Kevin Sanders, a 48-year-old resident of Lexington, was convicted by a federal jury in Lexington on May 12 for multiple drug trafficking and firearms offenses. The conviction follows a three-day trial in which Sanders was found guilty of distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine, possessing with intent to distribute large quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine, as well as possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes and being a felon in possession of firearms.
The case is significant due to the scale of drugs involved and the presence of firearms. Law enforcement officials began investigating Sanders' activities in February 2025 through the HIDTA Task Force. Testimony revealed that officers purchased illegal substances from Sanders before executing a search warrant at his residence in April 2025. During the search, authorities seized over 3.7 kilograms of pure methamphetamine, more than 600 grams of fentanyl, approximately half a kilogram of cocaine, and five firearms.
Sanders has a prior conviction for Attempt First Degree Murder from Cook County, Illinois. His latest conviction was announced jointly by Jason Parman, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; John Nokes, Special Agent in Charge at ATF Louisville Field Division; Phillip J. Burnett Jr., Commissioner with Kentucky State Police; and Chief Rodney Richardson from Richmond Police Department.
The investigation involved cooperation between the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Kentucky State Police (KSP), and Richmond Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s Office was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cynthia Rieker during prosecution efforts.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky enforces federal laws such as those related to drug offenses while working alongside other agencies to maintain community safety through prosecutions and partnerships according to the official website. Sentencing for Sanders is scheduled for September 10.
