Grand Jury Indicts Two in Sioux Falls Teen Death
Federal prosecutors charged Mark Milk and Kevin Chapman in connection with the fatal cocaine overdose of 14-year-old McKenna Wendel.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Drug Crime
A federal grand jury has issued a superseding indictment against Mark Milk and Kevin Chapman for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance resulting in death. The charges follow the death of 14-year-old McKenna Wendel, who died of a cocaine overdose.
Why it matters
The indictment represents a significant escalation in the federal investigation into the death of a minor. Prosecutors allege the defendants played roles in the distribution of the drugs that led to the childs death.
Mark Milk and Kevin Chapman are facing federal charges for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance resulting in death. Milk also faces five additional counts, including transporting a minor across state lines for sexual activity.
The players
Mark Milk
Mark Milk is a defendant in the federal case who is also charged with transporting a minor across state lines for sexual activity.
Kevin Chapman
Kevin Chapman is a defendant accused of selling cocaine that allegedly contributed to a fatal overdose.
McKenna Wendel
McKenna Wendel was a 14-year-old victim of a fatal cocaine overdose.
Jon Rogness
Jon Rogness is a co-defendant who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conceal objects and accessory after the fact.
The details
Prosecutors allege that Milk, who is the uncle of the victim, provided the cocaine to Wendel, while Chapman allegedly sold the drugs to Milk. Jon Rogness, who was previously involved in the case, has already pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conceal objects and accessory after the fact.
Timeline
March 13: McKenna Wendel was last seen.
March 14: Estimated date of death for McKenna Wendel.
March 19: Body found in Brookings County.
August 19: Rogness pleaded guilty.
October 30: Court appearance for Chapman and Milk.
Legal Context
This case follows the established precedent of federal prosecution for drug distribution resulting in death. Federal authorities increasingly utilize these specific charges to hold distributors accountable for fatal overdoses, mirroring broader trends in regional drug enforcement.
The investigation highlights ongoing local concerns regarding substance abuse and child safety. Residents should be aware that the legal process is ongoing as federal authorities continue to prosecute those involved in the events that occurred in Brookings County.
The takeaway
This case underscores the severe legal consequences for individuals involved in drug distribution that results in a fatality. It serves as a reminder of the broad scope of federal authority when investigating the deaths of minors.
What happens next
Mark Milk and Kevin Chapman are scheduled for a federal court appearance on October 30.
Further reading
For more information on legal proceedings, visit the Drug Crime section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KELO-LAND TV.
