Northern District of Iowa
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Illegal Alien with Felony Record Sentenced to Sixteen Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who illegally re-entered the United States after being deported and used false documents to obtain employment was sentenced July 14, 2015, to 16 months in federal prison.
Alejandro Paredes-Barradas, age 34, an illegal alien from Mexico living in Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after an April 24, 2015, guilty plea to one count of unlawful use of an identification document, one count of misuse of a Social Security number, one count of making a false claim to U.S. citizenship, and one count of illegally reentering the United States after having been deported after a felony conviction.
The evidence showed that on May 1, 2013, Paredes-Barradas (using an alias name) used a fraudulent Social Security card and account number to apply for work. On the Immigration Form I-9, Paredes-Barradas claimed to be a United States Citizen. He had been previously deported to Mexico in 2007 after his third Iowa conviction for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. After his deportation, Paredes-Barradas returned to Iowa and was convicted again in 2012 of possession of fictitious identification documents.
Immigration authorities were notified by the Black Hawk County Sheriff’s Office in November 2014 that Paredes-Barradas was in custody on new state charges. On March 5, 2015, he was convicted in state court of one count of threatening to use explosive or incendiary device, one count of assault domestic abuse causing injury, and one count of reckless use of fire.
Paredes-Barradas was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. He was sentenced to sixteen months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $400 was imposed. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Paredes-Baradas 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 Homeland Security Investigations and Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 14-CR-2051.
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Settlement with Interstate Power and Light to Reduce Emissions from Iowa Power Plants, Fund Projects to Benefit Environment and CommunitiesRead the Press Release
CEDAR RAPIDS, IOWA — In a settlement announced today by the Department of Justice and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Interstate Power and Light, a subsidiary of Alliant Energy, has agreed to install pollution control technology and meet stringent emission rates to reduce harmful air pollution from the company’s seven coal-fired power plants in Iowa. The settlement also requires Interstate Power and Light to spend a total of $6 million on environmental mitigation projects and pay a civil penalty of $1.1 million to resolve alleged violations of the Clean Air Act. Linn County, Iowa, the state of Iowa and the Sierra Club join the United States as co-plaintiffs in the case.
“This settlement is a victory for air quality and public health in Iowa,” said Assistant Attorney General John C. Cruden for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “This agreement will cover all of Interstate’s coal-burning facilities in Iowa, requiring new pollution cutting technology and environmental projects to enhance air quality in surrounding communities, among other lasting benefits.”
“The emissions reductions required by this settlement will lead to cleaner air and significant environmental and public health benefits for Iowans," said U.S. Attorney Kevin W. Techau for the Northern District of Iowa. “This settlement will eliminate thousands of tons of harmful air pollution each year significantly improving air quality in Iowa and throughout the Midwest. The agreement demonstrates the Department of Justice’s strong efforts, along with EPA, to bring large sources of air pollution into compliance with the Clean Air Act.”
“To serve the communities in which they operate, power plants must protect clean air for those living nearby,” said Cynthia Giles, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “This case delivers on the goals of EPA’s national enforcement initiative to reduce air pollution from the largest sources. By installing new equipment and funding mitigation projects, Interstate Power & Light can help conserve energy and cut pollution in communities across Iowa.”
Under the settlement, Interstate Power and Light will install and continuously operate new and existing pollution control technology at its two largest plants in Lansing and Ottumwa, Iowa, and will retire or convert to cleaner-burning natural gas its remaining five plants in Burlington, Cedar Rapids, Clinton, Dubuque, and Marshalltown, Iowa. The new, state-of-the-art pollution controls required by the settlement are expected to cost approximately $620 million. EPA estimates that the settlement will reduce sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions by 32,500 tons per year and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by 3,800 tons per year once the settlement is fully implemented.
Interstate Power and Light will also be required to spend $6 million on environmental mitigation projects. The company will choose from five potential projects, including solar energy and anaerobic digester installations, replacing coal-fired boilers at schools with lower-emission equipment, an alternative fuel vehicle replacement program and a residential program to change out wood burning stoves and fireplaces.
SO2 and NOx, two predominant pollutants emitted from power plants, have numerous adverse effects on human health and are significant contributors to acid rain, smog and haze. These pollutants are converted in the air to particulate matter that can cause severe respiratory and cardiovascular impacts and premature death.
This settlement is part of EPA’s national enforcement initiative to control harmful emissions from large sources of pollution, which includes coal-fired power plants, under the Clean Air Act’s New Source Review requirements. The total combined SO2 and NOx emission reductions secured from all these settlements will exceed 2 million tons each year once all the required pollution controls have been installed and implemented.
The settlement was filed with the U.S. District Court for the Northern District Court of Iowa for 30 days to allow for public comment. The company is required to pay the penalty within 30 days after the court approves the settlement.
More on the settlement: http://www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.
More information about EPA’s enforcement initiative: http://www.epa.gov/compliance/data/planning/initiatives/2011airpollution.html
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is C15-0061.
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Jesup Man Sentenced to Fourteen Years for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
A man who distributed child pornography was sentenced July 14, 2015 to 14 years in federal prison.
William Smith, age 34, of Jesup, Iowa, received the sentence after a March 2, 2015 guilty plea to one count of distribution of child pornography. At the guilty plea hearing, Smith admitted that, in June 2013, he used a cell phone to distribute child pornography.
Smith was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. Smith was sentenced to 168 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed, and he must also serve an eight-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 Marion 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 14-140.
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Dubuque Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
A man who possessed child pornography pled guilty on July 13, 2015, in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Joshua Leute, age 28, from Dubuque, Iowa, was convicted of one count of possession of child pornography. At the plea hearing, Leute admitted that, in 2012, he knowingly possessed child pornography.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Leute was taken into custody by the United States Marshal after the guilty plea and will remain in custody pending sentencing. Leute faces a possible maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a $100 special assessment, and supervised release for 5 years to life following his imprisonment.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Tremmel and was investigated by the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office, the Davenport Police Department, the Dubuque Police Department, and 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 is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is CR 15-1012.
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Waterloo Man Pleads Guilty to Being a Felon and Unlawful Drug User in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
A man who was found in possession of a handgun in relation to a shooting pled guilty yesterday in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Dameon Harris, age 23, from Waterloo, Iowa, was convicted of being a felon and unlawful drug user in possession of a firearm. In a plea agreement, Harris admitted that on April 7, 2015, he was outside his girlfriend’s apartment complex when someone in a white vehicle drove by and shot at him. Defendant was, at the time, armed with a .22 caliber Mossberg firearm. Before the police arrived to investigate the shooting, Harris tried to hide his firearm in his girlfriend’s apartment. At the time Harris possessed the firearm, he was an unlawful user of marijuana. Harris had previously been convicted in 2013 of the felony offense of Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon in Chicago, Illinois.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Harris in the custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Harris faces a possible maximum sentence of ten years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, $100 in special assessments, and up to three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney C.J. Williams and was investigated by the Waterloo Police Department and the Blackhawk County Sheriff’s Office.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 15-CR-2016-LRR.
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Cedar Rapids Felon Sent to Prison for the Maximum Ten Years for Possessing a Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
A convicted felon who possessed a firearm and ammunition on the streets of Cedar Rapids last October was sentenced today to ten years in federal prison, the statutory maximum sentence possible for his crime.
Bernard James Butler II, age 24, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 30, 2015, guilty plea to one count of possessing a firearm and ammunition as a felon.
At the guilty plea hearing, Butler admitted that he knowingly possessed a Fabrique Nationale FNX-40 .40 caliber pistol on October 29, 2014, and ammunition. At the plea hearing, Butler also admitted to prior felony convictions in state court for going armed with intent; intimidation with a dangerous weapon; burglary in the second degree; and possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver.
Butler was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade to 120 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Butler 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 Tim Vavricek and investigated by the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force.
Court file information available: https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 15-CR-001.
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United States Files Enforcement Action Against Iowa Dietary Supplement Company and Principals to Stop Distribution of Adulterated and Misbranded Dietary SupplementsRead the Press Release
CEDAR RAPIDS, IOWA – The United States filed a civil complaint today in federal court against Iowa Select Herbs LLC, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, its president and CEO, Gordon L. Freeman, and a partial owner, Lois A. Dotterweich, to prevent the distribution of adulterated and misbranded dietary supplements, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division.
