Northern District of Iowa
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Mexican Man and Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Being Found in the United States IllegallyRead the Press Release
A Mexican man who was illegally in the United States pled guilty June 9, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.
Gerardo Morales-Ramirez, a citizen of Mexico, was convicted of being a felon found in the United States after illegal reentry.
On February 28, 2025, Morales-Ramirez was arrested in Sioux City, Iowa, after an encounter with officers from the Department of Homeland Security. Officers were able to determine Morales-Ramirez is a citizen of Mexico, that he did not have permission to lawfully be present in the United States, and that he was previously removed from the United States on three occasions. Prior to his last removal in 2021, Morales-Ramirez had been convicted of felony operating while intoxicated – third or subsequent offense.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Morales-Ramirez remains in custody of the United States Marshals and will remain in custody pending sentencing. He faces a possible maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and not more than three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-CR-4014. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Mexican Man Pleads Guilty to Being an Aggravated Felon Found in the United States IllegallyRead the Press Release
A Mexican man who was illegally in the United States pled guilty June 9, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City, Iowa. Jose De Jesus Mejia-Fraijo, a citizen of Mexico, was convicted of being an aggravated felon found in the United States after illegal reentry.
On March 1, 2025, officers from the Iowa State Patrol encountered Mejia-Fraijo in Sioux City, Iowa, when they arrested him for driving without a valid driver’s license and interference with official acts after a brief attempt to flee from officers on foot. Officers with the Department of Homeland Security were able to determine Mejia-Fraijo is a citizen of Mexico, that he did not have permission to lawfully be present in the United States, and that he was previously removed from the United States on two occasions. Prior to his last removal in 2022, Mejia-Fraijo had been convicted of an aggravated felony offense, namely conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Iowa.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Mejia-Fraijo remains in custody of the United States Marshals and will remain in custody pending sentencing. He faces a possible maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and not more than three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 25-4015. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Fort Dodge Man Pleads Guilty to Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Aaron StandsAndLooksBack, a/k/a Aaron Woodman, 42, from Fort Dodge, Iowa, pled guilty June 4, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
At the plea hearing, StandsAndLooksBack admitted that between December 2020 and December 2023, he and others conspired to distribute at least 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine. Evidence also showed that StandsAndLooksBack obtained, by buying or stealing, methamphetamine to distribute to others. StandsAndLooksBack also admitted that he stole sizable amounts of methamphetamine from his mother and resold the methamphetamine to others in the Fort Dodge, Iowa area.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. StandsAndLooksBack remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. StandsAndLooksBack faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Fort Dodge Iowa Police Department, Webster County Sheriff’s Office, Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, and the Iowa DCI Laboratory.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-3053. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Cherokee, Iowa, Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Lance Paul White, 33, from Cherokee, Iowa, pled guilty on June 5, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City, to possession of child pornography.
At the plea hearing, White admitted to receiving and possessing child pornography. After a CyberTip was received regarding White’s Gmail account, law enforcement established that White had possessed and viewed several graphic videos depicting child pornography. Law enforcement traced the internet activity back to White’s address in Cherokee, Iowa. White engaged in a consensual interview with officers at his home and admitted that he possessed child pornography, and several electronics were seized. Forensic analysis of White’s electronic devices revealed dozens of videos and images of child pornography, as well as several AI or cartoon photographs and videos of child pornography. Evidence further showed that the materials involved prepubescent minors and portrayed sadistic or masochistic conduct or other depictions of violence.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. White remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. White faces a possible maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
The case was investigated by the Sioux City Police Department and Cherokee Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kraig R. Hamit.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-4076. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Cerro Gordo County Man Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Dustin Burkhardt, 36, from Rockwell, Iowa, was convicted of possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine June 5, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.
At the plea hearing, evidence showed that on September 29, 2024, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Burkhardt. Law enforcement observed an open container in the vehicle and conducted a probable cause search. Law enforcement located and seized a glass pipe in the center console and a backpack from the front passenger footwell. Inside of the backpack was another pouch which contained four zip-top baggies containing 137.12 grams of pure methamphetamine. Burkhardt admitted that all of the methamphetamine seized belonged to him and he intended to distribute some or all of the methamphetamine to another person or persons.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Burkhardt remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Burkhardt faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case was investigated by Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Iowa State Patrol, and Iowa DCI Laboratory and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kraig R. Hamit.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-3015. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Sioux City Man Sentenced to More Than 10 Years in Federal Prison for Firearm and Meth ConvictionsRead the Press Release
A man who illegally possessed three guns and several ounces of methamphetamine was sentenced on June 3, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.
Felipe Alcaraz, Jr., 35, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty on January 21, 2025, to three counts of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Alcaraz, Jr. was previously convicted of eluding and possession of a controlled substance – third or subsequent offense, both prohibit a person from possessing a firearm.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, evidence showed that on several occasions Alcaraz, Jr. fled law enforcement’s attempts to conduct traffic stops of vehicles he operated, driving recklessly at high speeds creating danger to others. Alcaraz, Jr. was found to be involved with at least three guns. During two traffic stops, law enforcement located guns and ammunition, and on another traffic stop, defendant had two ounces of methamphetamine seized. One gun was stolen, another had an altered serial number, and a third was sold to another federal felon caught with it during his attempted flight from law enforcement. Alcaraz, Jr. admitted his involvement with at least 350 grams of methamphetamine which he intended to distribute to others in the Sioux City area.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Alcaraz, Jr. was sentenced to 125 months’ imprisonment and must serve a term of six years supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Alcaraz, Jr. remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-4052.
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Humbolt, Iowa, Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Exploitation of a ChildRead the Press Release
Paul William Flett, age 44, from Humbolt, Iowa, was sentenced in federal court in Sioux City, Iowa, on June 3, 2025. Flett pled guilty January 23, 2025, to one count to sexual exploitation of a child.
Evidence in the case showed that Flett sent links and images of child pornography to underage girls and asked them to send images and videos of themselves to him. On June 6, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Flett’s home and in a consensual interview, Flett admitted to the conduct and that he threw his phone in a closet when law enforcement arrived because he knew they were there for him. Forensic analysis of Flett’s electronics and Kik account discovered a total of 16 videos and 60 images of child pornography including several that Flett had asked children to record of themselves. The images and videos contained material that portrayed sadistic or masochistic conduct, as well as prepubescent children, infants, and toddlers.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Flett was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment, ordered to pay $3,600 in restitution and assessments, and ordered to serve a term of supervised release of 5 years following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Flett remains in custody of the U.S. Marshals Service until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Cyber-Crime Unit, and Webster County Sheriff’s Office in Missouri and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kraig R. Hamit.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-03036.
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Cedar Rapids Man Sentenced to Federal Prison After Pleading Guilty to Multiple Felony OffensesRead the Press Release
A Cedar Rapids man who was found in possession of hundreds of fentanyl pills and multiple firearms was sentenced on June 3, 2025, to more than eight years in federal prison.
