Executive Summary
- U.S. Border Patrol Agent Isaiah Hodgson’s death was officially ruled an accidental overdose due to “cocaine toxicity,” according to a recently released autopsy report.
- His death in August came one month after a contentious arrest in Long Beach for resisting arrest and battery on a police officer.
- The report noted Hodgson was depressed and had received threats after his identity was publicized following his involvement in a high-profile immigration enforcement action.
- Investigators found no signs of foul play but discovered three plastic bindles containing drugs in his stomach.
An autopsy has determined that U.S. Border Patrol Agent Isaiah Hodgson, who was arrested in Long Beach in July after a public altercation with police, died from an accidental cocaine overdose in August. The report, made public this week, also noted that Hodgson had been dealing with depression following his arrest.
Autopsy and Investigation Findings
Isaiah Hodgson, 29, was discovered deceased in his Hemet residence in late August. According to the investigative report from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, a white powder-like substance was found near his body. The coroner’s report officially listed the cause of death as “cocaine toxicity” and noted the discovery of three plastic bindles, commonly used for drug transport, inside his stomach. Investigators ruled out foul play, confirming there were no signs of injury or defensive wounds.
Details of Prior Arrest
Hodgson’s death followed his arrest in Long Beach a month prior. He faced charges including resisting arrest and battery on a police officer after an incident at a Shoreline Village restaurant where staff reported he was intoxicated and armed. Body camera footage showed a struggle where officers used a Taser to subdue him. During the arrest, Hodgson expressed distress over his personal information being publicized online and receiving threats.
Public Profile and Personal Struggles
Hodgson had become a public figure after his involvement in the detention of U.S. citizen Adrian Martinez, an event connected to the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement policies. He was reportedly the only agent not wearing a mask during the incident. According to his family, Hodgson was depressed while on administrative leave and had previously struggled with substance abuse. They stated he had been attending Alcoholics Anonymous but was not considered suicidal.
Legal Conclusion
A spokesman for the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office indicated that the charges against Hodgson are expected to be dismissed at a future court hearing. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Representatives for the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Border Patrol did not immediately respond to requests for comment.