A woman from Fort Dodge has been sentenced to over ten years in federal prison for her involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy. Carolyn Michaels, also known as Woodman, aged 60 and recently residing in Ankeny, Iowa, was sentenced on January 17, 2025. She had previously pleaded guilty on August 19, 2024, to charges of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and distribution within a protected zone.
During the hearings, evidence revealed that Michaels participated in a conspiracy responsible for distributing at least 50 kilograms of methamphetamine during 2023 and 2024. Additional findings indicated that she distributed six ounces of methamphetamine across three transactions to an individual cooperating with law enforcement. A search of Michaels' residence led to the seizure of drug paraphernalia including several cell phones, a scale, cocaine, marijuana, and methamphetamine. Michaels admitted to acquiring large quantities of methamphetamine from sources in Fort Dodge and redistributing it locally.
United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand sentenced Michaels in Sioux City to 126 months in prison followed by an eight-year term of supervised release. There is no possibility of parole under the federal system. Until her transfer to a federal prison facility, Michaels remains in the custody of the United States Marshal.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and investigated by multiple agencies including the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Fort Dodge Police Department, Webster County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa DCI Laboratory, Iowa State Patrol, and Webster County Attorney’s Office.