Southern District of Iowa
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Burlington Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Jose Luis Escundino Romayor, age 37, was sentenced on July 19, 2022, to 210 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine. Romayor was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow his prison term. Romayor pleaded to the charge in February 2022.
According to court documents, in July and August of 2017, law enforcement in Des Moines County utilized a police informant to purchase “ice” methamphetamine from Romayor on multiple occasions. During the investigation, law enforcement seized more than 2 kilograms of methamphetamine and a pistol. After his arrest, Romayor admitted regularly receiving large amounts of methamphetamine for resale.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This matter was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, Department of Homeland Security, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Southeast Iowa Drug Task Force and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Montezuma Man Sentenced to 92 Months in Prison for Assaulting Officers During Arrest for Child Pornography CrimesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On July 13, 2022, Nathan Mason Nosley, age 31, of Montezuma, Iowa, was sentenced to 92 months in prison for assaulting law enforcement officers with a firearm. Nosley’s sentencing followed his earlier guilty plea to that offense.
The assault occurred on November 20, 2020, when officers attempted to arrest Nosley for unrelated child pornography crimes. As the officers tried to take Nosley into custody, he pulled a loaded handgun from his waistband and fought with officers as they tried to get control of the firearm. During the struggle, Nosley bit an officer’s hand, causing the officer to bleed. The officers ultimately were able to secure the gun and take Nosley into custody. Nosley’s gun contained a loaded magazine and a live round in the chamber. A search of Nosley’s person revealed additional ammunition in his pocket.
Nosley was later convicted at trial of the child pornography offenses and was sentenced to 140 years in prison in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Iowa. The 92-month sentence for assaulting the officers was imposed consecutively to Nosley’s sentence in the child pornography case.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This matter was investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Iowa State Patrol, and the Poweshiek County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Fulton Missouri Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Sextortion, Online Child Sexual ExploitationRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – A Fulton, Missouri man, Chad Alan Craghead, 45, was sentenced on July 7, 2022, to 360 months in prison for Production of Child Pornography and Interstate Communications with Intent to Extort. Following his prison term, Craghead was ordered to serve five years of supervised release. Craghead will also be required to register as a sex offender.
Craghead engaged in “sextortion” over a period of nearly two years. At the time he committed these offenses, he was an elementary and middle school teacher and high school track coach. Craghead posed as a teenage boy online and obtained nude images of Minor Victim 1, a sixteen-year-old. After obtaining those images, he created a second false identity and demanded additional nude images of Minor Victim 1, threatening to disseminate the nude images he already had to her friends and family if she did not comply. Craghead extorted Minor Victim 1 over the course of several months, including sending photos of her home, referencing her parents and sister by name, and sending a photo of her sister.
Craghead also extorted Minor Victim 2. Craghead threatened to disseminate Minor Victim 1’s nude images if Minor Victim 2 did not comply with his demands for nude images and videos. Minor Victim 2 complied, sending Craghead sexually explicit videos of herself. Even then, Craghead continued to extort Minor Victim 2 by threatening to disseminate her images and videos if she did not continue to send him sexually explicit material.
Through several Snapchat accounts associated with Craghead, the FBI located numerous other minor female victims across the country, some as young as 12 and 13 years old, who either sent Craghead nude images or from whom he extorted or attempted to extort nude images. In one instance, Craghead took on the minor females’ identity, created a social media account, and obtained child pornography material with the intent to blackmail the senders, all while acting as the minor victim. Craghead told the victim he did it because she refused his demands. The FBI observed the same “sextortion” pattern of conduct with all identified victims. The victims reported feeling fear, distrust, and distress due to Craghead’s conduct.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Muscatine Police Department investigated the case. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Childhood” initiative, which was started in 2006 as a nationwide effort to combine law enforcement investigations and prosecutions, community action, and public awareness in order to reduce the incidence of sexual exploitation of children. Any persons having knowledge of a child being sexually abused are encouraged to call the Iowa Sexual Abuse Hotline at 1-800-284-7821.
Marcus Burrage Sentenced to More Than 31 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IOWA – On Tuesday, June 28, 2022, Marcus Andrew Burrage, age 36, originally of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced to a total of 375 months in prison. In two separate jury trials, Burrage was convicted of conspiracy to distribute heroin, possession with intent to distribute heroin, and assaulting a correctional officer.
