Doran Craig and Allen Face Kidnapping Charges in Skull Valley Assault

SALT LAKE CITY – Alex Doran Craig, 32, and Russell Allen, 50, both of Tooele County, Utah, are facing federal charges after authorities allege they zip-tied, kidnapped, and assaulted two motorcyclists in Skull Valley, Utah. According to the latest indictment, the defendants coerced the victims into believing they were trespassing on Indian land.

The harrowing incident took place in April 2025, where Craig and Allen are accused of taking the victims’ belongings, including their motorcycles, and leaving them stranded in a remote desert area at speeds exceeding 100 mph. The victims had to hike over 10 miles for help after being released without their property.

Law enforcement recovered the stolen motorcycles and other items, including cell phones and identification cards, later in the investigation. Video evidence, victim reports, witnesses, and jail calls linked both Craig and Allen to the crime.

Craig and Allen are charged with kidnapping, assault, and theft while within Indian Country. Their initial appearance on the superseding indictment is set for July 31, 2025, at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in Salt Lake City.

Acting U.S. Attorney Felice John Viti announced the charges, which are part of Operation Take Back America and Project Safe Neighborhoods. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Pead is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.