Iowa Select Herbs LLC manufactures and distributes a variety of dietary supplements, consisting primarily of extracts from various plants, including papaya leaf, echinacea, elderberry and nettle leaf. The firm also produces a product called “Cold BeGone,” which purports to be a complex of natural ingredients. The complaint alleges that the company’s dietary supplements are manufactured under conditions that are inadequate to ensure the safety of its products and also make unlawful claims to treat or prevent diseases. The department filed the injunction action in the Northern District of Iowa on behalf of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
“The Department of Justice is committed to ensuring that dietary supplements are manufactured and distributed in compliance with the law,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Mizer. “We will pursue actions against manufacturers who do not manufacture their products under proper conditions or who make unlawful claims about them.”
According to the complaint, an FDA inspection performed in August 2014 revealed that the company’s dietary supplements are adulterated within the meaning of the federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act because they are manufactured, prepared, packed or held in a manner that does not conform to Dietary Supplement Current Good Manufacturing Practices. The complaint alleges, for example, that the company repeatedly failed to test its dietary ingredients, in order to verify their identity, before using them. The complaint also alleges that the firm’s dietary supplements qualify as unapproved and misbranded drugs, in that they claim to treat or prevent a variety of diseases, including cancer, malaria and heart disease, but have never been submitted to the FDA for approval, and have never been found safe and effective for those purposes.
The government is represented by Trial Attorney Heide L. Herrmann of the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch, with the assistance of Associate Chief Counsel for Enforcement Laura Akowuah of the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of General Counsel – Food and Drug Division.
A complaint is merely a set of allegations that, if the case were to proceed to trial, the government would need to prove by a preponderance of the evidence.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 15-cv-60.
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Chicago Man Charged with Possessing with Intent to Distribute Heroin Found During Body Cavity SearchRead the Press Release
Willie Gerald Humphrey, age 27, from Chicago, Illinois, has been charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin. The charge is contained in a Complaint filed on July 7, 2015, in United States District Court in Cedar Rapids.
The Complaint alleges that, on or about February 26, 2015, Humphrey was being watched by officers with the Cedar Rapids Police Department in relation to a heroin investigation. After observing what the officers believed was a heroin transaction between Humphrey and an assumed customer, the officers stopped this person and eventually found .2 grams of suspected heroin hidden in the person’s shoe. The officers then stopped Humphrey’s vehicle. The officers could smell the odor of burnt marijuana emanating from Humphrey’s vehicle, and detained him and his passenger. Officers found $1,049 in cash during an initial search of Humphrey’s person, but found no drugs on him, the passenger, or in the car. The officers then obtained a search warrant and found seven individually wrapped amounts of suspected heroin hidden inside Humphrey’s body.
If convicted, Humphrey faces a possible maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, $100 in special assessments, and up to a lifetime of supervised release following any imprisonment.
Humphrey appeared on July 8, 2015, in federal court in Cedar Rapids and was held without bond. Humphrey’s next appearance for an arraignment has not yet been set.
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 investigated by the Cedar Rapids Police Department Narcotics Unit and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force consisting of the DEA; the Cedar Rapids Police Department; the Linn County Sheriff's Office; the Marion Police Department; the Iowa City Police Department; and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Chatham.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 15-mj-218-JSS.
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Sioux City Man to Federal Prison for Crack Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute crack cocaine was sentenced July 8, 2015, to more than five years in federal prison.
James Lillard, 34, from Sioux City, Iowa, received the prison term after an April 1, 2015, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine.
At the guilty plea, Lillard admitted his involvement with the distribution of at least 28 grams but less than 112 grams of crack cocaine. On two separate occasions in July 2013, Lillard distributed a total of 4.9 grams of cocaine base to an individual cooperating with law enforcement.
Lillard was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Donald E. O’Brien. Lillard was sentenced to 70 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Lillard 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 the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is CR14-4071.
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Ida Grove Man Charged with Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Nathan Paulsen, 28, from Ida Grove, Iowa, has been charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The charges are contained in an Indictment filed on June 17, 2015, in United States District Court in Sioux City.
The Indictment alleges that, from about 2012 through June 2015, Paulsen conspired to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine mixture; and on or about June 6, 2014, he possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine mixture.
If convicted on all charges, Paulsen faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, $200 in special assessments, and at least five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
Paulsen appeared on June 26, 2015, in federal court in Sioux City and was held without bond. Paulsen’s next appearance for trial is set for August 3, 2015.
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 Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Ida County Sheriff’s Office, and Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is CR15-4038.
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Monticello Man Sentenced to over 10 Years for Attempted Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
A man who attempted to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity was sentenced July 2, 2015 to over 10 years in federal prison.
Colton Rickels, age 20, of Monticello, Iowa, received the sentence after an April 20, 2015 guilty plea to one count of attempted enticement of a minor. At the guilty plea hearing, Rickels admitted that, in October 2014, he used the Internet to attempt to persuade, induce, entice, or coerce a 12-year-old girl to engage in sexual activity. At the sentencing hearing, the court also discussed defendant’s repeated sex acts with another 12-year-old girl and his inappropriate contact with a 13-year-old girl.
Rickels was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. Rickels was sentenced to 121 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed, and he must also serve a 10-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, the Monticello Police Department, and the Cedar Rapids 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 15-20.
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Former Bank Employee Sentenced to 21 Months’ in Federal Prison for EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
A former employee of Iowa Falls State Bank in Iowa Falls, Iowa, who embezzled $144,181.47 from the bank, was sentenced on July 2, 2015, to federal prison.
Teresa Ann Kobriger, age 42, from Iowa Falls, Iowa, received the prison term after an April 1, 2015, guilty plea to one count of embezzlement by a bank employee.
In a plea agreement, Kobriger admitted that from December 2008 through December 2012, while employed by the Iowa Falls Sate Bank in a position equivalent to a head teller, she embezzled $144,181.47 from the bank. Kobreger admitted that during this time, she stole money from her teller drawer and the bank vault and then altered bank records in order to conceal her thefts.
Kobriger was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. Kobriger was sentenced to 21 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed, and she was ordered to make $ 181,393.63 in restitution. She must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Kobriger was released on conditions previously set and is to surrender to the Bureau of Prisons on a date yet to be set.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Morfitt and investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Iowa Falls Police Department.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov. The case file number is 15-CR-00026.
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Cedar Rapids Man Pleads Guilty to Being a Felon and Unlawful Drug User in Possession of a Loaded HandgunRead the Press Release
A two-time felon and unlawful drug user who was found in possession of a loaded handgun during a traffic stop pled guilty today to a firearms offense in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Anthony Hall, Jr., age 30, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was convicted of being a felon and unlawful drug user in possession of a firearm.
In a plea agreement, Hall admitted that Cedar Rapids Police Officers stopped him for a traffic violation on April 13, 2015. Hall lied about his true identity when questioned by the officers. When officers smelled marijuana coming from the car, they searched the car and found a loaded .40 caliber handgun in the center console, along with several baggies of marijuana. When officers moved to arrest Hall, he fought with the officers until they deployed a taser to subdue him. Hall has two prior felony convictions. In 2009, he was convicted in Linn County of Delivery of a Controlled Substance, and in 2003, he was convicted of Robbery in Austin, Texas. Hall also admitted to being an unlawful user of marijuana.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Hall remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Hall faces a possible maximum sentence of ten years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, $100 in special assessments, and up to three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney C.J. Williams and was investigated by the Cedar Rapids Police Department and the FBI Safe Streets Task Force.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 15-CR-55-LRR. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Aplington Woman Pleads Guilty to Social Security FraudRead the Press Release
A woman who committed Social Security Fraud for approximately eleven years pled guilty on July 2, 2015, in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Angela Carmichael, 49, from Aplington, Iowa, was convicted of one count of Supplemental Security Income Benefits Fraud.
In a plea agreement, Carmichael admitted that, between June 2003 and June 2014, she hid the fact from the Social Security Administration that she was living with her husband in order to continue to receive Supplemental Security Income benefits. Carmichael admitted she lied to the Social Security Administration in order continue to receive benefits to which she would not have been entitled if the Social Security Administration knew she was living with her husband. During this period of time, Carmichael received over $68,000 in benefits to which she was not entitled.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Carmichael remains free on conditions of release previously set pending sentencing. Carmichael faces a possible maximum sentence of five years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a $100 special assessment, and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Morfitt and was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/. The case file number is 15-CR-2010.
