A 47-year-old Sekiu, Washington resident, James G. Rode, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for Possession of Oxycodone with Intent to Distribute, and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. This sentence was announced by U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan following a thorough investigation and prosecution.
Rode was arrested on March 2, 2012, after a court-authorized search of his residence uncovered 40 15mg oxycodone pills hidden in a heating vent in the bathroom. Nearby, law enforcement found three firearms, which Rode later admitted were used to further his drug trafficking activity. This admission came as part of his guilty plea in November 2012.
The investigation into Rode’s activities was conducted by members of the Olympic Peninsula Narcotics Enforcement Team, who had been tracking his drug dealing operations. In February 2012, an individual working with law enforcement purchased oxycodone from Rode on multiple occasions, providing crucial evidence for the case against him. Rode’s history of criminal activity, including burglary and sexual assault, had previously led to his ban from Makah Tribal lands.
Rode is a registered sex offender, and his criminal history includes home invasion burglaries and a prior conviction for unlawful possession of a firearm. Prosecutors emphasized the substantial harm caused by Rode’s actions, particularly in the community on the Makah Indian reservation where he distributed large quantities of oxycodone pills. This history of violence and prolific criminal activity contributed to the 12-year sentence imposed by U.S. District Judge Ronald B. Leighton.
In addition to his prison term, Rode has been ordered to serve five years of supervised release. The case was investigated by the Neah Bay Tribal Police, Olympic Peninsula Narcotics Enforcement Team, and agents from the FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney J. Tate London, who presented a strong case highlighting the severity of Rode’s crimes and their impact on the community.
The sentencing of James G. Rode serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking and related crimes. The cooperation between different agencies, including tribal police and federal authorities, is crucial in addressing these issues and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions. As the community continues to heal from the harm caused by Rode’s activities, the sentence imposed reflects the commitment to justice and public safety.
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Key Facts
- State: Washington
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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