A Fort Dodge woman 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, received a 126-month prison sentence following her guilty plea on August 19, 2024. She admitted to charges of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and distributing the drug within a protected zone.

Court hearings revealed that Michaels participated in a conspiracy responsible for distributing at least 50 kilograms of methamphetamine during 2023 and 2024. Additional evidence indicated that she distributed six ounces of methamphetamine across three transactions with an individual cooperating with law enforcement. A search of Michaels' residence uncovered drug paraphernalia, including several cell phones, a scale, cocaine, marijuana, and methamphetamine. Michaels confessed to acquiring pound quantities of meth from sources in Fort Dodge and redistributing it in smaller amounts locally.

The sentencing took place in Sioux City under United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. In addition to her prison term, Michaels is required to serve an eight-year supervised release period post-incarceration. The federal system does not offer parole options. Until her transfer to a federal facility, Michaels remains in the custody of the United States Marshal.

Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde prosecuted the case with investigations conducted by multiple agencies: 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.