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A Waterloo Felon and Female Friend Plead Guilty to Obstruction of Justice for Providing a False Letter to Federal CourtRead the Press Release
A man and woman who created a false letter to be provided to a federal court pled guilty to obstruction of justice in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Asa Adams, age 26, from Waterloo, Iowa, pled guilty on June 29, 2015, to obstruction of justice. Nicole Wells, age 36, from Waterloo, Iowa, pled guilty on July 6, 2015, to the same charge.
In plea agreements, Adams and Wells admitted that they worked together to create a false letter to be presented in federal court in a failed attempt to help Adams evade a revocation of his supervised release. Adams was convicted in 2011 of being a felon in possession of a firearm. After serving a sixteen-month sentence in federal prison, Adams was placed on supervised release on October 2, 2014. One of the conditions imposed on supervised release was that Adams not use controlled substances. His use was tested by random urinalysis. On December 24, 2014, Adams submitted a urine sample that tested positive for marijuana. In an attempt to evade having his supervised release revoked and being sent back to prison, Adams recruited his coworker and friend, Nicole Wells, to fabricate a false letter. The letter, purportedly written by a supervisor at the restaurant where Adams and Wells worked, falsely claimed another employee had brought in marijuana-laced brownies to work. The letter was not written by the supervisor and there were no marijuana-laced brownies.
Adams provided the false and fictitious letter to his defense attorney, who unwittingly filed it with the federal court as an exhibit. At a hearing on a petition to revoke Adams’s supervised release, however, the letter was shown to be false when the supervisor and employee who allegedly brought the brownies to work testified. The court found Adams had tested positive for marijuana because he had used marijuana, and sentence Adams to a year in federal prison for violating the terms of his supervised release.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade for the obstruction of justice conviction will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Adams remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Wells remains released on bond pending sentencing. Adams and Wells each face a possible maximum sentence of ten years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, $100 in special assessments, and up to three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney C.J. Williams and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 15-CR-42-LRR.
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Wisconsin Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced July 1, 2015, to more than 10 years in federal prison.
Ryan Michael Schroeder, 27, from LaCrosse, Wisconsin, received the prison term after a February 27, 2015, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
At the guilty plea, Schroeder admitted his involvement from January 2012 through December 2014 in a conspiracy that distributed more than 50 grams of actual (pure) methamphetamine. Schroeder was involved in selling methamphetamine in Hampton, Iowa, as well as selling methamphetamine to numerous others in Minnesota.
Schroeder was sentenced in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. Schroeder was sentenced to 121 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Schroeder 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 North Central Iowa Narcotics Task Force, Cerro Gordo County Sheriff’s Office; Mason City Police Department, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and Iowa Division of Criminal investigation.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 14-3071.
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Previously Convicted Drug Felon Sentenced for Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
A man found in possession of methamphetamine was sentenced July 1, 2015, to more than 17 years in federal prison.
Mackenzie Everett Servantez, 26, from Mason City, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 13, 2015, guilty plea to possession more than 5 grams of methamphetamine. Servantez was previously convicted of a felony drug offense in 2007.
In a plea agreement, Servantez admitted on October 15, 2014, he was in possession of more than 5 grams of actual (pure) methamphetamine. Servantez was stopped by law enforcement after a car chase which turned into a foot pursuit. Servantez was found in possession of 19.82 grams of pure methamphetamine, at least some of which he intended to distribute. Officers also found a scale, a meth pipe and two cellular phones. Approximately $1227 cash was recovered from Servantez.
Servantez was sentenced in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. Schroeder was sentenced to 210 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed. He must also serve an 8-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Servantez 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 North Central Iowa Narcotics Task Force, Cerro Gordo County Sheriff’s Office; Mason City Police Department, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and Iowa Division of Criminal investigation.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 14-3070.
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Mason City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Involvement in Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced July 1, 2015, to more than 7 years in federal prison.
William Allan Odell II, 43, from Mason City, Iowa, received the prison term after an April 13, 2015, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
At the guilty plea, Odell admitted to his involvement from June 2014 through December 2014 in a conspiracy that distributed more than 50 grams of actual (pure) methamphetamine. On November 26, 2014, Odell was arrested on an outstanding warrant. Odell was searched, and several used syringes as well as a bag of unused ones were located in his coat pockets. Odell was also found in possession of 9.38 grams of methamphetamine, which was located on the passenger side of the car, along with a digital scale and two empty baggies. Odell admitted to selling ½ ounce amounts during the time period of the conspiracy.
Odell was sentenced in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. Odell was sentenced to 90 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Odell 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 North Central Iowa Narcotics Task Force, Cerro Gordo County Sheriff’s Office; Mason City Police Department, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and Iowa Division of Criminal investigation.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 15-3010.
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Quality Egg Manager Sentenced in Connection with Conspiracy to Bribe U.S. Department of Agriculture Egg InspectorRead the Press Release
SIOUX CITY – A former marketing manager at egg production and processing facilities who participated in a conspiracy to bribe a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) inspector, to sell restricted eggs with intent to defraud, and to introduce misbranded food into interstate commerce with intent to defraud and mislead was sentenced yesterday in federal district court in Sioux City, Iowa, the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Northern District of Iowa announced.
Tony Wasmund, 64, of Willmar, Minnesota, the head of marketing at Quality Egg LLC of Galt, Iowa, was sentenced to four years’ probation by U.S. District Court Judge Mark W. Bennett in the Northern District of Iowa.
Quality Egg LLC pleaded guilty to paying at least two cash bribes to a USDA inspector, who is now deceased, to procure the release of shell eggs that had been retained for quality issues. The USDA inspector’s job responsibilities included inspecting shell eggs at one or more of Quality Egg’s production facilities in Iowa, and the inspector had retained or “red tagged” several thousand dozens of eggs for failing to meet minimum USDA quality grade standards.
Wasmund admitted at his September 2012 plea hearing that he conspired with at least one other person to bribe the inspector, sell restricted eggs with intent to defraud, and introduce misbranded food into interstate commerce with intent to defraud and mislead. Wasmund described how, on or about April 12, 2010, as part of the conspiracy, he authorized the disbursement of $300 in petty cash from Quality Egg knowing the cash was to be used to bribe a USDA inspector. After the bribe was paid, the eggs were released, labeled as meeting minimum USDA quality grade standards, and sold and shipped to customers in several states.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Deegan of the Northern District of Iowa and Trial Attorneys Lisa Hsiao and Christopher Parisi of the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch. They were assisted by Associate Chief Counsel Michael Varrone of the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of General Counsel’s Food and Drug Division. The case was investigated by the Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations, the USDA’s Office of Inspector General and the FBI.
Fighting public corruption is a Department of Justice priority. The public is encouraged to report any known instances of public corruption to the FBI's Public Corruption Tip Line at 844-4PC-TIPS. Information can also be sent via e-mail to [email protected].
Court file information: https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 12-CR-3041.
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Conspirator in Jamal Dean Attempted Escape Attempt Sentenced to Federal Prison on Methamphetamine ChargeRead the Press Release
A Nebraska woman was sentenced June 26, 2015, to 4 months in federal prison.
Anna Baker, age, 25 from Winnebago, Nebraska, received the prison term after a February 25, 2015 guilty plea to one count of simple possession of methamphetamine.
Facts presented by the United States at her change of plea hearing and sentencing reveal for about three days, starting on April 30, 2013, defendant hid Jamal Dean at her residence on the Winnebago Indian Reservation. She did so knowing Dean was the subject of a joint state and federal criminal investigation and manhunt. During this time, defendant relayed information to Dean from other conspirators, provided him methamphetamine, and provided him the use of her phone.
On or about May 14, 2013, defendant lied to federal agents about when she had last seen Dean and who had stayed at her residence. Additionally, sometime after harboring Dean and before meeting with law enforcement, she deleted the contents of her phone (including text messages).
On February 12, 2015, defendant entered into a plea agreement with the United States admitting her role in the conspiracy. On February 25, 2015, she pled guilty to a related offense but was allowed to remain at liberty. After admitting guilt and pleading guilty, defendant continued her criminal conduct and repeatedly violated the terms of her supervision.
Baker was sentenced in Sioux City by United States Magistrate Judge Leonard Strand. Baker was sentenced to four months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $25 was imposed. She must also serve a one-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Baker is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until she can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted as a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a cooperative local, state, and federal program aimed at the enhanced prosecution of gun crimes. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations; the Tri-State Drug Task Force, the Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; the Sioux City Police Department, the United States Marshal’s Service; the Iowa Department of Public Safety; the Nebraska Department of Public Safety; and the Woodbury County Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 14-4088.
