Press release from the Humboldt County Drug Task Force:

On September 20th, 2019, at approximately 3:20 p.m., special agents with the Humboldt County Drug Task Force (HCDTF), with the assistance of the California Highway Patrol, conducted a traffic stop in the 9000 block of Highway 299, Blue Lake.

Hodge Jr.

During their multi-week investigation, agents received information that the driver of the vehicle, Robert Hodge Jr (age 44), is the main supplier of methamphetamine and heroin to the Hoopa Valley. 

HCDTF had received numerous complaints from Hoopa residents about Hodge Jr and his widely-known narcotics trafficking. Through their investigation, agents were able to secure a search warrant for Hodge Jr and his vehicle(s). 

During the traffic stop, Hodge Jr and his associate, Travis Ray White (age 43), were both detained without incident.  Agents searched Hodge Jr’s vehicle and located approximately 1 pound of suspected methamphetamine and approximately 1 pound 5 ounces of raw heroin. 

White

Agents also located a loaded handgun with an attached silencer in close proximity to the narcotics. In addition, agents located nearly $8,000 in U.S. currency that is believed to be profits from illegal narcotics sales. This currency was seized and will be held pending asset forfeiture proceedings. 

Agents obtained a 1275 PC hold on Hodge Jr until a source of legitimate bail funds could be examined during a court hearing.   Hodge Jr and White were subsequently placed under arrest and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility for possession and transportation of controlled substances and weapons violations.

Anyone with information related to this investigation or other narcotics related crimes are encouraged to call the Humboldt County Drug Task Force at 707-267-9976 or the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Tip Line at 707-268-2539.