(KTIV) — A new federal criminal complaint alleges 14-year-old McKenna Wendel died in Lyon County after her uncle transported her from Sioux Falls and supplied her with cocaine.
KTIV reports Kevin Chapman is charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine resulting in death. The complaint was filed September 28 in the Northern District of Iowa.
Evidence Cited Against Chapman
According to reporting on the court documents, investigators used phone records, surveillance footage, and witness statements to examine contacts between Chapman and Wendel’s uncle, Mark Milk.
The documents allege Milk withdrew $150 from a Sioux Falls ATM early March 14 and then called a number associated with Chapman three times. Phone location data placed Milk near Chapman’s residence shortly afterward.
An informant told investigators Milk regularly obtained cocaine from Chapman for $150 per 3.5 grams.
Surveillance did not show Milk arriving at Chapman’s home, but investigators reported footage of his vehicle traveling toward and away from the surrounding area.
KTIV reports the affidavit alleges Milk transported Wendel to Lyon County, where she overdosed on his cocaine supply. The affidavit says autopsy and toxicology findings identified cocaine toxicity as her cause of death.
Earlier Charges and Local Investigation
Wendel’s body was found near Brookings, South Dakota, on March 19. The newly reported allegation places her death in Iowa.
Milk and Jon Rogness of Brookings were indicted June 17. Milk faces five counts involving drug distribution, including distribution resulting in death; transporting a minor for criminal sexual activity; and concealing evidence. He pleaded not guilty in July.
Rogness was charged with conspiracy to conceal evidence and being an accessory after the fact. KTIV reports he changed his plea to guilty on August 19.
The Lyon County Sheriff’s Office is among the local, state, and federal agencies investigating the case.
