Northern District of Iowa
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
A man who was found in possession of a firearm and marijuana as law enforcement investigated allegations of domestic abuse, was sentenced on April 26, 2022, to more than 1 year in federal prison.
Alex Torrez, age 21, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty January 18, 2022, to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
Evidence at the detention, change of plea, and sentencing hearings showed, that Torrez possessed a firearm while being a user of marijuana. A victim contacted police and claimed Torrez had assaulted her by punching her in the face after kicking in her front door. This led law enforcement to discover Torrez a few blocks away from the victim’s residence under the influence, asleep in his car, with a loaded revolver on his person, and additional ammunition and marijuana found elsewhere in the car.
Torrez was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Torrez was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Torrez is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the Sioux City Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-4064. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Hamilton County Woman to Federal Prison for Meth Possession with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
A woman who possessed with intent to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced on April 25, 2022, to 5 years in federal prison.
Kelly Beightol, 58, from Webster City, Iowa, pled guilty on December 2, 2021, to possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Beightol was previously convicted of Delivery of Methamphetamine in 1992, Possession with the Intent to Deliver and Delivery of Methamphetamine in 2015, all in the Iowa District Courts.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, evidence proved that on September 6, 2021, during a traffic stop in Hardin County, Iowa, Beightol was found in possession of roughly 53 grams of pure methamphetamine and ½ pound of marijuana. Law enforcement also seized indicia of drug distribution, including drug packaging, a digital scale, and nearly $1,700 in cash. Beightol said she intended to distribute some or all of the methamphetamine to another person or persons.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Beightol was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment and must serve a four-year term of supervised release following the imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Beightol remains in custody of the United States Marshal until she can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, the Hardin County Sheriff’s Office, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Laboratory, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office and the Webster City Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-3035. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Department of Justice Commemorates National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – The Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime (“OVC”) and the Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Iowa will join communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and celebrating victims’ rights, protections and services. This year’s observance takes place April 24-30 and features the theme, “Rights, access, equity, for all victims.”
In the Northern District of Iowa, Acting United States Attorney Timothy T. Duax announced winners for three awards based on their service to victims in Iowa:
- The Law Enforcement Victim Services Award is presented to Officer Nicholas Berry from the Waterloo Police Department. This award is presented to law enforcement officers in Iowa who go beyond the call of duty to help crime victims. It is the highest federal honor in Iowa for victim services by a law enforcement officer.
Officer Berry showed dedication to victims while investigating multiple cases involving drug overdoses resulting in the death of the victim. In particular, Officer Berry’s work with the family of a drug overdose victim led to the successful prosecution of Eric Griggs. Officer Berry remained in close contact with the victim’s family throughout the investigation and prosecution. His tenacious investigation and empathy for the victim’s family led directly to the successful prosecution of Griggs, resulting in a 40-year prison sentence and restitution for the victim’s family.
- The Award for Excellence in Victim Services is presented to Brandi Lewin from the Delaware County Victim Services Office. Ms. Lewin is the Victim Witness Coordinator and Sexual Assault Response Team Coordinator for multiple counties. In just 15 months in this role, Ms. Lewin has helped numerous victims improve their lives. Ms. Lewin makes herself available to victims at all hours and goes above and beyond to assist them. She has also established training opportunities for law enforcement, helping to ensure that there is an environment of victim-centered service during the investigation and prosecution of crimes.
- The Award for Excellence in Victim Services is presented to Penny Galvin, the director of the Survivors’ Program with Waypoint Services. Ms. Galvin provided outstanding services to those affected by the murder of James Booher by Matthew Robbins and others. Throughout the investigation, prosecution, trial, and sentencing, Ms. Galvin provided outstanding support to the victim’s family, which included the victim’s mother and stepfather, the victim’s siblings, his ex-wife, and the victim’s stepchildren. Ms. Galvin attended court hearings with the family, and regularly communicated with the family to answer questions and provide updates. During the investigation, she provided emotional support to the family, who, for years, were unsure what had happened to their loved one as his body was not recovered. Ms. Galvin’s efforts in this regard were outstanding given the length and complexity of the investigation.
Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week in 1981, putting crime victims' rights, needs and concerns in a prominent spot on the American agenda. He also established the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims.
For more information on how to create your own public campaigns to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights online and at events throughout the year, please visit: https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw2022/overview.html
Former Federal Felon Sent to Federal Prison Again for Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A Burlington man who distributed over 79 pounds of methamphetamine was sentenced today to more than 10 years in federal prison.
Corey Lowery, age 44, from Burlington, Iowa, received the prison term after a September 15, 2021, guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.
Information disclosed at sentencing showed that, beginning in 2018, Lowery began distributing pound-quantities of methamphetamine to several individuals in the Cedar Rapids, Iowa area. At the time, Lowery was still on federal supervised release as a result of his conviction in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Iowa for conspiracy to distribute cocaine. During the methamphetamine conspiracy, from 2018 to March 10, 2020, Lowery distributed at least 79 pounds of methamphetamine to the individuals from Cedar Rapids.
Lowery was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Lowery was sentenced to 126 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 10-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Lowery is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Dillan Edwards and was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force consisting of the DEA, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, the Cedar Rapids Police Department, the Marion Police Department, and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; and the Burlington Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-CR-00010.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Felon That Attempted to Run from Law Enforcement and Then Found with Stolen Gun Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A convicted felon who possessed a stolen gun was sentenced today to more than three years in federal prison.
Alex Richard VanErp, age 28, from Faribault, Minnesota, received the prison term after a September 16, 2021 guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a felon.
Facts presented in the case show that VanErp was identified as being involved in a number of thefts in Wisconsin. Law enforcement in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, posted video from one of the thefts on their Facebook page. VanErp was identified from the video by store employees at an implement store in Fayette County, Iowa, while Vanerp was making a purchase. When law enforcement arrived on scene, VanErp attempted to run out of the store and had to be tased to stop the attempted escape. VanErp possessed a stolen firearm taken in one of the thefts from Wisconsin and also possessed methamphetamine. VanErp had previously been convicted of a felony offense involving a financial transaction.
VanErp was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. VanErp was sentenced to 37 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
VanErp is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Nydle and investigated by the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office and the Prairie Du Chien Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 6:21-cr-2043.Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Delaware County Man Pleads Guilty to Being a Prohibited Person in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
A prohibited person who possessed a firearm pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Matthew Welcher, age 43, from Dundee, was convicted of one count of being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. At the plea hearing, Welcher admitted that, on May 24, 2021, he possessed a Savage Axis 6.5 Creedmoor caliber rifle after having been convicted of two felonies and a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence and while he was subject to a no contact order.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Welcher remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Welcher faces a possible maximum sentence of ten years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Tremmel and is being investigated by the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, the Manchester Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is CR 22-2011.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Woodbury County Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
A man who possessed methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it was sentenced in federal court on April 15, 2022, to 90 months’ imprisonment. Donovan Lang, 27, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty on November 19, 2021, to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, evidence showed that on August 15, 2021, in Sioux City, Iowa, while a passenger in an automobile, Lang was found to possess a knife, and about 100 grams of methamphetamine. The methamphetamine was wrapped in 2-3 purple latex gloves, found beneath where Lang was seated in the vehicle. About 5-7 matching purple latex gloves and a short knife were found in Lang’s pockets.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Lang was sentenced to 90 months’ imprisonment and must serve a 4 year term of supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Lang remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn Wehde and was investigated by the Sioux City Police Department and the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-4077. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Dubuque Veterinarian Pleads Guilty in Fake Dog Prescription SchemeRead the Press Release
A licensed Iowa veterinarian who wrote Tramadol prescriptions for fake dogs in order to obtain the controlled substance at local pharmacies pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids. Kristi Michelle Schreiber, age 42, from Dubuque, Iowa, was convicted of one count of acquiring a controlled substance by means of misrepresentation, fraud, deception, and subterfuge.