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Cedar Rapids Man Sentenced to Federal Prison on 1992 Conviction for Conspiracy to Distribute LSDRead the Press Release
A man who was a fugitive from justice for almost twenty-one years was sentenced June 22, 2015, to more than ten years in federal prison.
Matthew West, age 50, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a December 3, 1992, jury verdict finding him guilty of one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD).
Evidence at trial showed that, between October 1990 and October 1991, West obtained around 12,000 hits of LSD from out-of-state sources. West sold the LSD to others who redistributed the LSD in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Following the guilty verdict, West was ordered detained pending sentencing but was released in August 1993 when a request for new trial was granted. When West failed to appear for a detention hearing in April 1994, a warrant was issued for his arrest. West turned himself in on that warrant on December 27, 2014. The order granting a new trial was overturned on appeal in June 1994 while West was a fugitive.
West was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. West was sentenced to 121 months’ imprisonment and fined $6,000. A special assessment of $50 was imposed. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
West is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by the Cedar Rapids Police Department, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, the Marion Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 92-CR-0023.
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Cedar Rapids Safe Streets Task Force Arrest Ten Individuals Charged on Federal Gun Related OffensesRead the Press Release
Cedar Rapids - The Cedar Rapids Safe Streets Task Force took decisive action this past week to make the streets of the city safer. Ten individuals were charged on federal gun related offenses.
Safe Streets, headed by the FBI, combats guns and other violent crimes by coordinating local, state and federal agencies to maximize intelligence gathering. Coordinating focus ensures law enforcement resources are put to their best and most efficient use. The Task Force was formed in late 2009 following a spike in violent crime in the Cedar Rapids area.
United States Attorney Kevin Techau reported the Task Force=s recent activities at a press conference held at the Cedar Rapids Police Department. Other participants attending the press conference included the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, and the Cedar Rapids Police Department.
Techau emphasized that, AThe Safe Streets Task Force, has in the past—and will in the future—focus its intelligence gathering and prosecutions on those most dangerous criminal elements who choose to unlawfully use and possess firearms.” He reinforced that Safe Streets resources are available to all law enforcement agencies with related investigations as a “force multiplier,” whether or not those agencies are members of the Task Force. U.S. Attorney Techau concluded indicating, “If you're a prohibited person possessing or using a gun, you're violating federal law and you’re going to pay a price, and federal prison time is a heavy price to pay.”
FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael Kitsmiller commented on the partnership among agencies stating, “Our Task Force is committed to working with our state, local and federal partners to combat criminal activity. The recent charges demonstrate what can be achieved through the cooperative efforts of several law enforcement agencies, and serves as a warning that criminal activity will not be tolerated in our community.” Supervisory Senior Resident Agent Gabriel Poling, the FBI agent heading the Task Force, echoed the same endorsement and warning.
Cedar Rapids Police Chief Wayne Jerman also offered his praise for the efforts of everyone involved with the Task Force. He also stated, “Since coming together and focusing our energy, it is again evident illegal activity involving firearms will not be tolerated in our city.”
In the past week, the Task Force=s work has resulted in the following charges being filed:
- Darius Devon Flowers, age 26, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has been charged with one count of being a felon and domestic abuser in possession of a firearm and ammunition (Case No. 15-MJ-189). On April 22, 2015, Flowers allegedly possessed a loaded .25 caliber pistol under the front passenger seat of a vehicle in Cedar Rapids. Flowers was allegedly convicted of felony possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance in 2009 and felony burglary in 2012. Flowers is in state custody. No date has been set for Flowers’ first appearance in federal court.
- Bryan Gall, age 24, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has been charged with one count of being a felon and unlawful drug user in possession of a firearm (Case No. 15-MJ-186). On April 29, 2015, Gall allegedly possessed two handguns, a shotgun, and several rounds of ammunition at a residence in Cedar Rapids. At the time, Gall was allegedly an unlawful user of marijuana and heroin. Gall was allegedly convicted of felony burglary in 2009 and felony possession of contraband in a correctional facility in 2010. Gall is in state custody. No date has been set for Gall’s first appearance in federal court.
- Anthony Steven Hall, Jr., age 30, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has been charged with one count of being a felon and unlawful drug user in possession of a firearm (Case No. 15-MJ-176). On April 13, 2015, Hall allegedly possessed a .40 caliber handgun in the console of a vehicle in Cedar Rapids. At the time, Hall was allegedly an unlawful user of marijuana. Hall was allegedly previously convicted of felony delivery of a controlled substance, felony possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, domestic abuse assault, felony robbery, and twice for possession of a controlled substance. Hall appeared in federal court in Cedar Rapids on June 17, 2015, and was held without bond. Hall’s next appearance for a detention hearing and preliminary examination is set for June 22, 2015, at 1:30 p.m.
- Scott A. High, age 39, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Herbert A. Feickert, age 61, also from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, have each been charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm (Case No. 15-MJ-180). On January 2, 2015, High allegedly possessed three handguns and three long guns – as well as ammunition - at a residence in Cedar Rapids. Feickert allegedly possessed additional firearms at his residence on January 3, 2015. High was allegedly convicted of felony possession of a controlled substance in 2001 and multiple counts of felony burglary in 2009. Feickert was allegedly convicted of breaking and entering in 1973, larceny in the nighttime in 1974, multiple OWIs, and domestic abuse assault in 1992, twice in 1993, 1998, 1999, and 2002.Both High and Feickert appeared in federal court in Cedar Rapids on June 15, 2015, and were held without bond.No date has been set for either High or Feickert’s next appearance in federal court.
- Kenyatta Abdul Aziz Hill, age 29, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has been charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm (Case No. 15-MJ-182). On December 26, 2014, Hill allegedly possessed a handgun at a residence in Cedar Rapids. Hill was allegedly previously convicted of felony delivery of a controlled substance within 1000 feet of a church and felony obstruction of justice. Hill appeared in federal court in Cedar Rapids on June 15, 2015, and was held without bond. No date has been set for Hill’s next appearance in federal court.
- Mitchell Demarcus Hall, age 25, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has been charged with one count of being a felon and unlawful drug user in possession of a firearm (Case No. 15-MJ-183). On May 23, 2015, Hall allegedly possessed a loaded handgun in a vehicle in Cedar Rapids. At the time, Hall was allegedly an unlawful user of marijuana. Hall was allegedly convicted of felony aggravated robbery in 2009. Hall appeared in federal court in Cedar Rapids on June 15, 2015, and was held without bond. No date has been set for Hall’s next appearance in federal court.
- Jerald Sims, age 38, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has been charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm (Case No. 15-MJ-181). On September 19, 2014, Sims allegedly possessed two long arms at a residence in Cedar Rapids. Sims was allegedly previously convicted of felony burglary. Sims appeared in federal court in Cedar Rapids on June 17, 2015, and was held without bond. Sims’ next appearance for a detention hearing and preliminary examination is set for June 22, 2015, at 2:30 p.m.
- Fabian Taylor, age 27, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has been charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm (Case No. 15-MJ-175). On July 20, 2014, Taylor allegedly possessed a loaded handgun in a vehicle in Cedar Rapids. Taylor was allegedly previously convicted of felony burglary and domestic abuse assault. Taylor is in state custody. No date has been set for Taylor’s first appearance in federal court.
- Marcus Alexander Thomas, age 22, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has been charged with one count of being an unlawful drug user in possession of a firearm and ammunition (Case No. 15-MJ-188). On March 16, 2015, Thompson allegedly possessed a loaded handgun in a vehicle in Cedar Rapids. At the time, Thomas was allegedly an unlawful user of marijuana. Thomas appeared in federal court in Cedar Rapids on June 15, 2015, and was held without bond. No date has been set for Thomas’ next appearance in federal court.
As with any criminal case, a charge is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
If convicted, each individual faces a possible maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a $100 special assessment, and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Daniel Chatham, Anthony Morfitt, Timothy Vavricek, and C.J. Williams, and Special Assistant United States Attorneys Erin Eldridge and Ravi Narayan and investigated by the Cedar Rapids Safe Streets Task Force. During this investigation, the task force was composed of representatives from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Marshals Service, Sixth Judicial District Department of Correctional Services, and the Cedar Rapids Police Department.
