Monkton Woman Charged with Distribution of Cocaine Base

Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on March 16, 2026, Jodi Palmer, 48, of Monkton, Vermont, appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Palmer was charged on September 11, 2024 by criminal complaint with distribution of cocaine base (crack cocaine). She appeared in federal court yesterday pursuant to a writ of habeas corpus, as she is currently detained in the Vermont Department of Corrections. A detention hearing is scheduled for March 19, 2026.

According to court records, Palmer distributed approximately four grams of cocaine base to an informant during an operation by Homeland Security Investigations on July 26, 2024.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Palmer is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Palmer faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations.

The prosecutor is Special Assistant United States Attorney Craig S. Nolan. Palmer is represented by Federal Public Defender Alejandro Fernandez.