At the plea hearing and in a plea agreement, Schreiber admitted she is a licensed veterinarian in the State of Iowa and practices as an associate veterinarian at a pet clinic in Dubuque. From no later than February 2019 through at least February 2021, Schreiber wrote false and fraudulent prescriptions for Tramadol for dogs that did not exist or were not necessary. Tramadol is a Schedule IV controlled substance. Tramadol is a centrally acting opioid analgesic used to treat moderate pain. According to the American Kennel Club, Tramadol is a medication that veterinarians commonly prescribe to manage pain in dogs, and it is one of the few human painkillers that is safe to administer to dogs.
In March 2021, a pharmacy chain in Dubuque reported Schreiber’s diversion of tramadol to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Drug Control Division. The DEA conducted an inspection of the pet clinic at which Schreiber works and requested the files for some of dogs for which Schreiber had written prescriptions, but Schreiber could not produce all the files. Schreiber falsely told the DEA that some of the dogs were animals of “close friends” and also that she would “pick [the prescriptions] up for friends and family because I want to make sure the dog gets it.” Schreiber later admitted she took all the Tramadol herself. The investigation revealed that, between March 10, 2019, and March 9, 2021, Schreiber issued a total of 266 prescriptions for animals that purportedly were under her care. Of these 266 prescriptions, 186 (or approximately 70%) were for Tramadol HCL 50mg tablets.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Schreiber was released on bond pending sentencing. Schreiber faces a possible maximum sentence of four years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and one year of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Timothy L. Vavricek and was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Drug Control Division.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 22-CR-1012.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Cherokee County Man to Federal Prison for Meth and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine while also illegally possessing firearms was sentenced on April 14, 2022, to 42 months in federal prison.
William Hageman, 56, from rural Cherokee County, Iowa, pled guilty on December 17, 2021, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of firearms by a prohibited person. In 1994, Hageman was previously convicted of OWI - 3rd Offense, in the Iowa District Court for Plymouth County, in 1994. This conviction prohibited Hageman from possessing guns.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, evidence showed that from August 2018 through April 18, 2019, Hageman and others conspired to distribute more than 11 pounds of methamphetamine in Cherokee County, Iowa, and the surrounding area, often obtaining pounds of methamphetamine from Omaha, Nebraska sources. On four separate occasions, in March and April 2019, Hageman distributed more than a pound of pure methamphetamine to individuals cooperating with and under the supervision of law enforcement. In April 2019, law enforcement executed a search of Hageman’s rural Cherokee County residence and seized almost 1.5 pounds of methamphetamine throughout the property, as well as six guns, including four rifles. At the time of the search, a co-conspirator was found attempting to flush methamphetamine down a toilet before officers could seize it. Three of the guns were possessed by Hageman while three others were possessed by a co-conspirator.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Hageman was sentenced to 42 months’ imprisonment and must serve a term of three years supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Hageman remains in the custody of the United States Marshal Service until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn Wehde and was investigated by Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-4048. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Dubuque Man Pleads Guilty to Escape from Waterloo FacilityRead the Press Release
A Dubuque man who escaped from the Waterloo Residential Facility where he was in custody for a 2006 drug case pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Dennis Morris Brown, age 63, from Dubuque, Iowa, was convicted of one count of escape from federal custody.
In a plea agreement, Brown admitted that, in 2006, he was convicted of a federal drug offense and was sentenced to 210 months’ imprisonment and a six-year term of supervised release. Brown had his supervised release revoked in 2021, and, as a new condition of supervised release, he had to serve up to 90 days in a residential reentry center. On March 20, 2022, he was in still serving his 90-day placement in the Waterloo Residential Reentry Facility when he signed out of the facility to go to church and did not return as required. On March 24, 2022, Brown turned himself into the Waterloo Police Department as an escapee.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Linda R. Reade will be set in conjunction with a supervised release revocation hearing after a presentence report is prepared. Brown remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Brown faces a possible maximum sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Reinert and was investigated by United States Marshals Service.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file numbers are 22-CR-2018 and 06-CR-1028.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA
Mexican Man Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering the United States After Being DeportedRead the Press Release
A man who illegally returned to the United States after being deported was sentenced today to three months in federal prison.
Fernando Garcia-Guerrero, age 35, a citizen of Mexico illegally present in the United States and residing in Williamsburg, Iowa, received the prison term after a guilty plea on February 14, 2022, to one count of illegal reentry into the United States after having been deported.
At the guilty plea, Garcia-Guerrero admitted he had previously been deported from the United States and illegally reentered the United States without the permission of the United States government. Garcia-Guerrero was deported to Mexico by immigration officials in March 2005. He claimed to have illegally re-entered the United States by wading across the Rio Grande River near Hidalgo, Texas, in August 2005. In August 2017, Garcia-Guerrero was deported to Mexico following his arrest on state charges in Texas. In September 2017, Garcia-Guerrero was caught by immigration officials in the Rio Grande Valley near Hidalgo, Texas and was again deported to Mexico. On January 12, 2022, immigration officials learned Garcia-Guerrero had illegally returned to the United States and found Garcia-Guerrero at the Iowa County Jail following his arrest on state charges.
Garcia-Guerrero was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Garcia-Guerrero was sentenced to three months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a one-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Garcia-Guerrero is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be turned over to immigration officials.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 22-CR-06.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Spencer, Iowa Man to Federal Prison for Possession of Stolen MailRead the Press Release
A man who possessed stolen mail was sentenced on April 5, 2022, in federal court in Sioux City.
Tony Steece, 37, from Spencer, Iowa, pled guilty to three counts of possession of stolen mail on November 2, 2021.
At the plea hearing, Steece admitted that on November 26, 2020, he was in possession of three pieces of mail not addressed to him. Evidence further showed that on the morning of November 26, 2020, the Spencer Police Department responded to a citizen’s complaint that someone was stealing mail from a mailbox. Steece was caught with his hand in a mailbox and told police that he was returning mail. Steece then fled police when officers tried to arrest him on outstanding warrants, running multiple stop signs, driving 80-85 mph in a 25-mph zone while inside Spencer city limits, and driving 126 mph in a 65 mph outside of city limits. When apprehended, Steece admitted to stealing mail. At the time of Steece’s arrest, he had in his possession a number of other pieces of mail, including three checks worth more than $500 in total.
Steece has a lengthy criminal history, including the repeated and prolonged harassment of women that the sentencing court described as “disgusting” and “obnoxious.”
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Steece was sentenced to 48 months’ imprisonment and must serve a 3-year term of supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Steece remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Spencer, Iowa Police Department, and the Dickinson and Clay County Sheriffs’ Offices. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-4065. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Sioux City, Iowa Man to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
A man who illegally possessed two firearms was sentenced April 8, 2022, to more than two years in federal prison.
