopers at (907) 451-5100. You can also submit a tip via text message by texting AKTIPS and your tip to 847411.