Press Release

Attorney General appoints long-time prosecutor to head Anchorage DA's Office

December 18, 2018

(Anchorage, AK) – Today Attorney General Kevin G. Clarkson appointed John Novak as the Anchorage District Attorney. Mr. Novak has worked in the Criminal Division of the Department of Law since 1990 and has worked on everything from homicide cases, to handling federal prosecutions as a Special Assistant to the United States Attorney, to advising the Department of Public Safety.

“I could not think of someone better than John to take on the important role of Anchorage DA,” said Attorney General Clarkson. “With the rising crime rates, it is more important than ever to have an experienced prosecutor leading the largest DA’s office in our state. His nearly 30 years of experience trying cases, supervising other attorneys, and giving advice to DPS gives him the tools needed to run the office and build up morale. I want to thank John for stepping up and taking on this leadership role.”

Mr. Novak’s career has taken him all across the State to prosecute crimes, including Anchorage, Kenai, Palmer, Seward, Bethel, Dillingham, Naknak, and Unalaska. He has also supervised both the drug and violent crimes units during his tenure and pitched in as Acting District Attorney for the Palmer District Attorney’s office.

“I have been a prosecutor the majority of my legal career and cannot imagine doing anything else,” said Mr. Novak. “Between long hours and sometimes graphic subject matter, being a prosecutor can be tough. But it is also very rewarding. I appreciate the opportunity to lead the Anchorage office and am committed to being part of the solution to our current crime and drug epidemic.”

Mr. Novak replaces Richard Allen, who has taken a job with the Palmer District Attorney’s office.

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Department Media Contacts: Communications Director Patty Sullivan at patty.sullivan@alaska.gov or (907) 269-6368. Information Officer Sam Curtis at sam.curtis@alaska.gov or (907) 269-6269.