Criston Nunez-Morris, 21, from Sioux City, Iowa, received the prison term after a November 22, 2021, guilty plea to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings showed Nunez-Morris was an unlawful user of marijuana, cocaine, and ecstasy when he knowingly possessed two guns, along with ammunition. The guns were stolen. Nunez-Morris also admitted that he possessed the guns in connection with his felonious drug trafficking. At the time of Nunez-Morris’ arrest, he was in possession of cocaine, marijuana, ecstasy, and a digital scale.
Nunez-Morris was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Nunez-Morris was sentenced to 25 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a two-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Nunez-Morris is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the Sioux City Police Department, Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-4024. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Drug User in Illegal Possession of a Firearm Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
An unlawful drug user who possessed a firearm was sentenced on April 7, 2022, to more than two years in federal prison.
Esai Lopez, 23, from South Sioux City, Nebraska, received the prison term after an October 7, 2021, guilty plea to being a drug user in possession of a firearm.
Evidence at Lopez’s plea and sentencing hearings revealed that on June 3, 2020, defendant illegally possessed a handgun and was disarmed by police. Then, on June 23, 2020, Lopez and three other men were involved in a shooting. The men drove to the home of an intended victim, but seeing law enforcement in the area, aborted their attack run. The men decided upon a secondary target where one of men repeatedly fired at a Sioux City, Iowa home. There were people, including children, in the house at the time of the shooting. The evidence further revealed that on September 28, 2020, while the June 23 incident was under investigation, Lopez possessed a firearm in connection with a burglary, an Iowa charge of Intimidation with a Dangerous Weapon, and the shooting of a dog.
Lopez was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Lopez was sentenced to 30 months’ imprisonment. He was ordered to make $38,863.42. in restitution to victims and the insurance company. He must also serve a two-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Lopez is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the Sioux City, Iowa Police Department and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-4071. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Three Plead Guilty to Cedar Rapids Heroin Conspiracy Uncovered by Wiretap InvestigationRead the Press Release
Three individuals who were caught conspiring to distribute heroin during a wiretap investigation pled guilty recently in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Cody Scott Deklotz, age 31, from Shellsburg, Iowa, Andrew James Lehman, 29, from Marion, Iowa, and Jerry Dwayne Banghart, age 20, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, were all convicted of conspiring to distribute heroin. Deklotz admitted to conspiring to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin.
At their plea hearings, all three individuals admitted that they joined a conspiracy to distribute heroin with others in Cedar Rapids. The conspiracy had been running since at least 2017 and continued until June 2021. Evidence at a prior hearing showed that Deklotz allowed a heroin dealer from Chicago, Brian Dennis, to sell heroin out of Deklotz’s Cedar Rapids residence in early 2020. The DEA in Cedar Rapids initiated a wiretap investigation of Dennis in early 2021. Deklotz was intercepted over the wire purchasing heroin and also facilitating transactions between the suppliers and users. Court records also reflect that Deklotz was stopped by officers in May 2021 while in possession of over two grams of a mixture containing heroin, fentanyl, and a powerful synthetic opioid called metonitazene, as well as about 22 grams of methamphetamine.
In a plea agreement, Banghart admitted that he bought heroin from Dennis and others, some of which he redistributed to others. In March 2021, Banghart called Dennis and asked for “half a zip,” or a half ounce, of heroin for $1,400. Banghart ended up purchasing approximately 10.5 grams of a substance that contained heroin, fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl, para-fluorofentanyl, and metonitazene, which he distributed to another co‑conspirator, Taylor Leyden. Banghart also admitted to tipping off Dennis when another co‑conspirator was arrested to try to warn Dennis that the other co‑conspirator may have cooperated with police.
Two other individuals, Ryan Rick Schlitter and Melinda Salvatora Werning, previously pled guilty to the heroin conspiracy and are awaiting sentencing. Six other individuals, including Dennis, charged in the same indictment are still pending trial. As with any criminal case, a charge is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams will be set after presentence reports are prepared. All three defendants remain in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Deklotz faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 40 years’ imprisonment, a $2,000,000 fine, and a lifetime term of supervised release following any imprisonment. Lehman and Banghart both face a possible maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, and a lifetime term of imprisonment following any imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force consisting of the DEA; the Linn County Sheriff's Office; the Cedar Rapids Police Department; the Marion Police Department; and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Chatham.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-CR-32-CJW.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Sioux City Man to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
A man who illegally possessed a firearm was sentenced April 1, 2022, to more than 2 years in federal prison.
Jamaal Ferguson, 22, from Sioux City, Iowa, received the prison term after a December 1, 2021, guilty plea to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
The evidence in the case revealed that on August 7, 2021, Ferguson criminally possessed a loaded handgun and 28 grams of marijuana. This most recent offense was the last in a number of incidents involving Ferguson.
After participating in a violent home invasion on January 29, 2016, where a victim was forced to his knees, threatened, hit in the eye, and robbed at gunpoint, Ferguson attempted to do another home invasion robbery on February 5, 2016. Because of these incidents, Ferguson was adjudicated delinquent and sent to the Iowa State Training School for Boys. Within a year of discharge, on May 5, 2018, Ferguson assembled a group and committed another home invasion. This time Ferguson was not there to commit a robbery, this time he was there specifically to commit an assault (even hitting the victim in the face with brass knuckles). Following the incident, Ferguson was convicted but sentenced to probation. While on probation, on February 19, 2019, Ferguson committed another home invasion. He hit and kicked the victim in the head and threatened multiple people with a handgun. On February 19, 2019, law enforcement recovered a handgun possibly used in the February 2019 home invasion, and a semi-automatic rifle. Ferguson was again convicted. Despite multiple criminal convictions, and despite being a prohibited possessor of guns, sometime before August 7, 2021, Ferguson criminally rearmed again.
Ferguson was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Ferguson was sentenced to 33 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Ferguson is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the Sioux City, Iowa Police Department and the USDOJ’s Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-4084. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Onawa Man Pleads Guilty to Meth and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
A man involved in methamphetamine and illegal possession of a firearm pled guilty on March 24, 2022, in federal court in Sioux City.
Dustin Haynes, 38, from Onawa, Iowa, was convicted of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, manufacture and attempt to manufacture methamphetamine, and illegal possession of a firearm.
At the plea hearing, evidence showed that Haynes was previously convicted of Burglary, Assault while Participating in a Felony, and Possession of a Controlled Substance. As a result, Haynes was not able to legally possess guns. Evidence further showed that on September 1, 2021, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle Haynes was operating. Officers seized components of a methamphetamine lab in Haynes’ vehicle, and a shotgun (broken down) in the trunk of the vehicle. Law enforcement also seized two boxes of pseudoephedrine (used to make methamphetamine) and receipts showing the purchase of the pseudoephedrine within the previous 30 days. Haynes intended to manufacture and distribute the methamphetamine. Haynes attempted to flee law enforcement agents by vehicle, then on foot, and during the pursuit threw out several baggies of meth.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Haynes remains in the custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. On the two drug convictions, Haynes faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 40 years’ imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, and at least four years of supervised release following any imprisonment. On the firearm conviction, Haynes faces no mandatory minimum sentence and a possible maximum sentence of ten years’ imprisonment and up to three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Iowa DCI Laboratory, Monona County Sheriff’s Department, and Iowa State Patrol.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-4090. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Hampton, Iowa Woman Pleads Guilty to COVID-19 Related Unemployment FraudRead the Press Release
A Hampton, Iowa woman who received unemployment benefits in other people’s names pled guilty on March 24, 2022, in federal court in Sioux City.