Deshawn Cooks, age 34, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a December 30, 2024, guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
In a plea agreement, Cooks admitted he possessed 227 pills containing a detectable amount of fentanyl and 77 ecstasy pills, containing methamphetamine, which he intended to distribute in Cedar Rapids and the surrounding area. Additionally, Cooks admitted that he possessed two Taurus 9mm caliber firearms for the purpose of protecting himself, his narcotics, and the proceeds from the sale of narcotics.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Cooks was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Cooks was sentenced to 102 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Jared Manternach and Assistant United States Attorney Dillan Edwards and investigated by the Cedar Rapids Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-74.
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Meth and Marijuana User Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Possessing a Sawed-Off ShotgunRead the Press Release
An unlawful user of methamphetamine and marijuana who possessed a sawed-off shotgun that he fired was sentenced today to five years in federal prison.
Tyler Dunlap, age 33, from Bennett, Iowa, received the prison term after a January 3, 2025 guilty plea to one count of being an unlawful user of controlled substances in possession of a firearm.
In a plea agreement, Dunlap admitted that on October 30, 2023, he was involved in a verbal dispute with another person. That person left the home but saw Dunlap with a shotgun and called law enforcement. Deputies and officers arrived at the residence. As they approached the house going down a long lane, a deputy heard Dunlap fire the shotgun out the back of the house. Dunlap did not know that law enforcement officers were on the scene at the time he discharged the gun. After an officer contacted him, Dunlap left the house unarmed. Officers found the shotgun, a used shell, and drug paraphernalia in the house. Later tests revealed that Dunlap had methamphetamine and marijuana in his system at the time.
Dunlap was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Dunlap was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Dunlap 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 Cedar County Sheriff’s Office and the Tipton Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-85.
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Cedar Rapids Fentanyl Dealer Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A Cedar Rapids man who distributed thousands of fentanyl pills was sentenced on June 2, 2025, to more than six years in federal prison.
Artadius Damon Robinson, age 24, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a December 31, 2024 guilty plea to one count of distribution of a controlled substance.
Information disclosed at the sentencing hearing showed that, between April 2022 and August 2023, Robinson distributed thousands of fentanyl pills in the Cedar Rapids area. At one point, Robinson bragged that he made $1,000 a day selling fentanyl. During the period he was distributing fentanyl, Robinson possessed a firearm with an extended drum magazine attached. Robinson had been ineligible to possess firearms since 2020 due to two firearm‑related felony convictions.
Robinson was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Robinson was sentenced to 78 months’ imprisonment, and he must also serve a three‑year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Robinson is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dillan Edwards and investigated by the Johnson County Drug Task Force, consisting of the Johnson County Sherriff’s Office, the Iowa City Police Department, the Coralville Police Department, the North Liberty Police Department, the University of Iowa Police Department, and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; the Cedar Rapids Police Department; and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 24‑CR‑00057. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Fentanyl Distributor Sentenced to More Than 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who distributed, and conspired to distribute, fentanyl was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison on May 30, 2025. Alexander Sebastian, age 30, from Fort Dodge, Iowa, received the prison term after a January 31, 2025, guilty plea to conspiring to distribute fentanyl.
Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearing showed that from December 2020 and February 2024, he and others were involved in a conspiracy to distribute pills containing fentanyl across Iowa, Nebraska, and Minnesota, and that he took part in the distribution of over 20,000 pills. Sebastian admitted that, in October 2022, as part of the conspiracy, he knowingly participated in the distribution of pills containing fentanyl to another who then died from a fentanyl overdose.
Sebastian was sentenced in Sioux City, Iowa, by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Sebastian was sentenced to 132 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. He was further ordered to pay the family of the victim $7,000 in restitution. There is no parole in the federal system. Sebastian 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 Patrick T. Greenwood 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.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-3026. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Felon who Possessed Drugs for Distribution and a Firearm Sentenced to Five Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A Chicago man who possessed and distributed controlled substances and also possessed a firearm as a felon was sentenced today to five years in federal prison.
Ra-Melle Lewis Williams, age 53, from Chicago, Illinois, received the prison term after a December 23, 2024 guilty plea to Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Williams had a prior conviction for attempted murder and aggravated battery with a firearm. In April 2023, when law enforcement executed a search warrant at his residence, they located methamphetamine, cocaine and fentanyl, along with a firearm.
Williams was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Williams was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Williams 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 Nicole L. Nagin, and it was investigated by the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office, the Iowa Department of Public Safety, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR- 02028.
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Convicted Felon Who Resisted Arrest Sentence to Federal Prison for Unlawful Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
A convicted felon who possessed a gun that he displayed in public and then resisted arrest was sentenced today to more than a year in federal prison.
Jason Harris, age 37, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a December 30, 2024, guilty plea to one count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Evidence at the sentencing hearing showed that on July 26, 2024, Harris possessed a loaded handgun. Harris took the gun out while a fight was occurring between other individuals. Cedar Rapids police officers arrived and saw Harris with the gun in his pants. As the officers approached him, Harris said “nope” and attempted to flee. Officers caught him quickly, but he continued to resist and reach for the gun. Harris has prior felony convictions for driving under the influence and felon in possession of a firearm.
Harris was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Harris was sentenced to eighteen months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Harris 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 Cedar Rapids Safe Streets Task Force. The task force is composed of representatives from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cedar Rapids Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-cr-77.
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California Man Involved in Methamphetamine Trafficking Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine and launder money was sentenced today to 30 years in federal prison.
Francisco Murillo, age 31, from San Bernardino, California, received the prison term after a December 20, 2024, guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering.
Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings showed that Murillo was involved in a large-scale drug trafficking organization that was responsible for sending methamphetamine from California to Iowa through the United States Postal Service. Murillo and others in California sent packages containing methamphetamine through the United States Postal Service to several addresses in Cedar Rapids. Murillo’s co-conspirators in Iowa sent the cash proceeds from the distribution of controlled substances back to California in packages that listed fake names and return addresses.
Murillo was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Murillo was sentenced to 360 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Murillo 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 Adam J. Vander Stoep and was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Internal Revenue Service, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force. The DEA Task Force consists of the DEA, the Linn County Sheriff's Office, the Cedar Rapids Police Department, the Marion Police Department, and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 22-CR-91.
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Arizona Fentanyl Distributor Convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute controlled substances by mailing packages with methamphetamine and fentanyl from Arizona to Dubuque, Iowa, was convicted by a jury on May 29, 2025, after a four-day trial in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Daniel Alan Van Gorp, age 43, who was living in Arizona at the time, was convicted of one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, both fentanyl and methamphetamine. The jury also found that the fentanyl Van Gorp conspired to distribute resulted in a serious bodily injury to a victim in Iowa. The verdict was returned following about five hours of jury deliberations.
