Northern District of Iowa
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Sioux City Man to a Federal Prison for Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced in federal court in Sioux City, Iowa, on September 8, 2021, to a total of twenty years in prison.
Hugo Arechiga Torres, 40, most recently from Sioux City, Iowa, but formerly from Washington and South Dakota, was sentenced on September 8, 2021, after having pled guilty on February 18, 2021, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Torres was previously convicted three times in South Dakota for felony drug trafficking offenses, including a federal case in 2014.
At his plea and sentencing hearings, evidence showed that between December 2019 and August 2020, Torres and others distributed at least 15 kilograms of methamphetamine in the Sioux City area, including Sioux Falls, South Dakota. On August 13, 2020, law enforcement used a confidential informant to purchase ten pounds of methamphetamine from Torres. On August 17, 2020, law enforcement used a confidential informant to make a $13,000 drug debt payment to Torres, and obtained another two pounds of methamphetamine from him. Upon his arrest the next day, officers seized $754 from Torres, which was found to include five of the pre-serialized $100 bills provided to Torres, as part of the $13,000 drug debt payment. Torres committed this offense while under terms of federal supervised release for a similar drug trafficking offense in the District of South Dakota.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Torres was sentenced to 210 months’ imprisonment and must serve a seven-year term of supervised release following the imprisonment. Torres committed was also sentenced to 60-months’ imprisonment for violation of his federal supervised release, 30 months of which must be served consecutive to, and 30 months concurrent with, his 210-month sentence. Torres 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; and the Woodbury County Attorney’s Office, as well as the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-4067. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Placing an Incendiary Device on Another’s Property Leads to Federal Prison for Iowa ManRead the Press Release
A man who placed an incendiary device on the property of another was sentenced September 7, 2021, to more than three years in federal prison.
Aaron Hinke, age 46, from Bellevue, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 22, 2021 guilty plea to possession of a national firearms act destructive device not registered to possessor.
Information disclosed at a prior hearing showed that, on September 6, 2020, Hinke placed an incendiary device on the property of a homeowner in La Motte, Iowa. The incendiary device consisted of a cigarette, firework, and a long firework fuse that was taped to a small gasoline container that contained a gasoline/oil mixture. The incendiary device was later found by the homeowner’s five-year-old child.
Hinke was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Hinke 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.
Hinke 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 Jackson 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-01006.
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New Mexico Man Sentenced in Federal Court in Iowa for Flying a Plane Without a Pilot’s LicenseRead the Press Release
A man who attempted to pilot an airplane from Wisconsin to New Mexico without a pilot’s license was sentenced today in federal court. Keith Alexander Thomas, age 44, from Portales, New Mexico, received the sentence after an April 15, 2021 guilty plea to one count of operating as an airman without an airman certificate.
Information disclosed at sentencing showed that in June 2018, Thomas and another man flew from New Mexico to Wisconsin so that the other man could purchase a Cessna airplane. Thomas, who did not have a pilot’s license, agreed to serve as the pilot of the Cessna and attempt to fly it back to New Mexico. The Cessna was not air-worthy and sustained engine failure as it flew over Iowa. Thomas was required to make an emergency landing in Waterloo, Iowa, but also failed to establish radio communication with the aviation company whose airstrip he landed on. The Cessna not only suffered engine failure, the plane was also out of inspection compliance and the landing gear was not operational. No one was hurt during the emergency landing.
Thomas was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Thomas was sentenced to two years’ probation and fined $5,000.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Morfitt and investigated by the U.S. Department of Transportation – Office of the Inspector General.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-CR-2003.
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Dubuque Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Crack Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A woman who distributed crack cocaine with her father was sentenced September 3, 2021, to eight months in federal prison.
Lekeya Shantay Gillenwater, age 29, from Dubuque, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 1, 2021 guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.
Information at sentencing showed that, between January 2020 and August 2020, Gillenwater agreed to distribute crack cocaine with her father and others. Law enforcement bought crack cocaine from Gillenwater or her father on four different occasions in the summer of 2020. On August 10, 2020, law enforcement searched Gillenwater’s residence in Dubuque and recovered over 14 grams of crack cocaine, $1,400, and drug packaging.
Gillenwater was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Gillenwater was sentenced to eight months’ imprisonment. She must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Gillenwater is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until she can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dillan Edwards and investigated by the Dubuque Drug Task Force.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CR-01043.
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Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty in Federal Court to Gun and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
A man who was previously convicted of multiple felony offenses, and later possessed over 1 kilogram of pure methamphetamine and guns, pled guilty on September 7, 2021, in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Matthew Shawn Victor Bridges, age 30, from Marshalltown, Iowa, was convicted of conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of pure methamphetamine, one count of possessing three rifles on January 3, 2020, after having been previously convicted of multiple felony offenses, and one count of possessing two more firearms on February 16, 2020.
In a plea agreement, Bridges admitted that, on January 3, 2020, he was in possession of more than 1000 grams of pure methamphetamine when Iowa Falls police officers responded to a suspicious car near a warehouse. Officers found a running vehicle that contained a large quantity of methamphetamine and three rifles near the vehicle. On February 16, 2020, Iowa Falls police officers were investigating a home invasion and assault when the saw Bridges driving by the scene. When they searched his vehicle, officers found more methamphetamine and two more firearms.
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.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Bridges remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Bridges faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, and five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Reinert and was investigated by the Iowa Falls Police Department, Hardin County Sheriff’s Department, the Hardin County Attorney’s Office, 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 20-CR-00108-CJW.
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Cedar Rapids Heroin Dealer Sentenced to Federal Prison After Heroin He Distributed Led to an OverdoseRead the Press Release
A man who distributed heroin that resulted in an overdose was sentenced September 3, 2021 to more than three years in federal prison.
Diondray Louis Wilson, age 34, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 8, 2021 guilty plea to one count of distribution of a controlled substance.
Information at sentencing and a prior hearing showed that, on two occasions in 2018 and five occasions in 2019, law enforcement conducted controlled purchases of heroin from Wilson. On November 21, 2019, Wilson distributed heroin to an individual who later overdosed but regained consciousness after emergency personnel arrived.
Wilson was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Wilson was sentenced to 41 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a six-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Wilson 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 20-CR-00091.
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Fort Dodge Man Sentenced to 16 Years in Federal Prison for Meth and Firearm Convictions Following a Hit and Run AccidentRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine and illegally possessed a firearm was sentenced in federal court in Sioux City, Iowa, on September 2, 2021.
Daniel Moss, age 45, from Fort Dodge, Iowa, pled guilty on April 19, 2021, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and illegal possession of a firearm. Previously, in 2009, Moss was convicted of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine within a protected location, and employment or use of a person under 18 to assist in conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Iowa. While on supervised release for the 2009 offense, Moss was convicted of escape from custody in 2017.
