A Minnesota woman will not face additional jail time for assisting her boyfriend in moving a dismembered murder victim, authorities said. Alexis Marion Elling, 24, pleaded guilty to aiding an offender and accessory after the fact in the 2023 death of Rodney Pendegayosh Jr.
Details of the Crime
Elling, who spent nearly a year in jail for her involvement, admitted she knew her boyfriend, 23-year-old Bradley Allen Weyaus Jr., had murdered Pendegayosh. The couple moved Pendegayosh’s body from a home in Isle, Minnesota, and disposed of evidence, including a shotgun case.
Elling kept track of the tote bag containing Pendegayosh’s dismembered remains for two days before authorities discovered the body along a snowy road.
Legal Outcome for Elling
As part of a plea agreement, Elling was granted probation with the condition that she avoids alcohol and drugs, while also receiving credit for the 324 days she had already served in jail. The judge stayed her 57-month sentence, meaning she won’t serve additional jail time if she complies with her probation terms.
Weyaus’ Conviction and Defense
Weyaus was sentenced to 25 years and six months in prison for the murder of Pendegayosh. His defense attorney cited his troubled upbringing and the impact of generational trauma among Native Americans, as well as his struggles with addiction and mental health issues.
Weyaus’ past, including witnessing abuse and suffering in foster care, was presented as a factor contributing to his actions.
The Victim and Investigation
Authorities believe the crime stemmed from the couple’s belief that Pendegayosh was responsible for the overdose death of Elling’s brother. The crime was described as particularly bizarre, with the victim’s body being moved multiple times before its discovery.
Pendegayosh’s remains were found in a tote bag along a snowy highway by a public works crew, who initially thought they saw a severed foot.
Additional Evidence and Weyaus’ Arrest
Evidence linked Elling and Weyaus to the crime, including surveillance footage showing them moving the tote bag, as well as a bloody carpet and other items found at their apartment.
Weyaus was eventually arrested after a brief manhunt, and authorities discovered tools and other evidence that pointed toward his involvement in the murder.