According to evidence presented at the drug trafficking trial, shortly after his 2017 release from prison on a prior federal heroin distribution conviction, Burrage began selling heroin to numerous customers in the Ames and Nevada, Iowa areas.
During this time, Burrage regularly traveled to Chicago to purchase his supply of heroin. On April 9, 2018, while in Chicago, police officers stopped Burrage’s car, which had been reported stolen. Burrage was the front seat passenger. Officers asked all occupants to exit the car. Burrage refused to get out of the car and told officers they could not search him. Officers ultimately removed Burrage from the car and searched his person. Officers found 18 grams of heroin and over $6,000 cash in Burrage’s pockets.
At the time of his arrest in Chicago, Burrage was already the subject of an investigation by officers with the Central Iowa Drug Task Force. That investigation involved multiple controlled buys of marijuana from Burrage. On April 10, 2018—the day after Burrage’s arrest in Chicago—officers executed a search warrant at Burrage’s apartment in Nevada, Iowa. During the search, officers located a locked safe in a bedroom. Inside the safe officers found 21 grams of heroin, a half-ounce of marijuana, three digital scales, and other drug trafficking paraphernalia. Elsewhere in the apartment, officers found plastic baggies and drug notes. On April 11, 2018, a federal arrest warrant was issued for Burrage. Burrage was taken into custody in May 2019 after the United States Marshals Service tracked Burrage to a motel in West Des Moines. Officers found Burrage hiding in the room’s bathtub.
While awaiting trial on his drug trafficking charges, Burrage assaulted a correctional officer at the Polk County Jail. According to evidence presented at trial on that charge, Burrage punched a correctional officer in the back of the head causing serious injury and then bragged about it.
At sentencing, Chief United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose found that Burrage used violence in his drug trafficking, obstructed justice by attempting to influence a witness to lie, utilized fear and affection to further his drug trafficking, and maintained a residence for drug trafficking. As a result, Burrage was sentenced to 324 months in prison on the drug charges and a consecutive 51 months in prison for assault on a correctional officer, for a total of 375 months in prison.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The investigation was conducted by the Central Iowa Drug Task Force, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, and United States Marshals Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Mallory Weiser and Kyle Essley prosecuted the case with the assistance of Victim Witness Specialist Charlotte Kovacs.
Des Moines Man Sentenced to 27 Months in Prison for Criminal HIPAA ViolationsRead the Press Release
Des Moines, Iowa – A Des Moines man was sentenced today to 27 months in prison following his pleas of guilty to two counts of a federal indictment charging conspiracy to wrongfully obtain and disclose individually identifiable health information, and wrongfully obtaining individually identifiable health information.
According to court documents, Dustin James Ortiz, 49, conspired with a then employee of the Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) in Des Moines to obtain individually identifiable health information of an individual which were maintained by the VAMC. The records Ortiz sought to and did obtain pertained to the victim’s mental health conditions and medications. Ortiz obtained this information without authorization required by law. Ortiz then disclosed the records to a third party. Because the conduct involved the intent to transfer and use the health information for personal gain and malicious harm, it was a felony under federal law.
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a federal law that requires standards to protect sensitive patient health information from being disclosed without the patient’s consent or knowledge.
In addition to the 27-month term of imprisonment, the Court ordered the payment of $2,000 in restitution, and a 3-year term of supervised release to follow the prison sentence.
“Our office is committed to giving real meaning to HIPAA’s right-to-privacy protections,” said United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. “HIPAA-covered entities should continue to remind everyone that the privacy provisions of HIPAA are important and have significant consequences if violated.”
“Unlawfully obtaining and releasing veterans’ health records will not be tolerated,” said Special Agent in Charge Gregory Billingsley with Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Central Field Office. “This breaches the integrity of the VA healthcare system and is an egregious violation of privacy.”
The co-defendant, a former employee of the VAMC, is set for sentencing on August 4, 2022.
The Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General investigated the case.
Arrests Made in Fentanyl Distribution CaseRead the Press Release
Council Bluffs, Iowa – Five Cass County, Iowa residents were arrested on federal indictments charging Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl. The arrests are the result of a six-month investigation into a series of fentanyl overdose cases occurring in Cass and Shelby Counties. The investigation identified a fentanyl distribution network that covered Western Iowa and Eastern Nebraska. The investigation into this distribution network remains ongoing.