Evidence at hearings in the case showed that from June 2020 through July 5, 2020, while on federal supervised release, Moss conspired to distribute more than 50 grams of pure methamphetamine to others in the Fort Dodge area. On July 5, 2020, Moss was involved in a hit and run accident with another vehicle. After he fled the scene, Fort Dodge police officers pursued Moss and ultimately caught him that same day, at which time Moss picked up a police officer and a loaded firearm fell from his waistband. The firearm was later determined to be stolen. Moss also had approximately $17,000 cash during the incident, drug paraphernalia, baggies with residue, and over 50 grams pure methamphetamine. Moss was previously convicted of a felony offense, and was a drug user, which prohibited him from possessing a gun.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Moss was sentenced to 196 months’ total imprisonment consisting of 150 months for the new offense and an additional 46 months for violating his supervised release. Additionally, Moss must serve a seven-year term of supervised release following 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 was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by the Fort Dodge Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-3002.
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Webster City Man to Federal Prison for Firearm ConvictionRead the Press Release
Martin Fye, age 58, from Webster City, Iowa, was sentenced August 31, 2021, to more than five years’ imprisonment. On April 14, 2021, Fye pled guilty in federal court to illegally possessing a firearm. Fye was previously convicted of burglary third degree in 2008 and 2014, and a felony controlled substance violation in 2008.
Evidence at the hearing showed that, on June 26, 2020, while searching Fye’s residence, law enforcement located Fye with several .22 caliber rounds in his pocket and a loaded .22 handgun in his bedroom nightstand. Fye disobeyed law enforcement instructions and resisted detention. The court also found Fye fired the firearm on June 4, 2020, at a former girlfriend in anger after an argument when she left his residence. Additional evidence established that Fye had another person hide several firearms in a cornfield before law enforcement searched his home. A few days later, law enforcement seized seven firearms from a third-party custodian who had retrieved them for Fye. Law enforcement also seized several items of drug paraphernalia in two search warrants at Fye’s residence. Fye further admitted to being an unlawful drug user.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Fye remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison. Fye was sentenced to 63 months’ imprisonment and he must serve three years of supervised release following the 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 was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, Webster County Sheriff’s Office, Fort Dodge Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Hardin County Sheriff’s Office, Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office and Boone County Sheriff’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-3024. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Texas Man Sentenced to over 12 Years in Federal Prison for Meth Trafficking Spanning Five StatesRead the Press Release
Robert Board, age 45, originally from Brownsville, Texas, more recently living in Medalia, Minnesota, pled guilty on April 15, 2021, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. He was sentenced to over a dozen years in prison at a sentencing hearing held on September 2, 2021. At the hearings, evidence showed that from March 2019 through June 2020, Board was involved in the distribution of more than 12 kilograms of methamphetamine. In July and August 2019, Board was the leader of a small group in the distribution of over one pound of pure methamphetamine to a confidential informant in four controlled drug operations with law enforcement. Board later admitted to obtaining at least 12 kilograms of methamphetamine and at least 73 pounds of marijuana from sources in California, Washington, and Texas, and transporting it all to Minnesota and Iowa for further distribution. Board also admitted to the interstate transport of a number of firearms for additional transactions.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Board was sentenced to 159 months’ imprisonment and must serve a term of 5 years supervised release following imprisonment. Board is held in United States Marshal custody 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 the Woodbury County Attorney’s Office; and the Worthington (MN) Police Department and the Nobles County (MN) Sheriff’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-4065.
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Sioux City Woman Off to Federal Prison for Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A woman who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced on September 2, 2021, in federal court in Sioux City, Iowa.
Jennie Kazena, 38, from Sioux City, pled guilty on February 18, 2021, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Kazena was previously convicted in federal court of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine on February 19, 2010.
Evidence at hearings in the case showed that between January 2019 and October 2019, Kazena and others distributed more than 150 grams of actual (pure) methamphetamine and more than 10 pounds of mixed methamphetamine overall in the Sioux City area. On March 1, 2019, agents seized ½ ounce of methamphetamine from Kazena in two separate law enforcement operations. On October 3, 2019, in a controlled operation by law enforcement, Kazena distributed ¼ pound of methamphetamine to a confidential informant. On October 21, 2019, in a traffic stop, Kazena was found to possess ½ ounce of methamphetamine and admitted to agents her involvement in the distribution of at least two pounds of methamphetamine in the Sioux City area for a large source.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Kazena was sentenced to 126 months’ imprisonment and must serve a term of seven years of supervised release following imprisonment.
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 20-4037.
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Sioux City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking CrimeRead the Press Release
A man who possessed a firearm in furtherance of distributing marijuana was sentenced to more than 13 years in federal prison.
Fredrick Perkins, age 32, from Sioux City, Iowa, received the prison term after a May 20, 2019 guilty plea to one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Evidence at his detention, plea, and sentencing hearings showed that law enforcement officers searched Perkins’ home as the result of suspected drug related activity. Perkins told an officer that there were no firearms in the residence but that anything illegal belonged to him and not his girlfriend who also lived in the residence. During the search, an officer found a handgun on a shelf in the master bedroom along with a loaded magazine in the firearm with 17 rounds of 9mm ammunition. The firearm was previously stolen from another address in Sioux City. In Perkins bedroom, closet, and living room, officers found large quantities of marijuana and $2,114 of U.S. currency.
Perkins has a lengthy criminal history including convictions for aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, receive/possess/sell a stolen vehicle, aggravated battery on a government official, and delivery of cannabis.
Perkins was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Perkins was sentenced to 165 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.
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.
Perkins 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 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 18-4014.
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Nebraska Woman Sentenced to over Seven Years in Federal Prison for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
A woman who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced to more than seven years in prison on August 23, 2021, in federal court in Sioux City.
Whitley Mitchell, age 30, from Walthill, Nebraska, pled guilty on April 13, 2021, to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, evidence showed that Mitchell and others conspired to distribute actual (pure) methamphetamine, commonly called “ice” methamphetamine. During a traffic stop of a car Mitchell was driving, 9.6 grams of pure methamphetamine was found in her purse and a gun belonging to her co-defendant and passenger was found in the glove box. Additionally, .09 grams of pure methamphetamine was found on the passenger’s person, 116.2 grams of pure methamphetamine were found in a plastic jar elsewhere in the car, and 210.4 grams of pure methamphetamine were found in individual baggies elsewhere in the car. Mitchell knew about the methamphetamine and planned to benefit from its sale, along with her passenger who had acquired the methamphetamine. Mitchell had held methamphetamine for and been fronted methamphetamine by her passenger previously.
Mitchell was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Mitchell was sentenced to 90 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.
Mitchell is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until she can be transported to a federal prison.
The case 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. It was also 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 20-4035.
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Climbing Hill Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Unlawfully Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
A man who possessed firearms and ammunition after having prior convictions of two felonies and while being an illegal drug user was sentenced to sixteen months in federal prison on August 26, 2021, in federal district court in Sioux City.