The evidence at trial showed that Van Gorp mailed multiple packages with fentanyl pills, fentanyl powder, and “ice” methamphetamine to Alexander Chapman in Dubuque, Iowa. Chapman then re-distributed the controlled substances to others in the Dubuque area. The evidence at trial also showed that on May 15, 2023, the fentanyl powder that was mailed by Van Gorp was used by a victim and the victim suffered a serious bodily injury.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Van Gorp remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Van Gorp faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nicole L. Nagin and was investigated by the Dubuque Drug Task Force, the United States Postal Inspection, and the Phoenix Police Department. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 24-CR-1003.
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Marion Man Who Trafficked Fentanyl and Cocaine Sentenced to Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who distributed fentanyl and cocaine was sentenced May 22, 2025, to more than seven years in federal prison.
Kendrick Ankum, age 52, from Marion, Iowa, received the prison term after a January 27, 2025, guilty plea to Possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession of a firearm by a felon.
Evidence at the guilty plea and sentencing hearing showed that on four occasions between March 28, 2024, and April 25, 2024, Ankum distributed fentanyl and cocaine to a confidential source. On May 16, 2024, investigators searched Ankum’s properties. At his Marion residence, officers located four firearms, 2,518 pills containing fentanyl, and over 750 grams of cocaine.
Ankum was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Ankum was sentenced to 87 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Ankum is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Michael S.A. Hudson and was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force consisting of the DEA; the Linn County Sheriff's Office; the Cedar Rapids Police Department; the Marion Police Department; and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-86.
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Hiawatha Man Who Assaulted Officers with a Car and a Loaded Firearm Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who used his car to hit a Deputy United States Marshal’s car and then grabbed a loaded firearm was sentenced on May 22, 2025, to fourteen years in federal prison.
Nathan Isadore Jiles, age 25, from Hiawatha, Iowa, received the prison term after an October 15, 2024 guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a felon and a December 5, 2024 guilty plea to assault of a federal officer involving physical contact with the victim.
Information from the sentencing showed that, on May 17, 2024, there was a warrant for Jiles’s arrest. Members of the United States Marshals Service Northern Iowa Fugitive Task Force initiated a vehicle pin maneuver to arrest Jiles near the intersection of Interstate 380 and Blairs Ferry Road in Cedar Rapids. Law enforcement vehicles were positioned on all four sides of Jiles’s car. Law enforcement officers instructed Jiles to turn his car off and throw the keys out of the window. Instead, Jiles reversed his car into a car occupied by a Deputy United States Marshal, causing the car door and dash to hit the deputy. Jiles’s actions caused the deputy’s car to strike a Sixth Judicial District High Risk Unit Officer who was stationed behind the car in the chest. Another officer approached Jiles’s car and tased him. Jiles rolled up his window to disrupt the taser, and the officer broke the car window. The officer saw Jiles holding a firearm with an extended magazine. Jiles was either trying to work the slide of the firearm or pull the firearm from a holster. The officer alerted the other members of the task force that Jiles was in possession of a firearm. Jiles dropped the firearm but continued to resist arrest by pulling his hands back into the car where the loaded firearm was. Officers had to tase Jiles several more times and then wrestle him out of his car and away from the firearm. Jiles has prior convictions for sexual abuse in the third degree and felon in possession of a firearm.
Jiles was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Jiles was sentenced to 168 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Jiles is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kyndra Lundquist and investigated by the United States Marshals Service and the Northern Iowa Fugitive Task Force. The Northern Iowa Fugitive Task Force is comprised of officers from the United States Marshals Service, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Cedar Rapids Police Department, Waterloo Police Department, Marion Police Department, Independence Police Department, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Iowa Department of Corrections
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-0039.
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Cedar Rapids Man Sentenced to Federal Prison After Pleading Guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a FelonRead the Press Release
Robert Shawn Griffin, age 26, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was sentenced on May 22, 2025, in federal court in Cedar Rapids after previously pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a felon.
In a plea agreement, Griffin admitted that he was previously convicted of multiple felony offenses. Information at the sentencing hearing showed that Griffin committed several firearm-related offenses in 2024. In February 2024, in Cedar Rapids, Griffin fired a firearm at a residential house. In March 2024, at a storage facility in Cedar Rapids, Griffin pointed a firearm at another individual and pulled the trigger though the firearm did not discharge. In April 2024, in rural Center Point, Iowa, Griffin possessed a firearm while trying to steal an ATV.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Griffin was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Griffin was sentenced to 64 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Griffin is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Jared Manternach and was investigated by the Linn County Sheriff’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-56.
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Tama Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Jacob Samuel Yang, age 36, from Tama, Iowa, pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids to distributing child pornography and possessing child pornography.
In a plea agreement, Yang admitted that in March 2024, he sent child pornography to other people. He stored child pornography on his cellular phone and computer. The child pornography included a depiction of an infant or toddler.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Yang remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Yang faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 40 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, $62,200 in special assessments, and a lifetime term of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Devra T. Hake and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, the Tama County Sheriff’s Office, the Tama Police Department, and the Marshalltown Police Department.
Court file information is at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-CR-24.
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Merrill Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Distribution of MethRead the Press Release
Larry Snyder, Jr., 44, from Merrill, Iowa, was sentenced May 16, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City. Snyder, Jr. pled guilty on January 7, 2025, and January 30, 2025, to one count of conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and four counts of distributing methamphetamine.
Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings showed that from November 2023 through August 2024, Snyder, Jr. and others conspired to distribute 1500 grams or more of methamphetamine in the Sioux City, Iowa area. On four occasions in 2024, Snyder, Jr. distributed a total of over 650 grams of pure methamphetamine to an individual cooperating with law enforcement. The last transaction occurred within 1000 feet of an elementary school. Evidence further showed that on August 26, 2024, Snyder, Jr. and a co-conspirator were in possession of or involved with an additional 479 grams of pure methamphetamine. In September 2024, Snyder, Jr. tried to elude law enforcement by means of a high-speed chase, and later, a foot-pursuit with law enforcement agents before his apprehension.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Snyder, Jr. remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison. Snyder, Jr. was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment and must serve a term of five years of supervised release following the imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-4064.
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Mapleton, Iowa, Man Who Possessed Child Pornography Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Gregory William Douglas McCormick, 23, from Mapleton, Iowa, was sentenced May 20, 2025, to 5 years in federal prison. McCormick received the prison term after a January 6, 2025, guilty plea to possession of child pornography.
Evidence in the case showed that between May 1, 2022, and February 23, 2023, McCormick received, distributed, and possessed child pornography. In 2022, the internet messaging application Kik became aware one of its users uploaded approximately seven files that depicted child pornography. Kik reported the account to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and a CyberTip report was assigned to the Iowa Internet Crimes Against Child Task Force. Law enforcement tracked the account back to McCormick. Law enforcement executed a search warrant at McCormick’s residence and during an interview with law enforcement he confirmed he was the individual responsible for the receipt and distribution of child pornography connected to the CyberTip. McCormick admitted there would be child pornography on his current cell phone as well as two older cell phones. A forensic search of McCormick’s cell phones and Kik account showed he possessed a total of 120 images and 7 videos of child pornography. The videos and images included infants and toddlers as well as sadistic and masochistic conduct.