According to court documents, 19-year-old Mason Blaine Loudermilk of Atlantic, Iowa; 28-year-old Chase Daniel Jahnke of Lewis, Iowa; 26-year-old Kelsi Marie Thurman of Lewis, Iowa; 25-year-old Colby Ray Clarken of Atlantic, Iowa; and 19-year-old Collin Jacob Clarken of Atlantic, Iowa appeared on June 24, 2022. Trial is set for each defendant on August 8, 2022.
The potential penalty for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance as charged in these indictments is a minimum of twenty years up to life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the United States Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case has been investigated by the Iowa Division of Narcotics, along with the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, Atlantic Police Department, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa State Patrol, Omaha Police Department, Fourth Judicial District Department of Correctional Services, Iowa Division of Intelligence, and Drug Enforcement Administration. This case will be prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
United States Attorney Richard Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Iowa Man Sentenced to 30 years in Federal Prison for Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Aaron Allen Tripses, age 33, was sentenced on June 22, 2022, to 360 months in prison for Production of Child Pornography. Following his prison term, Tripses was ordered to serve seven years of supervised release. Tripses will also be required to register as a sex offender.
According to court documents, law enforcement responded to Tripses’ residence in reference to a welfare check. It was discovered that Tripses had assaulted an adult female. Law enforcement later received information suggesting that Tripses’ phone contained evidence of his sexual abuse of a minor. Multiple search warrants were executed on Tripses’ devices and accounts. Officers located over 1,400 images and videos depicting Tripses engaging in sex acts with a minor, including depictions of acts of violence such as prolonged strangulation. Officers also located dozens of videos of women in public places being filmed without their knowledge. On January 18, 2022, Tripses pleaded guilty to Production of Child Pornography. Tripses had a prior adjudication for sexual assault against a minor as well as other convictions for assaulting a child and woman. As a part of sentencing, the Court found that Tripses had engaged in a pattern of activity involving prohibited sexual conduct.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This matter was investigated by the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office; the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Two Iowa City Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Two Iowa City men were sentenced in federal court for firearms charges.
Olajude Liron Krebs, age 22, was sentenced on Wednesday June 22, 2022 to 27 months in prison for Drug User in Possession of a Firearm, Making False Statements During a Firearm Purchase, and Conspiracy. Krebs must serve a 3-year term of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Dwayne Vadim Scott, age 28, was sentenced on Tuesday, June 21, 2022 to 18 months in prison for Conspiracy. Following his prison sentence, Scott must serve a 3-year term of supervised release.
For approximately one year, Krebs, Scott, and others conspired to illegally obtain firearms. Krebs and Scott used straw purchasers, including John Vest-Walker, to illegally purchase firearms on their behalf. In April 2022, Vest-Walker was sentenced to 37 months in prison. Law enforcement recovered one of the guns Krebs obtained from Vest-Walker at the residence of a convicted felon. Just one day after Vest-Walker purchased another gun, Scott sold that illegally purchased firearm to a third-party. Two of the guns Krebs and Scott obtained through a second straw purchaser were later recovered in Indiana and Illinois.
Krebs obtained a permit to purchase firearms and quickly purchased five firearms and made false statements in connection with those purchases. Law enforcement recovered one of those firearms from Krebs while he was under the influence of marijuana.
Scott trafficked the firearms he obtained to other people who were also prohibited from possessing them. At least one firearm was recovered by law enforcement following a shots-fired incident.United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Iowa City Police Department investigated the case.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Highlights Importance of Protecting Southern District of Iowa SeniorsRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – The Department of Justice commemorated World Elder Abuse Awareness Day by emphasizing its commitment to protecting elderly individuals against abuse, fraud, and neglect by advancing elder justice. Elder abuse takes many forms, including financial exploitation (abuse and fraud), caregiver neglect, and physical, sexual, and psychological abuse.1
Attorney General Merrick Garland stated, “The Department has a strong elder justice history that I continue to fully support. We all know an older family member or friend who has been the victim of financial fraud, either domestically or internationally, and we’ve witnessed first-hand how financial loss impacts older adults. Some older adults cut down on their prescription medications harming their health or they are unable to pay their rent and may have to move into senior subsidized housing, impacting their sense of independence. That is why the Department has devoted significant personnel and resources specifically to combat financial fraud committed against older Americans.”
