KC Man Charged with Fentanyl, Illegal Firearm Possession

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The gritty streets of Kansas City were the scene of a major law enforcement operation this week as Damian Mays, 35, from Kansas City, Ks., found himself facing federal charges for drug trafficking and firearms offenses.

Mays, who was charged with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana, also faced allegations of possessing firearms in furtherance of his drug trafficking crimes. His status as a felon in possession of firearms added another layer to the serious nature of these charges.

The federal indictment replaced a criminal complaint filed on September 4, 2025, following an incident on Sept. 2, 2025, when Mays attempted to evade law enforcement during a traffic stop. The determined fugitive drove off at high speeds in a Lexus sedan before attempting to flee on foot.

Officers were able to apprehend Mays after a chase that led to the recovery of a backpack containing distribution amounts of drugs. Inside the Lexus, they discovered two firearms: one on the driver’s seat and another on the floorboard.

But Mays was not finished. While in custody, he escaped again, this time using a waiting Buick SUV, which resulted in a crash on Interstate 70 before his eventual recapture.

The charges against Mays are merely accusations at this stage. A federal trial jury will determine guilt or innocence based on the evidence presented.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration, eliminating cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protecting communities from violent crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Siegele is handling the prosecution, with the Kansas City Missouri Police Department leading the investigation supported by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

RELATED: Registered Predator Busted: KC Man Accused of Targeting Child

RELATED: Cano Charged with Kansas City Methamphetamine Conspiracy