Lake Charles, Louisiana — Kendall Hicks, a 35-year-old Lake Charles resident, has been sentenced to nearly 17 years in federal prison on charges related to fentanyl distribution, according to Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook.
U.S. District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. handed down a 175-month sentence for distribution of fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, followed by five years of supervised release. Hicks received an additional 24-month sentence for a supervised release violation, to be served consecutively, bringing his total prison term to 199 months.
The sentencing stems from a May 30, 2023 search of Hicks’ residence by the Calcasieu Combined Anti-Drug Task Force (C.A.T. Team). During the operation, law enforcement discovered approximately 495.71 grams of fentanyl, more than $10,000 in cash, marijuana, and digital scales. Hicks entered a guilty plea 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,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Van Hook. “Simply put, fentanyl kills and its illegal distribution must come to an end. This is a significant sentence and it sends a clear message that this conduct will not be tolerated.”
Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is particularly dangerous due to its potency—it can be up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Even small amounts can cause fatal overdoses, making its distribution especially concerning to public health officials and law enforcement.
The case was a collaborative investigation between the United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations and the Calcasieu Combined Anti-Drug Task Force, with Assistant United States Attorney Jamilla A. Bynog handling the prosecution.
The C.A.T. Narcotics Task Force represents a joint effort among various law enforcement agencies, including the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lake Charles Police Department, Westlake Police Department, DeQuincy Police Department, Vinton Police Department, Iowa Police Department, the United States Marshal’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.