Following an extensive, three-month investigation by the Rochester Police Department’s Criminal Interdiction Unit (CIU), officers arrested a man in connection with a fatal drug overdose.

On December 24, 2025, officers conducted a welfare check at an apartment in northeast Rochester and located a deceased male. They found controlled substances and drug paraphernalia at the scene. The medical examiner later determined the victim died from acute fentanyl toxicity.

During the investigation, CIU identified 43-year-old Clifton Hubbert of Rochester as the source of the drugs involved. A search warrant executed at his residence led to the recovery of cocaine and fentanyl. Hubbert also admitted to regularly supplying drugs to the victim.

He was arrested on April 1, 2026 and arraigned on 3^rd degree murder charges on April 3, 2026.

Overdose death investigations are complex and require a high level of coordination. This case reflects the persistence of CIU investigators and strong collaboration between RPD and the Olmsted County Attorney’s Office.

Police Chief Jim Franklin shares, “While no outcome can undo the loss experienced, pursuing charges in cases like this demonstrates our shared commitment to seeking answers, delivering accountability and supporting those impacted by tragic and preventable deaths.”