WEST LIBERTY, Ky. (March 16, 2026) — Upon Eastern Kentucky Correctional Complex (EKCC) discovering illegal narcotics inside the prison, the Kentucky State Police (KSP), in conjunction with the HIDTA Gateway Area Drug Task Force, have arrested five individuals on 22 charges related to drug trafficking, official misconduct and other offenses, according to a release.
Sept. 7, 2025, EKCC contacted KSP and a joint investigation was initiated into suspected drug trafficking, money laundering, promoting contraband and organized criminal activity connected to the facility.
The investigation revealed that William Caudill and Dwayne Skaggs, former correctional officers at EKCC, allegedly distributed illegal narcotics within the facility. Two inmates housed at the facility, Shane Wilder and Challis Davis, were also reportedly involved in distributing illegal narcotics. The investigation further determined that Donnie Wilder, mother of inmate Shane Wilder, reportedly assisted in facilitating the illegal operation, a release said.
March 16, KSP and HIDTA Gateway Area Drug Task Force arrested the following individuals based on the results of this investigation:
William Caudill, 32 years old, Isonville, Ky., Promoting Contraband 1st; Trafficking in Controlled Substance 1st and 2nd; Official Misconduct 1st; and Engaging in Organized Crime.
Dwane Skaggs, 34 years old, Auxier, Ky., Promoting Contraband 1st; Trafficking in Controlled Substance 1st and 2nd; Official Misconduct 1st; and Engaging in Organized Crime.
Donnie Wilder, 70 years old, Calvin, Ky., Promoting Contraband 1st; Trafficking in Controlled Substance 1st and 2nd; and Engaging in Organized Crime.
Shane Wilder, 42 years old, Calvin, Ky., Promoting Contraband 1st; Trafficking in Controlled Substance 1st and 2nd; and Engaging in Organized Crime.
Challis Davis, 45 years old, Flat Lick, Ky., Promoting Contraband 1st; Trafficking in Controlled Substance 1st and 2nd; and Engaging in Organized Crime.
The HIDTA Gateway Area Drug Task Force, based in Montgomery County, is a multi-agency task force that facilitates cooperation among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking organizations and associated criminal enterprises. The program enhances investigative capabilities through intelligence sharing, analytical support, financial investigations and coordinated enforcement operations to identify, disrupt, and dismantle criminal organizations operating in the Appalachian region.
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