HARRISONBURG, VIRGINIA – In a shocking blow to the sex trafficking underworld, Kendall Demarko Wysinger of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to life in prison for running a prostitution ring and distributing lethal doses of fentanyl. The 35-year-old’s reign of terror in the Western District of Virginia ended as he faced the consequences of his monstrous crimes.
“Sex traffickers enslave and traumatize their victims for financial gain,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “Today’s sentence reflects our office’s unwavering commitment to justice.” The Department of Justice has prioritized such cases, and Wysinger is now the embodiment of this priority.
Special Agent in Charge Fong commended the DEA Washington Division for their role in the investigation, emphasizing the collaborative efforts that led to Wysinger’s downfall. “This case is a testament to our teamwork in battling human sex trafficking and drug crime,” he stated.
According to evidence from Wysinger’s January 2019 trial, the defendant controlled at least six women through heroin and coercion, advertising them for commercial sex online and via social media. His victims were forced to hand over most of their earnings, leaving many trapped in a cycle of debt and exploitation.
The tragedy unfolded when Wysinger distributed what he claimed was heroin, which was actually fentanyl. One victim died as a result of the overdose. Wysinger’s callous disregard for human life is matched only by his cunning manipulation of the drug trade.
The DEA, FBI I-81 Human Trafficking Task Force, Luray Police Department, and NWRDGTF conducted the investigation, while Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Swartz led the prosecution. The I-81 HTTF continues to be a beacon of hope in the fight against human trafficking, encouraging victims to seek assistance immediately.
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Key Facts
- State: Virginia
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Sex Crimes|Human Trafficking
- Source: Official Source ↗
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