Major Media Attention

The case of Dru Sjodin became national news and garnered endless media attention. Whether it was because of the harsh manner at how she died, or because Rodriguez had dared to plead not guilty to the charges brought against him, people wanted answers. And when the case went to trial, people got what they were looking for.

Seeking The Death Penalty

Because Rodriguez had taken Dru across state lines, the prosecution was able to fight for the death penalty. Apparently, neither North Dakota nor Minnesota states have the death penalty. But since the trial was done in federal court, they could seek it on Dru’s behalf. Finally, on August 30, 2006, Rodriguez was charged with kidnapping, raping and murdering Dru Sjodin.