ROCHESTER, Minn. – A sentence has finally been handed down for a 2022 drug death in Rochester.

The body of Tia Arleth was discovered June 17, 2022, under a tarp in the area along CR2 and 70th avenue NE in Haverhill Township. Rochester police said the body was in an advanced state of decomposition.

An investigation eventually led to a third-degree murder charge against Timothy Daniel Loftus, 44 of Rochester. He was accused of supplying the heroin and fentanyl that contributed to Arleth dying at Loftus’ home on May 29, 2022.

Investigators said Loftus then wrapped Arleth’s body in a tarp and dumped it where it was ultimately found.

Loftus took a deal with prosecutors and pleaded guilty to interference with a dead body. The murder charge was dismissed.

Loftus has now been sentenced to

See Full Page