Rachel Morgan's reporting sheds light on a shocking case in Alaska where Ulric Ulroan, a well-respected figure with a history as mayor and 'parent of the year', now faces 47 serious charges including sexual assault. The allegations span over a decade, from 2009 to 2025, and involve multiple teenage girls across various communities.
The investigation into Ulroan's alleged crimes began in January after a tip-off was made to Alaska’s Bureau of Investigation. Initially focused on a single incident involving a 17-year-old girl in Chevak between 2009 and 2010, the probe expanded to uncover reports of further abuse in Chevak, Anchorage, Mountain Village, and Nome.
A grand jury in Bethel, Alaska, has since issued an indictment against Ulroan, encompassing charges such as first-degree sexual assault, first- and second-degree sexual abuse, and furnishing alcohol to a minor. He was arrested four days later and is currently being held at the Anvil Mountain correctional centre with bail set at approximately £197,000 (US$250,000).
Ulroan's community presence extended beyond his political role as mayor of Chevak; he coached high school girls' basketball, worked as a pilot, and was a certified foster parent from 2005 to 2023. In 2019, he and his wife Mary were jointly named 'parents of the year' by the Alaska Federation of Natives for their commitment to their children's academic and athletic development.
State troopers are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward, as they believe there may be additional victims yet to be identified. The indictment reportedly involves at least six victims, with some charges alleging that Ulroan was in a position of authority over the alleged victims.
Mary Ulroan has released a statement acknowledging the 'extremely painful time' for her family and expressing concern for the safety and wellbeing of all those affected, while also prioritising the privacy of their own children amidst the ongoing legal proceedings.