Judge Sentenced Four in Madison Drug Trafficking Case
A U.S. District Judge sentenced four individuals for their roles in a large-scale methamphetamine and fentanyl conspiracy.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Drug Crime
Live Poll
Do you believe strict prison sentences for drug distributors make your community safer?
U.S. District Judge William M. Conley sentenced four defendants involved in a drug trafficking operation based in Madison. The group was among 16 individuals charged for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl in the region.
Why it matters
This sentencing concludes a portion of a larger investigation into a drug network that used confidential informants and search warrants to uncover illegal distribution efforts. The case highlights the ongoing federal crackdown on organized trafficking rings operating across Wisconsin.
Four defendants received prison terms ranging from 24 to 78 months, while other leaders like Jamar Purnell and Jimmie Leuaxay previously received 20 and 15-year sentences respectively. Legal proceedings continue for three additional members of the organization.
The players
William M. Conley
He serves as a U.S. District Judge overseeing federal court proceedings.
Jamar Purnell
He was identified as a leader of the drug trafficking organization.
Treagir Sander
He is a defendant from La Crosse who was sentenced to 78 months in prison.
Alisha Lavine
She is a defendant from Sun Prairie who was sentenced to 36 months in prison.
Waylon Degenhardt
He is a defendant from Boscobel who was sentenced to 24 months in prison.
The details
Law enforcement officials dismantled the organization by utilizing confidential informants to conduct controlled drug purchases. Officers also executed multiple search warrants at residences and vehicles linked to the trafficking ring in Madison and other areas.
Timeline
Investigation into the organization began in early 2024.
Treagir Sander received a 78-month sentence on September 15, 2026.
Alisha Lavine received a 36-month sentence on September 16, 2026.
Kyle Haag received a 75-month sentence on September 22, 2026.
Waylon Degenhardt received a 24-month sentence on October 1, 2026.
Legal Context
This case follows broader federal patterns of prosecuting drug trafficking organizations by targeting the supply chain through conspiracy charges. Such prosecutions often result in long-term incarceration based on mandatory minimums for methamphetamine and fentanyl distribution.
The dismantling of this organization removes a significant source of illicit fentanyl and methamphetamine from Madison neighborhoods. Residents may see continued federal involvement in local drug enforcement as authorities finalize the remaining cases.
The takeaway
The dismantling of this drug ring highlights the effectiveness of using confidential informants and search warrants in federal narcotics investigations. These sentencing outcomes serve as a reminder of the severe legal consequences for those involved in large-scale illicit drug conspiracies.
What happens next
Dajuea Purnell, Yasir Stackhouse, and William Marshall are scheduled to receive their sentences in the coming months.
Further reading
For more information on similar regional enforcement efforts, visit the Drug Crime section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The United States Department of Justice.
Live Poll
Do you believe strict prison sentences for drug distributors make your community safer?