Adam Muecke, age 37, from Climbing Hill, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 16, 2021 guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a felon and a drug user. Muecke was previously convicted of theft in Plymouth County, Iowa, in 2002, and burglary in Plymouth County, Iowa, in 2003. At the time he possessed firearms, he was also an unlawful user of marijuana. Evidence presented at Muecke’s detention, change of plea, and sentencing hearings revealed that on March 13, 2020, during a search of his residence, law enforcement found Muecke in possession of firearms, a baggie containing marijuana, and marijuana pipes, among other things.
Mueck was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Mueecke was sentenced to 16 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.
Mueck was released on the bond previously set and is to surrender to the Bureau of Prisons on a date yet to be set.
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 Iowa Department of Public Safety’s Division of Criminal Investigation, the Iowa State Patrol, and the Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office. 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-CR‑4029.
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Belmond Man Sentenced to a Decade in Federal Prison for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
A man who received methamphetamine by mail from Mexico to redistribute was sentenced August 27, 2021 to ten years in federal prison.
Rafael Perez-Mercado, 29, from Belmond, Iowa, pled guilty in federal court on April 16, 2021, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. During the investigation, it was also determined that Perez-Mercado was in the United States illegally.
Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings showed that between September 2020 and October 22, 2020, Perez-Mercado and others were responsible for the distribution of over ten pounds of methamphetamine in the Wright County, Iowa, area. On October 8, 2020, law enforcement intercepted a package mailed from Mexico. The package had two pounds of methamphetamine concealed inside, destined to be delivered to Perez-Mercado. On October 22, 2020, law enforcement, using a confidential informant, made a controlled delivery of the package to Perez-Mercado at his home. Thereafter, one law enforcement agent captured Perez-Mercado exiting the rear door of his house as another agent attempted to make contact with him at the front door. Law enforcement agents seized nine packages of methamphetamine, each weighing one pound, from a bag Perez-Mercado was carrying as he exited the residence. Later that same day, during the execution of a search warrant at Perez-Mercado’s residence, law enforcement seized two more one-pound packages of methamphetamine that had been hidden inside a statue which was inside the package delivered to Perez-Mercado. Law enforcement also found other evidence of methamphetamine smuggling, including inside motor vehicle components, in Perez-Mercado’s garage.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Perez-Mercado remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison. Perez-Mercado was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment and must serve a five-year term of supervised release following the imprisonment.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, the Wright County Sheriff’s Office, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Eagle Grove Police Department, and the Dows Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-3047. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Traffic Stops Lead to Three Years in Federal Prison for Cedar Rapids Man Who Possessed Numerous Types of DrugsRead the Press Release
A Cedar Rapids man who possessed methamphetamine, cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl was sentenced on August 25, 2021, to three years in federal prison.
Troy Allen Walton, age 45, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 18, 2021 jury verdict finding him guilty of seven counts of possession of a controlled substance.
Evidence at trial showed that law enforcement recovered methamphetamine, cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl from Walton during a December 6, 2019 traffic stop. Law enforcement also seized methamphetamine, cocaine, crack cocaine, and a heroin/fentanyl mixture from Walton during a March 9, 2020 traffic stop.
Walton was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Walton was sentenced to 36 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.
Walton 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.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CR-00047.
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Webster City Man Pleads Guilty to Meth PossessionRead the Press Release
A man who possessed methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it pled guilty on August 23, 2021, in federal court in Sioux City.
Joshua Boice, age 35, from Webster City, Iowa, was convicted of one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
At the plea hearing, Boice admitted that, in March 2020, he possessed over 50 grams of pure methamphetamine, and that he planned to distribute some or all of the methamphetamine to others.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Boice remains in custody of the United States Marshal and will remain in custody pending sentencing. Boice faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Iowa State Patrol, Webster City Police Department, Iowa State University Police Department, and Iowa DCI Laboratory.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-3048. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Second Convicted Felon Sentenced to Federal Prison After Shooting at Cedar Rapids Apartment ComplexRead the Press Release
A man who fired a handgun into the air at an apartment complex while children were playing nearby was sentenced today to seven years in federal prison.
Sedrick Mac Johnson, Jr., age 24, from Chicago, Illinois, received the prison term after a March 22, 2021 guilty plea to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Evidence at a prior hearing showed that on May 21, 2020, a call was made to the Cedar Rapids 911 line. The caller reported shots fired at an apartment complex on North Towne Court in Cedar Rapids. Police officers arrived at the scene and spoke with multiple witnesses. One witness saw two individuals, one of whom was later identified as Johnson and the other as Kendall J. Willis, walk into an apartment after the shots were fired. The witness saw that each was holding a handgun. Officers searched the ground near where the shots were fired and found three 9mm shell casings. Willis and Johnson then left the apartment and were detained by police. During a later search of that apartment, officers found marijuana, drug packaging, and two 9mm pistols, one of which had an extended magazine. Ballistics testing determined that two of the shell casings found outside the apartment were fired by one of the pistols and that the other shell casing had been fired by the other pistol. Johnson had previously been convicted of three felony burglaries and two felony charges of trafficking in stolen weapons.
Johnson was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Johnson was sentenced to 84 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. Willis also pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and previously sentenced to 70 months’ imprisonment. 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.
Johnson 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 Dan Chatham and investigated by the Cedar Rapids Safe Streets Task Force. The task force is composed of representatives from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cedar Rapids Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20‑CR‑00058‑CJW‑MAR.
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Marion Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for COVID-19 Unemployment Benefits FraudRead the Press Release
A man who received over $13,000 in fraudulently obtained CARES Act unemployment funds was sentenced today to nine months in federal prison.
Brian Lynn Whorton, age 55, from Marion, Iowa, received the prison term after a January 25, 2021 guilty plea to one count of wire fraud.
Information from sentencing and a criminal complaint showed that Whorton received over $13,000 in unemployment funds to which he was not entitled from the State of Arizona. Whorton withdrew some of the funds in cash and used a Bitcoin ATM to send the funds to other participants in the scheme. Whorton kept some of the funds for himself.
Whorton was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Whorton was sentenced to nine months’ imprisonment. He was ordered to make $13,740 in restitution the Arizona Department of Economic Security. He must also serve a two-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Whorton was released on the bond previously set and is to surrender to the United States Marshal on September 10, 2021.
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.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kyndra Lundquist and investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CR-64.
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Sioux City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing Guns.Read the Press Release
A man from Sioux City, Iowa who admitted being a user of illegal drugs, and who was found in possession of guns, was sentenced to federal prison for firearms charges.
Jason Mota, age 27, from Sioux City, Iowa received the prison term after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a drug user.
Evidence at his detention, change of plea, and sentencing hearings revealed Mota was an unlawful user and trafficker of cocaine and marijuana, and illegally in possession of five guns. On May 3, 2020, Mota’s crime was discovered when officers responded to a shots fired call. Citizen witnesses described a male walking on the sidewalk firing handguns into the air. They were able to inform law enforcement of where the shooter went after he fired the weapons. When police approached Mota’s apartment, Mota walked out and confessed to being the shooter. Mota gave consent to search his home, and officers found guns, $2,000 in cash, packaging materials, a digital scale, pounds of marijuana and 100 grams of cocaine.