See attached flyer, “A Gun Can Put You Away.” a_gun_can_put_you_away.pdf (151.02 KB)
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Sioux City Man Who Discharged a Firearm While Carjacking a Family Sent to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man, who assaulted his girlfriend and during the assault pointed a gun at her face and threatened to kill her, was sentenced June 16, 2015, to 13 years in federal prison.
Angel Gomez, age 23, from Sioux City, received the prison term after a February 2, 2015, guilty plea to discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
At his plea hearing and sentencing, the United States produced evidence showing on August 23, 2014, Angel Gomez possessed, brandished and fired a warning shot from the handgun in furtherance of a carjacking. The victims of his carjacking were a family, including a child, who was visiting the War Eagle Monument in Sioux City, Iowa. The evidence also revealed Gomez undertook the carjacking as part of another criminal plot.
At the time of the carjacking he had already physically assaulted, threatened, and abducted his paramour when she attempted to end her intimate relationship with him. Gomez even fired a warning shot from the handgun during the abduction to overcome her refusal to get into his car and to scare off another person attempting to aid her. The possession of the firearm in furtherance of the carjacking was part of Gomez’s plan to escape with her girlfriend.
Gomez was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Mark W. Bennett. Gomez was sentenced to 156 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed, and he was ordered to make $165 in restitution to one of the crime victims. He 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 as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a cooperative local, state, and federal program aimed at the enhanced prosecution of gun crimes. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Sioux City Police Department, the Iowa Department of Transportation, and the Woodbury County Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 14-4085.
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Media Advisory: Safe Streets Task Force Makes ArrestsRead the Press Release
Cedar Rapids, Iowa – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Iowa will join members of the FBI coordinated Cedar Rapids Safe Streets Task Force in holding a joint press conference on June 18, 2015, where they will announce federal gun-related criminal charges against ten individuals. The purpose of the joint law enforcement action is to reduce incidences of gun violence.
Event Details
When: Thursday, June 18, 2015
Where: Cedar Rapids Police Department (Community Room), 505 1st Street SW, Cedar Rapids, IA.
Time: 11:30 am.
Program
A press release and interview opportunities will be available at the end of the press conference.
Man Indicted as Armed Career CriminalRead the Press Release
Robert M. Hertz, age 53, of 2418 Catskill Street SW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has been charged in a single count indictment filed today in United States District Court in Cedar Rapids yesterday, with possession of a firearm and ammunition as an armed career criminal.
The Indictment charges Hertz possessed a .40 caliber rifle and 237 rounds of ammunition on May 12, 2015, after he had previously been convicted of three violent felonies or serious drug offenses, namely, Arson, Second Degree Burglary, and Manufacturing Methamphetamine.
If convicted of being an armed career criminal, Hertz faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment, plus a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to five years.
The arraignment on the indictment is set for June 16, 2015, at 1:30 p.m.
As with any criminal case, a charge is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Richard L. Murphy and was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations; Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 15-CR-00053.
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Four Indicted on Gun Charges Related to Scheme to Ship Guns to LebanonRead the Press Release
Ali Afif Al Herz, age 50, Bassem Afif Herz, age 30, Sarah Majid Zeaiter, age 24, and Adam Al Herz, age 22, all from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, have been charged in a 46 Count indictment filed yesterday in United States District Court in Cedar Rapids.
Ali Afif Al Herz is charged with 24 counts of possessing firearms after having been previously convicted of domestic abuse.
Bassem Afif Herz is charged with conspiracy.
Sarah Zeaiter is charged with three counts of making false claims to United States citizenship on bank records and federal firearms forms.
Adam Al Herz is charged with 17 counts of possessing firearms as an unlawful drug user.
Additionally, each defendant is charged with conspiracy to: engage in the business of dealing in firearms; ship and transport firearms in interstate commerce as part of such dealings; fail to notify common carriers of the existence of firearms and ammunition in interstate shipments; and, making false statements and representations on firearms transaction records. The defendants are also charged with conspiring to engage in money laundering.
Each false claim to citizenship charge is punishable by up to three years’ imprisonment. Each unlawful possession of firearms charge is punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment. The firearms conspiracy charge is punishable by up to five years’ imprisonment. The money laundering conspiracy charge is punishable by up to 20 years’ imprisonment.
In addition to the potential terms of imprisonment, each defendant faces a term of supervised release to follow imprisonment, plus a fine of up to $250,000 on each count. The indictment also seeks to forfeit all guns and ammunition involved in the criminal conduct.
The arraignment on the indictment for Adam Al Herz is set for June 17, 2015, at 1:30 p.m. The arraignment on the indictment for the other three defendants is set for June 16, 2015, at 1:30 p.m.
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 Richard L. Murphy and was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations: Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Court file information available: https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 15-CR-00054.
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Mason City Man Sentenced to 40 Years for Child Sexual Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
A man who sexually exploited a child and possessed child pornography was sentenced June 10, 2015 to 40 years in federal prison.
Micheal Jones, age 41, of Mason City, Iowa, received the sentence after a January 8, 2015 guilty plea to one count of sexual exploitation of a child and one count of possession of child pornography. At the guilty plea hearing, Jones admitted that, in April 2013, he sexually exploited a child by producing a sexually explicit video and photographs of that child. He also admitted that, between April 2013 and September 2014, he possessed child pornography.
Jones was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. Jones was sentenced to 480 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $200 was imposed, and he must also serve a 10-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 Mason City 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 14-3060.
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Marion Man Sentenced to 40 Years for Production of Child Pornography While Being Required to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
A man who produced child pornography while being legally required to register as a sex offender was sentenced today to the legal maximum 40 years in federal prison.
Kevin Andrew Jauron, age 40, from Marion, Iowa, received the prison term after a January 8, 2015, guilty plea to one count of committing an offense involving a minor while being required to register as a sex offender.
At his guilty plea hearing, Jauron admitted that, between no later than 2013 and continuing to about May 10, 2014, he persuaded a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of the conduct. Jauron also admitted that, at the time, he was required by law to register as a sex offender. According to information disclosed in court related to sentencing, Jauron used the Internet and a cell phone to pose as children in order to make initial contact with several of the victims. Jauron sexually exploited 5 minor girls as part of his offense. He produced or caused the production of sexually explicit images of 4 of the victims and had sex with 3 of them. Jauron produced at least one child pornography video depicting sadistic sexual conduct.
Jauron was required to register as a sex offender due to a September 2008 conviction in Linn County District Court for digitally penetrating a 15-year-old female.
Jauron was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. Jauron was sentenced to 40 years’ imprisonment to be followed by 15 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
Jauron 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 Peter Deegan and was investigated by the Marion Police Department. The Marion Police Department is part of the Iowa Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (Iowa ICAC). More information about the Iowa ICAC is available at: http://www.iaicac.org/Pages/welcome.aspx.
Court file information available: https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 14-128.
Former Cedar Rapids Fragrance Hut Owner Sentenced to Federal Prison for Selling Synthetic Drugs, Identity TheftRead the Press Release
The former owner of the Fragrance Hut in Cedar Rapids, who sold synthetic drugs from his store was sentenced yesterday to more than 11 years in federal prison.
Matthew James McCauley, age 39, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after his September 29, 2014 guilty pleas to maintaining a premises for the distribution of controlled substances and aggravated identity theft.
At the earlier plea hearing, McCauley admitted he opened the Fragrance Hut, formerly located at 2902 First Avenue NE in Cedar Rapids, for the purpose of distributing illegal synthetic controlled substances, commonly referred to as “spice” or “K2.” Court documents reflect McCauley opened the Fragrance Hut in February 2014, and that the store sold synthetic cannabinoid products with names like “WTF,” “Diablo,” “Purple Haze,” “Fairly Legal,” “Green Giant,” and “Smoking Santa.” At the sentencing hearing, McCauley admitted to placing online orders for well over 2 kilograms of synthetic cannabinoid products for the store during May and June 2014. McCauley also admitted to having stolen the identity of another individual during and in relation to a wire fraud scheme. Court documents reflect McCauley created a false driver’s license using another individual’s name and date of birth. McCauley then used that name and date of birth to obtain a fraudulent line of credit to purchase jewelry at a local jewelry store.
McCauley was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. McCauley was sentenced to 134 months’ imprisonment, consisting of 110 months’ imprisonment on the drug charge, and two consecutive years on the identity theft charge. Special assessment totaling $200 were imposed, and he was ordered to make $4,975.21 in restitution to the identity theft victim. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
McCauley is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force consisting of the DEA; the Cedar Rapids Police Department; the Linn County Sheriff's Office; the Marion Police Department; the Iowa City Police Department; and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Chatham.