Stephanie Mendenhall, age 53, from Hampton, Iowa was convicted of four counts of theft of government funds and one count of money laundering conspiracy. At a plea hearing, Mendenhall admitted making false claims in the names of others, and depositing the resulting proceeds into her bank account. Mendenhall received fraudulent unemployment benefits paid through the states of Maine, Michigan, Washington, and Illinois, including benefits related to COVID-19 relief funds, to which she was not entitled. Mendenhall received at least $35,985 in false unemployment benefits.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Mendenhall remains free on bond previously set pending sentencing. Mendenhall faces a possible maximum sentence of 60 years’ imprisonment, a $1,500,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ron Timmons and Tim Vavricek, and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-3028.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Dickinson County Couple Sentenced to Federal Prison for Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A Dickinson County couple who conspired to distribute meth were sentenced on March 31, 2022. Meghan Renken, 29, from Spirit Lake, pled guilty on September 14, 2021, and Jared Wolthuis, 32, from Milford, Iowa, pled guilty on July 7, 2021, to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine.
At their respective plea and sentencing hearings, evidence showed that Renken and Wolthuis were involved in a conspiracy that distributed more than three pounds of pure methamphetamine between July 2018 and March 2020 in the Dickinson County, Iowa area. On March 17, 2020, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a co-conspirator’s rural residence and seized 20 pounds of methamphetamine from an outbuilding of the residence. During the course of the execution of the search warrant, law enforcement stopped Renken and Wolthuis driving away from the residence. Upon a search of the vehicle, law enforcement seized 3 pounds of pure meth that Renken and Wolthuis admitted they planned to distribute to other persons. Both also distributed ounce quantities of methamphetamine.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Renken was sentenced to 31 months’ imprisonment. Wolthuis was sentenced to 36 months’ imprisonment. Each must also serve a three year term of supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Renken remains in custody of the United States Marshal Service until she can be transported to a federal prison. Wolthuis was released on the bond previously set and is to surrender to the Bureau of Prisons.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and investigated by Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; and the Woodbury County Attorney’s Office, as well as the Iowa State Patrol.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-4050. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Sioux City Man to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
A man who illegally possessed firearms was sentenced March 29, 2022, to more than 2 years in federal prison.
Justin Figueroa, 25, from Sioux City, Iowa, received the prison term after a November 22, 2021, guilty plea to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings showed that from at least 2017 through 2021, Figueroa was an unlawful user of controlled substances, and had been convicted of an April 2020 felony drug offense, both prohibit Figueroa from possessing guns. However, Figueroa possessed five guns from April 2017 through June 2020, specifically, a 5.56/.223 rifle, two Glock 9mm pistols, a 5.7X28mm pistol, and a .38 caliber revolver. Figueroa also admitted that he possessed the guns in connection with his felonious drug trafficking, and that on one occasion traded a gun for a controlled substance. That gun was later found to be part of an attempted murder of a 2-year-old.
Figueroa was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Figueroa was sentenced to 27 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 2-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Figueroa is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the Spencer Police Department, Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-4051. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Dubuque Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
A man who illegally possessed a firearm pled guilty on March 28, 2022, in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Edgar Martinez, Jr., age 35, from Dubuque, Iowa, was convicted of being in possession of a firearm as a person previously convicted of multiple felonies and domestic abuse, and while being an unlawful user of cocaine and marijuana.
At the plea hearing, Martinez admitted to traveling throughout Dubuque in possession of a Black Taurus G2C 9mm caliber pistol, a clear plastic bag containing cocaine, and marijuana. Martinez also admitted being prohibited from possessing a gun because he has multiple felony convictions and a conviction for domestic abuse.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Martinez remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Martinez faces a possible maximum sentence of not more than 10 years’ imprisonment without the possibility of parole, a fine of not more than $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Jason D. Norwood and was investigated by the City of Dubuque Police Department’s Drug Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 22-CR-1006.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Drug Dealer Who Attempted to Tamper with a Witness and Make “Hooch” While in Jail Sentenced to Nearly Three Decades in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A drug trafficker was sentenced March 25, 2022, to a total of 29 years in federal prison.
Curtis James Johnson, age 36, from Talladega, Alabama, received the prison term after a July 30, 2021 guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and an August 16, 2021 guilty plea to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Johnson sold methamphetamine to another individual in May 2021. Law enforcement’s subsequent searches of two homes led to the discovery of methamphetamine and a loaded firearm at a relative’s residence and a loaded firearm at another residence associated with Johnson. This all occurred in the Cedar Rapids, Iowa, area. Johnson was arrested after the searches.
Following his arrest, Johnson called his mother using another inmate’s phone account in the jail and discussed paying a witness to not attend Johnson’s upcoming trial. Prior to the current conduct, Johnson had amassed a lengthy criminal history, including convictions for battery causing bodily injury and assault causing bodily injury. Johnson was also previously convicted of burglary and felony drug trafficking offenses. Evidence at sentencing showed Johnson was also involved in making “hooch” while in jail.
Johnson was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Johnson was sentenced to 288 months’ imprisonment for the drug count and 60 months for the firearm count for a total of 348 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Johnson is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Nydle and investigated by the Cedar Rapids Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-cr-28.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Webster City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
A Webster City, Iowa man who possessed child pornography was sentenced March 2, 2022, to 11 years in federal prison. Brady Vandemark, age 37, received the prison term after an October 14, 2021, guilty plea to possession of child pornography.
In a plea agreement, Vandemark admitted to distributing, receiving, and possessing child pornography. Vandemark’s collection of child pornography contained the equivalent of over 100,000 images, including depictions of minors who had not yet reached 12 years of age. Before his guilty plea and sentencing, Vandemark ran from law enforcement while on pretrial release. Vandemark cut off his monitoring device and months later was discovered in a relative’s home, in a closet behind a fake wall with a loaded rifle. After a lengthy stand-off with law enforcement, where Vandemark was threatening suicide, he was taken into custody without anyone being harmed. At the sentencing hearing, Vandemark apologized for his behavior and credited an FBI Special Agent, whom he said “saved his life that day.”
Vandemark was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Vandemark was sentenced to 132 months’ imprisonment. He was ordered to pay $44,000 in restitution to victims in this case. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Vandemark is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ron Timmons and Mikala Purdy-Steenholdt, and investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-3044.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Man Who Illegally Possessed Firearm While on Probation Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who possessed a firearm after being convicted of a felony offense was sentenced today to more than three years in federal prison.
Michael Ray Teel, age 38, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a September 16, 2021, guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Evidence during the case showed that Teel arranged for another individual to purchase a firearm for him. Teel then possessed the firearm for several months until his state probation officer located the firearm during a home visit. Teel had previously been convicted of felony assault on a police officer.