1. What is Elder Abuse (Elder Justice Website); Overview of Elder Abuse (National Institute of Justice).
To prevent and prosecute crimes against the elderly, each of the 94 U. S. Attorney’s Offices nationwide have appointed Elder Justice Coordinators assigned to prosecute crimes against elderly individuals and educate the public about elder abuses. To assist older victims in recovering from crime victimization, the Department provides Victims of Crime Act funding to states for crime victim services programming, with a significant portion of those funds assisting older victims. At the federal level, Victim Specialists serve alongside Elder Justice Coordinators in facilitating services for older victims.
“Ensuring the safety and security of elderly individuals is of the highest priority for this office,” stated U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal. “Significant efforts have been made in the Southern District of Iowa to educate seniors about harmful fraud schemes and to prosecute the perpetrators of such scams. Our office regularly meets with members of the public and employees of financial institutions to inform them about elder financial exploitation and we have had recent success in criminally prosecuting fraudsters who stole from seniors.”
In January 2022, Chelsea Lynn Gless, of Princeton, Iowa, was sentenced to 36 months in prison for mail fraud and ordered to pay over $2.9 million in restitution to victims. The majority of Gless’ 71 victims were elderly individuals. Gless was the manager and part-owner of Royal Metals Group, a business that purported to buy and sell precious metals for customers. Over a period of nearly four years, Gless made false representations to clients and instead of delivering and paying clients for precious metals, Gless misappropriated clients’ funds and precious metals.
In March 2022, Jeffrey M. Carley, of Treynor, Iowa, was sentenced to five years in prison and ordered to pay $1,364,163.02 in restitution to the victims of his wire fraud scheme. Carley was a financial investment counselor. Carley encouraged his clients to move money from their traditional IRA accounts to a “self-directed” IRA. Carley then advised his clients to move their money from the “self-directed” IRA to investment opportunities Carley owned or had ownership interest in and advised clients they would receive a financial return. Carley never told his clients that he owned or had an interest in the investments he promoted. Carley also failed to invest the clients’ money and instead used the funds for his personal expenses. Nine of the eleven victims of this investment scheme were elderly. The sentencing judge noted the length of time the scheme lasted and the harm and age of the victims as some of the aggravating factors in imposing the five-year sentence.
To learn more about the Department’s elder justice efforts, please visit the Elder Justice website.
If you need assistance or to report elder abuse, please contact the Iowa Adult Protective Services Hotline at 1-800-362-2178. To report elder fraud, Iowa Adult Protective Services may be contacted, as well as the FBI’s IC3 Elder Fraud Complaint Center , or contact the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311.
Woodbine, Iowa Man Sentenced for Child Pornography OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – A Woodbine man, Curtis Lee Jensen, age 47, was sentenced on Tuesday, June 14, 2022, to twelve years in prison for Receipt of Child Pornography.
In January of 2021, a cyber tip was sent to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding child pornography being uploaded to a KIK Messenger account. The email address was traced to Jensen and law enforcement obtained and executed a search warrant for Jensen’s email and KIK account. The investigation revealed that Jensen received and distributed child pornography using his KIK account.
Jensen was sentenced to 144 months in prison. He must also serve an eight-year term of supervised release after the prison term and register as a sex offender. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, Internet Crimes Against Children Unit investigated the case. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of Iowa.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood and resources about internet safety, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
Cass County, Iowa Man Sentenced for Child Pornography OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – A Cass County man, Aaron William Butcher, age 34, was sentenced on Tuesday, June 14, 2022, to seven years in prison for Receipt of Child Pornography.
In February of 2021, a cybertip was sent to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding child pornography being uploaded to a Dropbox account. The email address was traced to Butcher and law enforcement obtained and executed a search warrant for his Dropbox account and his residence in Atlantic, Iowa. Butcher’s electronic devices were forensically analyzed and contained images and videos of child pornography. Forensic examination also located numerous conversations between Butcher and individuals he believed to be teenagers. Butcher asked for images and videos of child pornography in exchange for money.
Butcher was sentenced to 84 months in prison. He must also serve a seven-year term of supervised release after the prison term and register as a sex offender. There is no parole in the federal system. Butcher was also ordered to pay $12,000 in restitution.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Cass County Sheriff’s Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, Internet Crimes Against Children Unit investigated the case.
