5 guards charged in EKY prison drug trafficking case

WEST LIBERTY, Ky. — A major investigation involving drug trafficking inside the Eastern Kentucky Correctional Complex has resulted in multiple arrests, according to Kentucky State Police.

The investigation began back on September 7, 2025, after EKCC officials discovered illegal narcotics inside the facility and contacted KSP. That call led to a joint investigation involving the HIDTA Gateway Area Drug Task Force, focusing on suspected drug trafficking, organized crime, money laundering, and promoting contraband.

After months of investigation, authorities say five individuals are now facing a total of 22 charges tied to the case.

What Investigators Found

According to KSP, the investigation revealed that:

• Two former correctional officers, William Caudill (32, Isonville) and Dwayne Skaggs (34, Auxier), are accused of distributing narcotics inside the prison.

• Two inmates, Shane Wilder (42, Calvin) and Challis Davis (45, Flat Lick), were also involved in distributing drugs within the facility.

• Investigators say Donnie Wilder (70, Calvin), the mother of inmate Shane Wilder, helped facilitate the trafficking operation from outside the prison.

This report was compiled using information gathered from law enforcement statements, official press releases and publicly available news sources.

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Charges Filed

Caudill and Skaggs face charges including:

• • Promoting Contraband (1st Degree)

  • Trafficking in Controlled Substance (1st & 2nd Degree)

  • Official Misconduct (1st Degree)

  • Engaging in Organized Crime

• Donnie Wilder, Shane Wilder, and Challis Davis are each charged with:

  • Promoting Contraband (1st Degree)

  • Trafficking in Controlled Substance (1st & 2nd Degree)

  • Engaging in Organized Crime

The HIDTA Gateway Area Drug Task Force, based in Montgomery County, works alongside federal, state, and local agencies to combat drug trafficking and organized criminal activity across the Appalachian region. This case highlights continued efforts to crack down on illegal operations—even within correctional facilities.

This remains an ongoing investigation. More details could be released as the case moves forward.

Official KSP STATEMNET:
https://www.kentuckystatepolice.ky.gov/news/hq-3-16-2026