Jodi Palmer, a 48-year-old resident of Monkton, Vermont, appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle on March 16 after being charged with distribution of cocaine base. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont said Palmer was charged by criminal complaint on September 11, 2024, and is currently detained in the Vermont Department of Corrections. A detention hearing is scheduled for March 19.
Court records indicate that Palmer allegedly distributed about four grams of crack cocaine to an informant during a Homeland Security Investigations operation on July 26, 2024.
The United States Attorney’s Office stressed that the charges are allegations only and that Palmer is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. If convicted, she could face up to 20 years in prison. The actual sentence would be determined by the District Court based on advisory sentencing guidelines and statutory factors.
First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt said he commended the investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Craig S. Nolan is prosecuting the case, while Federal Public Defender Alejandro Fernandez represents Palmer.
