Hazel Green Man Facing Federal Drug Charges Plans to Change Plea

Clyde R. Endicott, 55, scheduled for rearraignment hearing later this month

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

A Hazel Green, Kentucky man facing federal drug trafficking charges, including conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute, plans to change his plea in court later this month. Clyde R. Endicott, 55, is set for a rearraignment hearing on February 19, 2026, and his jury trial scheduled for March has been canceled.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing battle against the distribution of methamphetamine and other hard drugs in rural Kentucky communities, where drug trafficking can have devastating impacts on public health and safety. Endicott's decision to change his plea suggests he may be cooperating with authorities, which could lead to further investigations and prosecutions.

The details

Endicott, also known as Rudy, is charged with conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture in Wolfe, Breathitt, and Magoffin counties from June 2023 through June 2025. He also faces additional charges in Wolfe County, including four counts of distribution of methamphetamine, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture.

  • Endicott is scheduled for rearraignment on February 19, 2026 at 1:30 p.m.
  • Endicott's jury trial set for March has been canceled.

The players

Clyde R. Endicott

A 55-year-old man from Hazel Green, Kentucky who is facing federal drug trafficking charges, including conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

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What’s next

The judge will decide whether to accept Endicott's plea change during the rearraignment hearing on February 19, 2026.

The takeaway

This case underscores the ongoing challenge of combating the distribution of highly addictive and dangerous drugs like methamphetamine in rural communities, where the impact on public health and safety can be severe. Endicott's decision to change his plea may lead to further investigations and prosecutions that could help disrupt drug trafficking networks in the region.