David Anderson, a 52-year-old man from Alaska, has been sentenced to 50 years in federal prison after a horrific crime in which he kidnapped, sexually assaulted, and left a 14-year-old girl to die in the woods.
This crime, committed in November 2022, shocked the community and led to a long-lasting legal battle. Anderson’s disturbing actions were made worse by his addiction to methamphetamine and his previous history as a registered sex offender.
The Crime and the Victim’s Bravery
On November 2, 2022, a 14-year-old girl was walking home from her school bus stop in Wasilla, Alaska. The temperature was cold, around freezing, when David Anderson allegedly approached her in his car. He claimed to be lost and lured her into his vehicle.
Once inside, Anderson pulled out a revolver and forced her to smoke a meth pipe. He then tied her up with duct tape, hit her, sexually assaulted her, and even shot a revolver near her face. Afterward, he left her in a remote wooded area, believing she was dead.
However, the victim showed incredible courage. She managed to chew through the duct tape and find help on a nearby road. Her escape led to Anderson’s arrest the following day.
Anderson’s Past and the Justice System
David Anderson had a troubling history. He was already a registered sex offender after a previous conviction in 2000 for sexually assaulting a minor. His addiction to methamphetamine seemed to play a role in his violent actions, as he later admitted that he had “let the monster out” during the crime.
After being arrested, Anderson was sentenced to 85 years in prison by the State of Alaska for his crimes. In addition to the state sentence, he received a 50-year federal sentence for his kidnapping and assault of the 14-year-old girl.
The Legal and Community Impact
The sentencing brought some closure to the case, but it also highlighted the strength of the victim, who bravely participated in the federal sentencing hearing. Prosecutors and law enforcement officials praised her for her courage and the tireless efforts of the Alaska State Troopers and FBI in investigating the case.
Michael Heyman, U.S. Attorney for the District of Alaska, emphasized that Anderson would never be released from prison, stating that the victim’s bravery ensured he would “never walk free or harm another child again.”
Alaska State Trooper Colonel Maurice Hughes also remarked on the importance of protecting vulnerable children, noting that this case demonstrated how federal and state authorities worked together to deliver justice.
David Anderson’s horrifying actions, combined with his previous criminal history, have left a permanent scar on the Alaska community. The 14-year-old victim’s extraordinary bravery not only helped her survive but also ensured that Anderson would never again harm another child.
With both federal and state sentences, Anderson’s future in prison is certain, and the justice system has shown its commitment to protecting the public from dangerous criminals. This case serves as a reminder of the power of resilience and the importance of accountability in the face of horrific crimes.