This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of Iowa.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood and resources about internet safety, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
Ankeny Man Sentenced to 18 Months in Federal Prison for Failing to File Income Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – Kevin Jeffrey Stiller, age 59, of Ankeny, was sentenced Tuesday, June 7, 2022, to 18 months in prison for failing to file income tax returns. Stiller pleaded guilty on February 3, 2022, to two counts of failure to file income tax returns, one for each of the calendar years 2015 and 2017. Senior Judge James E. Gritzner imposed a 9-month prison sentence on each count, to be served consecutively, that is one after the other. Following completion of his prison term, Stiller will be on supervised release for one additional year. Stiller is responsible for paying his tax liability in full.
Stiller is the owner and operator of Spruce Hill Tree Service and he received taxable income from this business. Stiller knew he was required to file federal income tax returns for the years 2015 and 2017 and he willfully failed to do so. Stiller additionally failed to file federal income tax returns for the years 2008 – 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2019.
“The foundation of our tax system is the voluntary filing of tax returns by each citizen required to do so. Mr. Stiller flagrantly disregarded this basic duty for nearly 15 years”, stated Tyler Hatcher, Special Agent in Charge for IRS Criminal Investigation. “This sentence highlights the seriousness of filing income tax returns timely and accurately as prescribed by law otherwise you will be held accountable for not doing so.”
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam J. Kerndt.
Johnston Man Sentenced for Making a Destructive DeviceRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – Chad Allen Williams, age 47, of Johnston, was sentenced Friday, June 3, 2022, to 60 months in federal prison for Making a Destructive Device and Unlawful Drug User in Possession of a Firearm. His term of imprisonment will be followed by three years of supervised release. Williams pled guilty to the charges on January 20, 2022.
According to court documents, Williams admitted to detonating homemade explosive devices on a public street in Ankeny on May 12 and June 7, 2021. A third explosive device was found in the same location on the morning of June 9, 2021. The device, which did not detonate in spite of apparent attempts to do so, was found to contain a significant amount of metallic shrapnel. With the assistance of neighbors and other community members, law enforcement worked together to trace the devices to Williams, and executed a search warrant at his Johnston residence on June 18, 2021.
As a result of the search warrant, Agents located controlled substances and items consistent with the manufacture of explosive devices, including the specific explosive devices located in Ankeny. Agents also seized a loaded Ruger, Model P89, nine-millimeter pistol in Williams’ vehicle. Subsequent to execution of the search warrant, Williams admitted to manufacturing and placing the explosive devices on the Ankeny street. Williams also admitted to being a user of methamphetamine, which disqualified him from the right to possess a firearm.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Ankeny Police Department, the Iowa Department of Public Safety Intelligence Division, the Iowa State Fire Marshall, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Chelsey Renae Lira, age 31, of Davenport, was sentenced on June 1, 2022, to 180 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. Following her imprisonment, Lira was ordered to serve five years of supervised release and pay a $200 Special Assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
In fall 2020, law enforcement was investigating a large-scale drug conspiracy in Davenport, involving eight people, including Lira. On November 10, 2020, law enforcement initiated a traffic stop on vehicle driven by Lira, but she fled at a high rate of speed, before exiting and fleeing on foot. Officers failed to apprehend her, but in Lira’s car they recovered 45.16 grams of ice methamphetamine, a stolen, loaded nine-millimeter Springfield XDS handgun, a loaded magazine for the handgun, additional ammunition, and other evidence consistent with drug trafficking. On December 15, 2020, law enforcement arrested Lira on outstanding warrants and recovered 13.61 grams of ice methamphetamine and other evidence consistent with drug trafficking. After bonding out of jail, Lira continued to traffic methamphetamine with one of her co-conspirators. Due to her participation in the conspiracy, Lira was responsible for distributing more than five kilograms of methamphetamine. Lira pleaded guilty on January 26, 2022.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa –Justin Marion Woods, age 48, of Davenport, was sentenced on June 2, 2022, to 77 months in prison after pleading guilty to being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Woods was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term and immediately pay a $100 Special Assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
According to court documents, on July 4, 2020, Davenport police were dispatched to a disturbance involving weapons. After further investigation, a loaded Hi-Point .45 caliber pistol was found in Woods’ possession. On February 4, 2022, he pleaded guilty to the charge. Woods admitted he had been convicted of multiple felonies and he knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
This case was a 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 make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Burlington Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Ammunition ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Kaleb Alan Shannan, age 22, of Burlington, was sentenced on June 1, 2022, to 108 months in prison for being a Felon in Possession of Ammunition. Shannan was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term and was assessed a $100 Special Assessment immediately payable to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
According to court documents, Shannan was identified as an individual who had communicated numerous threats towards law enforcement and their families both in electronic communication and personal contact. During a traffic stop search, law enforcement seized nine-millimeter rounds of ammunition from Shannan’s backpack. On January 18, 2022, Shannan pleaded guilty to the charge.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This matter was investigated by the Des Moines County Sheriff and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for EscapeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man, Marius Lamar Avant, 27, was sentenced on Thursday, June 2, 2022, to 16 months in prison for Escape from Custody, to be served consecutively to his previously imposed 60-month sentence for Felon in Possession of a Firearm in the United States District Court for the Central District of Illinois. Following his imprisonment, Avant was ordered to served three years of supervised release and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ fund.
