SEDGWICK COUNTY — One of three suspects accused in the drug overdose death of a 15-year-old Kansas girl will learn his fate Friday.
Niklas Wiley, 24, will appear for a sentencing hearing in the courtroom of Judge Jeffrey Syrios. In June, Wiley pleaded guilty to distribution of a controlled substance causing death and aggravated child endamgerment in the drug overdose death of 15-year-old Kennedy Herren, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. In exchange for his plea, prosecutors dropped a first degree murder charge.
On September 14, 2025, police responded to the report of a deceased 15-year-old in Wichita, according to a media release from police. The investigation determined the death of Kennedy Herren was the result of a drug overdose.
Since then, Wichita police overdose analyst worked to pursue justice and ensure accountability for the people responsible for her death.
On October 15, K-9 officers arrested 24-year-old Isaac L. Hord and on October 19 they arrested 24-year-old Niklas Wiley in connection with this case. Danielle Wheeler, 53, Wichita, was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on October 22, in connection with the case, according to online jail records. She met the requirement for bond and is no longer in custody.