Court file information available: https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file numbers are CR14-94-LRR and 14-MJ-186.
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Waterloo Felon Sent to Prison for Ten Years for Possessing a Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
A twice-convicted felon who possessed a firearm and ammunition on the streets of Waterloo last Halloween evening was sentenced yesterday to 10 years in federal prison, the statutory maximum sentence possible for his crime.
Deshawn Brown, age 23, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 2, 2015, guilty plea to one count of possessing a firearm and ammunition as a felon.
At the guilty plea hearing, Brown admitted that he knowingly possessed a Sig Sauer pistol and .40 caliber ammunition on Halloween in 2014. Defendant learned that an associate’s residence was subjected to a drive-by shooting. In response, Brown went to a local store, purchased ammunition, and then fired several shots near the 1200 block of Willow Street in retaliation for the prior shooting. When police attempted to stop Brown’s car, he failed to stop and fled through a residential neighborhood. Brown only stopped because his car crashed into a garage. At the plea hearing, he also admitted to prior felony convictions in state court for possessing marijuana with intent to deliver and intimidation with a dangerous weapon.
Brown was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade to 120 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Brown 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 Williams and investigated by the Waterloo Police Department.
Court file information available: https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is CR15-2001.
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Former Deputy Sheriff Sentenced to 13 Years for Mail Fraud and Using Fire to Commit a Federal FelonyRead the Press Release
A former deputy sheriff and volunteer firefighter who submitted a fraudulent insurance claim after deliberately setting fire to his vacant home was sentenced today to 13 years in federal prison.
James Marvin Plower, age 50, from Olin, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 20, 2015, guilty plea to one count of mail fraud and one count of using fire to commit a federal felony.
At his guilty plea hearing, Plower admitted that, between about July 2013 and August 2014, he made up a scheme to defraud his insurance company. Plower admitted that, as part of the scheme, he deliberately set fire to his vacant home in Martelle, Iowa, and then submitted an insurance claim in which he falsely claimed the fire was accidental.
Plower was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. Plower was sentenced to 13 years’ imprisonment to be followed by 3 years’ supervised release. He was ordered to make $152,874.58 in restitution to the victim insurance company. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Peter Deegan and was investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Iowa State Fire Marshal Division, and the Jones County Sheriff’s Department.
Plower was released on the bond previously set and is to surrender to the Bureau of Prisons on a date yet to be set.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 15-CR-12-LRR.
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Clear Lake Felon Sent to Prison for Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
A twice convicted felon who possessed an assortment of ammunition was sentenced yesterday to more than six years in federal prison.
David Kuhlemeier, age 50, from Clear Lake, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 12, 2015, guilty plea to one count of possessing ammunition as a felon.
At the guilty plea hearing, Kuhlemeier admitted that he possessed a large assortment of ammunition. Further, he admitted to being a twice convicted felon guilty of burglaries in Pocahontas and Emmet Counties. The ammunition was found in his residence pursuant to a search warrant. During sentencing, the Court noted the numerous aggravating factors warranting Kuhlemeier’s sentence including numerous convictions, six of which involved theft and the two burglaries, and over 100 traffic violations.
Kuhlemeier was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade to 77 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Kuhlemeier 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 Steve Young and investigated by the Clear Lake Police Department.
Court file information available: https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is CR15-3001.
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Cedar Rapids Felon and Meth User Sent to Prison for Eight Years for Possessing a Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
A convicted felon and methamphetamine user who possessed a firearm and ammunition within the City of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was sentenced today to eight years in federal prison.
Ricky Joe Vaughn, age 36, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 4, 2015, guilty plea to one count of possessing a firearm and ammunition as a felon.
At the guilty plea hearing, Vaughn admitted that he knowingly possessed a Ruger SR1911 Commander .45 caliber pistol and Winchester .45 ammunition on October 6, 2014, in Cedar Rapids. Vaughn also admitted to prior felony convictions in state court for manufacturing methamphetamine and theft.
Vaughn was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade to 96 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Vaughn 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 Tim Vavricek and investigated by the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force and the Cedar Rapids Police Department.
Court file information available: https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is CR15-0005.
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Sex Offender Sentenced to Prison for Failing to RegisterRead the Press Release
A convicted sex offender who failed to register after moving back to Iowa was sentenced on June 8, 2015, to more than one year in federal prison.
Lester Ealy, 51, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 31, 2015, guilty plea to one count of failing to register as a sex offender.
At the guilty plea, Ealy admitted to failing to register as a sex offender living in Iowa from June 2014 through February 2015. Ealy was required to register because he had previously been convicted of sexual assault in Nebraska state court. He had also previously been convicted of failing to register as sex offender on four previous occasions in Iowa, Nebraska, and Washington.
Ealy was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. Ealy was sentenced to 21 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Ealy 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 Anthony Morfitt and investigated by the United States Marshall’s Service.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/. The case file number is 15-CR-22.
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Marion Couple Pleads Guilty to Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
A husband and wife who enticed a minor to engage in criminal sexual activity pled guilty in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Michael Darling, age 20, and Jennifer Darling, age 27, both of Marion, Iowa, were convicted of one count of enticement of a minor.
At a plea hearing on June 4, 2015, Michael Darling admitted that, between January and March 2015, he persuaded, induced, or enticed a 15-year-old girl to engage in sexual activity. At a plea hearing on June 8, 2015, Jennifer Darling admitted that, during the same time period, she persuaded, induced, or enticed the same girl to engage in sexual activity.
Sentencings before United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade will be set after presentence reports are prepared. Jennifer Darling was taken into custody of the United States Marshal after her guilty plea; both she and Michael Darling will remain in custody pending sentencing. Each defendant faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a $100 special assessment, and supervised release for 5 years to life following imprisonment.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Tremmel and was investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation and the Jones 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 is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is CR 15-39.
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Cedar Rapids Woman Pleads Guilty to Stealing from the Government and Using Another’s Identity to File a Fraudulent Tax ReturnRead the Press Release
A woman who unlawfully used another person’s identity to file a fraudulent tax return and steal money from the government pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Gwendolyn Murray, 35, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was convicted of one count of theft of government property and one count of aggravated identity theft.
At the plea hearing, Murray admitted she, without lawful authority, used another person’s name, social security number, and signature on a fraudulent tax return she filed in January 2012. Murray further admitted she then stole from the government by cashing the refund check, worth more than $6,000, issued in March 2012 as a result of the fraudulent tax return.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Murray remains free on conditions of release previously set. Murray faces a mandatory minimum sentence of two years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of twelve years’ imprisonment, a $500,000 fine, $200 in special assessments, and four years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Morfitt and was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/. The case file number is 15-CR-0015.
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Cedar Rapids Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Heroin Resulting in Serious Bodily InjuryRead the Press Release
A man who distributed heroin to a user who nearly died from an overdose pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Marcus DeJohn Wallace, age 19, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was convicted of distribution of heroin resulting in serious bodily injury.
At the plea hearing, Wallace admitted that on February 24, 2015, he distributed $50 worth of heroin to a person in the parking lot of a business on Edgewood Road. He also admitted that the person to whom he had sold the heroin took that heroin to a nearby vehicle, where another person was waiting in the driver’s seat. Both the driver and passenger used the heroin Wallace had sold, and both individuals immediately overdosed and lost consciousness after using the heroin. The driver’s head slumped forward to the point that the driver’s head hit the steering wheel, activating the horn. A passerby heard the horn honking, saw the two unconscious individuals inside the vehicle, and called 911. When paramedics arrived, the passenger was able to be revived without medical intervention. The driver’s head was down (chin to chest), skin was blue, and respirations were labored. The driver was totally unresponsive until paramedics repositioned the driver’s head to open the airway. Wallace admitted that without medical intervention by the paramedics, the driver was at a substantial risk of anoxic brain injury and death as a result of using the heroin Wallace distributed.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Wallace remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Wallace faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, $100 in special assessments, and a lifetime term of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force consisting of the DEA; the Cedar Rapids Police Department; the Linn County Sheriff's Office; the Marion Police Department; the Iowa City Police Department; and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Chatham.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 15-CR-00025-LRR.
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Delaware County Man Sentenced to over 11 Years for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
A man who possessed child pornography was sentenced June 4, 2015 to over 11 years in federal prison.
