Table of Contents
State of Minnesota Settlement with Dru Sjodin’s Family
On October 16, 2007, the State of Minnesota reached a settlement with the family of Dru Sjodin, a tragic victim of abduction and murder in November 2003.
Terms of Settlement
The settlement documents reveal that the Department of Corrections opted to pay damages to the Sjodin family to avoid the expenses and uncertainties associated with a lawsuit. However, it’s emphasized that the state admits no wrongdoing, liability, or violation of state or federal law.1
 Release of Level 3 Sex Offender
Critics argue that Alfonso Rodriguez Jr., a Level 3 sex offender, should not have been released by the Corrections Department. Rodriguez was released seven months before Sjodin’s disappearance, raising concerns about the adequacy of the release decision.
 Family’s Response and Satisfaction
Emotional Closure
While the state admitted no fault, the family expressed satisfaction with the statements made by state officials. Linda Walker, Dru Sjodin’s mother, highlights the importance of receiving a written acknowledgment of the state’s errors as a crucial part of the healing process.
Legislative Perspective
Representative Joe Atkins emphasizes the need for legislative action to prevent sex offenders from recommitting crimes. He believes that the Sjodin case highlights deficiencies in the system and advocates for stronger measures.
Two decades later, Dru Sjodin case still resonates in Grand Forks and across the nation https://t.co/iBrazYMb29
— The Dickinson Press (@dickinsonpress) November 18, 2023
Policy Changes and Criticisms
Governor’s Statement
The governor’s office attributes the release of Rodriguez to the previous administration and asserts that significant improvements have been made in toughening procedures and laws related to sex offenders since then.
Expert Opinions
Dr. Michael Farnsworth questions the state’s allocation of resources, suggesting that long-term sex offenders should be sent to prison rather than treatment centers. The cost-effectiveness of sex offender treatment programs is debated, with concerns about the state’s financial priorities.
 Potential Impact on Policy
The settlement prompts discussions about potential changes in how policymakers address sex offenders. Some experts warn against overreacting, urging a balanced approach that considers individual risk factors.
Settlement Revelation and Future Implications
Privacy Concerns
The settlement, reached in July, only came to light when a reporter requested the documents. The Department of Corrections typically refrains from releasing settlement agreements due to privacy concerns.
Limited Impact on Policy
Former Health and Human Services Commissioner Kevin Goodno suggests that the settlement’s impact on sex offender policy may be limited, as the case is viewed as unique. He notes that reactions and adjustments to civilly committing sex offenders have already taken place.
Evidence Challenged in Dru Sjodin Killer’s Death Penalty Appeal
Attorneys aiming to overturn the death sentence of Alfonso Rodriguez Jr., convicted in 2007 for the murder of Dru Sjodin, a 22-year-old University of North Dakota student, are challenging forensic evidence in a hearing held in Fargo this week.2
Background of the Case
Alfonso Rodriguez Jr. was found guilty of abducting Dru Sjodin from a Grand Forks, N.D., shopping mall parking lot in November 2003. He was convicted of killing her and disposing of her body in a field near Crookston, Minn., where it was discovered five months later.
Immediate Attention to Rodriguez
Rodriguez, a convicted sex offender released from prison a few months prior, became the prime suspect shortly after Sjodin’s disappearance. His misleading statements to investigators drew attention to his involvement in the crime.
Federal Trial and Death Penalty Sentence
Due to the crime crossing state lines, Rodriguez was tried in federal court, leading to the death penalty sentence—the first time in over a century that the death penalty had been considered in North Dakota.
Challenging Forensic Testimony
Attorneys for Rodriguez are currently disputing forensic evidence that they claim played a significant role in the death penalty verdict. Specifically, they argue that evidence of sexual assault and testimony indicating Sjodin’s neck was slashed by a knife influenced the jury during the death penalty phase of the trial.
Evidentiary Hearing
The ongoing evidentiary hearing, anticipated to last seven days, is set to resume in December. During this phase, attorneys will argue that Rodriguez should not have received the death penalty due to limited mental capacity.
