An Oshkosh man, Peter J. Henkle, aged 51, has been handed a six-year federal prison sentence following his conviction for drug trafficking crimes, including intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana. Acting U.S. Attorney Richard G. Frohling of the Eastern District of Wisconsin revealed that Senior U.S. District Judge William C. Griesbach issued the sentence yesterday, as reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
A search warrant executed in August of 2024 by the Oshkosh Police Department at Henkle's residence brought to light over 950 grams of cocaine, more than 7½ pounds of marijuana, and cash totaling $321,880. The investigation also led to the identification and subsequent seizure of a significant amount of money from bank accounts belonging to Henkle, believed to be tied to his illegal activities. Henkle has admitted to obtaining and distributing large quantities of cocaine over approximately two years.
In addition to prison time, Judge Griesbach mandated forfeiture of assets amassed through Henkle's drug trade. According to a statement from the U.S. Attorney's Office, these assets included "$579,207, two Harley Davidson motorcycles, a 2019 Dodge Challenger Scat Pack, and a 2020 Ford F250 Lariat Tremor." Judge Griesbach also imposed a $50,000 fine on Henkle.
The significant seizure and Henkle’s subsequent conviction stem from a collaborative investigation by the Oshkosh Police Department – Vice and Narcotics Unit, the Lake Winnebago Area Metropolitan Enforcement Group – Drug Unit (LWAM), with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Assistant United States Attorney Alex Duros was the lead prosecutor in this case.
