LEXINGTON, Ky. — A Lexington man has been arrested and charged with multiple federal drug trafficking and firearms offenses after a two-month investigation involving undercover operations and controlled purchases, authorities announced Monday.
Kevin D. Sanders, 47, was arrested on April 24, 2025, following a series of narcotics transactions that investigators allege involved fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana. Sanders, who authorities linked to the street alias “Deuce,” faces charges of possession with intent to distribute Schedule II controlled substances and unlawful possession of firearms by a convicted felon, according to court documents.
Special Agent Isaac J. Waters of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) detailed in an affidavit that Sanders was first identified as a suspect during a controlled narcotics purchase on February 19, 2025. A confidential informant working with the Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force purchased narcotics from Sanders. He allegedly conducted the transaction from his white GMC Yukon at a Marathon gas station on the corner of New Circle Road and Russell Cave Road in Lexington.
Further controlled buys occurred on March 11, April 14, and April 21, with authorities consistently surveilling Sanders as he departed from and returned to his Dover Road residence, according to the affidavit.
On April 24, Kentucky State Police executed a search warrant at Sanders’ residence, recovering approximately 2.5 pounds of fentanyl, 1.3 pounds of cocaine, 9.7 pounds of methamphetamine, and more than 20 pounds of marijuana. Investigators also seized five firearms—including one reported stolen—and approximately $9,000 in cash. Authorities noted that firearms and narcotics were discovered together, including one firearm located alongside narcotics in a locked basement closet. Sanders was reportedly carrying the key to this locked closet at the time of his arrest.
Sanders has a prior felony conviction for attempted first-degree murder in Illinois, resulting in a 15-year prison sentence, according to records cited by investigators.
Sanders declined to speak with investigators following his arrest. Sanders remains in custody at the Fayette County Detention Center awaiting a federal court appearance.