Alan Ketchen, MDPV Trafficking, Maine 2011

A 42-year-old Bangor resident has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute MDPV, a chemical compound commonly referred to as ‘bath salts’ or ‘monkey dust.’

Alan Ketchen, also known as ‘AJ,’ admitted to his role in a conspiracy that distributed MDPV in Penobscot County and elsewhere between April and December 2011.

The case against Ketchen was investigated by the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency, with assistance from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bangor Police Department.

According to court records, Ketchen packaged and distributed MDPV from his residence on Blackstone Street in Bangor and collected payments for the drug sales.

On November 10, 2011, law enforcement agents searched the residence and seized a large quantity of MDPV and other controlled substances, cash, drug records, and drug paraphernalia.

Ketchen faces up to 20 years in prison, a $1,000,000 fine, or both, for the conspiracy charge. He also faces up to 20 years in prison, a $500,000 fine, or both, for maintaining a drug-involved premise.

Ketchen’s sentencing will take place after the completion of a presentence investigation report by the U.S. Probation Office.

Ketchen is one of six defendants charged as part of the conspiracy. Co-defendants Daniel Hines, Jessica Bryden, Matthew Tardiff, Adam Hathorn, and Tina Keaton are awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty to the conspiracy charge.

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