Kevin Shank, 46, of Alaska, has been sentenced to more than 14 years in federal prison after being convicted of possessing and intending to distribute over 12 kilograms of controlled substances. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) announced the sentence on February 20, 2025, after a lengthy investigation into Shank’s drug trafficking activities.
According to court documents, authorities began receiving information in August 2023 that Shank was selling illegal drugs from his residence. In February 2024, law enforcement observed Shank selling heroin and fentanyl pills to an individual. This led to a search warrant being executed at Shank’s home on March 19, 2024.
During the search, authorities discovered over 6.1 kilograms of methamphetamine, more than 2.4 kilograms of fentanyl tablets, nearly one kilogram of fentanyl powder, and almost one kilogram of cocaine. Additionally, over 1.7 kilograms of marijuana, smaller amounts of heroin, suboxone, and Xanax were seized.
The DEA also found seven firearms, two homemade suppressors, various ammunition, over $303,000 in cash, and a truck purchased using proceeds from Shank’s drug trafficking activities. Court records revealed that most of the drugs were hidden in a secret compartment in a side room of the residence, while firearms were positioned at the entrances.
DEA Special Agent in Charge David F. Reames emphasized the threat posed by traffickers like Shank, particularly those dealing in fentanyl, which he noted could potentially cause over 85,000 lethal doses. “Make no mistake: If you deal drugs in Alaska, DEA and our partners will hold you accountable,” Reames said.
Shank’s conviction and sentence send a strong message about the federal government’s commitment to combating the illegal drug trade and the dangerous consequences of drug trafficking.
