Anchor Point Police Seize 15 Stolen Guns, Over $25,000 in Property After Burglary Arrest
ANCHORAGE, Alaska — A fast-moving burglary investigation in Anchor Point has led to the recovery of 15 stolen firearms and more than $25,000 in stolen property after a woman was found hiding in a home on April 26. Alaska State Troopers, joined by local police, made the significant seizure amid an ongoing investigation linking multiple suspects and locations.
Authorities arrested Cerina P. Richards, 29, after responding to a report of a suspicious person inside a residence on Kutafya Road. Troopers found Richards hiding beneath household items in a bedroom after they repeatedly announced their presence. Richards was charged with first-degree burglary and fourth-degree theft, according to official court documents.
During the search, officers discovered Richards carrying a small pipe wrench, which she admitted she had taken from inside the home. She told investigators that a man dropped her off at the residence and claimed she was there to clean the property, which he said belonged to his uncle.
Follow-Up Search Uncovers Stolen Guns and Priceless Property
On May 4, troopers executed a search warrant at a second Anchor Point residence on North Fork Road, tied to the same burglary probe. There, they recovered 15 firearms including pistols, rifles, and shotguns, along with collectible coins, a professional-grade toolbox, fishing gear, and other valuable tools. The total estimated value of the recovered property exceeds $25,000.
Wade L. Wunderlich, 23, residing at the North Fork Road home, was charged with first-degree theft and 15 counts of second-degree theft related to the stolen firearms. Wunderlich admitted to troopers that a mutual associate dropped off the items, and he suspected the goods were stolen. The affidavit notes that some guns belonged to the victim, whose late husband’s property was found scattered throughout the location.
Further complicating the investigation, the affidavit reveals Wunderlich was promised two firearms if “everything worked out” and later reported being threatened after Richards’ arrest. Both cases name the same third person as a key player in the property transfers, though no charges have been filed against this individual to date.
Ongoing Investigation with Potential New Charges
Alaska State Troopers confirmed the investigation remains active, with additional charges possible as they continue to gather evidence. Both Richards and Wunderlich remain suspects facing serious allegations but are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
This case underscores the challenges law enforcement faces in tackling organized burglary rings and illegal firearm possession. The large cache of stolen weapons recovered highlights the ongoing risk such activity poses to communities far beyond Alaska, with the movement and trade of stolen guns being a critical public safety issue nationwide.
Authorities urge anyone with information related to this case or the unidentified third party to come forward and assist with the continuing probe.
Stay tuned to The California Herald for further updates on this developing story.
