The Anchorage police spokesperson who was fired earlier this month faced immediate consequences after being accused of shoplifting at a Target store in south Anchorage. Authorities confirmed that Christopher Barraza, the department’s former deputy director of community relations, was charged with Theft by Shoplifting following the incident.
Police reports indicate the theft occurred on August 19 at 150 West 100th Avenue, the business address of the south Anchorage Target. The crime was not immediately reported, but police responded just before 7 p.m. on August 21 after receiving a theft complaint from the store.
Investigators revealed Barraza had been wearing his APD-issued jacket at the time, but he was not acting in an official role. The unusual detail quickly drew attention because the jacket represented his position, even though the department clarified he was off duty.
Following the investigation, Barraza resigned from his post and was officially terminated on August 22. This ended his employment with the department’s community unit, where he had served since December 2024. This incident has since raised broader concerns about oversight, integrity, and transparency.