Current Status of Rodriguez
Rodriguez, currently on death row in an Indiana federal prison, has waived his right to appear at the hearing. The outcome of this appeal may have far-reaching implications for the validity of the forensic evidence and the overall conviction.
Dru Sjodin’s Case: Death Sentence Commuted to Life in Prison
Alfonso Rodriguez Jr., a Minnesota man, faced the death penalty for the heinous murder of Dru Sjodin, a 22-year-old North Dakota college student abducted in November 2003 from a Grand Forks mall parking lot.3
Legal Proceedings
Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Ralph Erickson officially changed Rodriguez’s death sentence to life in prison, as indicated in court records dated last week.
The Tragic Events
Rodriguez, a convicted sex offender, was found guilty in 2007 for kidnapping Dru Sjodin, sexually assaulting her, slashing her throat, and abandoning her in a ravine near Crookston, Minnesota. Sjodin’s lifeless body was discovered five months later.
Withdrawal of Death Penalty Pursuit
In March, U.S. Attorney Mac Schneider in North Dakota withdrew the effort to seek the death penalty for Rodriguez, following the direction of U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland. Consequently, life in prison without parole became the sole possible sentence for Rodriguez.
Legal Reversal
Rodriguez’s death sentence had been overturned in September 2021 by Judge Erickson. The judge determined that Rodriguez’s constitutional rights were violated during the trial due to misleading testimony from the coroner, the failure of lawyers to explore the possibility of an insanity defense, and evidence of severe post-traumatic stress disorder.
Current Status
As of Tuesday, Rodriguez remains listed as a death row inmate at a maximum security penitentiary in Terre Haute, Indiana. An inquiry has been initiated to determine if there have been any changes in his incarceration location.
Moratorium on Federal Executions
In 2021, Attorney General Merrick Garland announced a moratorium on federal executions, responding to criticism from death penalty opponents who denounced the Justice Department for pursuing the death penalty despite President Joe Biden’s opposition to capital punishment.
Overview of Dru Sjodin’s Family
Dru Sjodin’s family is characterized by resilience and a strong commitment to advocacy, navigating the aftermath of an unimaginable tragedy that abruptly ended Dru’s life.
 Early Life of Dru Sjodin
Born on September 26, 1981, in Minneapolis, Dru was the beloved daughter of Linda Walker and Allan Sjodin. This introduction sets the stage for understanding the family dynamics before the tragic events unfolded.
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Linda Walker: A Resilient Advocate
Linda Walker’s Response to Tragedy
Linda Walker, Dru’s mother, emerged as a steadfast advocate for women and children after the devastating loss of her daughter. Her unwavering commitment is evident in her tireless efforts to make a positive impact in the aftermath of the tragedy.4
Legislative Impact
Linda played a pivotal role in raising awareness and garnering support for crucial legislation, such as Dru’s Law, which established the National Sexual Offenders Database. This section delves into her legislative efforts and their impact on society.
Involvement in Surviving Parents Coalition
In addition to legislative work, Linda actively participated in the Surviving Parents Coalition, channeling her grief into meaningful actions aimed at protecting others from similar harm.
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 Allan Sjodin: A Silent Support
 Limited Public Profile
Allan Sjodin, Dru’s father, maintains a lower public profile, with limited information available about him. Despite his lower visibility, his role becomes apparent during critical moments, particularly in the court during the trial of Dru Sjodin’s convicted killer.
Seeking Justice
Allan’s presence in court underscores the family’s commitment to seeking justice for their daughter. This section explores his silent but impactful support throughout the legal proceedings.
Dru Sjodin’s Immediate Family
Sven Sjodin: Continuity and Resilience
Dru Sjodin’s immediate family includes her brother, Sven, a senior with a family of his own. Sven and his wife, parents to eight children, embody a sense of continuity and resilience despite the profound loss.
Connection with Nephews
An interesting aspect is Dru’s close relationship with her nephews, as she fondly recalled holding her first nephew in 2002 and her second nephew born on the day of a candlelight memorial for Dru in Pequot Lakes.
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