McCormick was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. McCormick was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment. He was ordered to make $10,100 in restitution and assessments. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. McCormick is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
The case was investigated by Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Cyber Crime Bureau and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kraig R. Hamit.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-4047.
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Fort Dodge Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
Daniel Smith, 38, from Fort Dodge, Iowa, pled guilty on May 20, 2025, to one count of illegal possession of firearms, in federal court in Sioux City. Smith was previously convicted of Unauthorized Possession of Offensive Weapons, in 2017, and Dominion/Control of Firearm/Offensive Weapon by a Felon, in 2022 both in Iowa. These convictions prohibited Smith from possessing firearms.
At the plea hearing, Smith admitted that in November 2024, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, he possessed one rifle and two shotguns which had been provided to him by another person to clean/store. On November 16, 2024, law enforcement went to Smith’s residence regarding a shots fired call and observed evidence of a shotgun being fired. During a follow-up search warrant on November 21, 2024, at Smith’s residence, law enforcement seized 3 guns, a .22 rifle, a .410 shotgun, and a 16-gauge shotgun. Smith admitted he had received the firearms and had fired two of the firearms to test their functioning.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Smith remains in custody of the United States Marshal and will remain in custody pending sentencing. Smith faces a possible maximum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and not more than three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Fort Dodge Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-3052.
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Dubuque Man Sentenced to 45 Years for Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
A man who sexually exploited two children was sentenced today to 45 years in federal prison.
Justin James Paisley, age 35, from Dubuque, Iowa, received the prison term after a December 18, 2024 guilty plea to sexual exploitation of children and distribution of child pornography.
Evidence at the sentencing hearing showed that between the spring of 2022 and May 2024, on multiple occasions, Paisley and his co-conspirator, John Dixon, committed sexual acts with a prepubescent child. They photographed and videotaped the child engaging in sexual conduct and sent those images to each other via text message. Paisley also photographed a second prepubescent child engaged in sexually explicit conduct and sent the photograph to Dixon.
Paisley was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Paisley was sentenced to 540 months’ imprisonment and must also serve a 10-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Paisley is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
John Dixon’s sentencing hearing has been scheduled for June 23, 2025. Dixon remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Dixon faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 50 years’ imprisonment, a $500,000 fine, $95,200 in special assessments, and life term of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Devra T. Hake and investigated by the Dubuque Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-1032.
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Story City Man Conspiring to Distribute Meth and Fentanyl Pleads Guilty in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl pled guilty May 8, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.
William Clark, Jr., 40, from Story City, Iowa, was convicted of one count of conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl.
At the plea hearing, Clark, Jr. admitted that from January 2024 through April 27, 2024, he and others conspired to distribute at least ½ pound of methamphetamine and more than 1700 pills of fentanyl. On April 21, 2024, Clark, Jr., along with two others were headed to Colorado to pick up more methamphetamine and to sell fentanyl pills. They attempted to elude law enforcement in a high-speed vehicle chase. Clark, Jr. also made a “false” 911 call to law enforcement in an attempt to assist his attempted eluding and avoid their capture with evidence of drug trafficking.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Clark, Jr. remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Clark, Jr. faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 40 years’ imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, and at least four years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Ida and Sac County Sheriff’s Offices, the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and the Woodbury County Attorney’s Office; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and Iowa DCI Laboratory
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-4042. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Sioux City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Kidnapping and Possessing Ammunition as a Felon and Drug UserRead the Press Release
Bobby Rhoden, age 50, from Sioux City, was sentenced today, to 31 years in federal prison, after a 5-day jury trial in April 2024, finding him guilty of one count of kidnapping and one count of possession of ammunition by a felon and drug user.
Evidence at trial and sentencing showed the kidnapping began with defendant manipulating the victim – including by threatening her daughter – out of a domestic abuse shelter and into his car. Over the next 36 hours, while armed with a knife and a handgun, Rhoden took his victim’s glasses, brutalized her, and drove her to at least two locations where he terrorized others as well (including a mother and small children). Ultimately, the victim ran out of the garage — zigzagging for her life — as defendant pursued her and fired his gun.
A subsequent investigation of the kidnapping revealed live ammunition and a spent casing in the garage where Rhoden lived and which was one of the locations where he held his victim. Additionally, it came to light that leading up to the kidnapping, Rhoden had put a gun to his victim’s head and pulled the trigger, isolated her by taking or breaking her phone, and made recordings, of a sexual nature, of her, without her consent. Also, the evidence showed that during the investigation, Rhoden took steps to influence his victim and, also, his estranged wife by asking them to claim ownership of the firearm, and by hiding the firearm
Rhoden has a long criminal history. His past felony convictions include two counts of forgery in Scott County, Iowa, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance in Scott County, Iowa and conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Iowa. Upon leaving prison Rhoden rearmed and boasted that he had done so and was standing by to blow off someone’s kneecap if he needed to do so.
Rhoden was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand to 372 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Rhoden is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was investigated by the Sioux City, Iowa Police Department, the United States Department of Justice’s Bureau of Alcohol Tabaco Firearms and Explosives, the Woodbury County Attorney’s Office. The Case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 22-4073.
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Sioux City Man Sent to Federal Prison for Receipt and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
A Sioux City man was sentenced May 15, 2025, to more than 7 years in federal prison.
Uriah Jordan Buffalo Chief-Torrez, II, 36, from Sioux City, Iowa, received the prison term after a January 21, 2025, guilty plea to receipt and possession of child pornography.
At the sentencing hearing, evidence showed Buffalo Chief-Torrez was found to be in receipt of and possession of child pornography. In September and October 2023, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children submitted to law enforcement six CyberTip reports from Synchronoss showed Buffalo Chief-Torrez uploaded approximately 56 files containing child sexual abuse material. In an interview with law enforcement, Buffalo Chief-Torrez admitted individuals on several social media platforms had tried to show and sell him child pornography. Buffalo Chief-Torrez admitted that individuals on Telegram would sell him “CP” for $65. Buffalo Chief-Torrez admitted that he viewed 15 or 16 videos of child pornography. Buffalo Chief-Torrez admitted he downloaded child pornography on nine separate occasions and had streamed child pornography on social media. Forensic analysis of defendant’s phone showed he possessed 24 images and 56 videos of child pornography. The images and videos contained material that portrayed sadistic or masochistic conduct or the sexual abuse and exploitation of infants and toddlers.