Teel was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Teel was sentenced to 37 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Teel is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lisa C. Williams and investigated by the Sixth Judicial District Department of Correctional Services and the Cedar Rapids Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-CR-42.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Sheldon Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Clinton Kreykes, 40, from Sheldon, Iowa, pleaded guilty on March 23, 2022, to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
At the plea hearing, Kreykes admitted that he was previously convicted of a felony offense, namely Burglary – 3rd degree, and was a methamphetamine user. Both prohibit a person from possessing a firearm. Evidence showed that on September 16, 2021, as part of Kreykes’ Iowa probation conditions, a compliance check was conducted at Kreykes’ camper in Sibley, Iowa. The probation officer located drug paraphernalia and Kreykes was arrested. A search warrant was then issued and executed on the camper when law enforcement located loose prescription pills, a small baggy of methamphetamine, a Mossberg 20-gauge shotgun, shotgun shells, and additional items related to drug use.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Kreykes remains in custody of the United States Marshal and will remain in custody pending sentencing. Kreykes faces a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by Osceola County Sheriff’s Office and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-4078. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Mexican Man Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering the United States After Being Deported Six TimesRead the Press Release
A man who illegally returned to the United States after being deported six times was sentenced today to ten months in federal prison.
Emilio Jimenez-Daniel, age 34, a citizen of Mexico illegally present in the United States and residing in Aurora, Colorado, received the prison term after a guilty plea on November 16, 2021, to one count of illegal reentry into the United States after having been deported.
At the guilty plea, Jimenez-Daniel admitted he had previously been deported from the United States and illegally reentered the United States without the permission of the United States government. Jimenez-Daniel was deported in September 2003, October 2003, September 2004, May 2011, January 2013, and June 2018. Jimenez-Daniel was convicted in the Iowa District Court for Johnson County of Operating While Intoxicated, second offense, a felony, in February 2021. He was also convicted of Driving Under the Influence in Kansas and Driving Under the Influence in Colorado for offenses occurring in July and September 2009.
Jimenez-Daniel was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Jimenez-Daniel was sentenced to 10 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Jimenez-Daniel is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 21-CR-65.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Iowa Man Sentenced to Another Term in Federal Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced on March 17, 2022, in federal court in Sioux City.
Dustin Joe Martinez, 33, from Sutherland, Iowa, pled guilty on October 21, 2021, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Martinez was previously convicted of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine on June 3, 2016, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Iowa. Martinez was on federal supervised release for this offense beginning on January 16, 2016.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, evidence showed that from 2019 and through March 2021, Martinez and others distributed methamphetamine. On two separate occasions, in March of 2020 and March of 2021, Martinez was found in possession of approximately one ounce of methamphetamine which he intended to distribute.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Martinez was sentenced to 87 months’ imprisonment and must serve a term of five years of supervised release following imprisonment. Martinez was also sentenced to a consecutive term of 24 months’ imprisonment for violations of his previously imposed federal supervised release. Therefore, Martinez was sentenced to a total term of 111 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Martinez remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Spencer Police Department, O’Brien County Sheriff’s Office, and Iowa DCI Laboratory.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-4032. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Dubuque Armed Career Criminal Convicted at Trial Sentenced to over 20 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who was found driving in Dubuque with baggies of cocaine was sentenced yesterday to more than twenty years in federal prison. A stolen loaded 9 mm pistol was later located in the ceiling of his shared hotel room.
Terrance Golden, age 45, from Dane County, Wisconsin, received the prison term after an October 13, 2021 jury verdict finding him guilty of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
Evidence at trial showed that on the evening of October 1, 2020, Golden was driving in Dubuque, Iowa, when he was pulled over for an expired registration. Golden matched the description of an individual who was reported to be selling narcotics at a nearby gas station. A drug-sniffing K9 alerted on his vehicle and he was found in possession of approximately 23 baggies of cocaine base and $1,867 in cash. Golden lied about his identity as a warrant was out for his arrest from the State of Wisconsin. A search of his shared hotel room revealed items used to package and sell narcotics and a stolen, loaded, 9mm firearm hidden inside the bathroom ceiling tile. In a recorded interview with the Dubuque Police Department, Golden stated, “I’ll save my bullshit for the judges.”
Golden was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Golden was sentenced to 262 months’ imprisonment and fined $200. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Golden is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Liz Dupuich and Ashley Corkery and investigated by the Dubuque Police Department, the Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-cr-1005.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Cedar Rapids Man Receives Prison Term for Escape from Custody and Contempt of CourtRead the Press Release
A man who escaped from the Waterloo Residential Correctional Facility and later failed to appear in federal court pursuant to a subpoena was sentenced on March 22, 2022, to more than three years in federal prison.
Eugene Davis, age 43, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a September 28, 2021 guilty plea to an April 23, 2021 escape from federal custody at the Residential Correctional Center in Waterloo and for contempt of court by failing to appear in federal court on April 26, 2021, pursuant to a trial subpoena. Davis also admitted he violated terms of his supervised released for a 2009 federal firearm offense, and the terms of his federal probation imposed for illegally having a cellular telephone while in a federal prison in 2019.
In a plea agreement, Davis admitted that he was in the Waterloo Residential Correctional Center in Waterloo, Iowa, on April 23, 2021, as a condition of his term of supervised release in a 2009 federal firearm case. On April 23, 2021, Davis left the facility to go to work and never returned. Davis was later arrested in Las Vegas, Nevada. Prior to Davis’s escape, he was served with a subpoena that required him to appear in federal court in Cedar Rapids on April 26, 2021. Davis never appeared in court as required.
Davis was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. For the new crimes and his violations of supervision, Davis was sentenced to 45 months’ imprisonment, and he must also serve a two-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Davis is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick J. Reinert and was investigated by the United States Marshal’s Service. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file numbers are CR-21-0041 (contempt of court), CR-21-2042 (escape), CR-09-0052 (possession of a firearm by a felon), and CR-21-0003 (possession of a cellular phone in a federal prison).
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Mail and Identity Thief Sentenced to Four Years in Federal Prison After EscapeRead the Press Release
A Cedar Rapids man who evaded capture for nearly a month after walking away from custody at a halfway house was sentenced on March 22, 2022, to four years in federal prison. Kevin Robert Kappmeyer, age 55, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a September 23, 2021 guilty plea to one count of escape from custody and his admission that he violated the terms of his supervised release.
At his sentencing, revocation, and other hearings, Kappmeyer admitted that, in 2018, he was sentenced to 40 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release for his role in a Cedar Rapids area mail and identity theft scheme. Kappmeyer was released from prison in May 2020 but violated the terms of his supervised release, was sent back to prison for seven months in September 2020, and eventually released in March 2021. On July 8, 2021, after Kappmeyer again violated the terms of his supervised release, a U.S. District Court Judge ordered Kappmeyer to serve time in a halfway house and specifically warned Kappmeyer to not leave the halfway house without permission. About two weeks later, on July 23, 2021, Kappmeyer obtained an employment pass from the halfway house, left, and never returned. The United States Marshal’s Service arrested Kappmeyer on August 16, 2021, at a local grocery store and found methamphetamine in his possession. Kappmeyer has an extensive criminal history with over 20 prior convictions, including multiple convictions for offenses involving violence, such as resisting arrest and domestic battery.
Kappmeyer was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Kappmeyer was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment on his new escape case and an additional 24 months’ imprisonment for his supervised release violations. Kappmeyer must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after he is released from prison. There is no parole in the federal system.
