Two Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agents in Utah face federal charges for allegedly orchestrating a drug trafficking operation using confiscated evidence. Nicholas Kindle and David Cole, both special agents tasked with investigating narcotics trafficking, are accused of exploiting their positions to divert seized "bath salts" for illegal sale.

The scheme, as outlined by prosecutors, involved obtaining the drugs from DHS evidence and other law enforcement agencies under the pretense of legitimate investigations. They allegedly began their illicit activities in 2021, also reportedly stealing cash, jewelry, and an artifact from evidence. Kindle and Cole are accused of using a confidential informant, initially a "source of information," to distribute the drugs, later allegedly coercing a former inmate into becoming a middleman.

Transactions reportedly took place at various locations, including a Panera Bread and a Nike store, with communication facilitated through encrypted messaging. The FBI initiated an investigation in October 2024 after the informant's attorney alerted authorities to the potentially illegal activities. Investigators documented eight instances of drug sales to the informant, including one involving a cup containing a granular substance left in a parking lot trash can, which later tested positive for drugs. The estimated profit from this scheme ranges between $195,000 and $300,000.

Cole was indicted last month and faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. Kindle's initial court appearance is scheduled for January 21st, and he faces a potential 25-year sentence. Both agents have had their DHS credentials suspended but remain employed. "Bath salts," also known as Alpha-PVP or cathinone, are synthetic drugs with effects comparable to methamphetamine, cocaine, or ecstasy, and are not related to actual bath products.