Alaska Troopers Charged with Assault in Arrest

Two Alaska State Troopers, Jason Woodruff and Joseph Miller, have been charged with misdemeanor assault for using excessive force on Ben Tikka, mistakenly believing him to be his cousin, Garrett Tikka, who was wanted for a minor offense. On May 24, the troopers pepper-sprayed, beat, stunned, and allowed a police dog to attack Ben Tikka, causing severe injuries including a fractured scapula and muscle lacerations. The incident, captured on body-worn cameras, led to a public outcry and a statement from Alaska Department of Public Safety Commissioner James Cockrell, who expressed his shock and revulsion. Both troopers have been placed on administrative leave and are scheduled for a court appearance on September 10. The Department of Public Safety is also reviewing past cases involving the two officers.