Fort Bidwell Man Arraigned for Fentanyl-Related Murder and Additional Charges
“Tuesday, January 21, 2025, Dirk Aalpoel, 33, of Fort Bidwell was arraigned for murder in connection with the October 2024 overdose death of Surprise Valley resident Fawn Goodwin, 34, after supplying Goodwin with a lethal dose of fentanyl.
Fentanyl, which is now the number one cause of death in 25-52 year olds in the state, has caused a number of California counties to begin pursuing prosecution against known dealers over the last several years with Placer count leading the movement with their “One Pill Can Kill” campaign that Modoc County adopted in 2024. The passage of Proposition 36 has also added a mandatory notice to all drug-related complaints warning those charged with drug sales of the potential for murder convictions.
In addition to being charged with Goodwin’s murder, Aalpoel is also being charged with felony child abuse, possession of a controlled substance with a firearm, possession of a firearm by a narcotic addict, possession of ammunition, sale/transportation of a controlled substance, and misdemeanor possession of controlled substance paraphernalia along with several special enhancements. At this time, Aalpoel has entered pleas of “Not Guilty” to all charges.
The next court date scheduled is a Pre-Preliminary Hearing on February 25, 2025. It is the mission of the Modoc County District Attorney’s Office to seek truth and justice by fairly and ethically prosecuting crimes, upholding public safety, bringing community empowerment to our residents and always ensuring the rights of victims are prioritized.”