Buffalo Chief-Torrez was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Buffalo Chief-Torrez was sentenced to 90 months’ imprisonment. He was also ordered to pay $4,200 in restitution and assessments. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Buffalo Chief-Torrez is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was investigated by the Sioux City Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kraig R. Hamit.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-4029.
Chicago Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Resulting in the Death of a Young Dubuque WomanRead the Press Release
A man who conspired with others to distribute large quantities of cocaine that resulted in the death of a young Dubuque, Iowa, woman was sentenced today to more than 24 years in federal prison.
Maurice Levelle Randolph, age 45, from Chicago, Illinois, received the prison term after a December 5, 2024, guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams of more of cocaine within 1000 feet of several parks and schools in Dubuque between 2017 and April 2021, that resulted in the death of a young Dubuque woman on February 14, 2021.
At the plea hearing, Randolph admitted he was a member of a conspiracy to distribute cocaine in the Dubuque area near numerous parks and schools. He admitted he brought cocaine from Chicago and then worked with others to distribute the cocaine to customers in Dubuque. On February 14, 2021, one of Randolph’s co-conspirators distributed cocaine to a young woman in Dubuque who went home, used the cocaine and died.
Randolph was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Randolph was sentenced to 292 months’ imprisonment. He was ordered to make $13,911 in restitution jointly with two other individuals to the victim’s family. He must also serve an 8-year term of supervised release after the prison term. The Court also forfeited $17,203 in drug proceeds seized from Randolph. There is no parole in the federal system.
Randolph is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Patrick J. Reinert and Nicole Nagin and was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department
of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Iowa Medical Examiner’s Office and the Dubuque Drug Task Force, comprised of Dubuque Police Department, Dubuque Sheriff’s Office. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 23-CR-01013.
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Minnesota Man Pleads Guilty to Harboring FugitiveRead the Press Release
A Minnesota man who harbored and concealed a fugitive in 2022 pled guilty on May 13, 2025, in federal court in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Jay Anthony Tapper, age 56, from Rosemount, Minnesota, was convicted of one count of harboring a fugitive.
At the plea hearing, Tapper admitted that, in August and September 2022, he knew there was a federal warrant outstanding for the arrest of Mary Kate Nguyen. Tapper harbored and concealed Nguyen during those two months. Tapper intended to prevent Nguyen’s discovery and arrest on then-pending felony charges. U.S. Marshals ultimately arrested Nguyen, and she was sentenced to ten years’ imprisonment on fraud and contempt charges in January 2025.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Tapper remains free on bond pending sentencing. Tapper faces a possible maximum sentence of five years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Timothy L. Vavricek and was investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation-Special Enforcement Operations Bureau. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Woodbury (Minnesota) Police Department, U.S. Marshal’s Service, Sioux County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa State Patrol, Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement, and Iowa Division of Intelligence assisted in the investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file numbers are 25-CR-4024 (Tapper) and 21-CR-3037 (Nguyen).
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Waterloo Man Who Attempted to Murder Victim Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who discharged multiple rounds of ammunition in downtown Waterloo during a murder attempt was sentenced on May 12, 2025, to more than thirteen years in federal prison.
Laindrell Myquail Cooper, age 22, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after an October 21, 2024 guilty plea to possession of ammunition by a felon.
Information from sentencing showed that Cooper was a member of a gang in Waterloo. On the morning of November 18, 2022, an associate of Cooper’s got into an argument with the victim at a barbershop in downtown Waterloo. Cooper’s associate called someone to bring Cooper downtown. Cooper was dressed in all black clothing, including a mask. Cooper was dropped off a few blocks from the barbershop. After briefly entering and exiting the barbershop, he located the victim across the street. Cooper walked into the middle of the street, around a city bus, and then fired at least six rounds of ammunition at the victim, pursuing him as he sought shelter in the entryway of a storefront. Cooper’s actions caused another man to discharge his firearm as three of his family members were in a car in or near the line of fire. No one was injured. Two storefronts and two cars were damaged by gunfire. Additional evidence established that Cooper previously possessed a firearm that ballistics testing showed was discharged in a shots-fired incident that occurred in Waterloo on July 5, 2021.
Cooper was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. In pronouncing the sentence, Chief Judge Williams stated that Cooper represented “a clear and present danger to the public.” Cooper was sentenced to 160 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Cooper is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kyndra Lundquist and investigated by investigated by a Federal Task Force composed of the Waterloo Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms assisted by the Black Hawk County Sheriff’s Office and Cedar Falls Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 23-CR-2034.
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Sioux City Man Pleads Guilty to Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Alexander Summers, 29, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty May 8, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine.
At the plea hearing Summers admitted that for five months in 2023 he and others conspired to distribute methamphetamine in the Sioux City, Iowa area. Specifically, on one occasion in 2023, Summers distributed over 400 grams of pure methamphetamine to an individual cooperating with law enforcement. Summers further admitted to methamphetamine trafficking and assisting another in methamphetamine trafficking in exchange for a place to live in Sioux City.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Summers remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Summers faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and the Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-4051. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Former Algona Meatpacking Plant Worker Convicted in Pandemic Benefits Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A former Algona, Iowa, meatpacking plant worker who obtained fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program loans and recruited others into the scheme was convicted by a jury on May 8, 2025, after a four-day trial in federal court in Sioux City.
Yovany Ciero, age 48, from Mason City, Iowa, formerly of Cuba, Colombia, and Venezuela, was convicted of three counts of wire fraud, 23 counts of money laundering, one count of engaging in a monetary transaction in property derived from a specified unlawful activity, and one count of money laundering conspiracy. The verdict was returned following about three and a half hours of jury deliberations.
The evidence at trial showed that Ciero is a former Sergeant in the Cuban military who crossed the Mexican border nearly twenty years ago after his request for a visa to enter the United States was denied. In 2020, Ciero was working at an Algona meatpacking plant when the COVID-19 pandemic began. Beginning in July 2020, Ciero, and over one hundred other immigrants from Cuba, obtained fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans on the false and fraudulent pretenses that they were self-employed businesspeople who earned approximately $100,000 in gross income in 2019 when they actually worked at the meatpacking plant or elsewhere in 2019.
Ciero was one of six “bundlers” in the fraudulent PPP loan scheme. Ciero’s role was to recruit individuals into the scheme, obtain their personal identifying information for the fraudulent loan applications, and then pass that information to others who submitted the fraudulent loan applications to lenders who were participating in the PPP. The evidence established that over $4 million in fraudulent loan PPP applications were submitted, and the government lost over $2.4 million as a result.
Once the individuals received their fraudulent PPP loan funds, typically $20,000 each, Ciero served as a “funnel” in a money laundering conspiracy. Ciero collected fees that the organizers of the scheme charged the applicants, typically $3,000 per $20,000 fraudulent loan.