At his sentencing, Mota claimed he had been hording drugs to support his own personal use in a time of pandemic. The district court did not credit the claim and instead concluded he had possessed his guns in connection with his drug trafficking activity.
Mota was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Mota was sentenced to 51 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.
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.
Mota 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 Sioux City, Iowa Police Department 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 20-4034.
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Sioux Center Man Sentenced to over Four Years in Federal Prison for Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
An unlawful drug user who possessed more than a dozen guns was sentenced August 18, 2021 to more than four years in federal prison.
Derrick Jager, age 19, from Sioux Center, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 19, 2021 guilty plea to one count of being an unlawful drug user in possession of a firearm.
Evidence at Jager’s detention, change of plea, and sentencing hearings revealed that Jager, who was an unlawful user of marijuana and cocaine, stole a dozen guns from a local licensed firearms dealer in three separate burglaries. Jager illegally disposed of these guns while also trafficking illegal drugs.
Jager was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Jager was sentenced to 54 months’ imprisonment. He was ordered to pay $4,400 in restitution. He must also serve a 2-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Jager 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 O’Brien County Sheriff’s Office, Sioux Center, Iowa Police Department, Sioux County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Department of Justice – 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 20-4070.
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Fort Dodge Man Sentenced to 21 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A Fort Dodge man was sentenced August 19, 2021, to more than 21 years in federal prison. Terrance Foy, age 34, from Fort Dodge received the prison term after a March 19, 2021, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm during and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
In a plea agreement, Foy admitted to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine between 2017 and 2019. Foy also admitted that on January 5, 2019, he placed a Ruger LC9 firearm on or near an acquaintance’s dresser along with 26.73 grams of actual pure methamphetamine. Foy has an extensive criminal history, including: four convictions for domestic abuse; four convictions for criminal mischief; two convictions for assault causing bodily injury; two theft convictions; and convictions for possession with intent to deliver controlled substances, possession of methamphetamine, assault with a dangerous weapon, assault, violation of a no contact order, attempted burglary, interference with official acts, and interference with official acts causing bodily injury.
Foy was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Foy was sentenced to 262 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. Foy 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 Mikala Purdy-Steenholdt, Shawn Wehde, and Ron Timmons. The case was investigated by the Fort Dodge Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-3032.
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Fort Dodge Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
A man who illegally possessed a firearm pled guilty August 19, 2021, in federal court in Sioux City.
William Howard Rockey Halstead, 34, from Fort Dodge, Iowa, was convicted of prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
At the plea hearing, Halstead admitted that he had been previously convicted of possession of a firearm by a felon, in the Iowa District Court for Webster County, on or about May 15, 2017. Reports show that, on September 2, 2020, Halstead was stopped by law enforcement for having an inoperable break light. During the stop, law enforcement observed multiple items resembling marijuana in plain view within the car. Halstead was asked to step out of the car at which time he locked his glovebox and exited the car. A subsequent search of Halstead uncovered a digital scale in his pocket. A search of the car revealed numerous pieces of marijuana on the seat, floorboard, and center console of the vehicle. Law enforcement then asked Halstead for the keys to unlock the glovebox. Halstead at first claimed the keys were in the car, but in fact Halstead had the keys in his hand. Law enforcement then opened the glovebox and found a loaded Hi-Point JCP 40 Smith and Wesson handgun. Upon arrest, Halstead admitted he also had a small bag of methamphetamine in his sock.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand has been set for time, date, and place. Halstead remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Halstead faces a possible maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mikala Purdy-Steenholdt and Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by the Fort Dodge Police Department 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 20-3040. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Citizen of Mexico Pleads Guilty to Being in United States IllegallyRead the Press Release
A man who was in the United States illegally pled guilty August 18, 2021, in federal court in Sioux City.
Gabriel Grima-Sanchez, 47, a citizen of Mexico, was convicted of illegally reentry.
At the plea hearing, Grima-Sanchez admitted that on June 23, 2021, he was stopped by Harrison County Iowa Sheriff’s officers for a traffic violation when it was discovered Grima-Sanchez had a federal arrest warrant for illegal reentry into the United States. Evidence showed that on March 28, 2016, Grima-Sanchez, an alien citizen of Mexico, was found knowingly and unlawfully in the United States after having been previously removed from the United States to Mexico on or about May 11, 2005.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Grima-Sanchez remains free on bond previously set. Grima-Sanchez faces a possible maximum sentence of 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to one year of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 16-4044. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Sons of Silence Enforcer and Convicted Felon Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
A man who was the enforcer for the Northern Iowa Chapter of the Sons of Silence Motorcycle Club was sentenced yesterday to 10 months in federal prison.
Justin Carlson, age 38, from Sheffield, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 19, 2021 guilty plea to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
In the guilty plea and sentencing proceedings, Carlson admitted that on April 5, 2020, Carlson, a convicted felon, and other members of the Sons of Silence and another affiliated group confronted a motorcyclist, who was an off-duty police officer, claiming the officer needed permission from the Sons of Silence to wear one of the patches on the back of the motorcyclist’s jacket. In a subsequent search of Carlson’s home in Sheffield, Iowa, officers recovered Carlson’s Sons of Silence motorcycle vest, which had a brass knuckles in the pocket, numerous items of Sons of Silence paraphernalia, and two firearms.
Carlson was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Carlson was sentenced to ten months’ imprisonment and must also serve a two-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.
Carlson 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 Patrick J. Reinert and investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Tri-County Drug Enforcement Task Force, Clarion Police Department, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Waverly Police Department, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Algona Police Department, and the Wright County Sheriff’s Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CR-3035.
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Oelwein Man Arrested on Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
David Alan Tafolla, age 54, from Oelwein, Iowa, has been charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, four counts of distribution of a controlled substance, and one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. The charges are contained in an Indictment that was unsealed on August 16, 2021, in United States District Court in Cedar Rapids.
The Indictment alleges that, between October 2020 and May 2021, Tafolla conspired with others to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, and 50 grams or more of actual (pure) methamphetamine.
The Indictment also alleges that, on April 26, 2021, and on May 24, 2021, Tafolla distributed 50 grams or more of actual (pure) methamphetamine. In addition, the Indictment alleges that on April 21, 2021, and on May 4, 2021, Tafolla distributed 5 grams or more of actual (pure) methamphetamine.
Finally, the Indictment alleges that on May 24, 2021, Tafolla possessed with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual (pure) methamphetamine.
If convicted on all charges, Tafolla faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, a $10,000,000 fine, and a term of supervised release of up to life.
Tafolla appeared today in federal court in Cedar Rapids for a detention hearing, and he is now being held without bond. Tafolla’s trial is set for October 18, 2021.
As with any criminal case, a charge is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Devra T. Hake and was investigated by the Oelwein Police Department, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-CR-2044.
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Man Who Distributed Videos of the Sexual Abuse of Toddler by Her Mother Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who distributed videos of a toddler being sexually abused by her mother on social media was sentenced today to nine years in federal prison.
Douglas John Buttikofer Jr., age 41, from Dubuque, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 2, 2021 guilty plea to accessing child pornography.
At the guilty plea, Buttikofer admitted that between February and March of 2020, he knowingly accessed with intent to view visual depictions of child pornography. The depictions involved at least one minor under the age of 12. Buttikofer committed the offense while on pre-trial release in the State of Illinois for the unlawful grooming of a minor. At sentencing, a witness testified that Buttikofer expressed an interest in traveling to the Philippines to engage in sex with children. The judge noted Buttikofer maintained a “persistent pursuit” of child pornography, making him a danger to the community.
Buttikofer was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Buttikofer was sentenced to 108 months’ imprisonment and fined $100. He must also serve a five-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.”
Buttikofer 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 Liz Dupuich and investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Illinois State Police, the Dubuque County Sherriff’s Office, and the Dubuque Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CR-1012.
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Laurens Man Sentenced to Prison for Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – A Laurens man, Colton Eugene Cope, age 25, was sentenced on August 19, 2021, by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 46 months in prison for unlawfully possessing a firearm as a drug user on two occasions. Cope was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term as well as pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
According to court documents, Cope was federally charged with drug user in possession of a firearm after officers stopped a vehicle he was driving related to a shots fired call in Davenport. Cope was found in possession of numerous firearms, ammunition, and methamphetamine. Cope admitted to using methamphetamine and possessing the firearms and ammunition. Cope further admitted to allowing Davion Gary, a felon, to possess one of his firearms. Officers located shell casings at an apartment complex in Davenport. The shell casings at the scene were consistent with being fired from one of Cope’s guns.
When Cope was arrested, he was again found in possession of firearms, ammunition, and drug paraphernalia – which led to Cope being federally charged in the Northern District of Iowa for unlawful possession of a firearm as a drug user.
Acting United States Attorneys Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa and Sean R. Berry of the Northern District of Iowa made the announcement.
These cases were investigated by the Davenport Police Department, Fort Dodge Police Department, and the Webster County Sheriff’s Office.
This case is part of the Project Safe Neighborhood, a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Cedar Rapids Man Sentenced to Two Years in Federal Prison for Escaping from Federal CustodyRead the Press Release
A man who escaped from custody in the Gerald R. Hinzman Center was sentenced on August 19, 2021, to two years in federal prison.
Justin Troendle, age 35, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the sentence after a February 26, 2021 guilty plea to one count of escape from federal custody. At the plea hearing, Troendle admitted that, in May 2020, he was in custody at the Hinzman Center under a federal court order pursuant to his prior conviction for failure to register as a sex offender. Troendle admitted that, between May 5 and May 15, 2020, he left custody without authorization by failing to return to the Hinzman Center as required.
Troendle was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Troendle was sentenced to 24 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 prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Tremmel and was investigated by the United States Marshals Service, the Northern Iowa Fugitive Task Force, and the Cedar Rapids Police Department.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is CR 20-87.
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Felon Who Shot at Occupied Vehicle Sentenced to More than Eight Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who shot at an occupied vehicle in an apartment complex parking lot was sentenced today to more than eight years in federal prison.
Eric James Lyle, age 34, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 31, 2021 guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
At the guilty plea, Lyle admitted that on September 7, 2020, he possessed a Glock 42 .380 pistol, after previously being convicted of a felony offense. An on-duty police officer parked near the Mead Apartment Complex observed the shooting and later recovered the firearm and six shell casings from the parking lot. Surveillance video showed Lyle discharging the firearm multiple times towards a black SUV as the SUV left the parking lot.
Lyle was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Lyle was sentenced to 105 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.
Lyle 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 Lisa C. Williams and investigated by the Cedar Rapids Safe Streets Task Force. The task force is composed of representatives from the Federal Bureau of Investigation 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-0001.
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Martell Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Gun After Traffic Stop Search Uncovers Meth and Loaded HandgunRead the Press Release
A man who illegally possessed a loaded handgun pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Timothy James Hensley, age 44, from Martell, Iowa, was convicted of one count of being an unlawful drug user in possession of a firearm.
At the plea hearing, Hensley admitted that he unlawfully possessed a gun on October 19, 2020. Evidence at a prior hearing showed that Hensley was stopped by a Linn County Sheriff’s Deputy for driving a truck with a license plate that belonged to a different vehicle. During the stop, the Deputy learned that Hensley was barred from driving and had an outstanding warrant for failure to appear for court. During a search of Hensley’s person, the Deputy found a container with methamphetamine, and during a search of a backpack found on the passenger’s seat, officers found approximately 27 grams of methamphetamine and a loaded .45 caliber handgun.
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.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Hensley remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Hensley faces a possible maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Linn County Sheriff’s Office 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‑00036‑CJW-MAR.
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Hiawatha Man Pleads Guilty to Ammunition and Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
A man who was found in a rental van with ammunition and methamphetamine in a syringe pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Joshua James Feye, age 36, from Hiawatha, Iowa, was convicted of one count of being a felon in possession of ammunition, and one count of possessing methamphetamine after three prior convictions for drug or chemical crimes.
In a plea agreement, Feye admitted that on February 17, 2020, he was in a rental van parked in the front yard of a property in Marion, Iowa, when the Marion Police Department contacted him in connection to a report of the vehicle being used to transport a minor illegally. During the investigation, the officers found Feye had an outstanding arrest warrant. When they arrested him, they subsequently found methamphetamine, a syringe to inject methamphetamine, and ammunition. Feye had previously been convicted of possession of pseudoephedrine in 2015; possession of pseudoephedrine with intent to manufacture methamphetamine and manufacturing methamphetamine in 2009; theft in the second degree in 2006; and possession of anhydrous ammonia and lithium in 2018.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Feye remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Feye faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 90 days’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 13 years’ imprisonment, a $500,000 fine, and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick J. Reinert and was investigated by the Marion, Iowa, Police Department in concert with 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-00024. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Convicted Felon Twice Caught in Possession of Unlawful Items Sentenced to over Five Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
A convicted felon who was found with a firearm magazine on one day and a firearm for that magazine nine days later was sentenced on August 12, 2021, to more than five years in federal prison.
Mar’yo Doyuan Lindsey, age 26, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 18, 2021 guilty plea to one count of possession of a firearm as a felon.
In a plea agreement, Lindsey admitted he was in a vehicle on July 3, 2020, when the Iowa State Patrol stopped the vehicle for speeding. Lindsey was a front seat passenger and had a baggie of marijuana protruding from in his pants pocket. The trooper searched the vehicle and found a high-capacity magazine loaded with ammunition for a Canik firearm. Later, on July 12, 2020, the Waterloo Police Department Violent Crime Apprehension team were conducting an unrelated firearms investigation and found Lindsey in a car in possession of a loaded Canik firearm that fit the magazine seized days earlier.
Lindsey was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Lindsey was sentenced to 70 months’ imprisonment, and must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Lindsey 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 prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick J. Reinert and investigated by the Waterloo Police Department, the Iowa State Patrol and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CR-2049.
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Primghar Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Distribution of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
A man who distributed methamphetamine was sentenced on July 28, 2021, to more than 6 years in federal prison.
Jeremiah Bottjen, age 38, from Primghar, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 4, 2021, guilty plea to one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
In a plea agreement, Bottjen admitted that on September 24, 2020, he was the driver of a vehicle that led a Clay County Sheriff’s Deputy on a high-speed chase where he eventually drove through a stop sign going 60mph while construction workers were present and ultimately crashed his vehicle. Deputies searched Bottjen and his vehicle and found a digital scale with methamphetamine residue and a torch. They also found a grocery sack at the scene of the accident containing a softball-sized amount of methamphetamine. Bottjen later admitted to distributing meth in Iowa from July of 2020 until his arrest.
Bottjen was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Bottjen was sentenced to 78 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.
Bottjen 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 Mikala M. Steenholdt and investigated by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, the Iowa Great Lakes Drug Task Force, and the O’Brien County Sheriff’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-CR-4009.
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Albert City Woman Pleads Guilty to Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
A woman who laundered funds from her illegal business pled guilty August 9, 2021, in federal court in Sioux City. Yesenia Ledesma-Ledezma, age 23, from Albert City, Iowa, was convicted of money laundering and agreed to forfeit property she acquired with proceeds from her illegal business.
At the plea hearing, Ledesma-Ledezma admitted that on April 9, 2020, she engaged in money laundering by purchasing a home for approximately $65,000 with proceeds derived from her extensive business operations which involved smuggling counterfeit goods into the United States and trafficking those counterfeit goods. The counterfeit goods known to law enforcement had an approximate domestic value of over $370,000, and defendant took in a profit of at least $65,000 from her counterfeit trafficking and smuggling activities.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Ledesma-Ledezma remains free on bond pending sentencing. Ledesma-Ledezma faces a possible maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ron Timmons and was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-4063.
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Jury Convicts Hospers, Iowa Man of Meth and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine and illegally possessed a firearm was convicted by a jury on August 6, 2021, after a 4-day trial in federal court in Sioux City.
Robert Nicholas Hansen, 42, from Hospers, Iowa, was convicted of one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine; three counts of distribution of methamphetamine; and one count of being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. The verdict was returned after four hours of jury deliberations.
The jury found that, from January 2017 through January 2021, Hansen was involved in a conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of mixed methamphetamine and more than 50 grams actual/pure methamphetamine. Evidence at trial showed that Hansen was involved with several other co-conspirators in the acquisition and distribution of more than 100 pounds of methamphetamine. Evidence further showed that, on three separate occasions, Hansen distributed one-half pound of methamphetamine to individuals cooperating with law enforcement and during one of the transactions was found to possess three separate bundles of cash, totaling $14,000. The jury verdict included findings that two of Hansen’s methamphetamine distributions occurred within 1000 feet of Hospers Elementary School and South Side Park in Hospers, Iowa. The jury also found that Hansen illegally possessed, due to having a prior felony conviction and also being an unlawful user of methamphetamine, a firearm, a .223 caliber AR-15 style rifle. Hansen was previously convicted of possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver in 2003 in the Iowa District Court for Sioux County.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Hansen remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. For all of his convictions, Hansen faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, up to a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release following any imprisonment. The firearm and drug offense convictions could be run consecutive or concurrently to each other, or concurrent in part and consecutive in part.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Shawn Wehde and Patrick Greenwood and was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Sioux County Sheriff’s Office, the Orange City Police Department, the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Office, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement 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 21-4014. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Waterloo Man Sentenced to over a Decade in Federal Prison for Unlawfully Possessing Firearms as a FelonRead the Press Release
A man who unlawfully possessed a loaded handgun while awaiting sentencing on another federal firearms offense was sentenced today to 92 months in federal prison. The court ordered the sentence to be served consecutively to a sentence imposed in November 2019 for another felon in possession conviction, meaning the entire sentence imposed for both offenses is more than 11 years in prison.
Shevin Caston, age 30, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after a guilty plea to possessing a firearm as a felon. Statements at sentencing indicated that, just six days prior to being sentenced in federal court on another felon in possession conviction, Caston possessed the loaded weapon while in the backseat of a car in Waterloo.
Caston was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Caston 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 prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jake Schunk and investigated by the Waterloo Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number for this matter is 20-CR-2033-CJW-MAR. The case file number for the previous matter involving this defendant is 19-CR-2032-CJW-MAR.
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Unlawful Drug User Sentenced to over Eight Years in Federal Prison for Possessing a GunRead the Press Release
An unlawful drug user who possessed a handgun was sentenced today to more than eight years in federal prison.
Oluwadurotim Orebiyi, age 29, from Florissant, Missouri, received the prison term after a May 20, 2019 guilty plea to one count of being an unlawful drug user in possession of a firearm.
Information from the guilty plea and sentencing hearings showed that Orebiyi, who was an unlawful user of marijuana, possessed a gun that was found by Waterloo, Iowa, police during a traffic stop. After pleading guilty to that offense, Orebiyi was pending sentencing in December 2019, but he failed to appear for sentencing. Six days after his scheduled sentencing, he was arrested in Missouri after pounding on a residence door to try and get it, threatening to kill the person inside, and firing two rounds through the door.
Orebiyi was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Orebiyi was sentenced to 103 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.
Orebiyi 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 Jacob Schunk and Tony Morfitt and investigated by a Federal Task Force composed of the Waterloo Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms assisted by the Black Hawk County Sheriff’s Office and Cedar Falls Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 18-CR-2072.
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Man who Kidnapped Teenager from Minnesota and Brought her to Iowa Sentenced to over a Decade in PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who maintained a long term online grooming relationship with a minor teenager via social media, which ended with him secretly driving her to Iowa and hiding her in a park while her parents tried to locate her, was sentenced today to more than ten years in federal prison.
Randy Abels, age 27, from Lowden, Iowa received the prison term after a guilty plea to receipt of child pornography.
At the guilty plea, Abels admitted he knowingly received visual depictions of child pornography from the victim. At sentencing, the judge noted that Abels was a “predator” who “kidnapped” the victim from her home after grooming her online. Abels pursued the victim and physically transported her from Minnesota to Iowa after being previously caught and confronted by her parents. In an attempt to avoid being caught, he hid her at a park.
Abels was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court C.J. Williams. Abels was sentenced to 121 months’ imprisonment and fined $100. He must also serve a ten-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.”
Abels 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 Liz Dupuich and investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cedar County Sherriff’s Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-CR-0002.
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Former Employee Sentenced to a Year in Prison for Stealing a Handgun from his EmployerRead the Press Release
A former employee of a federally licensed firearms dealer who stole a handgun from his employer while at work was sentenced today to a year in federal prison.
Raykwon Stevenson, age 25, from Marion, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 1, 2021, guilty plea to one count of theft of a firearm from a federally licensed firearms dealer.
Information from the guilty plea and sentencing hearing showed that Stevenson was employed by a federally licensed firearms dealer in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. While working at the dealer, Stevenson stole a .22 caliber handgun from the dealer’s inventory. After discovering the theft, the dealer notified law enforcement, who confronted Stevenson and recovered the stolen handgun.
Stevenson was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Stevenson was sentenced to 12 months and a day in prison. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Stevenson was released on the bond previously set and is to surrender to the United States Marshal on August 26, 2021.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Morfitt and investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Cedar Rapids Police Department.
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 12-CR-98.
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Lowden Man Sentenced to Five Years of Federal Prison After Gun Theft During Home BurglaryRead the Press Release
A man who broke into a house and stole an AR‑15-style rifle and marijuana was sentenced today to five years in federal prison.
John Christopher Jacobson, age 23, from Lowden, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 8, 2021 guilty plea to one count of possessing a stole firearm and one count of possessing a firearm as a drug user.
Court records show that in September 2018 Jacobson and an accomplice kicked in the back door of a residence in Springville, Iowa, and stole a Ruger AR‑15‑style rifle, a DVR security system, and marijuana. Jacobson later claimed he had committed the burglary in retaliation for the man who resided at the home shooting at Jacobson’s truck, which occurred a few days after Jacobson had rear‑ended the man’s vehicle. The rifle, as well as two other firearms, marijuana, and methamphetamine, were found in Jacobson’s residence.
Jacobson was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Jacobson was sentenced to 60 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.
Jacobson 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 Jones County Sheriff’s Office 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 20-CR-00105-CJW-MAR.
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Dubuque Man Sentenced to over 15 Years for Distributing Opioids that Caused Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
A man who distributed a deadly cocktail of opioids was sentenced today to more than 15 years in federal prison.
Julius Gene Irvin, age 30, from Dubuque, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 1, 2021 guilty plea to one count of distribution of controlled substances near a protected location resulting in death.
At the plea hearing, Irvin admitted that he distributed a mixture of heroin, fentanyl, and valeryl fentanyl to another person on May 19, 2019. Court records reflect that Irvin was a long-time heroin and opioid user, facilitator, and distributor in Dubuque. He admitted to obtaining at least 60 grams of heroin from Travis Gordon Jones in two months in 2019, much of which he supplied to two individuals. On each day from May 17 to 19, 2019, Irvin supplied those individuals with heroin on three consecutive days, and each day one of those two individuals suffered an overdose. It was later determined that the heroin Irvin was supplying them also contained fentanyl and valeryl fentanyl, an illicitly produced substance that has similar effects to fentanyl. On May 19, 2019, Irvin obtained some heroin laced with fentanyl and valeryl fentanyl for one of his customers. The customer took some of the substance to a local women’s shelter, where she had been staying. She used the substance, overdosed, and was found dead by shelter staff the next morning. Jones previously pled guilty to conspiring to distribute the same drugs that caused the victim’s death, as well as two other deaths. Jones is awaiting sentencing.
Irvin was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Irvin was sentenced to 183 months’ imprisonment. He was ordered to make $8,325.67 in restitution to the victim. He must also serve a 6-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Irvin 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 the Drug Enforcement Administration 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-1011-CJW-MAR. The case file number for Jones is 19-CR-1037-CJW-MAR.
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Waterloo Man Who Engaged in Shootout Sentenced to Seven and a Half Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man with multiple prior convictions involving violence was sentenced today to over seven years in federal prison.
Charles Ware, age 47, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after a guilty plea to possessing a firearm as a felon. The judge at sentencing noted that Ware engaged in a shootout with a co-defendant, also a felon, which was “not unlike the Wild West,” with bullets going through multiple windows and the co-defendant being shot in the leg. The judge also noted Ware’s “fairly nonstop” criminal conduct, which included 30 adult convictions, six convictions for violent assaults on women, and violent misconduct while in prison.
Ware was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Ware was sentenced to 90 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. Ware 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 prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jake Schunk and investigated by the Waterloo 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 20-CR-2063-CJW-MAR.
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Spirit Lake Man Pleads Guilty in Federal Court to Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
A Spirit Lake Man was sentenced July 30, 2021 to more than 5 years in federal prison.
Dylan Robert Hurd, age 30, from Spirit Lake, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 18, 2021, guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a felon.
At the plea hearing, Hurd admitted to knowing he was restricted from possessing a firearm after being convicted in 2017 of assault causing serious bodily injury in Dickinson County, Iowa. Hurd knowingly possessed a .380 ACP caliber Smith & Wesson M&P handgun.
Hurd was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand 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.
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.
Hurd 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 Ron Timmons and was investigated by the Spirit Lake 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 20-4076.
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Man with Convictions for Domestic Violence Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing Two FirearmsRead the Press Release
A man who possessed guns after being convicted of multiple misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence was sentenced August 3, 2021 to more than a year in federal prison.
Jamie Hansman, age 52, from Glidden, Iowa, received the prison term after an April 13, 2021, guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a domestic violence misdemeanant.
Evidence at Hanman’s detention, change of plea, and sentencing hearings revealed that on April 18, 2020, law enforcement officers were advised of a possible domestic disturbance which led deputies to the residence of Jamie Hansman. The other party involved in the domestic disturbance claimed that Hansman had previously threatened her with a gun. When asked about this, Hansman admitted to possessing a shotgun. Law enforcement was aware that Hansman could not legally possess guns due to his criminal history. Hansman consented to let the officer see the shotgun and led the officer to his bedroom. The shotgun was located out of the case and next to his bed. Officers also saw a semi-automatic .22 caliber rifle in the same location. It was loaded with fourteen .22 caliber long rifle rounds.
Hansman has five domestic violence convictions, one of which occurred after he was disarmed by police in the instant case. Moreover, the current gun offense was discovered during the investigation of a possible domestic disturbance
Hansman was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Hansman 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.
Hansman 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 Carroll County Sheriff’s Office 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 21-3005.
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Man Trafficking Methamphetamine from Mexico to Iowa Sentenced in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
A Storm Lake man who intended to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine in the Storm Lake area was sentenced on July 13, 2021, to 20 years in federal prison.
Christian Javier Ramirez, age 31, from Storm Lake, Iowa, received the prison term after a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
In January of 2020, Ramirez conspired with others to import methamphetamine from Mexico and distribute methamphetamine in Iowa. According to the complaint filed in this matter, approximately 7 pounds of methamphetamine was intercepted in Colorado by the Colorado State Patrol and was destined for Storm Lake, Iowa, at the direction of Ramirez. Ramirez also possessed firearms at various times during the conspiracy.
Ramirez was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Ramirez was sentenced to 240 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.
Ramirez 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 Attorney Ron Timmons and investigated by the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, Buena Vista County Sheriff’s Office, and Colorado State Patrol.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-4011.
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California Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
A California woman who traveled from California to Sioux City to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced July 30, 2021, to more than 10 years in federal prison.
Leslie Aranda-Moreno, age 27, from San Diego, California, received the prison term after a March 19, 2021, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
In a plea agreement, Aranda-Moreno admitted that in January 2020, she conspired to distribute methamphetamine in the Northern District of Iowa, and elsewhere.
On or about January 30, 2020, Homeland Security Investigations agents were contacted by officers from the Colorado State Patrol regarding a vehicle being driven by Aranda-Moreno that had been stopped and searched in Colorado. The officers found the vehicle contained approximately seven (7) pounds of methamphetamine. It was determined that Aranda-Moreno would pick up large quantities of methamphetamine from Mexico in California and drive them to Sioux City for distribution.
Aranda-Moreno was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Aranda-Moreno was sentenced to 122 months’ imprisonment. She must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Aranda-Moreno is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until she can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ron Timmons and was investigated by the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, Buena Vista County Sheriff’s Office, and Colorado State Patrol.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-4056.
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Cresco Man Will Spend a Decade in Federal Prison for “Tormenting” Minnesota Woman for Two YearsRead the Press Release
A Cresco man who cyberstalked a Minnesota woman for nearly two years was sentenced on July 30, 2021, to ten years in federal prison.
Michael Shawn McGuire, age 58, from Cresco, Iowa, received the prison sentence after a December 8, 2020 guilty plea to four counts of cyberstalking.
Information disclosed at the sentencing and plea hearings showed that in the fall of 2017, the victim, who was living in Minnesota, met McGuire on an online dating website. The two dated for approximately seven months before the victim broke up with McGuire. At that point, McGuire began texting and emailing the victim consistently, sending her harassing messages. In the summer of 2018, the victim obtained a no-contact order prohibiting McGuire from contacting her or anyone in her family. McGuire went on to harass and torment the victim over the course of the next approximately two years.
During that time, McGuire created five fake Facebook profiles. The profiles contained the victim’s name or photo and contained sexually explicit messages about the victim. The fake profiles sent over 80 friend requests to the victim’s friends and family. McGuire also made dozens of flyers and yard signs, which contained sexually explicit messages, photographs of the victim, and sexually explicit photographs of women appearing to be the victim. The flyers and yard signs contained the victim’s name, phone number, and address. The flyers were delivered to dozens of people, including the victim’s children, extended family members, neighbors, friends, her employer, a priest, and businesses she associated with. The yard signs were left in multiple places in the town the victim lived in, including her employer’s parking lot, her church lawn, and a popular local restaurant. On one occasion, McGuire spray painted a sexually explicit message including the victim’s name on a business front in the victim’s hometown. On another occasion, McGuire texted the victim that she should call the police because he was violating his restraining order, then proceeded to follow the victim around town in his car. McGuire was arrested for that incident and spent a few days in a county jail.
At the sentencing hearing, the judge pointed out that McGuire was undeterred by his arrest and continued to stalk and harass the victim for several months after his arrest. In the fall of 2019, investigators searched McGuire’s place of business in Cresco. There, they located and seized multiple items, including photos of the victim and her family and friends, her Facebook friends list, supplies used to make the flyers and yard signs, rubber gloves, and rope.
McGuire was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Judge Williams described McGuire’s conduct toward the victim and her friends and family as “a form of mental torture” and “form of public terrorism in a way.” McGuire 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. McGuire must pay $400 to the special assessment fund, a $15,000 fine, and $17,500 in restitution to the victim.
“Michael McGuire tormented the victim for over two years,” said Acting United States Attorney Sean R. Berry following the sentence. “He will spend the next decade in federal prison, protecting both his victim and the public from his malicious behavior. This sentence sends a strong message to all that this kind of behavior will not be tolerated.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ashley Corkery, Kyndra Lundquist, and Lisa Williams and was investigated by the Kandiyohi County (Minnesota) Sheriff’s Office, Willmar (Minnesota) Police Department, Litchfield (Minnesota) Police Department, Renville (Minnesota) Police Department, Pipestone County (Minnesota) Sheriff’s Office, Kandiyohi County (Minnesota) Community Corrections, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Cresco (Iowa) Police Department, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-CR-2075.
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Sioux City Man to Federal Prison for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced on July 28, 2021, to six years in federal prison.
Derek Wilkens, 35, from Sioux City, Iowa, plead guilty on March 4, 2021, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, evidence showed that between about May 2019 through about August 28, 2019, Wilkens and others distributed at least 3 pounds of methamphetamine. Evidence further showed that on August 28, 2019, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the residence of one of Wilken’s sources of supply in Sioux City, Iowa. During the execution of the search, Wilkens possessed approximately 88 grams of methamphetamine which he intended to distribute to others.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Wilkens remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison. Wilkens was sentenced to 72 months’ imprisonment and a term of 3 years of supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood 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 20-4038.
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Eagle Grove Man to Federal Prison for Meth ConvictionRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced July 27, 2021, to 5 years in federal prison.
Donovan Lalor, 50, from Eagle Grove, Iowa, was convicted of one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
At the plea hearing, Lalor admitted that he conspired to distribute more than 5 pounds of pure methamphetamine from January 2019 through March 2020 in the Wright and Webster County areas. Lalor admitted he regularly obtained up to half-pound quantities of meth for redistribution along with other co-conspirators. Their source was a residence located within 1,000 feet of a protected location, namely, Greenwood Park in Eagle Grove, Iowa.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Lalor remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison. Lalor was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment and must serve a term of 8 years of supervised release following imprisonment.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Wright County Sheriff’s Office, Eagle Grove Police Department, and Iowa Criminalistics Laboratory.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-3012.
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“Very Dangerous Person” from Waterloo Sentenced to Eight Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man with multiple prior convictions involving violence was sentenced today to eight years in federal prison.
Trenton Sliekers, age 28, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after a guilty plea to possessing a firearm as a felon. Statements at sentencing indicated that Sliekers used the firearm to shoot six times from a motorcycle at a residence that was then occupied by multiple people, including children. Documents at sentencing noted that one of the bullets lodged in a couch cushion.
At sentencing, the judge noted that Sliekers was a “violent man” and “very dangerous person” who had at least three prior crimes involving violence and who kept on “committing crime after crime after crime.” The judge further found that Sliekers posed a “danger” and was “likely to reoffend.”
Sliekers was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Sliekers was sentenced to 96 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. Sliekers 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 prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jake Schunk and investigated by the Waterloo Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CR-2062-CJW-MAR.
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