Kappmeyer is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Timothy L. Vavricek and investigated by the United States Marshal’s Service.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file numbers are 21-CR-50 and 17-CR-44.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Dubuque Woman Sentenced to Ten Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Fentanyl that Caused Non-Fatal OverdoseRead the Press Release
A woman who distributed fentanyl to a man who overdosed and nearly died was sentenced March 22, 2022, to ten years in federal prison.
Emily Ann Nelson, age 29, from Dubuque, Iowa, received the prison term after an October 14, 2021 guilty plea to one count of distribution of fentanyl.
Evidence at a prior hearing showed that Nelson distributed a substance that was supposedly heroin to another person in July 2020. That person used the substance, which turned out to be fentanyl, and overdosed, nearly dying. First responders were able to revive the other individual using the opioid antidote, Narcan. At the plea hearing, Nelson admitted she distributed the fentanyl to the person who overdosed. The day after the overdose incident, a confidential informant working with the Dubuque Drug Task Force contacted Nelson to purchase heroin. Nelson stole the money she was supposed to use to get the drugs. About two weeks later, the confidential informant again contacted Nelson to obtain heroin. This time, Nelson obtained the drugs as agreed, but used a portion of the drugs before she could be arrested by officers.
Nelson was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Nelson was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment. She must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Nelson is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until she can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was investigated by the Dubuque Drug Task Force and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Chatham.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21‑CR‑01009‑CJW‑MAR.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Cedar Rapids Drug User Sent to Federal Prison for Possessing a Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
A Cedar Rapids man who unlawfully possessed a firearm and ammunition as a drug user was sentenced March 22, 2022, to more than four years in federal prison.
Deanye Bowman-Owens, age 22, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after an August 24, 2021 guilty plea to one count of possession of ammunition by a drug user.
Evidence disclosed at sentencing showed that, on August 24, 2021, officers with the Cedar Rapids Police Department were dispatched to an apartment complex after receiving a report of individuals holding a handgun in the bed of a pickup truck. After officers arrived, they recovered a loaded .45 caliber handgun with a twenty-seven round extended magazine in the bed of the pickup truck and located Bowman-Owens in the driver’s seat. Later, officers searched Bowman-Owens and recovered marijuana and a magazine that matched the .45 caliber handgun. Bowman-Owens’s fingerprint was located on one of the rounds of ammunition contained in the magazine recovered from his pocket. Bowman-Owens later admitted to using marijuana consistently for the four months prior to the incident. At sentencing, the court found Bowman-Owens possessed the .45 caliber handgun.
Bowman-Owens was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Bowman-Owens was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Bowman-Owens is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dillan Edwards and investigated by the Cedar Rapids Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-CR-00026.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Sioux City Man Off to Federal Prison for Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced March 15, 2022, in federal court in Sioux City, to more than 7 and ½ years.
Daniel Dickey, 34, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty on October 18, 2021, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, evidence showed that between December 2020 and April 2021, Dickey and others conspired to distribute over 30 pounds of methamphetamine in the Sioux City and surrounding area. Dickey was recruited to assist in the receipt of multiple shipments of liquid methamphetamine for a Texas-based methamphetamine distribution conspiracy. The Texas distribution conspiracy involved importation of liquid methamphetamine (for lab-based meth conversion) plus traditional vehicle transport of methamphetamine from Mexico to Texas to Iowa to South Dakota. In March and April of 2021, law enforcement conducted multiple controlled drug/money transactions with Dickey in Sioux City, Iowa. These transactions resulted in the seizure of more than one pound of methamphetamine, a sizable amount of liquid ready for chemical conversion into methamphetamine, and about $40,000 in drug proceeds from Dickey. Dickey also admitted to wiring money from drug sales to sources in Texas and Mexico at the request of another.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Dickey was sentenced to 93 months’ imprisonment and must serve a three year term of supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Dickey remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-4042. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Large-Scale Methamphetamine Trafficker Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A Cedar Rapids man who led a large-scale methamphetamine trafficking organization was sentenced on March 18, 2022, to 30 years in federal prison.
George Patrick Ashby, age 62, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a July 16, 2021 guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.
Evidence disclosed at sentencing showed that, from at least the summer of 2018, and continuing to March 10, 2020, Ashby organized and led a large-scale drug trafficking organization that brought significant amounts of ice methamphetamine from Burlington, Iowa, to the Cedar Rapids area for redistribution. Ashby possessed firearms in connection with this drug distribution, and he provided firearms to other members of the organization. Ashby was responsible for distributing at least 4.5 kilograms of ice methamphetamine.
Ashby was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Ashby was sentenced to 360 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Ashby is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Emily Nydle and Dillan Edwards and was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force consisting of the DEA; the Linn County Sheriff’s Office; the Cedar Rapids Police Department; the Marion Police Department; the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; and the Burlington Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CR-00027.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Cedar Rapids Methamphetamine Dealer Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A Cedar Rapids man who intended to distribute methamphetamine and possessed a firearm while doing so was sentenced today to more 15 years in federal prison.
Thomas Charles Mart, age 38, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after an August 27, 2021 guilty plea to one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
In a plea agreement, Mart admitted that, on September 24, 2020, he possessed with the intent to distribute over 350 grams of methamphetamine and possessed a revolver in furtherance of his drug trafficking. Mart also admitted that, on October 11, 2020, he fled from officers on his motorcycle and possessed with the intent to distribute over 16 grams of methamphetamine. Mart further admitted that, on April 29, 2021, he possessed with the intent to distribute over 100 grams of methamphetamine.
Mart was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Mart was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Mart is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dillan Edwards and investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force consisting of the DEA; the Linn County Sheriff's Office; the Cedar Rapids Police Department; the Marion Police Department; and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-CR-00029.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Seven-Time Felon Who Possessed Firearms and Crack Sentenced to a Decade in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who illegally possessed a firearm and possessed crack cocaine he intended to distribute was sentenced March 17, 2022, to 10 years in federal prison.
Patrick Green, age 50, from Dubuque, Iowa, received the prison term after October 12, 2021 guilty pleas to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of possessing with intent to distribute cocaine base, which is also known as crack cocaine.
At the plea hearing, Green admitted that he illegally possessed the firearm in July 2017 and that he possessed the crack in October 2018. Green had previously been convicted of seven felonies, including four drug felonies, two armed robberies, and aggravated discharge of a firearm.
Green was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Green was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Green is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the Dubuque Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Chatham.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is CR‑19‑1018‑CJW‑MAR.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Chicago Drug Dealer Who Flipped Car While Attempting to Flee from Police Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who led Dubuque police on a high‑speed chase that ended with his car on its hood and his gun, heroin, fentanyl and cocaine in the snow was sentenced March 17, 2022, to four years in federal prison.
Richard Allen Roberts, age 39, from Chicago, Illinois, received the prison term after September 27, 2021 guilty pleas to one count of distributing crack near a playground and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
In a plea agreement, Roberts admitted that he sold about a half gram of crack cocaine to a confidential informant near Jefferson Park in Dubuque on January 26, 2021. About a week later, police tracked Roberts’s car from Dubuque to Chicago. When he returned to Iowa on February 5, 2021, officers stopped the car after it crossed the bridge into Dubuque from Wisconsin. A narcotics K9 alerted to the odor of narcotics coming from Roberts’s vehicle. After an officer asked Roberts to get out of his car, Roberts put the car in gear and fled. During the subsequent chase, Roberts’ vehicle reached speeds in excess of 80 miles per hour and collided with a snowplow but kept going. Roberts eventually lost control of his car approximately 3.5 miles away in Illinois, flipping the car over into a snow‑filled median. When the car was turned back over, officers found a plastic bag containing about 32 grams of powder cocaine, 44 grams of crack cocaine, over 9 grams of heroin, 1.5 gram of heroin and fentanyl. Next to the bag was a Smith & Wesson 9mm pistol. Roberts had previously been convicted of 11 prior felony crimes in Illinois.
