Acting U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder dropped the hammer on a Palmer couple yesterday, announcing prison sentences for their role in a vast conspiracy to traffic drugs from outside Alaska into the Mat-Su Valley.
Tod James Rodolph, 41, and Jessica Elizabeth Hopkins, 36, were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Sharon L. Gleason. Rodolph will serve 12 years while Hopkins was handed a 78-month sentence. The couple’s criminal enterprise included importing massive amounts of heroin from the lower 48 states.
Both defendants previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges, with Rodolph also admitting possession of firearms in relation to drug trafficking. He must pay a $30,000 fine for his part in the scheme.
The DEA and AST launched their investigation on January 10, 2016, following the tragic death of 17-year-old A.F., who overdosed while consuming drugs at Rodolph and Hopkins’ residence. Despite witnessing the overdose, Rodolph failed to seek medical help, resulting in A.F.’s death.
Further investigation revealed Rodolph’s role as a drug mule, traveling to Washington state on numerous occasions to purchase large quantities of heroin. He admitted to making approximately 20 trips from Seattle, each time returning with 2-5 ounces of the illegal substance. Hopkins confessed to being fully aware of the drug trafficking operations and aiding in transactions.
Over the course of their conspiracy, Rodolph distributed at least 2,080 grams of heroin, valued at $624,000. A warrant search of their residence turned up a arsenal of drug paraphernalia, illegal substances, scales, and firearms all accessible to their 15-year-old daughter. Acting U.S. Attorney Schroder commended the DEA and AST for their diligent work in bringing this case to closure.
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Key Facts
- State: Alaska
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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