Ciero also obtained two fraudulent PPP loans for himself and his paramour. Ciero used most of this PPP loan money to purchase a semi-truck. Ciero is the sixth former Iowa meatpacking plant worker convicted in the PPP scheme.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Ciero remains free on bond pending sentencing. Ciero faces a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, over $10,000,000 in fines, and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy L. Vavricek and Daniel A. Chatham and was investigated by the Small Business Administration - Office of Inspector General, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation - Office of Inspector General, Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Storm Lake Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-3013.
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Cedar Rapids Man Involved in Two Shootings Sentenced to a Decade in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who shot at a woman and child, and later pointed a gun at someone who shot back at him, was sentenced today to 10 years in federal prison.
David Rafael Walker, age 38, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a December 11, 2024 jury verdict finding him guilty of one count of possession of a firearm by a felon.
Evidence at trial and the sentencing hearing showed that on December 14, 2021, in Cedar Rapids, Walker shot at a woman and a child because he was mad that she went to lunch with another man. Three days later, Walker was driving a car in Cedar Rapids and noticed that he was being followed by another car. He stopped his car in the middle of the street, opened his car door, and pointed a gun at the other car. A person in the other car shot at him. This shooting was captured on doorbell cameras in the area. Walker has felony convictions for attempting to elude, manufacturing or delivering heroin, and other drug offenses.
Walker was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Walker was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment and must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Walker is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Devra Hake, Emily Nydle, and Dan Tvedt, and was investigated by the Cedar Rapids Safe Streets Task Force. The task force is composed of representatives from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Cedar Rapids Police Department, and the Marion Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 23-CR-65.
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Mason City Felon Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of Firearms and Intent to Distribute MethRead the Press Release
A Mason City man who possessed methamphetamine with intent to distribute and illegally possessed a firearm pled guilty May 7, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.
Jacob Shafer, 34, from Mason City, Iowa, was convicted of one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of illegal possession of a firearm. Shafer was previously convicted of possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver, and trafficking in stolen weapons in Iowa in March of 2022. Both of these convictions prohibit a person from possessing any firearm.
At the plea hearing, Shafer admitted to the prior convictions and being an unlawful drug user in possession of firearms. Evidence at the hearing further showed that in March 2024, during the execution of a search warrant at Shafer’s home, law enforcement seized: four bags of methamphetamine; drug paraphernalia including pipes, bongs, grinders, and baggies; a digital scale; ninety-six .380 caliber Winchester rounds of ammunition; a Ruger LCP, .380 pistol, and a total of 6 rounds of ammunition, which included a round in the chamber; a Smith & Wesson .40 caliber pistol, and a total of 13 rounds of ammunition; an Intratec AB-10, 9mm pistol, and a total of 22 rounds of ammunition in the magazine; and a Rock Island Armory, .45 caliber pistol. Shafer admitted that he planned on distributing the methamphetamine that officers found.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Shafer remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. For the possession with intent to distribute conviction, Shafer faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 40 years’ imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, and at least four years of supervised release following any imprisonment. On the firearm possession conviction, Shafer faces not more than 15 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 file, and not more than three years of supervised release.
The case was investigated by the Cerro Gordo County Sheriff’s Office, Mason City Police Department, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kraig R. Hamit.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-3055. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Dubuque Man Who Attempted to Discharge a Firearm at a Police Officer Sentenced to over a Decade in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who assaulted a police officer by attempting to discharge a firearm was sentenced on May 6, 2025, to more than twelve years in federal prison.
Kentrell Vantrice Powell, age 29, from Dubuque, Iowa, received the prison term after a November 20, 2024 guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a felon.
Information from a plea agreement and a sentencing hearing showed that, on August 22, 2024, Dubuque police officers encountered Powell at a gas station. Powell was intoxicated and had shoplifted bottles of liquor from the gas station that were returned by one of his associates before officers arrived. Powell walked away from officers as they approached him despite repeated commands to stop, and he resisted arrest. While officers searched him, Powell kept reaching his hands into his back pockets, and the officers repeatedly told him to stop. When he reached his hands into his back pocket again, an officer heard a sound consistent with the action of a firearm. The officer looked down and saw Powell was holding a small derringer-size pistol, and the pistol was pointed at the officer. Subsequent examination of the pistol showed that a round of ammunition inside the pistol had a strike mark consistent with the round having misfired. The pistol also had an obliterated serial number.
Powell was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Powell was sentenced to 150 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Powell is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kyndra Lundquist and investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Dubuque Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-1030.
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Cedar Rapids Woman Sentenced for Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A woman who was responsible for the distribution of over 150 pounds of methamphetamine was sentenced today to more than eleven years in federal prison.
Kris Marie Hagan, age 66, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a January 3, 2025 guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Information from a plea agreement and a sentencing hearing showed that between 2019 and November 17, 2023, Hagan distributed methamphetamine from her residences in Marion and Cedar Rapids, Iowa. During that time, Hagan distributed more than 150 pounds of the controlled substance.
Hagan was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Hagan was sentenced to 134 months’ imprisonment. She must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Hagan is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until she can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Jared Manternach and Assistant United States Attorney Dillan Edwards and was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force consisting of the DEA; the Linn County Sheriff's Office; the Cedar Rapids Police Department; the Marion Police Department; and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 24-CR-60. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Four-Time Federal Felon Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Illegal Possession of Methamphetamine, Marijuana, and a Loaded ShotgunRead the Press Release
Root, a four-time federal felon, was sentenced May 2, 2025, to 15 years in federal prison after a Sioux City Police traffic stop led to his conviction for methamphetamine, marijuana, and firearms charges.
Caleb Root, age 45, from Concord, Michigan, received the prison term after an October 23, 2024, jury verdict finding him guilty of one count of possession of a firearm by a felon, one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance – marijuana, one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance – methamphetamine and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Evidence in the case revealed at about 3:00 am, on May 23, 2023, a uniformed police officer, of the Sioux City, Iowa Police Department, on routine patrol in a marked police car, saw a pickup truck driving toward him on Hamilton Blvd. As the officer and the truck passed, the truck behaved suspiciously: (1) the motorist changed course (by using a parking lot as a throughfare); (2) drove away from the officer; and (3) drove into a residential neighborhood. After observing the truck’s behavior, the officer positioned himself, to further observe the motorist’s travel. The truck eventually exited the neighborhood and returned to its original line of travel, thereby, confirming the odd behavior was a deliberate attempt to skirt by the officer. The officer initiated a traffic stop (for the earlier observed offense of using a parking lot as a throughfare). The driver refused to roll the window down all the way to talk to the officer, provided an odd story about how he came to be on Hamilton Blvd. or in Sioux City, Iowa, and then lied to the officer claiming he did not have an ID and could not remember his own birth date.
Eventually the driver identified himself as Caleb Root, and admitted lying to the officer, and to being a convicted felon. At this time, law enforcement officers looked into the truck – from the outside – and, in plain view, saw marijuana.
