A federal jury in Oakland has found former Antioch police officer Devon Wenger guilty of conspiracy to distribute anabolic steroids and obstruction of justice. The verdict was delivered following a three-day trial led by Senior U.S. District Judge Jeffrey S. White.
Wenger, previously a police officer with the Antioch Police Department, was implicated in a conspiracy with Daniel Harris, also on the force, to distribute anabolic steroids. The court revealed that Wenger attempted to destroy evidence of his involvement by deleting data from his phone.
Acting United States Attorney Patrick D. Robbins commented on the case, stating, “Instead of upholding the law... Devon Wenger conspired with a fellow officer to sell illegal anabolic steroids... Thanks to today’s jury conviction, Mr. Wenger will now face sentencing for his violations of law.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani highlighted the breach of trust involved, asserting, “... he betrayed the trust of the community he was sworn to serve... Today’s guilty verdict makes clear that the FBI will hold accountable anyone who abuses the authority and responsibility of public service.”
Evidence from the trial showed that Wenger set up a steroid distribution in February 2022 between Harris and another individual. Despite a federal investigation leading to the seizure of the steroids package, Wenger continued to correspond about supplying the awaiting party.
On March 23, 2022, the FBI executed a warrant to seize Wenger's phone. Forensic analysis indicated Wenger deleted incriminating communications with Harris and others connected to the steroid distribution.
The jury convicted Wenger of both conspiracy to distribute and possess anabolic steroids and destruction of evidence. Sentencing determinations will consider U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and applicable law.
Wenger will appear on May 6, 2025, for a hearing to determine his custody status pending sentencing. The conspiracy charge carries a potential 10-year sentence, and the obstruction charge up to 20 years.
Assisting in this prosecution were the National Security & Special Prosecutions Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office Oakland Branch, with investigative support from the FBI and Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office.
Separately, Wenger is also facing charges related to conspiracy against rights and deprivation of rights. His trial for these additional charges is scheduled for July 21, 2025.
These legal proceedings reveal broader investigations into the Antioch and Pittsburgh police departments, implicating numerous officers in misconduct ranging from excessive force to fraud.