Kendall Hicks, a 35-year-old resident of Lake Charles, Louisiana, has been sentenced to over 16 years in federal prison for distribution of fentanyl. Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced the ruling, with United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. delivering a 175-month sentence for distribution of fentanyl and possession with the intent to distribute. Hicks will also face five years of supervised release. Additionally, he received a 24-month sentence for a supervised release violation, bringing the total to 199 months in prison.
The case dates back to May 30, 2023, when members of the Calcasieu Combined Anti-Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at Hicks' residence. Officers seized over $10,000 in U.S. currency, approximately 495.71 grams of fentanyl, marijuana, and digital scales. Hicks pled guilty on January 7, 2025.
“The United States Attorney’s Office salutes the hard work and dedication of our law enforcement partners in Calcasieu Parish and their commitment to make our communities safe. Simply put, fentanyl kills and its illegal distribution must come to an end,” Van Hook stated. “This is a significant sentence and it sends a clear message that this conduct will not be tolerated.”
Investigation of the case was conducted by the United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations and the Calcasieu Combined Anti-Drug Task Force. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Jamilla A. Bynog. The C.A.T. Narcotics Task Force is a joint initiative involving several local law enforcement agencies and federal organizations.
