On October 28, 2024, Rodney Eugene Maxim, 67, of Libby, appeared in Lincoln County District Court after pleading guilty to cocaine possession. Maxim received a five-year suspended sentence and forfeited $6,600 cash found during his arrest on October 4, 2024. He was credited for three days served in county jail.
Maxim’s attorney requested waiving an $800 public defender fee, citing his limited Social Security income and financial difficulties. The judge ordered Maxim to pay the fee during the sentence period.
Maxim’s associate, 42-year-old Tucero Antonio Knippling of Tacoma, Washington, remains at large after missing two court hearings this year. Knippling was arrested alongside Maxim but fled from officers during a traffic stop on October 4. He was captured but later released on bail. A $250,000 bench warrant was issued after Knippling failed to appear for hearings and violated probation requirements.
During the investigation, authorities seized 20 grams of cocaine divided into 40 packages from a vehicle linked to the suspects, along with cocaine and cash found on Maxim. Knippling faces charges including possession with intent to distribute and obstructing a peace officer.
The case highlights ongoing narcotics enforcement efforts in Lincoln County.