Root was arrested, the truck and trailer searched, and about 4 pounds of marijuana, a loaded shotgun, and more than 12 grams of pure methamphetamine were found inside.
Root was released from state custody the next day, and on July 22, 2023, he was stopped for speeding in Adair County, Iowa. Root was stopped for speeding, 90 in a 70-mph, upon approach, the officer detected the odor of marijuana. Root again provided a false identification to the officer. Further investigation led the officer to locate more than 1 pound of marijuana and 1 gram of methamphetamine.
Root has a length criminal history including state convictions for operating under the influence of a controlled substance, attempting to resist police officers, various drug offenses, breaking and entering, and theft. Root has four pervious federal convictions: a 2017 conviction for possession with intent to distribute – methamphetamine and possessing a firearm as a felon; and a 2010 conviction for uttering counterfeit federal reserve notes, and the interstate transportation of a stolen car.
Root was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand to 180 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve an 8-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Timothy T. Duax commented, “Root is an example of an individual who has repeatedly made the choice to break the law. When caught, he chose to blame the police, the prosecutor, and even the court for his predicament. His conduct endangers the law-abiding members of our community who work hard, obey the law, and do nothing to harm their fellow citizens. Thanks to the fine work of our law enforcement partners, Root is off the street for a long time, and our community is safer as a result.”
Root 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 Sioux City, Iowa Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 23-4041
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Sioux City Man Who Fled Traffic Stop with Stolen Firearm Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who attempted to flee a traffic stop was sentenced April 25, 2025, to more than 9 years in federal prison consecutive to his state sentence.
Alpacino Lewis Jr., age 24, from Sioux City, received the prison term after a January 10, 2025, guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a felon.
Lewis’ criminal possession of a stolen, loaded, semiautomatic firearm was discovered on February 14, 2024, after he attempted to flee from a traffic stop. He struck a police cruiser, drove over a parking meter, and sped away at a high rate of speed. He ultimately lost control of his vehicle and unsuccessfully attempted to escape on foot. During a search and further investigation, officers located a grinder with marijuana residue on Lewis’ person, the loaded firearm in his flight path, and three jars of THC Wax weighing a total of 112 grams and 4-THC vapes at a home he was sharing with another. Lewis has a criminal history including possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance – marijuana and possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance – methamphetamine.
Lewis was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand to 110 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 1-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. This is consecutive to the independent state sentence Lewis is already serving.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Lewis is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was investigated by Sioux City Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-4019.
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Sioux City Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Priest Morris, 21, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty May 1, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City to possession of child pornography.
At the plea hearing, Morris admitted that from January 2024, through August 2024, he used the Discord, Twitter, Telegram, and Snapchat applications to receive, distribute, and possess visual depictions of child pornography including materials involving a prepubescent minor or minor under the age of 12. The Sioux City Police Department received two CyberTips from the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about a Snapchat account uploading child pornography. Law enforcement connected the account back to Morris and obtained a search warrant for his electronics. During the execution of the search warrant, Morris admitted he had received and possessed child pornography, and it would be located on his phone and iPad. Forensic analysis of his electronics showed that Morris possessed over 1,500 images and 6 videos of child pornography including materials that portrayed sadistic or masochistic conduct as well as infants and toddlers.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006, by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Morris remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Morris faces a possible maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Sioux City Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kraig R. Hamit.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-4086.
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Forest City Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine pled guilty today in federal court in Sioux City.
Andrew Jay Frazee, 31, from Forest City, Iowa, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute over a pound of methamphetamine.
At the plea hearing, Frazee admitted that in November of 2024, he and others conspired to distribute over a pound of methamphetamine in and around Hancock County, Iowa. Evidence showed that, on November 19, 2024, law enforcement observed Frazee and his vehicle in a ditch in rural Hancock County. Upon contact with law enforcement, Frazee exhibited signs of impairment and deputies noted the smell of marijuana. A search of the vehicle was conducted where deputies found approximately 325 grams of methamphetamine, a smoking device, baggies, over $1,200 cash, a scale, and marijuana. Frazee admitted recently buying large quantities of methamphetamine and distributing to others.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Frazee remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Frazee faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office, and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-CR-03003.
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Domestic Abuser Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Brandon Mitchell, 28, from Mason City, Iowa, pled guilty in federal court April 30, 2025, to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. Mitchell was previously convicted twice for domestic abuse assault in the Iowa District Court for Cerro Gordo County, and as a result, was prohibited from possessing firearms.
At the plea hearing, Mitchell admitted having two prior convictions for misdemeanor domestic violence and being an unlawful user of marijuana. Evidence further showed that on February 24, 2024, when Mitchell received the 9mm pistol, he was under indictment for attempted murder, intimidation with a dangerous weapon, and possession of a firearm by a domestic abuser. Mitchell also admitted that during a search warrant at his residence he discarded the 9mm pistol out of a bedroom window in an attempt to avoid being found in possession of a firearm.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Mitchell remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Mitchell faces a possible maximum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and not more than three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Iowa Division of Narcotic Enforcement, and Mason City Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kraig R. Hamit.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-3038.
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Mason City Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Cleon Mitchell, Jr., 46, from Mason City, Iowa, pled guilty April 30, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City to possession of child pornography.
At the plea hearing, Mitchell admitted that from August 2022, through April 2024, he used the Kik and Snapchat applications to receive and possess visual depictions of child pornography which involved a prepubescent minor or minor under the age of 12. Snapchat reported Mitchell’s account to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children who in turn reported the information to law enforcement. Law enforcement connected the account back to Mitchell and obtained a search warrant for his home and electronics. During the execution of the search warrant, Mitchell admitted he had received and possessed child pornography, and it would be located on his phone. Forensic analysis of his electronics showed that Mitchell possessed 30 videos and 50 images of child pornography including materials that portrayed sadistic or masochistic conduct as well as prepubescent children and toddlers.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006, by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Mitchell, Jr. remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Mitchell, Jr. faces a possible maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Mason City Police Department and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kraig R. Hamit.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 24-3038. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Man Sentenced for Illegally Reentering the United States After Being DeportedRead the Press Release
A man who illegally returned to the United States after being deported was sentenced today to more than two months in federal prison.
Jose Solis-Alvarado, age 34, a citizen of Mexico illegally present in the United States and residing in Traer, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 10, 2025 guilty plea to one count of illegal reentry into the United States after having been deported.
At the guilty plea, Solis-Alvarado admitted he had previously been deported from the United States and illegally reentered the United States without the permission of the United States government. Solis-Alvarado was previously deported in 2010. On February 4, 2025, immigration officials learned Solis‑Alvarado had illegally returned to the United States and found him at the Benton County Jail following his arrest on state charges for operating while under the influence.
Solis-Alvarado was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Solis-Alvarado was sentenced to 85 days’ imprisonment. He must also serve a one-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Solis-Alvarado is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be turned over to immigration officials.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam J. Vander Stoep and was investigated by Enforcement and Removal Operations of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-CR-9.
