Press Release

Attorney General announces new Deputy Attorney General and Criminal Division Director

April 4, 2019

(Anchorage, AK) – Attorney General Kevin G. Clarkson reluctantly accepted the resignation of Deputy Attorney General Robert Henderson, who is taking a job with the University to devote more time to his family. The resignation will be effective May 15, 2019.

"This is definitely a loss for our department, but a huge win for the University," said Attorney General Clarkson. "Although I am happy for Rob and understand his decision to put his family first, he has been an incredible leader for the Criminal Division and a passionate advocate for our prosecutors. He will be missed."

"This was not an easy decision for me," said Deputy Attorney General Henderson. "I love this department, and I believe deeply in the public safety mission of the Criminal Division. But I also have young children, and felt I needed to put family first right now. We have a lot of talented and devoted prosecutors, and I know the Criminal Division is in good hands."

Upon Mr. Henderson's departure, John Skidmore will take over as Deputy Attorney General and Paul Miovas will take over as the Criminal Division Director. John Skidmore has served as the Criminal Division Director since 2011 and has been with the department over 20 years. Paul Miovas is currently the Chief Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Special Prosecutions and has been a prosecutor for over 16 years—11 of which have been with the Department of Law.

"Between John and Paul, they bring over 35 years of prosecutorial experience to the new leadership team in the Criminal Division," said Attorney General Clarkson. "I am grateful for their willingness to step up and take on these new roles. Rob is leaving big shoes to fill, but I'm confident John and Paul are up to the task."

CONTACT: Deputy Attorney General Rob Henderson at 269-5100 or robert.henderson@alaska.gov or Criminal Division Director John Skidmore at 269-5100 or john.skidmore@alaska.gov.

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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.