Paul LeClere, age 51, of Hopkinton, Iowa, received the sentence after a February 6, 2015 guilty plea to one count of possession of child pornography. At the guilty plea hearing, LeClere admitted that he knowingly possessed child pornography.
LeClere was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. LeClere was sentenced to 135 months’ imprisonment and fined $10,000. A special assessment of $100 was imposed, LeClere was ordered to make $4,000 in restitution, and he must also serve a ten-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 Scott County Sheriff’s Office, the Davenport Police Department, the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, the Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office, the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office, and Homeland Security Investigations.
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 14-2054.
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South Sioux City, Nebraska Man to Federal Prison for Iowa Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced June 3, 2015, to more than one year in federal prison.
Victor Gerardo Gonzalez-Hidalgo, 36, from South Sioux City, Nebraska, received the prison term after an October 17, 2014, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
At the guilty plea, Gonzalez-Hidalgo admitted that from September 2013 through May 2014, he was involved in a conspiracy that distributed at least 50 grams of actual (pure) methamphetamine. Gonzalez-Hidalgo admitted to selling one ounce quantities of methamphetamine on nine separate occasions to an undercover law enforcement agent.
Gonzalez-Hidalgo was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Mark W. Bennett. Gonzalez-Hidalgo was sentenced to 21 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed. He must also serve a one-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Gonzalez-Hidalgo 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 the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 14-4046.
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Nigerian Man Sentenced to over Two Years in Prison for Using His Newborn Son's Identity to Defraud BanksRead the Press Release
A Nigerian man who made false claims on employment documents and banking applications was sentenced June 1, 2015 to more than two years in federal prison.
Oluwaseyi Ademola Sadipe, age 39, a Nigerian living in Mason City, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 10, 2015, jury verdict finding him guilty of one count of misuse of a Social Security number, one count of aggravated identity theft, and three counts of making false claims of United States citizenship.
The evidence at trial showed that Sadipe, a lawful permanent resident, falsely claimed to be a U.S. citizen when filling out required employment eligibility verification forms to gain employment with three different employers between December 2013 and June 2014. On the employment forms, Sadipe used his valid Social Security number. In December 2013, Sadipe unlawfully used his five-month-old son’s Social Security number to obtain a checking account. Sadipe spent more than he deposited into the checking account, resulting in a loss of $1,175 to the bank by March 2014. Sadipe also unlawfully used his seven-year-old’s Social Security number on a car loan application in February 2014. Sadipe’s fraudulent use of multiple Social Security numbers was discovered when the car loan application was processed by the bank where Sadipe had opened the checking account.
Sadipe was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Mark W. Bennett. Sadipe was sentenced to twenty-five months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $500 was imposed, and he was ordered to make $2,276.35 in restitution to Clear Lake Bank & Trust ($1,175.27) and First Citizens National Bank ($1,101.08). He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Sadipe is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by the Office of Inspector General for the Social Security Administration and by Homeland Security Investigations.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 14-CR-3065.
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Manchester Woman Sentenced to Twenty-One Months’ Imprisonment for Embezzling More than $120,000Read the Press Release
A woman who embezzled more than $120,000 from the bank where she worked was sentenced to twenty-one months in federal prison.
Ann M. Sperfslage, 55, from Manchester, received the prison term after pleading guilty to embezzlement by a bank employee.
At the plea hearing, Sperfslage admitted that, between May 2008 and continuing through August 2010, she embezzled $123,180.59 by creating false loan documents, withdrawing bank funds in accordance with the false documents, and concealing her offense through the temporary misapplication of customer deposits.
Sperfslage was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. She received a sentence of twenty-one months’ imprisonment and was ordered to pay a fine of $5,000. A special assessment of $100 was also imposed.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jacob Schunk and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 15-CR-2002-LRR.
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Hiawatha Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Attempting to Cook Meth That Started Mobile Home FireRead the Press Release
A man whose November 2013 attempt at cooking methamphetamine resulted in a fire that damaged several mobile homes in Hiawatha was sentenced today to 20 years in federal prison.
Michael Landon Monroe Lala, age 27, from Hiawatha, Iowa, received the prison term after a January 27, 2015 guilty plea to attempted manufacture of methamphetamine.
In a plea agreement, Lala admitted that he manufactured methamphetamine many times between April 2012 and May 2014, and that he recruited others to purchase pseudoephedrine for him so he could make meth. Lala also admitted that on November 13, 2013, he was in the process of cooking meth via the “one-pot” method when the bottle he was using in the manufacturing process tipped over, causing a fire. A 14-year-old and the owner of the mobile home in Hiawatha where Lala was cooking the meth were also present in the mobile home when the fire started. The mobile home where the fire started was destroyed, and five neighboring mobile homes were also extensively damaged. Three of the other damaged mobile homes were occupied at the time of the fire. One of those residences was occupied by two adults and four minor children, another was occupied by one adult, and a third was occupied by two adults.
Lala was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. Lala was sentenced to 240 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the Hiawatha Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force consisting of the DEA; the Linn County Sheriff's Office; the Cedar Rapids Police Department; the Marion Police Department; the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; and the Sixth Judicial District Department of Correctional Services, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Chatham.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is CR14-69-LRR.
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Dubuque Man Charged with Receipt and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Joshua Leute, age 28, of Dubuque, Iowa, has been charged with one count of receipt of child pornography and two counts of possession of child pornography. The charges are contained in an Indictment unsealed on May 27, 2015, in United States District Court in Cedar Rapids.
The Indictment alleges that, between 2011 and 2012, Leute received and possessed child pornography.
If convicted, Leute faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of forty years’ imprisonment, a $750,000 fine, a $300 special assessment, and at least five years and up to life on supervised release following any imprisonment.
Leute appeared for a detention hearing on June 3, 2015, in federal court in Cedar Rapids and was released on bond. Leute’s next appearance for trial is set for July 27, 2015.
As with any criminal case, a charge is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Tremmel and was investigated by the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office, the Davenport Police Department, the Dubuque Police Department, and 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 is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is CR 15-1012.
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Carroll County, Iowa Man to Federal Prison for Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced June 3, 2015, to more than five years in federal prison.
Christopher Julin, 29, from Manning, Iowa, received the prison term after a January 21, 2015, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
At the guilty plea, Julin admitted that from 2013 through July 2014, he was involved in a conspiracy that distributed at least five pounds of mixed methamphetamine which contained at least 1500 grams of actual (pure) methamphetamine. Julin obtained methamphetamine in 2-4 ounce quantities from Mark Weller and sold it in ¼ to one ounce quantities. Julin also admitted to trading an SKS rifle to Mark Weller in exchange for ½ ounce of methamphetamine.
Julin was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Mark W. Bennett. Julin was sentenced to 66 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Julin 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 Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations; Denison, Iowa Police Department; and Carroll County, Iowa Sheriff’s Office.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 14-4059.
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Mason City Man Back to Federal Prison on Revocation ProceedingsRead the Press Release
A man who violated multiple terms and conditions of federal supervised release was sentenced June 1, 2015, to more than four years in federal prison.
Antione Diandre Maxwell, 27, from Mason City, Iowa, received the prison term after a June 1, 2015, revocation of supervised release hearing. Maxwell was previously convicted of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine on August 17, 2007. Maxwell was sentenced at that time to 84 months’ imprisonment with a five-year term of supervised release.
Maxwell admitted to violating several terms of his supervised release, including but not limited to: failure to participate in substance abuse treatment; failure to obtain employment; association with persons involved in criminal activity; and possession of marijuana and cocaine with intent to deliver. The district court also found Maxwell violated the terms of his supervised release by the possession of a 9mm handgun while being a previously convicted felon.
Maxwell was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Mark W. Bennett. Maxwell was sentenced to 53 months’ imprisonment. The court ordered this term of imprisonment to be consecutive to the term of imprisonment he had previously been ordered to serve in the state of Iowa. He must also serve a 10-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Maxwell 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 the U.S. Probation Office and assisted by the North Central Iowa Narcotics Task Force and Mason City, Iowa Police Department.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 07-3004.
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Clay County, Iowa, Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced May 26, 2015, to 11 years in federal prison.
Todd Daugherty, 52, from Spencer, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 19, 2015, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
At the guilty plea, Daugherty admitted his involvement in a conspiracy from about 2013 and continuing through May 2014 that distributed more than 50 grams of actual (pure) methamphetamine in Spencer, Iowa, and the surrounding area. Daugherty would obtain the methamphetamine from Minnesota and later distribute the methamphetamine to multiple customers in Iowa. A traffic stop was conducted of Daugherty in Minnesota in which four ounces of methamphetamine was seized.