Roberts was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Roberts was sentenced to 48 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 6-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Roberts is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was investigated by the Dubuque Drug Task Force and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Chatham.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 21‑CR‑1017‑CJW‑MAR.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Sioux City Man Pleads Guilty to Sexually Assaulting a ChildRead the Press Release
A Sioux City man who sexually assaulted a child pled guilty March 10, 2022, in federal court in Sioux City. Juan Pablo Hernandez, age 44, from Sioux City, Iowa was convicted of aggravated sexual abuse of a child.
At the plea hearing, Hernandez admitted to driving from South Sioux City, Nebraska to Sioux City with a minor under the age of 12 to sexually assault the minor.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Hernandez remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Hernandez faces a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 5 years up to life of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ron Timmons and was investigated by the Sioux City Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-4093.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Sheldon Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
A Sheldon man who sold large amounts of methamphetamine received through the mail was sentenced on March 11, 2022, to more than 12 years in federal prison.
Scott Demers, age 39, from Sheldon, Iowa was convicted of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Demers admitted to receiving large quantities of methamphetamine through the mail and distributing it. Demers also admitted to possessing a firearm in furtherance of trafficking methamphetamine.
Demers was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Demers was sentenced to 153 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 4-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ron Timmons and investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force consisting of the DEA; the Woodbury County Sheriff's Office; the Sioux City Police Department; the South Sioux City Police Department; and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-4019.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Felon Who Ditched a Gun in a Woman’s Purse and Then Ran from Police Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A felon who possessed a firearm and then ran from the police was sentenced March 16, 2022, to more than five years in federal prison.
Christopher Cungtion, Jr., age 29, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after an August 19, 2021 guilty plea to one count of possession of a firearm by a felon.
Information presented at sentencing showed that on September 7, 2020, Cungtion was a passenger in a van that was stopped by the Cedar Rapids Police Department. As the van was stopping, Cungtion placed a loaded 9mm pistol into his girlfriend’s purse. After the van stopped, he immediately ran from the van. A CRPD officer ran after and caught Cungtion and arrested him on an outstanding warrant. Officers later searched the girlfriend’s purse and found the firearm. Cungtion had previously been convicted of 20 crimes as an adult, including felonies for third degree burglary, intimidation with a dangerous weapon, willful injury resulting in bodily injury, and assault with a dangerous weapon.
Cungtion was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Cungtion was sentenced to 63 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Cungtion is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was investigated by the Cedar Rapids Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Chatham.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 20‑CR‑00100‑CJW‑MAR.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Chain Saw Chain and Blade Importer to Pay over $500,000 to Resolve False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
TriLink Saw Chain, LLC, and TriLink Global, LLC (TriLink), nationwide importers of chain saw chains and blades manufactured in China and intended for sale in the United States, have agreed to pay $525,000 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by misclassifying their imported chain saw chains and blades to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (USCBP).
The government specifically alleged that from September 24, 2018, though June 10, 2019, TriLink classified imported chain saw chains and blades under inappropriate subheadings of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States. The government further alleged that TriLink’s false classification of the imported chain saw chains and blades during that time period resulted in nonpayment of applicable tariffs due and owing to the United States pursuant to Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974.
“False classification of imported goods deprives the United States of tariffs that are due and owing under the law and results in unfair competition against law-abiding companies,” said Timothy Duax, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Iowa. “We will continue to work with our federal partners to hold importers accountable to ensure that they do not avoid payment to the United States.”
LaFonda D. Sutton-Burke, the Chicago Director of Field Operations for U.S. Customs and Border Protection stated, “This is a prime example of the vigilance of our CBP employees, and our use of a whole of government approach. Entities that attempt to defraud the U.S. Government, the American people, and our economy will not succeed.”
This civil matter arose from an action brought under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. Pursuant to that Act and the settlement agreement, the whistleblower will share in the United States’ financial recovery.
The claims asserted against TriLink are allegations only; there was no determination or admission of liability.
The case was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew K. Gillespie and Jacob A. Schunk and was investigated in coordination with USCBP.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CV-58-LTS-KEM.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Waterloo Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Buying Gun for FriendRead the Press Release
A Waterloo woman who purchased a gun for her friend was sentenced March 15, 2022, to six months in prison.
Destiny Nacole Harrington, age 21, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison sentence after a November 8, 2021 guilty plea to making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm.
Information disclosed at sentencing and at her plea hearing showed that, in August 2021, Harrington purchased a 9mm firearm from a business in Cedar Falls, Iowa. During the purchase, Harrington represented to the business that she was purchasing the gun for herself. Harrington was actually buying the firearm for her friend, who was prohibited from possessing guns because he was a felon. Less than 48 hours later, the firearm that Harrington purchased was used by someone else to shoot and kill someone. There is no evidence that Harrington knew the gun was going to be used in the homicide. Harrington has no criminal history.
Harrington was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Harrington was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment, followed by four months of home detention. She must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Corkery and investigated by the Cedar Falls Police Department, the Waterloo Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CR-02066.
Texas Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Meth Trafficking in IowaRead the Press Release
A man who possessed with intent to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced on March 14, 2022, in federal court in Sioux City.
Arturo Flores, 23, from Eagle Pass, Texas, pled guilty on November 3, 2021 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Evidence presented in court showed that on June 16, 2021, in Sioux City, Iowa, law enforcement stopped Flores for several traffic violations, including speeding. A female passenger, her baby and an 11-year old were also in the vehicle. After a K-9 (drug dog) alerted on the vehicle, law enforcement located and seized over 4 pounds of methamphetamine hidden inside a drink cooler in front of the front passenger’s seat. Police also found over $2,000 cash in the passenger’s purse, and a small rock of methamphetamine found in the driver’s side door pocket. Flores admitted that he had acquired the methamphetamine in South Texas and was bringing it to Iowa for further distribution.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Flores was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment and must serve a term of five years of supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Flores remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-4061. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Sioux City Man Sentenced for Selling Misbranded Erectile Dysfunction Drugs as Dietary Supplements “All Natural Male” and “Supermale”Read the Press Release
A man who unlawfully sold unapproved versions of drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction for the second time was sentenced on March 15, 2022, to more than one year in federal prison. David Kempema, age 61, from Sioux City, Iowa, received the prison term after an October 26, 2021 guilty plea to introducing misbranded drugs into interstate commerce with intent to defraud.
Information from a plea agreement and sentencing hearing shows that between February 2014 and December 2018, Kempema advertised and offered for sale pills that he had ordered from India or Germany. The pills contained the same active ingredients as Viagra and Cialis, which were prescription drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) to treat erectile dysfunction. To advertise his pills, Kempema placed advertisements in men’s restrooms in businesses along the Interstate 29 corridor. The advertisements referred to the pills as male enhancement “dietary supplements” called “Supermale” and “All Natural Male.” Kempema obtained or attempted to obtain at least 4,059 pills for resale. When interviewed by an FDA agent, Kempema admitted that he knew the drugs were not the FDA-approved versions and that they contained the same active ingredients as the FDA-approved versions.