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Former Teacher Pleads Guilty to Sexual Exploitation of StudentRead the Press Release
Samantha Meyer-Davis, 32, from Rutland, Iowa, pled guilty in federal court April 30, 2025, to sexual exploitation of a child.
At the plea hearing, Meyer-Davis admitted that from May 2022, through November 2023, she was engaged in sexually exploiting a student as well as disseminating and exhibiting obscene materials to the victim. Meyer-Davis was a middle school teacher at the time of the incidents and met with school administrators on several occasions and denied any inappropriate relationship. Administrators reminded Meyer-Davis of her professional and ethical obligations to her students and encouraged her to cease and desist any inappropriate relationship with the student. When interviewed by law enforcement, Meyer-Davis continued to deny any inappropriate relationship until she was confronted with photographic evidence of her kissing the student who was in a state of undress. Evidence further showed that Meyer-Davis and the victim exchanged over 130 photographs, and over 60 videos related to and depicting child pornography, including materials that portrayed sadistic and masochistic conduct.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006, by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Meyer-Davis remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Meyer-Davis faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 30 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Iowa Special Enforcement Operations Bureau, and the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kraig R. Hamit.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 24-3028. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Cherokee, Iowa, Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Roger Strickland, age 62, from Cherokee, Iowa, pled guilty on April 25, 2025, to two counts of possession of child pornography in federal court in Sioux City, Iowa.
Evidence at the plea hearing showed that from June 2022, through May 2023, Strickland received and possessed child pornography. Agents searched Strickland’s home on May 25, 2023, and seized several pieces of evidence. Agents asked to speak to whomever at the home was downloading child pornography and Strickland replied, “It’s me.” Then, while agents were awaiting results of the forensic analysis of Strickland’s electronic devices, law enforcement was again notified Strickland was receiving and possessing child pornography. Strickland admitted that between August 2023, through February 2024, Strickland received and possessed more child pornography despite knowing he was actively being investigated. In total, over 225 videos and 8,000 images of child pornography were discovered on his electronic devices. Strickland further admitted that the images and videos involved material portraying sadistic or masochistic conduct as well as prepubescent children, infants, and toddlers.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Strickland remains in custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing. On each count, Strickland faces a possible maximum sentence of not more than 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation and the Cherokee Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kraig R. Hamit.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is CR24-4067. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Dubuque Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
A man who possessed a firearm as a felon pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Nicholas David Welter, age 32, from Dubuque, Iowa, was convicted of one count of possession of a firearm by a felon.
In a plea agreement, Welter admitted that on October 18, 2024, law enforcement officers found him while he was sitting in a vehicle in Dubuque. There was a loaded stolen firearm near his feet. Welter admitted that he possessed the gun. Welter has prior felony convictions for theft second degree and burglary third degree.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Welter remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Welter faces a possible maximum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Devra T. Hake and was investigated by the Dubuque Police Department, Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-CR-1001. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
California Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine in Dubuque, Iowa, pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids. Juan Jose Ruiz, age 29, from California, was convicted of conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, and 50 grams or more of actual (pure) methamphetamine.
In a plea agreement, Ruiz admitted that between January 2021 and December 2021, he agreed with others to distribute methamphetamine. On December 14, 2021, in Clear Creek County, Colorado, law enforcement officers stopped Ruiz as he was driving to Dubuque. Officers found over 25 pounds of ice methamphetamine in his car. Ruiz intended to distribute the methamphetamine to a co-conspirator in Dubuque.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Ruiz remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Ruiz faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, a $10,000,000 fine, and a lifetime of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Devra T. Hake and was investigated by the Dubuque Drug Task Force, Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office, Dubuque Police Department, Quad City Metropolitan Enforcement Group, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Criminalistics Laboratory.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 23-CR-1006.
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Guatemalan Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine in Dubuque, IowaRead the Press Release
A Guatemalan man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced today to more than 12 years in federal prison. Jose Eleazar Aceves‑Garcia, age 30, from Guatemala, received the prison term after a November 20, 2024 guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute at least 500 grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and 50 grams of actual (pure) methamphetamine.
In a plea agreement, Aceves-Garcia admitted that between January 2019 and January 2022, he distributed at least 400 pounds of ice methamphetamine to a co‑conspirator in the Dubuque area. His fingerprints were on two packages, which contained a total of more than seven pounds of ice methamphetamine, that he mailed to the co-conspirator in Dubuque. Aceves-Garcia also distributed a kilogram of heroin to the co-conspirator.
Aceves-Garcia was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Aceves-Garcia was sentenced to 151 months’ imprisonment and must serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Aceves-Garcia 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 Devra T. Hake and was investigated by the Dubuque Drug Task Force, Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office, Dubuque Police Department, Quad City Metropolitan Enforcement Group, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Criminalistics Laboratory.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 23-CR-1022. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Wisconsin Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
A man who possessed a firearm as a felon pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Mickey Lee Miller, age 37, from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was convicted of one count of possession of a firearm by a felon.
In a plea agreement, Miller admitted that on October 16, 2024, in Dubuque, Iowa, he possessed a loaded firearm and ammunition. A witness told law enforcement officers that Miller had pointed the firearm at her and threatened to kill her and others. Miller has a prior felony conviction for robbery with threat of force.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Miller remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Miller faces a possible maximum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Devra T. Hake and was investigated by the Dubuque Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 25-CR-1008.
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Prairieburg Man Who Sexually Exploited Children Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
A man who used Snapchat, Instagram, and text messages to persuade children to engage in sexually explicit conduct and send him photographs and videos of this conduct, pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Bryce Hans Plower, age 37, from Prairieburg, Iowa, was convicted of sexual exploitation of children and possession of child pornography.
In a plea agreement, Plower admitted that he persuaded, induced, and enticed multiple children to send him sexually explicit images and videos of themselves. At least two children under the age of 16 did so. Plower paid the children, sometimes as little as $1, so that they would continue to send him sexually explicit images. Plower also possessed photographs and videos of child pornography on his phone, including images of sadistic or masochistic conduct.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Plower remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Plower faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 50 years’ imprisonment, a $500,000 fine, $77,200 in special assessments, and a life of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Devra T. Hake and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-91.
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Gladbrook Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
A man who received child pornography was sentenced today to 15 years in federal prison.
John Thomas Carstensen, age 50, from Gladbrook, Iowa, received the prison term after a November 12, 2024 guilty plea to one count of receipt of child pornography.
In a plea agreement, Carstensen admitted that, between August 2021 and August 2022, he knowingly received depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Carstensen has a prior felony conviction from 1993 for sexual exploitation of a minor.
Carstensen was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Carstensen was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment. He was ordered to make $27,000 in restitution to the victims in the case. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Carstensen 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 Adam J. Vander Stoep and was investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Task Force.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 24-CR-33.
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