An investigation by the Alaska Beacon reveals that 2025 is on track to be one of the deadliest years ever for people in Alaska’s justice system. According to newly released data from the Alaska Department of Corrections, there have been 18 deaths in custody so far this year — tying the highest annual total on record.

A Troubling Trend

The number of deaths includes people who were incarcerated in prisons, jails, and community residential centers. Among the fatalities were individuals who died from suicide, drug overdoses, and medical emergencies. Though the list of causes varies, the overall number has alarmed advocates, families, and justice reform groups statewide.

Department officials tied some of the deaths to ongoing struggles with substance use and mental health challenges within the incarcerated population. But advocates say the rising toll also points to deeper problems with staffing, supervision, and access to care inside correctional facilities.

Comparison to Past Years

For perspective, Alaska’s custody death counts in previous years were significantly lower. While annual numbers have fluctuated, hitting 18 deaths is exceptional — and it matches the highest yearly total in state history. That record was previously set in an earlier year, but the fact that 2025 has already matched it before year’s end is drawing scrutiny.

Who Is Dying — And Why It Matters

The data show that many of the people who died were being held on nonviolent charges, while others struggled with serious health issues and untreated behavioral health needs. That has led to calls for expanded medical and mental health care services behind bars — including better screening, supervision, and outside oversight.

Families who have lost loved ones in custody say the numbers represent more than statistics: they reflect missed opportunities to prevent deaths that might have been avoided with better care and attention.

Accountability and Oversight

Unlike some other states, Alaska lacks an independent oversight body with broad authority to investigate deaths in custody and make binding recommendations. Critics argue that without stronger transparency and accountability, families and the public are left in the dark — and systemic problems go unaddressed.

Some advocates are now pushing for reforms that would require more detailed post‑mortem reporting, timely public disclosure, and enhanced mental health support for people in custody.

The Human Cost

For every number in the report, there’s a person, a family, and a community affected by loss. As Alaska closes out 2025, the record‑tying toll has renewed debate over how the state treats people in its justice system — and whether more must be done to protect those in its care.