Kempema was previously convicted of introducing misbranded drugs into interstate commerce in 2011 in United States v. David Kempema, case number 11-CR-4140 in the Northern District of Iowa. In a plea agreement in that case, Kempema admitted that, between October 2009 and July 2011, he ordered pills from India that contained the same active ingredients as Viagra and Cialis. Kempema then sold the non-FDA-approved pills under the names of Viagra and Cialis. On February 8, 2012, defendant was sentenced to 60 days’ imprisonment and one year of supervised release.
Kempema was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Kempema was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a one-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Individuals who sell misbranded drugs obtained from overseas are taking advantage of American consumers while putting those same consumers at risk of side effects from these drugs,” said Acting United States Attorney Timothy Duax. “For the second time, David Kempema put the lives of others on the line because of his own personal greed. This sentence holds him accountable for his actions and demonstrates that this type of crime will not be tolerated.”
“Prescription drugs that are smuggled from overseas and are outside the secure supply chain can present a serious health risk to those who use them. The drugs may contain unknown or dangerous ingredients and are manufactured under unknown or unregulated conditions,” said Special Agent in Charge Charles L. Grinstead, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Kansas City Field Office. “We will continue to investigate and bring to justice those who traffic in illegal prescription drugs.”
David Kempema was released on the bond previously set and is to surrender to the Bureau of Prisons on a date yet to be set.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kyndra Lundquist and investigated by the FDA Office of Criminal Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-CR-4081.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Eagle Grove Man Sentenced to over 5 years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who possessed with intent to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced March 16, 2022, in federal court in Sioux City.
On October 12, 2021, Celestin Loux, 64, from Eagle Grove, Iowa, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, evidence showed that from December 2019 through February 2020, Loux sold a total of 51.54 grams of methamphetamine to law enforcement in the course of three transactions. Evidence further showed that, on November 10, 2020, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of Loux after receiving a report of a vehicle theft. Law enforcement seized seven bags from Loux’s person totaling 14.39 grams of methamphetamine. While on pretrial release, Loux violated court orders on multiple occasions, including continued use of methamphetamine, possessing a firearm, and failing to comply with directives from his supervising probation officer.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Loux was sentenced to 62 months’ imprisonment and must serve a 4-year term of supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Loux remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by the Iowa Department of Narcotics Enforcement, Wright County Sheriff’s Office, and Iowa DCI Laboratory.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-3024.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Drug User Sentenced to Prison for Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
A man who unlawfully possessed a firearm was sentenced today to more than one year in federal prison.
Vantez Wright, Jr., age 19, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after an October 12, 2001, guilty plea to one count of possession of a firearm by a drug user.
At the guilty plea, Wright admitted that on February 26, 2021, he knowingly possessed a firearm, a Springfield .45 caliber pistol, as a prohibited person. Wright was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he was an unlawful user of marijuana, a controlled substance. During the execution of a search warrant at Wright’s house on February 26, 2021, police officers found a loaded .45 caliber handgun. Officers also found marijuana which Wright admitted regularly using and selling for extra money. Wright stated he preferred to have the gun at his house, “just in case.” Later at the police station, Wright provided a urine sample which tested positive for marijuana metabolites, confirming that defendant had recently used marijuana.
Wright was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Wright was sentenced to 15 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Wright was released on the bond previously set and is to surrender to the United States Marshal on May 9, 2022.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by the Waterloo Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-CR-2048.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Cedar Rapids Woman Who Brought Child to Drug Deal Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A woman who distributed methamphetamine was sentenced today to more than three years in federal prison.
Paige Elizabeth Axler, age 25, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a September 27, 2021 guilty plea to distributing at least fifty grams of actual (pure) methamphetamine.
Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings showed that on two occasions in December 2020, Axler distributed approximately two ounces of ice methamphetamine. The first time, she brought a seven-year-old child with her to the drug deal. The second time, she obtained the ice methamphetamine from a person in a hotel room before selling it to another person. Though she is only 25 years old, Axler has accumulated eight adult criminal convictions.
Axler was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. She was sentenced to 45 months’ imprisonment. She must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Axler is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until she can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Devra T. Hake and investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-CR-43.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Woodbury County Man Sentenced to over 19 years for Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine while he illegally possessed a gun was sentenced March 10, 2022, in federal court in Sioux City.
Matthew Sandoval, 28, from Sioux City, Iowa, received the prison term after an October 28, 2021, guilty plea of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Sandoval had prior convictions for assault, possessing controlled substances, and three convictions of evading law enforcement which involved high-speed pursuits.
Evidence at the hearings showed that between 2016 and continuing to June 2021, Sandoval and others conspired to distribute at least 40 pounds of methamphetamine in the Siouxland area while he possessed a firearm. The conspiracy involved, in part, several shipments of methamphetamine utilizing the United States Postal Service.
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service works diligently to preserve the integrity of the US Mail said Ruth M. Mendonça, Inspector in Charge of the Denver Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service, which includes Iowa. People who use the mail to distribute dangerous drugs cause great harm to our communities, and they also place USPS employees at risk of exposure to dangerous controlled substances as well as violence associated with drug trafficking. This conviction reflects successful teamwork among federal, state and local law enforcement. We want the public to know that Postal Inspectors will aggressively pursue anyone who attempts to use the Postal Service for criminal activity. We will not allow the U.S. Mail to be used to commit crimes, and we aim to keep illegal drugs out of the mail for the safety of our employees and customers."
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Sandoval was sentenced to 234 months’ imprisonment and must serve a five-year term of supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Sandoval remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office, and by the United States Postal Inspection Service.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-4059. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Delaware County Man Charged with Being a Prohibited Person in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Matthew Welcher, age 43, of Dundee, Iowa, has been charged with being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. The charge is contained in an Indictment unsealed on March 7, 2022, in United States District Court in Cedar Rapids.
The Indictment alleges that, in May 2021, Welcher possessed a rifle after having been convicted of two felonies and a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence and while he was subject to a no contact order.
If convicted, Welcher faces a possible maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years on supervised release following any imprisonment.
Welcher appeared for a detention hearing today in federal court in Cedar Rapids and was held without bond. Welcher’s next appearance for trial is set for May 9, 2022.
As with any criminal case, a charge is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Tremmel and is being investigated by the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is CR 22-2011.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Man Who Had Sex with Minor Convicted of Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
A man who had sex with a minor was convicted by a jury today after a three-day trial in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Stephen Albert, age 50, from Tama, Iowa, was convicted of one count of sexual abuse by threat and force and one count of sexual abuse of a minor. The verdict was returned this afternoon following less than two hours of jury deliberations.
The evidence at trial showed that, beginning in the summer of 2012 and continuing through October 2016, Albert sexually assaulted a child on the Meskwaki Settlement. The sexual assaults took place in various homes on the Settlement as well as at Albert’s place of employment.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Albert remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Albert faces a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $500,000 fine, and a lifetime of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lisa C. Williams and Emily K. Nydle and was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Meskwaki Nation Police Department, the Tama City Police Department, and the Cedar Rapids Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-CR-62.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA