Northern District of Iowa
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Cedar Rapids Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Exploitation of Children in the PhilippinesRead the Press Release
A man who sexually exploited children in the Philippines was sentenced today to 30 years in federal prison.
William Meyer, age 65, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the sentence after a February 4, 2020 guilty plea to one count of sexual exploitation of children. At the plea hearing, Meyer admitted that between 2012 and 2019 he persuaded, induced, or enticed minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions or transmitting live visual depictions of this conduct. The record at the sentencing hearing established that Meyer had traveled to the Philippines for charitable work. The live visual depictions included sexually explicit Skype video transmissions from at least six children in the Philippines, including three prepubescent girls.
Meyer was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Meyer was sentenced to 360 months’ imprisonment and fined $50,000. Special assessments of $5,100 were imposed and Meyer must also serve a five-year term of supervised release. He must comply with all sex offender registration and public notification requirements.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Tremmel and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.
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.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is CR 19-105.
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Waterloo Man Sentenced to over Seven Years in Federal Prison After Being Involved in Two Shooting IncidentsRead the Press Release
A man who possessed firearm that he used in two shootings was sentenced September 1, 2020, to more than seven years in federal prison.
Leon Orlando Jackson, age 44, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 3, 2020, guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a felon.
At the plea hearing, Jackson admitted possessing a firearm after being convicted of three felony offenses, including possession of a stolen auto, felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of cocaine. The prior firearm offense was a federal conviction out of Indiana. Filings in the case showed that on April 23, 2017, defendant was involved in two shootings in Waterloo, including one that left a victim with an injury to his leg.
Jackson was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Jackson was sentenced to 87 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.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
Jackson is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Nydle and was investigated by a Federal Task Force composed of the Waterloo Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives 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 19-cr-2036.
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Son of Drug Kingpin Sentenced to More Than Five Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who assisted a multinational drug trafficking organization was sentenced today to more than five years in federal prison.
Jose Leonardo Alvarez, age 25, from Riverside, California, received the prison term after a March 13, 2020 guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
In 2013, Jose Maria Valencia, Alvarez’s father, was sent to California state prison after being convicted of conspiracy to commit murder. Despite his incarceration, Valencia continued to run his drug trafficking organization. He ultimately directed the distribution of more than 250 pounds of ice methamphetamine from his prison cell. Valencia relied on family members, such as Alvarez, to assist him with the drug trafficking. Alvarez traveled to Iowa on multiple occasions to serve as Valencia’s eyes and ears, and reported back to Valencia on the status of organization. Alvarez also collected money from the sale of methamphetamine in Iowa. Alvarez was a fugitive for more than two years until his arrest in September 2019.
Alvarez was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge Linda R. Reade. Alvarez was sentenced to 70 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. Alvarez 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 as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force consisting of the DEA; the Linn County Sheriff's Office; the Cedar Rapids Police Department; the Marion Police Department; the Iowa City Police Department; and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; the Mid-Iowa Task Force, comprised of the Marshalltown Police Department, Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, Tama County Sheriff’s Office, Grundy County Sheriff’s Office, Hardin County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa Falls Police Department, Eldora Police Department and the Dysart Police Department; and the Tri-County Drug Task Force, comprised of the Waterloo Police Department, Black Hawk County Sheriff’s Office, Cedar Falls Police Department, LaPorte City Police Department, Hudson Police Department, Evansdale Police Department, University of Northern Iowa Police Department, Waverly Police Department and the Bremer County Sheriff’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 17-CR-2041.
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Drug User Who Unlawfully Possessed a Firearm Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A drug user who unlawfully possessed a rifle was sentenced September 10, 2020, to more than seven months in federal prison.
Isaiah Roy Mixon, age 21, from Spencer, Iowa, received the prison term after a guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a drug user.
Information provided at his detention, change of plea, and sentencing hearings revealed that on January 6, 2019, Spencer, Iowa police officers responded to a request for a welfare check of defendant at his residence. Mixon was found in possession of 12 grams of marijuana, packaging materials, grinders, recently opened odorless bags that had been mailed to him, $12,000 in cash, and a DPMS .223 rifle and ammunition.
Mixon was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Mixon was sentenced to 7 months’ 28 days imprisonment. He must also serve a 6-month 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.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
Mixon 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 Spencer, 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 19-CR-4074.
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Convicted Felon Sentenced to Federal Prison after Throwing Guns Out of Car During Police ChaseRead the Press Release
A man who threw two guns out of a moving car while being chased by federal Marshals was sentenced today to more than three years in federal prison.
Jordan Lewis Holmes, age 24, from Marion, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 27, 2020 guilty plea to being a felon and drug user in possession of a firearm.
At the plea hearing, Holmes admitted that he possessed two nine-millimeter handguns in March 2019, and that at the time he was an unlawful marijuana user and a convicted felon. Court records reflect that in March 2019, the United States Marshals Service was seeking to arrest Holmes for a warrant issued due to a parole violation on a prior felony stolen weapon trafficking charge. Officers saw Holmes get into a vehicle and tried to initiate a traffic stop, at which time a chase ensued. During the chase, the vehicle in which Holmes was a passenger drove into a church parking lot and two nine-millimeter handguns were thrown from the window where Holmes was seated. At the end of the vehicle chase, the vehicle pulled into an apartment complex parking lot, and, without the vehicle coming to a stop, Holmes and the other three occupants of the vehicle fled on foot. Officers caught up to Holmes and arrested him shortly thereafter.
Officers later retrieved the handguns from the church parking lot. The serial numbers on both firearms had been defaced. Further investigation revealed that two days before the chase, Holmes posted a video of himself holding a handgun that resembled one of the handguns found in the parking lot. Evidence at a prior hearing showed that during a recorded phone call shortly after his arrest, Holmes told the other person that he had to get rid of his “size nine shoes,” indicating that Holmes had thrown the firearms from the moving vehicle.
Holmes was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Holmes was sentenced to 46 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.
Holmes 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 United States Marshals Service and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Chatham.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-CR-00124-CJW-MAR.
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Two Men Involved in Large-Scale Heroin Ring Sentenced to a Decade in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A Chicago man and a Cedar Rapids man who conspired with each other and others to sell heroin in Cedar Rapids were recently each sentenced to ten years in prison.
Devontae Horton, age 28, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison sentence on August 27, 2020, after he was found guilty during a February 2020 jury trial. The jury found Horton guilty of conspiring to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and distribution of heroin.
Sean Jarel Williams, age 31, from Chicago, Illinois, received the prison sentence today after a January 21, 2020 guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute at least 1,000 grams of heroin.
Evidence at Horton’s trial, and at both men’s sentencing hearings, showed that between approximately June 2015 and April 2019, Horton, Williams, and up to eleven others, conspired to distribute heroin in the Cedar Rapids area. The group was known as the “Ferrari” group. The members used one phone number, known as the “Ferrari phone”, to arrange and conduct heroin transactions. At times, ten to twenty people a day called the phone for the sole purpose of purchasing heroin.
In October 2018, Cedar Rapids police officers attempted to stop a vehicle occupied by Horton and another member of the Ferrari group. Horton tried to get away from police but was eventually apprehended. Officers located over $3,000 in cash in Horton’s front pocket. The cash was drug proceeds. In October 2018, Horton sold heroin directly to a confidential source. Investigators had arranged the transaction by calling the “Ferrari” phone.
Williams also used the “Ferrari” phone to arrange heroin transactions. Williams was also stopped by police in July 2017 travelling from Chicago to Cedar Rapids. At the time, Williams had approximately 350 grams of heroin in his vehicle that he intended to distribute in the Cedar Rapids area.
Bother Horton and Williams were sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Each was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment and must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
“The ‘Ferrari’ group was a menacing source of deadly opioids in our community for far too long,” said United States Attorney Peter Deegan. “With these most recent sentencings, seven members of this criminal enterprise have now been brought to justice. This is a significant law enforcement achievement, but the battle against opioids continues. We will continue to work with our law enforcement and community partners to take the fight to the dealers and support those who struggle with addiction.”
Horton and Williams are the last of seven men who were charged together on April 24, 2019, for their role in the “Ferrari” group. The following have already been sentenced for their roles in distributing heroin for the “Ferarri” group:
Walter Malano Collins Murray, Jr., age 19, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was sentenced to 37 months’ imprisonment on December 30, 2019, following a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute at least 100 grams of heroin.
Cortez Nelson, age 30, from Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced to 151 months’ imprisonment on May 20, 2020, following a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute at least 1,000 grams of heroin.
Dewon Earl Meeks, age 30, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was sentenced to 71 months’ imprisonment on May 20, 2020, following a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute at least 100 grams of heroin.
Anthony Ricks, age 31, from Chicago, was sentenced to 70 months’ imprisonment on July 10, 2020, following a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute at least 100 grams of heroin.
Jarel Shawn Williams, age 23, from Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced to 127 months’ imprisonment on June 1, 2020, following a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute at least 1,000 grams of heroin.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Corkery and was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Cedar Rapids Police Department, Marion Police Department, and the Linn County Sheriff’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-CR-45.
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Illinois Man Who Removed Evidence from Opioid Overdose Death Scene Instead of Calling 911 Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who removed drugs and paraphernalia from an opioid overdose death scene and then lied to police was sentenced today to nearly two years in federal prison.
Mateusz D. Syryjczyk, age 29, from Rockford, Illinois, received the prison term after a March 13, 2020 guilty plea to one count of misprision of a felony.
At the plea hearing, Syryjczyk admitted that, in May 2019, he knew that the crime of distribution of controlled substances resulting in serious bodily injury had occurred. He also admitted that he failed to notify authorities that the crime had been committed and that he took affirmative steps to conceal the crime. Evidence at a prior hearing showed that Syryjczyk and his girlfriend, Jacqueline Birch, and another individual drove to a residence in Dubuque, Iowa, during the late evening of May 26, 2019. Birch and the other individual went into the residence, and returned a short time later with purported heroin they had purchased inside the residence. The three then drove to a hotel in Dubuque, where they all used the purported heroin. The third individual began to overdose in the room. Birch and Syryjczyk did not immediately call 911, but, over the course of multiple hours, Birch would occasionally perform CPR on the individual to restore some breathing function, though the person never regained consciousness. Eventually, Birch and Syryjczyk decided they needed to call 911, and Syryjczyk took the remaining drug paraphernalia from the room to prevent law enforcement from finding it. Syryjczyk also made false statements to the responding police officers about the cause of the individual’s condition. That individual was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy later determined the cause of death was use of heroin, fentanyl, and valeryl fentanyl.
Syryjczyk was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Syryjczyk was sentenced to 21 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.
Syryjczyk 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 investigated by the Dubuque Drug Task Force 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 19‑CR‑1042‑CJW-‑MAR.
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Guatemalan Man Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering the United States after Being Deported TwiceRead the Press Release
A man who illegally returned to the United States after being deported two times was sentenced today to six months in federal prison.
Jacinto Chavez-Brito, age 31, a citizen of Guatemala illegally present in the United States and residing in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a guilty plea today to one count of illegal reentry into the United States.
At the guilty plea, Chavez-Brito admitted he had previously been deported from the United States and illegally reentered the United States without the permission of the United States government. Chavez-Brito was first deported in August 2007. He was also deported in July 2014 following a conviction in the District of New Mexico for illegal reentry. Chavez-Brito most recently came to the attention of immigration agents following his arrest on March 8, 2020, in Linn County, Iowa, on state charges that were later dismissed.
Chavez-Brito was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Chavez-Brito was sentenced to six 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.
Chavez-Brito is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CR-33.
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Waterloo Man to Spend Seven Years in Prison for Possessing a Sawed-Off Shotgun after Multiple Felony ConvictionsRead the Press Release
A man who possessed a sawed-off shotgun was sentenced today to seven years in federal prison.
Levi Farren Miller, age 30, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after a January 7, 2020 guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Evidence at sentencing hearing showed that Miller displayed a sawed-off shotgun while in a heated disagreement with a neighbor regarding the neighbor moving Miller’s items off the neighbor’s porch. Miller, a white male, used racially charged language during the confrontation. Miller had previously been convicted of multiple felonies, including burglary twice, theft twice, attempted burglary, and conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine.
Miller was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Miller was sentenced to 84 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.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. The United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted this case with support our Project Guardian partners. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
Miller is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Nydle and investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Waterloo Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-cr-02031.
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Minnesota Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of a Firearm as a Felon and Possession of Methamphetamine with the Intent to DeliverRead the Press Release
A Minnesota man who was caught with nearly 14 ounces of high purity methamphetamine and a loaded handgun was sentenced August 25, 2020 to more than 13 years in federal prison.
Marcus Jones, age 32, from St. Paul, Minnesota received the prison term after a guilty plea to one count of possession with intent to deliver 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and one count of possession of a firearm by a felon.
In a plea agreement, Jones admitted that on December 12, 2019, knowing he was a felon, possessed a Jennings .25 caliber pistol and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to deliver the methamphetamine.
On December 6, 2019 police conducted a traffic stop in Mason City, IA. The driver of the vehicle, Marcus Jones, fled on foot. Jones was not apprehended at that time but later was arrested on December 12, 2019 after again attempting to flee from police. At the time of his arrest, Jones had eight individually wrapped packages of ice methamphetamine that he intended to distribute, and a loaded pistol hidden in his center console.
Jones was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Jones was sentenced to 162 months’ imprisonment for possession with the intent to deliver methamphetamine and 120 months’ for possession of a firearm as a felon, to be served concurrently. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Jones 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 Jack Lammers and investigated by the Cerro Gordo Sheriff’s Office, Mason City Police Department, Iowa Department of Narcotics Enforcement, and the North Central Iowa Drug Task Force.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-cr-3058.
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Methamphetamine User Driving with Stolen Firearm Receives Federal Prison SentenceRead the Press Release
A methamphetamine user found with two firearms in his vehicle was sentenced August 26, 2020, to a term in federal prison.
Lukas Rick, age 24, from Center Point, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 6, 2020 guilty plea to possession of firearms by a drug user.
At the guilty plea, Rick admitted he was driving a car and in possession of both a .30-06 caliber Ithaca rifle and a 12 gauge Remington shotgun. At the time he possessed these guns, he was an unlawful user of methamphetamine. Law enforcement stopped Rick’s car because it was missing a license plate. Law enforcement subsequently discovered that the rifle in Rick’s possession was stolen.
Rick was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Rick was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment and fined $100. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Rick was released on the bond previously set and is to surrender to the United States Marshal; Bureau of Prisons at a later date.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Liz Dupuich 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 19-CR-0114.
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Former Bank Vice President Sentenced in Federal Court after Conspiring to Lie to His EmployerRead the Press Release
A former vice president of a bank who conspired to lie to the bank for years was sentenced today to three years of probation.
Dan Raduns, age 66, from Dubuque, Iowa, received the prison term after a July 1, 2019 guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to make a false statement to a financial institution.
Evidence and information disclosed during court hearings showed that between 2007 and 2009, Raduns worked as a vice president at a bank in Dubuque. During that time, he conspired with another person to lie to the bank about how money the bank was loaning to the other person was being used. Specifically, they lied about using the money to complete a particular construction project when, instead, it was being used elsewhere. Ultimately, the bank lost over $320,000 in loans made on the construction project.
Raduns was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Raudns was sentenced to three years’ probation. He was ordered to make $324,032.27 in restitution the victim bank.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Morfitt and investigated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation 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-1024.
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Mexican Man Who Possessed a Fraudulent Social Security Card Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
A Mexican man who possessed false identification documents was sentenced today to five months in federal prison.
Gandhi Rojas-Lopez, age 33, a citizen of Mexico illegally present in the United States and living in West Liberty, Iowa, received the prison term after a guilty plea to one count of unlawful possession of identification documents.
In a plea agreement, Rojas-Lopez admitted that in February 2016, he possessed and used a fraudulent social security card and a fraudulent permanent resident card, also known as a “green card,” when completing paperwork to obtain employment in Stanwood, Iowa. The account numbers on the identification documents were assigned to other people.
Rojas-Lopez was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Rojas-Lopez was sentenced to five 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.
Rojas-Lopez [was released on the bond previously set and is to surrender to the United States Marshal on September 9, 2020.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-CR-76.
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Hinton Man to Federal Prison for Child Pornography ConvictionRead the Press Release
On August 25, 2020, Shayne Yates, 49, from Hinton, Iowa, pled guilty to possessing child pornography and was sentenced to more than 2 years in federal prison.
Evidence at the hearing showed that from August 2017 through February 2019, Yates possessed over 150 images of child pornography on a Kindle Fire Tablet. The pornography contained visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, including a depiction involving a prepubescent minor or a minor who had not attained 12 years of age.
Yates was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Yates was sentenced to 33 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Yates 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 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.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mikala Steenholdt and investigated by Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-4092.
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Dubuque Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing a Firearm Following New Year’s Day ShootingRead the Press Release
A man who was involved in a shooting in Dubuque, Iowa, during the early morning hours of New Year’s Day pled guilty on August 25, 2020, in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Katwan Montez Brown, age 27, from Dubuque, Iowa, was convicted of being a felon and domestic abuser in possession of a firearm.
Evidence at a prior hearing showed that Brown handed a pistol to another person after that person had been in an argument in the street during the early morning hours of New Year’s Day 2020. Video evidence showed that, shortly after Brown gave this person the pistol, that person shot multiple times from the doorway of a home, striking one individual. After the shooting, Brown left the house and ran to an alleyway behind it, returning moments later. Dubuque police officers later found a pistol in the alleyway, as well as a cell phone and identification belonging to Brown. Brown’s fingerprints were found on the magazine inside the pistol. Brown had previously been convicted of felony forgery and felony possession with intent to distribute marijuana in 2013 and felony possession of contraband in a correctional facility in 2018. He was also convicted of domestic abuse assault with strangulation and domestic abuse assault causing bodily injury in 2015, and domestic abuse assault causing bodily injury, second offense, in 2017.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Brown remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Brown faces a possible maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Dubuque Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Chatham.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CR‑1013‑CJW‑MAR.
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California Man to Federal Prison for Violating Federal Firearms Law While in IowaRead the Press Release
A man who was prohibited from possessing a gun was sentenced on August 25, 2020, to 7 years in federal prison.
Meher Aboolian, 32, from Glendale, California, pled guilty on March 17, 2020, to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Aboolian was previously convicted of crimes which prohibited him from possessing guns. These crimes included Burglary, False Checks, and Felony Possession of a Controlled Substance for Sale.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, evidence showed that on November 3, 2019, the vehicle Aboolian was driving was stopped by law enforcement. During a search of Aboolian, officers found drug paraphernalia and pills, which Aboolian admitted he did not have a prescription for, concealed under his hat. A search of the vehicle revealed additional drug paraphernalia, and items to mask the smell of illegal drugs. Officers also located a stolen gun, namely a Smith & Wesson Model 669, 9mm pistol, with no visible serial number, and a loaded magazine.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Aboolian was sentenced to 84 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a term of 3 years of supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Aboolian is being held in the US Marshals 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.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. The United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted this case with support from Project Guardian partners. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
The case is being prosecuted by Special 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 20-4003.
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Iowa Man with Multiple Felony Convictions Sentenced to Six Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a Gun.Read the Press Release
A convicted felon who possessed a gun while also using drugs was sentenced to six years in federal prison.
Curtis Eugene Koesters, age 40, received the prison term after a February 20, 2020 guilty plea to one count of possession of a firearm by a felon and a drug user.
Evidence presented at the change of plea and sentencing hearings in this case revealed that defendant was a recidivist drug dealer, with a history of dangerousness, who unlawfully possessed a gun in connection with his felonious drug trafficking activities. When he was discovered in possession of the gun, he was also in possession of a methamphetamine pipe, approximately 7 grams of methamphetamine, $561 in US Currency, a syringe containing methamphetamine, and a digital scale, among other items.
Koesters was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Koesters was sentenced to 72 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.
Koesters 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.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
The case was investigated by the Sioux City 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 19-CR-4078.
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Illinois Felon Sentenced to 20 Months in Federal Prison for Unlawfully Possessing a GunRead the Press Release
A convicted felon who illegally possessed a gun during a brief standoff with police was sentenced August 21, 2020, to 20 months in federal prison.
Antoine Argue, 38, from Park Forest, Illinois, received the prison term after a guilty plea to illegally possessing a firearm as a felon.
Evidence presented by the United States at the detention, change of plea, and sentencing hearings showed that law enforcement made a traffic stop of a vehicle on June 15, 2019 in which Argue was a passenger. Argue was uncooperative when officers repeatedly ordered him to show his hands and to keep his hands up. Eventually as Argue exited the vehicle, law enforcement heard a metal object hit the pavement, which was identified as a loaded Taurus .45 caliber handgun.
Argue was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Argue was sentenced to 20 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.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
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 19-CR-4047.
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Guatemalan Woman Living in Clarion, Iowa Sentenced for Using Illegally Obtained SNAP and SSI FundsRead the Press Release
A woman who illegally obtained SNAP and SSI funds was sentenced August 24, 2020, to time served.
Aracely Batres-Alonzo, age 26, from Guatemala received the prison term after an October 21, 2019, guilty plea to two counts of theft of U.S. government funds.
In a plea agreement, Batres-Alonzo admitted that between about January 1, 2016 and May 31, 2019, she used $43,346.00 in the form of Supplemental Nutrition Program (SNAP), formerly Food Stamps; and Family Investment Program (FIP) funds, to which the she was not entitled to. She fraudulently reported on her Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) applications and review/recertification eligibility documents (RREDs) that she and her spouse (father of her children) were not employed. The investigation showed her spouse had been working under an assumed name. The investigation also shows that Batres-Alonzo had been employed with several different companies since April 2015, and never reported her or her spouse’s income to DHS. This unreported income would have made the household ineligible for benefits.
Batres-Alonzo, the representative payee for her minor child’s Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefit, administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), concealed material information from the SSA in her capacity as her minor child’s representative payee. She failed to report her full household income to the SSA, causing her minor child to be overpaid $1,829.29 between April 1, 2018 and March 30, 2019.
Batres-Alonzo was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Batres-Alonzo was sentenced to 2 days’ time served. She was ordered to make $43,346 in restitution to the Department of Human Services and $1,829.29 in restitution to the Social Security Administration.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Fletcher and investigated by United States Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG), the Department of Homeland Security, Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General (SSA-OIG), and the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals (IDIA).
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-CR-03028.
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Gilmore City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Filing False Tax Returns and Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
A Gilmore City, Iowa man who owned and operated a tax return preparation business was sentenced August 25, 2020 to more than 1 year in federal prison.
David Miller, age 52, from Gilmore City, IA, received the prison term after pleading guilty to three counts of aiding and assisting in the preparation and presentation of false and fraudulent income tax returns and three counts of receiving stolen government money or property.
In a plea agreement, Miller admitted that he owned and operated a tax return preparation business. He further admitted that while operating that business, he prepared fraudulent income tax returns. The fraudulent returns that Miller prepared between 2011 and 2016 resulted in a total loss to the government of $125,954. Miller also stole money from his clients by depriving them of part of their tax refunds. Miller also failed to report the stolen funds as income, which resulted in an additional tax obligation for himself of $30,752. In his plea agreement, Miller agreed to pay a total of $156,706 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service.
“Miller abused his position as a tax preparer to steal from both the American taxpayer and Miller’s own clients,” said United States Attorney Peter E. Deegan, Jr. “I thank the Internal Revenue Service for its hard work in protecting the integrity of the tax system. Together, the United States Attorney’s Office and the Internal Revenue Service will continue to hold tax preparers accountable when they commit fraud and abuse.”
“Today’s sentencing of Mr. Miller again emphasizes that the Internal Revenue Service and U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue their pursuit of those who would attempt to defraud America’s tax system,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Adam Steiner. “Taxpayers should be careful in selecting the tax professional who prepares their returns.”
Miller was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Miller was sentenced to 12 months’ and 1 day imprisonment. He was ordered to pay restitution to the victims in this case—numerous individual tax payers and the IRS. He must also serve a 2-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Miller will report to the Bureau of Prison’s as directed by the United States Marshals Service.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ron Timmons and investigated by the Department of Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CR-3004.
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Conspiracy to Traffic Stolen Firearms to Persons from Iowa, Illinois, and South Dakota DisruptedRead the Press Release
From on or about November 25, 2018, and continuing until on or about April 23, 2019, MOSES STRICKLAND, JR., ANTHONY HOLEYFIELD and ANTWON HOLEYFIELD (and others known and unknown to authorities) conspired to steal, receive, possess, conceal, store, barter, sell, and traffic as many as 15 stolen firearms.
Moses Strickland, Jr., age 22, from Decatur, Illinois, was sentenced on August 21, 2020 to over six years in prison after a March 11, 2020, guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to possess stolen firearms, one count of possession of stolen firearms, and one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
Antwon Holeyfield, age 25, from Sioux City, Iowa, was sentenced on January 24, 2020 to over three years in prison after a August 12, 2019, guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to possess stolen firearms and one count of possession of stolen firearms.
Anthony Holeyfield, age 21, from Sioux City, Iowa, was sentenced on January 31, 2020, to 8 months in prison after a September 23, 2019, guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to possess stolen firearms and one count of possession of stolen firearms.
Evidence presented by the United States at the detention, change of plea, and sentencing hearings in this case revealed, on November 26, 2018, Antwon Holeyfield and Strickland broke into a victim’s Woodbury County, Iowa home using an axe. Once inside the two stole valuables including 15 firearms. After leaving the victim’s residence, Antwon Holeyfield and Strickland went to Anthony
Holeyfield’s residence where Anthony Holeyfield helped them move all of the stolen firearms and other stolen items into his house. Then men worked together over the next several months to sell the stolen firearms. The men conducted deals at Anthony Holeyfield’s home and other places to people who lived in and out of Iowa. Stickland even attempted to sell some to the firearms in Chicago, Illinois before his firearms were interdicted by police. Despite law enforcement’s best efforts a number of the stolen firearms are still unrecovered.
Strickland was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Strickland was sentenced to 72 months’ imprisonment. He was ordered to make $14,034.78 joint and several in restitution. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Antwon Holeyfield was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand to 42 months’ imprisonment. He was ordered to make $14,034.78 joint and several in restitution. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Anthony Holeyfield was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand to 8 months’ imprisonment. He was ordered to make $14,034.78 joint and several 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.
Strickland 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.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. The United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted this case with support from our Project Guardian partners. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
The case was investigated by the Sioux City, Iowa and the Chicago, Illinois Police Department, Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-4027.
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Colorado Man to Federal Prison for Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
A man who illegally possessed a gun pled guilty and was sentenced August 24, 2020, to more than nine years’ in federal prison.
Robert Anderson, 27, from Denver, Colorado, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Anderson had been previously convicted of three felony crimes in Texas, in 2012, 2015 and 2018, respectively.
Evidence at the detention, change of plea, and sentencing hearing revealed the following. On December 5, 2019, Anderson, who was already a three-time felon, attempted to carjack an innocent victim in front of the Hard Rock Casino and succeeded in robbing the victim at gunpoint. The weapon used was a handgun that was loaded (and designed to use) .410 shotgun shells.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Anderson remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison. Anderson was sentenced to 112 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a term of 3 years of supervised release following the 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.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
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 20-4013. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Algona Man Found Passed Out with Loaded Weapons Sentenced to Federal Prison for Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
A man who illegally possessed stolen and loaded guns was sentenced on July 30, 2020 to more than five years in federal prison.
James Patrick Murphy, age 38, from Algona, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 26, 2020, guilty plea to two counts of being a felon, drug user, and domestic abuse misdemeanant in possession of a firearm, and one count of possession of a stolen firearm.
Evidence presented by the United States at the detention, change of plea, and sentencing, hearings revealed Murphy was a felon, recidivist domestic abuser, and drug user. Each of these three facts precluded Murphy from lawfully possessing guns. Murphy’s unlawful possession was discovered when law enforcement received a report of a person who appeared to be sleeping behind the steering wheel of his pickup truck. Law enforcement arrived at the reported location in Algona, Iowa, and recognized the person as Murphy. As law enforcement approached the pickup, they observed an AR-15-style rifle and a semiautomatic pistol on the seat next to the defendant. Murphy was removed from the pickup. Items seized from defendant’s truck included the AR-15 rifle with a fully loaded 20 round magazine, a scope, a Taurus pistol with a fully loaded magazine and a round in the chamber, a small baggie of methamphetamine, a pouch containing a cellophane wrapper with four small pills and four guitar picks, a United States passport for the defendant, and a cellphone. Subsequent investigations revealed that the guns were stolen.
Murphy was sentenced in Sioux City by United Stats Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Murphy was sentenced to 64 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.
Murphy 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.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. The United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted this case with support from its Project Guardian partners. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
The case was investigated by the United States Department of Justice’s Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Kossuth County Sheriff’s Office and Algona, Iowa Police Department. 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 19-3042.
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60-Year Old Dubuque Man Who Persuaded Teenager to Send Him Nude Photos Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A Dubuque man, responsible for persuading a 15-year old girl to send him nude photos and videos, was sentenced today to 15 years in federal prison.
Mark Curtis, Sr., age 60, from Dubuque, Iowa, received the prison sentence after a March 4, 2020 guilty plea to one count of sexual exploitation of a child and one count of receipt of child pornography.
Information disclosed at his plea and sentencing hearings showed that between August 2018 and October 2018, Curtis persuaded a 15-year old girl, who lived outside the state of Iowa, to send him nude photos and videos of herself. She sent the pictures and videos via Facebook. Some images contained the young girl engaging in sexually explicit conduct, which Curtis had asked her to engage in. Curtis knew the girl was a minor. At one point, the girl told Curtis that she was studying to get her learner’s permit, to which Curtis replied he wished she was older. In total, investigators found approximately 44 files containing images sent between the girl and Curtis.
Curtis was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Curtis was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment. He was ordered to make a payment of $200 to the special assessment fund. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Corkery and investigated by the Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office.
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.”
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-CR-1047.
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Waterloo Man Charged with Theft and Unlawful Possession of a HandgunRead the Press Release
Dalyn Jamil Culp, age 18, from Waterloo, Iowa, has been charged with theft of a firearm from a federally licensed firearms dealer and possession of a firearm by a drug user. The charges are contained in an Indictment filed on August 18, 2020, in United States District Court in Cedar Rapids.
The Indictment alleges that, on or about February 27, 2020, Culp knowingly stole a Smith and Wesson 9 mm pistol from a federal firearms licensee. The Indictment also alleges that Culp was an unlawful user of marijuana at the time he possessed the firearm.
If convicted on all charges, Culp faces a sentence of up to 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $500,000, and up to six years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
Culp appeared on August 24, 2020, in federal court in Cedar Rapids and was held without bond. Culp’s trial is scheduled for October 26, 2020.
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 Assistant United States Attorney Liz Dupuich and was 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-2041.
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Sioux City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Distribution of Methamphetamine and Possessing a Gun During a Drug Trafficking CrimeRead the Press Release
A Sioux City man who distributed approximately 4 pounds of methamphetamine from his residence was sentenced, Thursday, August 20, 2020, to more than 15 years in federal prison.
Carlos Jose Gomez, age 37, from Sioux City, Iowa was convicted of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.
On March 4, 2020, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Gomez’s property where they seized approximately 5 grams of methamphetamine, a loaded handgun, and $1,000 in cash belonging to Gomez. In a plea agreement, Gomez admitted to selling nearly 4 pounds of “ice” methamphetamine from December of 2019 through March 4, 2020. Gomez also admitted to knowingly possessing a gun in furtherance of selling methamphetamine.
Gomez was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Gomez was sentenced for Count 1 to 123 months’ imprisonment, and for Count 2 to 60 months’ imprisonment. Gomez must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Gomez 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 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-CR-4024.
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Nebraska Man to Federal Prison for Iowa Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced August 20, 2020, to ten years in federal prison.
Keith McNeil, 34, from Lincoln, Nebraska, received the prison term after a March 20, 2020, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
At the guilty plea and sentencing hearings, evidence showed that from May 2019 and July 2019, McNeil and others conspired to distribute at least 200 grams of actual (pure) methamphetamine. On or about June 12, 2019, Sioux City Police officers, while working an unrelated case at the Hard Rock Casino, seized about ¼ pound of methamphetamine from a vehicle in the parking lot, found unattended with its lights on. Law enforcement identified the prior occupants of the vehicle by video surveillance. Officers determined, and McNeil ultimately admitted, that he had another person drive him from Lincoln, Nebraska, to Sioux City, Iowa, to obtain methamphetamine through a middle-man. McNeil also admitted that he had engaged in the same conduct, with the same persons, on June 8, 2019.
McNeil was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. McNeil was sentenced to 120 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. McNeil 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 Shawn S. Wehde and investigated by Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; 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 19-4046. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Mason City Man to Prison for Federal Meth ConvictionRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced August 21, 2020 to more than 11 years in federal prison.
Jacob Johnson, age 30, from Mason City, Iowa, pled guilty on March 17, 2020, to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, evidence showed that from about May 2019 through October 2019, Johnson and others conspired to distribute at least 35 grams of actual (pure) methamphetamine in Northwest Iowa. In June 2019, Johnson and a co-conspirator sold “fake” methamphetamine to an individual. In October 2019, Johnson and a co-conspirator agreed to sell more methamphetamine to the same individual and make good on the previous transaction. After a vehicle pursuit, Johnson and his co-conspirator were caught with two ounces of methamphetamine intended for the same individual. Officers also seized a sawed off shotgun and an axe during a search of the vehicle.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Johnson was sentenced to 140 months’ imprisonment and must serve a term of 4 years of supervised release following the imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Johnson remains in custody of the United States Marshal Service until he can be transferred to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Iowa Department of Narcotics Enforcement, Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office, Arnold’s Park Police Department, and Iowa Division of Criminalistics Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-4079.
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United States Attorney and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Warn Iowans about the Dangers of Counterfeit Adderall PillsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Peter E. Deegan, Jr. and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent in Charge Kristi Johnson today highlighted the danger that counterfeit Adderall pills pose to those who may attempt to purchase prescription stimulants on the street. Drug trafficking organizations are using counterfeit Adderall pills containing crystal methamphetamine to target those who may be addicted to prescription drugs but who otherwise would not use methamphetamine. These pills increase the health risk and addiction rates of prescription stimulant abusers in the United States.
Following an investigation by the FBI, in February 2020 three individuals pleaded guilty to drug distribution conspiracy charges in relation to their involvement with a drug vendor who sold counterfeit Adderall pills. Although the pills were marketed as “100% authentic” Adderall pills, the pills tested positive for methamphetamine, according to DEA laboratory testing.
United States Attorney Deegan stated, “Drug traffickers are trying to deceive people across the country into purchasing, using, and becoming addicted to methamphetamine. They will do whatever they have to do in order to make money at the expense of the health and safety of those buying these fake pills. The public must be aware that while these pills may look like prescription drugs, they actually contain a deadly controlled substance.”
Special Agent in Charge Kristi Johnson said, “The safety of our community is the priority of the FBI. We are committed to stopping deadly drugs before they make it to the streets. We also must remind the public that medications not obtained by legitimate means can result in severe health risks and even death. I would ask that you to share this potentially life-saving message with your loved ones.”
These counterfeit pills are also dangerous because users who believe that they are purchasing Adderall will assume the pills are safe because they appear to be quality-controlled products of a heavily regulated prescription drug industry. Instead, users may be putting powerful crystal methamphetamine into their bodies, which leads to increased addiction rates and health risks. In July and August 2019, one vendor of counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine attempted to attract resellers of his pills by posting on a darknet website “your customers body can’t tell the difference if it is amphetamine or meth.”
Unless prescription drugs are obtained from an authorized medical provider or pharmacy, the public should not consume or even handle these pills. All Iowans are urged to only use prescription drugs prescribed to them by legitimate health care providers.
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Three Men Charged with COVID-19 Related Unemployment FraudRead the Press Release
Alvin Lavon Rex, age 61, of Schaller, Iowa, Jerry Johnson, age 54, of Webster City, Iowa, and Brian Whorton, age 54, of Marion, Iowa, were all charged with COVID-19 related fraud offenses. The charges are contained in separate complaints and an indictment recently filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Iowa in Cedar Rapids and Sioux City.
The complaints and indictment separately allege that each of the three men fraudulently obtained unemployment benefits related to COVID-19 relief funds to which they were not entitled. Rex and Johnson are charged with mail fraud and Whorton is charged with wire fraud.
If convicted each man faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment. All three men have appeared in federal court and were released without bond.
As with any criminal case, a charge is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
These cases are being prosecuted by multiple Assistant United States Attorneys and investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Department of Labor - Office of Inspector General, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Storm Lake Police Department. Assisting in the investigation are the Sac County Sheriff’s Office, the State of Arizona’s Unemployment Insurance Benefit Fraud Investigation Unit - Office of Inspector General, the State of Massachusetts’s Program Integrity Unit - Department of Unemployment Assistance, and the State of Ohio’s Benefit Payment Fraud Control Unit - Department of Job and Family Services.
Rooting out COVID-19 fraud is a priority of the Department of Justice. On March 27, 2020, the President signed the CARES Act, which provides emergency assistance to individuals, families, and businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including increased unemployment benefits.
These prosecutions are an example of the Department of Justice’s strong commitment to combating fraud and criminal activity related to the COVID-19 pandemic. 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 Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file numbers are 20-CR-4062, 20-CR-3027, and 20-CR-0064.
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Wisconsin Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Exploitation of a ChildRead the Press Release
A man who sexually exploited a child pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Caleb Durr, age 19, from Hazel Green, Wisconsin, was convicted of one count of sexual exploitation of a child. Testimony from the plea hearing and an earlier detention hearing established that, in 2019, Durr used an iPhone to produce sexually explicit images of an eight-year-old girl in Dubuque.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Durr remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Durr faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 30 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, $55,100 in special assessments, and supervised release for 5 years to life following any imprisonment.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Tremmel and was investigated by the Dubuque Police Department, the Waterloo Police Department, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.
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.”
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is CR 20-1010.
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Sioux County Man Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute MethRead the Press Release
A man who possessed with intent to distribute methamphetamine pled guilty August 13, 2020, in federal court in Sioux City.
Ernesto Soto, 30, from Hawarden, Iowa, was convicted of one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
At the plea hearing Soto admitted that on February 5, 2020, Woodbury County, Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle Soto was traveling in. Upon conducting a probable cause search within the vehicle, law enforcement discovered approximately 34 grams methamphetamine, 1.6 grams cocaine, baggies, and a glass smoking device with residue located in a black bag that belonged to Soto. The methamphetamine, cocaine, and baggies were concealed in a pop can with a false bottom. At least 5 grams of the approximately 34 grams was actual (pure) methamphetamine. In May 19, 2014, Soto was convicted in the Iowa District Court for Sioux County, of intent to manufacture/deliver methamphetamine under 5 grams.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Soto remains in custody of the United States Marshal and will remain in custody pending sentencing. Soto faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 40 years’ imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years up to life of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Special 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 20-4033.
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Dubuque Man Pleads Guilty to Being a Drug User in Possession of Firearms and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
A drug user who possessed firearms and ammunition pled guilty on August 17, 2020, in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Daniel Heim, age 32, from Dubuque, Iowa, was convicted of one count of being a drug user in possession of firearms and ammunition. At the plea hearing and in a plea agreement, Heim admitted that, in December 2019, he possessed 14 firearms and 3,398 rounds of ammunition while being a user of marijuana and cocaine.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Heim remains free on bond previously set pending sentencing. Heim faces a possible maximum sentence of ten years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Tremmel and was investigated by the Dubuque Police Department, the Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is CR 20-1006.
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Cedar Rapids Man Charged with Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Anthony Rush, age 31, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has been charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The charge is contained in an Indictment unsealed on August 14, 2020, in United States District Court in Cedar Rapids.
The Indictment alleges that, in May 2020, Rush possessed a pistol after having been convicted of attempted burglary in the second degree in Linn County in 2012.
If convicted, Rush faces a possible maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years on supervised release following any imprisonment.
Rush appeared on August 14, 2020, in federal court in Cedar Rapids and was released on bond. Rush’s next appearance for trial is set for October 13, 2020.
As with any criminal case, a charge is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Tremmel and is being investigated by the Cedar Rapids Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is CR 20-62.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
California Woman Pleads Guilty to Iowa Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A woman who conspired to distribute methamphetamine pled guilty August 19, 2020, in federal court in Sioux City.
Marissa Weisbly, 33, from Los Osos, CA, was convicted of conspiring to distribute methamphetamine.
At the plea hearing, Weisbly admitted that on February 8, 2020, while patrolling the Grand Falls Casino parking lot in Larchwood, IA, law enforcement ultimately recovered four bags containing 1,215 grams of actual methamphetamine, two digital scales, drug paraphernalia, $817 in a safe, heroin, and marijuana in the vehicle Weisbly shared with two others. Weisbly further admitted that she and her co-conspirators had brought pounds of methamphetamine to the Midwest to distribute to others.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Weisbly remains in custody of the United States Marshal and will remain in custody pending sentencing. Weisbly 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 5 years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mikala Steenholdt and was investigated by the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office, Lyon County Attorney’s Office, and Iowa Department of Criminalistics Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-4064. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Louisiana Man to Federal Prison for Sexually Enticing an Iowa ChildRead the Press Release
Christopher Ray White, 23, from Lettsworth, Louisiana, pled guilty and was sentenced August 12, 2020, to more than 10 years in federal prison for enticing a minor.
Evidence showed that White utilized Omegle and iMessage to communicate with the victim between June 22, 2018, and June 27, 2018. The victim told White they were only 12 years old. After learning the victim’s age, White requested to see the victim’s genitals. White later sent photos of his erect penis to the victim and videos of himself masturbating and encouraged the victim to do the same.
White was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. White was sentenced to 126 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. White 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 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.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mikala Steenholdt and investigated by Iowa Department of Criminalistics Investigations, and Spirit Lake Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-4073.
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Law Enforcement Intervenes to Prevent Thirty Nine-Year Old Nebraska Man from Having Sex with an Iowa Thirteen-Year OldRead the Press Release
A Nebraska man who attempted to entice a thirteen-year old for explicit sexual conduct was sentenced today to more than 10 years in federal prison. In addition, the man, who had a prior conviction for domestic assault and stalking, illegally possessed ammunition.
Jeremy Kozak, age 39, from Columbus, Nebraska, received the prison term after pleading guilty to one count of attempted enticement of a minor and one count of possession of ammunition by a person previously convicted of domestic abuse.
In a plea agreement, Kozak admitted he used the username “Boredguy4girls” online to communicate with an underage victim he knew to be only thirteen-years old. Law enforcement became aware of Kozak’s sexually explicit communications with the victim and took over the victim’s account in an undercover capacity. Believing he was still communicating with a thirteen-year old, Kozak made plans to drive the three hours from Nebraska to Iowa, to meet the thirteen-year old victim at a local park and engage in sexual activity. Kozak directed the thirteen-year old victim what to wear and when to leave home to meet him. On August 12, 2019, Kozak arrived at the park and after seeing a decoy dressed in the agreed upon attire, Kozak drove towards the decoy but was apprehended by law enforcement. Inside Kozak’s vehicle officers found a box of condoms, and shotgun ammunition that was illegal for Kozak to possess, because he had been previously convicted of domestic abuse.
Kozak was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. He was sentenced to 128 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
“As children are spending more and more time online due to COVID-19, we all need to do our part to keep them safe,” said U.S. Attorney Peter Deegan. “Child predators like Jeremy Kozak will use this time to try to manipulate kids into having sex or posing for sexually explicit photos. Parents and loved ones can help protect children by monitoring their computer and cell phone use and teaching them about the risks of communicating online with someone they don’t know.” U.S. Attorney Deegan also acknowledged the great work of Iowa’s law enforcement in bringing Kozak to justice. “Thanks to the outstanding investigative work of the Buena Vista County Sheriff’s Office and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation and the cooperation of the Buena Vista County Attorney’s Office, a child predator was stopped. We can all be proud of Iowa’s state and local law enforcement and their dedication to protecting children.”
Paul Allen, Buena Vista County Attorney stated, “This case represents what can be achieved when state and federal prosecutors and law enforcement work collectively to hold dangerous individuals accountable.”
Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Darrell Simmons added, “Today I would like to recognize the outstanding team work and professionalism of Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) Special Agent Matthew Burns and Buena Vista County Sheriff’s Deputy Sgt. Joey Speers for their dedication and hard work on this important investigation. Throughout the investigation, Mr. Kozak made numerous contacts with the minor and the ‘undercover officer’ eliciting inappropriate sexual acts and photographs of the 13-year old. I have no doubt that if not for the intervention of Law Enforcement, not only would this 13-year old child have been victimized, other children would have been at risk from Mr. Kozak’s tactics.”
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.” The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mikala Steenholdt with the assistance of the Buena Vista County Attorney; and investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations and Buena Vista County Sheriff’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-4022. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Media Advisory:Virtual Press Conference to Discuss Sentencing of Jeremy Kozak for Attempted Enticement of a Minor and the Dangers of Online Sexual PredatorsRead the Press Release
On August 10, 2020, at 2:00 p.m., Jeremy Kozak will be sentenced following his conviction for attempted enticement of a minor. Kozak, age 39, attempted to entice his victim, a 13 year-old girl, to engage in sexual activity. Kozak communicated with the victim online. Law enforcement took control of the victim’s account after Kozak attempted to entice her. An undercover officer continued to communicate with Kozak. Kozak eventually drove from Nebraska to Iowa for a meeting he thought would be with the victim. Instead, law enforcement was at the meeting and arrested him. Kozak faces a minimum of 10 years in federal prison and a maximum of life in prison.
On August 10, 2020, at 4:00 p.m., representatives of the United States Attorney’s Office, the Buena Vista County Attorney’s Office, the Buena Vista County Sheriff’s Office, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation will hold a virtual press conference. The purposes of the press conference will be to announce Kozak’s sentence and to discuss the dangers online sexual predators pose, particularly in a time when children are online more than ever.
Event Details
When: August 10, 2020
Where: Virtual Press Conference via WebEx
Time: 4:00 p.m.
A press release and interview opportunities will be available.
In order to participate, you must RSVP in advance and no later than 12:00 p.m. on August 10, 2020. After you RSVP, you will be provided with details on how to join the press conference via WebEx. To participate, please RSVP by sending an email to Tony Morfitt at [email protected] or calling 319-731-4025.
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Shooting at a Car Sends Drug User Who Unlawfully Possessed Two Guns to Federal Prison for More than Eight YearsRead the Press Release
A drug user who shot at a car containing two people and unlawfully possessed twelve firearms was sentenced August 4, 2020, to more than eight years in federal prison.
Kashad Elijah Hawthorne, age 20, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 24, 2020 guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a drug user.
Information from sentencing and a plea agreement showed that on May 2, 2019, Cedar Rapids police officers recovered a gun from a car in which Hawthorne had been a passenger. Officers also found a gun in another car Hawthorne was riding in on May 16, 2019. Hawthorne admitted that, on April 22, 2019, he used one of the two guns to shoot at a car containing two people. No one was injured during the incident. Photographs and videos from Hawthorne’s social media accounts showed him posing with firearms on at least thirteen occasions.
Hawthorne was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Hawthorne was sentenced to 100 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.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
Hawthorne 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 Kyndra Lundquist 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 19-CR-121.
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Lifelong Marijuana User Sentenced to Two Years in Federal Prison for Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
A drug user who unlawfully possessed guns and who fired a warning shot to scare another person was sentenced August 4, 2020, to two years in federal prison.
Jordan James Booker, age 23, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after a January 6, 2020 guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a marijuana user.
In a plea agreement, Booker admitted that, on March 9, 2019, he shot a warning shot after an individual came to his house and attempted to buy a television with a counterfeit $100 bill. When that individual refused to leave Booker’s property, Booker fired a shot into the ground. Officers also recovered a second firearm from a closet in Booker’s residence. Booker admitted that he has been a marijuana user his whole life.
Booker was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Booker 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 brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
Booker was released on the bond previously set and is to surrender to the Bureau of Prisons at a date yet to be set.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Nydle and investigated by the Waterloo Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-cr-2048.
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Man Who Illegally Possessed a Gun Used to Shoot and Kill Another Sentenced to Maximum Possible SentenceRead the Press Release
A man who shot another man in Waterloo was sentenced today to 15 years in federal prison.
Alberto Quinto-Pascual, age 37, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after a January 28, 2020, guilty plea to being a drug user in possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.
Evidence at sentencing showed that on May 10, 2019, Quinto-Pascual met with a man at a bar in Waterloo. The two men left the bar and went to a house in Waterloo where Quinto-Pascual had been staying. While at the house, Quinto-Pascual retrieved a revolver he kept at the house and shot the victim in the head. Quinto-Pascual then wiped down the firearm, left the house, and hid the firearm behind a car in a nearby alley. Quinto-Pascual then went to a different house he also stayed at and, after nearly twenty minutes, called 911 to report the shooting. Quinto-Pascual told police that the victim had shot himself. Officers located the victim and transported him to a hospital. The victim eventually passed away from the injuries. During the sentencing, the court concluded that given the circumstances of the killing, Quinto-Pascual committed second-degree murder.
Quinto-Pascual was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Quinto-Pascual was sentenced to 180 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.
"Quinto-Pascual killed a man with a gun he illegally possessed,” said United States Attorney Peter Deegan. “Through Project Guardian and Project Safe Neighborhoods, we will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to prosecute the most dangerous individuals in our community.”
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.
Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
Quinto-Pascual is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lisa C. Williams and investigated by the Waterloo Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-cr-2042.
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Schaller Man Charged with COVID-19 Related Mail FraudRead the Press Release
Alvin Lavon Rex, age 61, from Schaller, Iowa, has been charged with one count of mail fraud. The charge is contained in a criminal complaint unsealed today in United States District Court in Sioux City.
The complaint alleges that, in about May 2020, Rex received approximately $19,000 in deposits in his account at a bank in Storm Lake. The deposits were moneys received from unemployment claims made in Massachusetts and Arizona. The complaint further alleges that Rex then made a series of cash withdrawals from his account and mailed the cash to at least one other person in Maryland.
On March 27, 2020, the President signed into law the CARES Act, which provides emergency assistance to individuals, families, and businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act includes a provision of temporary benefits for individuals who have exhausted their entitlement to regular unemployment compensation, as well as coverage for individuals who are not eligible for regular unemployment compensation, are self-employed, or have limited recent work history. The Complaint alleges that Rex received unemployment funds in the names of other individuals in Massachusetts and Arizona, which included Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation Benefits (FPUC) of an additional $600 per week claimed, pursuant to Section 2104 of the CARES Act.
If convicted, Rex faces a possible maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
Rex appeared today in federal court in Sioux City and was released on bond pending further proceedings. As with any criminal case, a charge is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This prosecution is an example of the Department of Justice’s strong commitment to combating fraud and criminal activity related to COVID-19. 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 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 is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tim Vavricek and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Department of Labor - Office of Inspector General, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Storm Lake Police Department. The Sac County Sheriff’s Office, the State of Arizona’s UI Benefit Fraud Investigation Unit - Office of Inspector General, the State of Massachusetts’ Program Integrity Unit - Department of Unemployment Assistance, and the State of Ohio’s Benefit Payment Fraud Control Unit - Department of Job and Family Services provided assistance to the investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CR-4062.
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Dubuque Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute Opioids that Caused Three DeathsRead the Press Release
A man who sold three deadly doses of opioids in April and May of 2019 pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Travis Gordon Jones, age 38, from Dubuque, Iowa, was convicted of one count of conspiring to distribute controlled substances near a protected location resulting in death.
At the plea hearing, Jones admitted that he conspired with others to distribute the opioids in Dubuque in April and May 2019. Jones also admitted that he personally sold mixtures of heroin, fentanyl, and a synthetic opioid called valeryl fentanyl that were used by three individuals who then died of overdoses. One of the individuals died on April 24, 2019 after using drugs Jones had distributed. Another individual died on May 20, 2019, after using drugs Jones had distributed.
The third victim died on May 27, 2019. Evidence at prior hearings showed that Jackie Birch drove her boyfriend, Mateusz Syryjczyk, and the third victim to Jones’s home in Dubuque during the early morning of May 27, 2019. Birch and the third victim went into the home, where they purchased what was purported to be heroin from Jones. The three then drove to a hotel in Dubuque, where they all used the purported heroin. The third victim began to overdose in the room. Birch and Syryjczyk did not immediately call 911, but, over the course of multiple hours, Birch would occasionally perform CPR on the third victim to restore some breathing function, though the victim never regained consciousness. Eventually, Birch and Syryjczyk decided they needed to call 911, and Syryjczyk took the remaining drug paraphernalia from the room to prevent law enforcement from finding it. The third victim never recovered.
Birch previously pled guilty to aiding and abetting the distribution of a controlled substance. Syryjczyk pled guilty to misprision of a felony. Both Birch and Syryjczyk are awaiting sentencing.
Sentencing for Jones before United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Jones remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Jones faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $2,000,000 fine, and a lifetime of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Dubuque Drug Task Force 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 for Jones is 19-CR-1037-CJW-MAR. The case file number for Birch is 19‑CR‑1041‑CJW-MAR. The case file number for Syryjczyk is 19‑CR‑1042‑CJW‑MAR.
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Law Enforcement Searches a Dozen Locations and Arrests Multiple Individuals in Relation to Meth Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
On July 27 and July 28, 2020, law enforcement officers executed twelve search warrants in the Northern and Southern Districts of Iowa. Search warrants were executed in Waterloo, Cedar Falls, Roland, and Marshalltown, Iowa. As a result of the investigation and the execution of the search warrants, three people were charged with methamphetamine trafficking and arrested pursuant to arrest warrants issued in the Northern District of Iowa.
The Indictment alleges that, between on or about January 2019 and on or about July 2020, Bobbey Dean Robey, Travis Charles Werkmeister, and Genaro Aguilar Lemus conspired to distribute methamphetamine. All three appeared today in federal court in Cedar Rapids. If convicted, each 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 at least five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
As with any criminal case, a charge is merely an accusation and each defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Corkery and investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, the Tri-County Drug Task Force, the Mid-Iowa Drug Task Force, the Iowa Counter Drug Task Force, and the Central Iowa Drug Task Force.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CR-2034.
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The Americans with Disabilities Act – 30th AnniversaryRead the Press Release
On July 26, 2020, the nation celebrates the 30th anniversary of the landmark legislation known as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Iowa is proud to play a critical role in the Department of Justice’s enforcement efforts under the ADA.
The ADA prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in many contexts, including employment, state and local government activities, places of public accommodation, transportation, and telecommunications. The Department of Justice is authorized to investigate complaints, conduct compliance reviews to ensure accessibility, initiate and intervene in litigation, and provide technical assistance to businesses, governments, and the general public to promote voluntary compliance with the ADA.
“Our office is proud to continue its work to enforce the ADA and to uphold its promise of equal access and opportunity for all,” said U.S. Attorney Peter E. Deegan, Jr.
Over the past 30 years, our country has undertaken the hard work of changing attitudes about disability, tearing down barriers to equality, and dismantling the systems that have historically excluded people with disabilities. On this anniversary, we commemorate the many ways that the ADA has transformed our society—by replacing exclusion with access, segregation with integration, and limitations with self-determination. The ADA has advanced the promise of the American dream, ensuring that people with disabilities can write their own stories. And as a society, we are better and stronger because of the contributions that people with disabilities make.
For more information on the ADA, please call the Department of Justice’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 (TDD 800-514-0383) or visit www.ada.gov. To file a complaint with the Department, please visit the Civil Rights Division’s portal at https://civilrights.justice.gov/report/.
Felon Who Shot at Police During High Speed Chase Sentenced to a Decade in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who assaulted his girlfriend before leading police on a high-speed chase was sentenced today to ten years in federal prison.
Richard Dale Ogle, II, age 31, from Eden, North Carolina, received the prison term after a November 12, 2019 guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Evidence at the sentencing hearing showed Ogle was on parole after serving a prison term in North Carolina for assault with a deadly weapon which inflected serious injury. Ogle absconded from parole and moved to Iowa to live with his girlfriend. On March 16, 2019, Ogle held a gun to his girlfriend’s head and threatened to kill her. Police responded to the residence and were able to remove the girlfriend from the home. Ogle then left the residence in a vehicle, driving through the town of Cresco. When he was near the high school in Cresco, officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop of his car. Ogle refused to stop and led officers on a high-speed chase through Cresco and continuing into Winneshiek County. The chase took place over the course of fourteen miles and involved speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour. During the chase, Ogle shot his gun six times at police. Ogle eventually stopped his car and was taken into custody by law enforcement.
Ogle was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court C.J. Williams. Ogle 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.
At the sentencing, Judge Williams noted that, “defendant’s serious violent criminal history and high likelihood at reoffending” warranted the statutory maximum sentence.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
Ogle is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lisa C. Williams and investigated by the Cresco Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Howard County Sheriff’s Office, Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office, and the Iowa State Patrol.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-CR-2041.
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Man Who Sold Party Drugs He Bought on the Dark Web Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who bought drugs on the dark web and sold them in eastern and central Iowa was sentenced July 21, 2020, to more than six years in federal prison.
Jack Arthur Stumberg, age 22, from Grundy Center, Iowa, received the prison term after a December 27, 2019 guilty plea to conspiring and possessing with intent to distribute LSD, MDMA, and psilocybin mushrooms.
Evidence at the sentencing showed that, between about 2016 and 2019, Stumberg ordered large quantities of the party drugs over the “dark web.” The drug packages were delivered to Stumberg through the mail, disguised to look like common household items. Stumberg then sold the drugs in various communities in Iowa. He also took the drugs to sell at various music festivals. The sentencing judge found that Stumberg recruited and directed the activities of an accomplice into the drug conspiracy.
Stumberg was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Stumberg was sentenced to 78 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. Stumberg 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 United States Postal Service and Grundy 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 19-CR-00090-CJW-MAR.
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Nora Springs Man Sentenced to 40 Years in Federal Prison for Child Sexual Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
A man who sexually exploited two children and possessed child pornography was sentenced today to 40 years in federal prison.
Aaron Olson, age 36, of Nora Springs, Iowa, received the sentence after a December 6, 2019 guilty plea to two counts of possession of child pornography, including depictions involving prepubescent children. In a plea agreement, Olson agreed to be sentenced to 40 years’ imprisonment. Evidence at the sentencing hearing established that Olson produced child pornography images of two children.
Olson was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Olson was sentenced to 480 months’ imprisonment. Olson must also serve a five-year term of supervised release. He must comply with all sex offender registration and public notification requirements.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Tremmel and was investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation and the Nora Springs Police Department.
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.”
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is CR 19-2029.
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Chicago Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison in Connection with Dubuque ShootingRead the Press Release
A man who unlawfully possessed a firearm while subject to a protective order was sentenced on July 17, 2020, to five years in federal prison.
Jeareau O’Bryant, age 37, from Chicago, Illinois, received the prison sentence after a September 23, 2019 guilty plea to unlawfully possessing a firearm while subject to the terms of a protective order. The protective order expressly prohibited O’Bryant from legally possessing any firearm or ammunition.
Evidence at sentencing established that, in the early morning hours of September 11, 2016, O’Bryant was involved in a bar fight in Dubuque. Video evidence showed that O’Bryant, after the fight, crouched between two cars along a side street before standing up and shooting several times at another individual who had been in the bar. The court found that O’Bryant was trying to kill the other individual.
O’Bryant was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. O’Bryant was sentenced to 60 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.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. The United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted this case with support from its Project Guardian partners. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jacob Schunk and Ashley Corkery and investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Dubuque Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 180-CR-1050.
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Twenty-Five Year Old Hiawatha Man Who Threatened His Neighbors with a Loaded Firearm Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A Hiawatha man who was an unlawful user of controlled substances and possessed a gun he used to threaten his neighbors was sentenced today to more than 3 years in federal prison.
Austin Bowers, age 25, from Hiawatha, received the prison term after a January 29, 2020 guilty plea to being an unlawful user of controlled substances in possession of a firearm.
In a plea agreement, Bowers admitted that on October 4, 2019, there were two disturbances at a home in northwest Cedar Rapids. That evening, Bowers had an argument with his fiancé, which then led to a disturbance with his neighbors. When the Cedar Rapids Police Department arrived, Bowers was in his neighbor’s garage, threatening the neighbors with a loaded Taurus PT 111 Millennium G2 9mm semi-automatic pistol with an extended magazine.
Bowers was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Bowers was sentenced to 46 months’ imprisonment. Bowers must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Bowers 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 Matthew J. Cole and investigated by 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.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CR-1.
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