Daugherty was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Mark W. Bennett. Daugherty was sentenced to 132 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Daugherty 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 Clay County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa Great Lakes Drug Task Force, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Minnesota State Patrol.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 14-4067. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Cedar Rapids Man Sentenced to More than Three Years’ Imprisonment After Unlawfully Applying for Credit in Someone Else’s NameRead the Press Release
A man who unlawfully used another individual’s identity to apply for credit was sentenced to more than three years in federal prison.
Terry L. Gantt, 28, from Cedar Rapids, received the prison term after pleading guilty to wire fraud and identity theft.
At the plea hearing, Gantt admitted that, between November 2012 and February 2013, he knowingly participated in a scheme to defraud by using another identity, including the social security number, to apply for credit in that person’s name.
Gantt was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. He received a sentence of 38 months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $200 was imposed, and he was ordered to make $2,963.76 in restitution.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jacob Schunk and was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Cedar Rapids Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 14-CR-142-LRR.
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Waterloo Project Safe NeighborhoodsRead the Press Release
Waterloo, Iowa—Across the country, as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), cities have established innovative law enforcement strategies that have proven effective in addressing violent crime. The purpose of PSN is to reduce incidences of gun violence. It is carried out most effectively through the development of partnerships among federal, state and local governments. Waterloo law enforcement and the United States Attorney’s Office continued that effort yesterday in a sweep targeting seven individuals prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms and/or ammunition.
A joint press conference was held at the Waterloo City Hall the day following the unsealing of the complaints in federal court against the seven individuals charged with federal gun crimes.
A spike in firearm related incidents in the recent past caused local law enforcement and the United States Attorney’s for the Northern District of Iowa to examine the patterns of criminal activity and to take decisive action to address it. U.S. Attorney Kevin Techau stated, “This focus helps ensure the public’s law enforcement resources are put to their best and most efficient use.” Techau further noted, “As we enter the summer months, those thinking of using or possessing a weapon illegally are on notice—expect to be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
Waterloo Police Chief Dan Trelka and Black Hawk County Sheriff Tony Thompson joined in the press conference, each noting their commitment to keeping the streets and county safe. Both noted, “One way we will do this is by holding offenders accountable.” Black Hawk County Attorney Tom Ferguson stated, “Through a collaborative teamwork approach we have made a statement to those thinking of committing a crime. If you do, expected to be arrested and prosecuted.”
The recent charges cover a spectrum of federal firearm violations, such as: felon in possession of a firearm, unlawful user of a controlled substance in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and domestic abuser in possession of a firearm. Each violation is punishable by the following maximum penalties: (1) up to 10 years’ imprisonment without the possibility of parole; (2) a fine up to $250,000; (3) a mandatory special assessment of $100; and (4) a term of supervised release up to 3 years.
Project Safe Neighborhoods public service announcements offer compelling narratives depicting how gun violence affects the family:
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UcVCP4A8Wng
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GRaw-LeW2HA
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Seven Charged with Waterloo Firearm and Ammunition OffensesRead the Press Release
Six men and a woman have been charged with firearm and ammunition offenses. The charges are contained in complaints unsealed late yesterday and this morning in United States District Court in Cedar Rapids.
Shane Paul Sliekers, age 30, from Waterloo, Iowa, has been charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The Complaint (Case Number 15-MJ-156-JSS) alleges that, on or about August 7, 2014, Sliekers possessed a .380 caliber handgun at his residence on Center Street in Waterloo. Sliekers allegedly used the handgun to fire at his ex-wife and another person on Mulberry Street in Waterloo earlier that same day. Sliekers allegedly had been convicted of felony Second Degree Burglary in 2002 and felony Willful Injury/Domestic Abuse in 2004.
Sliekers is in state custody. No appearance date has been set.
Dameon Harris, age 23, from Waterloo, Iowa, has been charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The Complaint (Case Number 15-MJ-152-JSS) alleges that, on or about April 7, 2015, Harris possessed a loaded .22 caliber handgun at his girlfriend’s apartment in Parkview Boulevard in Waterloo. Harris allegedly matched the description of a person involved in a shooting near the apartment earlier that day. Officers allegedly recovered spent .22 caliber shell casings from the area of the shooting. Harris allegedly had been convicted of felony Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon/Vehicle in 2013.
Harris appears today, May 27, 2015, at 10:45 a.m. in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Dreyan Rashad Anderson, age 19, from Waterloo, Iowa, has been charged with one count of being an unlawful user of marijuana in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The Complaint (Case Number 15-MJ-154-JSS) alleges that, on or about April 7, 2015, Anderson possessed a loaded .32 caliber revolver in his waistband during a traffic stop on Martin Luther King Drive and Linden Avenue in Waterloo. At the time, Anderson was allegedly an unlawful user of marijuana.
Anderson appears today, May 27, 2015, at 1:30 p.m. in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Tyrone Parrow, age 25, from Waterloo, Iowa, has been charged with one count of being a domestic abuser in possession of a firearm. The Complaint (Case Number 15-MJ-159-JSS) alleges that, on or about April 7, 2015, at about 1:15 a.m., Parrow possessed a loaded 9 millimeter handgun during a traffic stop in the area of West 9th Street and Linder Drive in Waterloo. A female and a small child were in the vehicle with Parrow at the time of the stop. Parrow allegedly had been convicted of Domestic Abuse Assault / Strangulation and Domestic Abuse Assault Causing Bodily Injury in March 2014.
Parrow is in state custody. No appearance date has been set.
Christine Tiara Williams, age 34, from Cedar Falls, Iowa, and Marcus Robert Sykes, age 29, from Waterloo, Iowa, have each been charged with one count of being unlawful users of marijuana in possession of a firearm. The Complaint (Case Number 15-MJ-157-JSS) alleges that, on or about April 8, 2015, Williams and Sykes possessed a 9 millimeter handgun seized from a vehicle parked at a gas station on La Porte Road in Waterloo. At the time, both Williams and Sykes were allegedly unlawful users of marijuana. Officers’ attention was allegedly brought to the vehicle and block due to an earlier shooting in the 1400 block of Jefferson in Waterloo. Williams allegedly bought the handgun two days before, on April 6, 2015, and gave it to Sykes.
Williams appeared yesterday, May 26, 2015, in federal court in Cedar Rapids and was released on conditions set by the court.
Sykes also appeared yesterday May 26, 2015, in federal court in Cedar Rapids and was detained pending a detention hearing set for May 28, 2015 at 11:00 a.m.
Marshondus Trenedale Brown, age 23, from Waterloo, Iowa, has been charged with one count of being an unlawful user of marijuana in possession of ammunition. The Complaint (Case Number 15-MJ-155-JSS) alleges that, on or about April 17, 2015, Brown possessed .45 caliber ammunition at a convenience store on Broadway Street in Waterloo. At the time, Brown was allegedly an unlawful user of marijuana. Brown had allegedly fired the ammunition from a firearm in connection with a fight that started in the store and then spilled out into the street.
Brown is in state custody. No appearance date has been set.
If convicted, each individual faces a possible maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a $100 special assessment, and 3 years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
As with any criminal case, a charge is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Tony Morfitt, C.J. Williams, Dan Chatham, and Tim Vavricek, and Special Assistant United States Attorneys Erin Eldridge and Ravi Narayan in coordination with the Blackhawk County Attorney’s Office. The cases were investigated by the Waterloo Police Department, the Blackhawk County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
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Jury Convicts Man of Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was convicted by a jury May 22, 2015, after a 2 ½-day trial in federal court in Sioux City.
Jose W. Orellana, 42, from South Sioux City, Nebraska, was convicted of conspiracy to distribute 5 grams or more but less than 50 grams of actual (pure) methamphetamine. The verdict was returned May 22, 2015, following about 3 ½ hours of jury deliberations.
The evidence at trial showed that Orellana participated in a conspiracy that distributed methamphetamine in Sioux City, Iowa and South Sioux City, Nebraska. Law enforcement officers collected evidence from September 2013 through May 13, 2014.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Mark W. Bennett will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Orellana was taken into custody by the United States Marshal after the verdict was returned and will remain in custody pending sentencing. Orellana faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 40 years’ imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, a special assessment of $100, and four years up to life of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 14-4046.
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