In September 2020, while serving the remainder of a term of imprisonment for a prior federal escape conviction, Avant left the Davenport Residential Reentry Center (RRC) without authorization and failed to return. He was not apprehended for over four months. When he was arrested in February 2021, Avant was found in possession of a firearm in Rock Island, Illinois. Avant pleaded guilty to the escape offense on January 10, 2022, following his conviction for the firearm offense in the Central District of Illinois.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The United States Marshals Service investigated the case.
Washington County Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Christopher Michael Wilson, age 45, was sentenced on June 1, 2022, to 210 months in prison for Receipt of Child Pornography. Wilson was ordered to serve fifteen years of supervised release to follow his prison term, as well as pay $3,000 in restitution to his victims. Wilson was also assessed a $100 Special Assessment immediately payable to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
According to court documents, the investigation into Wilson began when law enforcement received a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The CyberTip indicated that files suspected to be child pornography were uploaded from specific IP addresses. A phone number included with the tip traced back to Wilson. During the execution of a search warrant at Wilson’s known residence, numerous electronic devices were seized, which contained images and videos of child pornography. On January 20, 2022, Wilson pleaded guilty to the charge.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Washington County Sheriff’s Department and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Childhood” initiative, which was started in 2006 as a nation-wide effort to combine law enforcement investigations and prosecutions, community action, and public awareness in order to reduce the incidence of sexual exploitation of children. Any persons having knowledge of a child being sexually abused are encouraged to call the Iowa Sexual Abuse Hotline at 1-800-284-7821.
Mount Pleasant Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Victor Alberto Elias Rodriguez, age 40, of Mount Pleasant, was sentenced Wednesday, June 1, 2022, to 342 months in prison for Production of Child Pornography. Elias Rodriguez was also ordered to serve ten years of supervised release following his imprisonment and was assessed a $100 Special Assessment immediately payable to the Crime Victims Fund.
According to court documents, officers initiated an investigation into Elias Rodriguez after receiving information regarding his possible sexual abuse of a minor female. The investigation revealed that Elias Rodriguez had been sexually assaulting the minor victim from the age of five, up to this incident when the victim was seventeen years old. In addition, Elias Rodriguez took a video of the sexual assault with his cell phone. On January 21, 2022, Elias Rodriguez pleaded guilty to the one-count Indictment.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations.
This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Childhood” initiative, which was started in 2006 as a nation-wide effort to combine law enforcement investigations and prosecutions, community action, and public awareness in order to reduce the incidence of sexual exploitation of children. Any persons having knowledge of a child being sexually abused are encouraged to call the Iowa Sexual Abuse Hotline at 1-800-284-7821.
Former Chicago Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Fentanyl Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Kevin Lorenzo Perry, age 33, was sentenced today to 20 years in prison for Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in Death. Perry was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term and immediately pay a $100 Special Assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
According to court documents, the case involved Perry’s distribution of fentanyl to two individuals, in Iowa City, on May 12, 2020. Both individuals overdosed as a result of their ingestion of the fentanyl. One of the individuals died and the other was able to be resuscitated. The surviving individual identified Perry as the source of the fentanyl, which was corroborated by text messages with Perry. On January 11, 2022, Perry pleaded guilty to the charge.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This matter was investigated by the Iowa Department of Public Safety and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Julian Darnell Black, age 28, was sentenced today to 150 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Five Grams or More of Methamphetamine and Carrying a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime. Black was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow his prison term and immediately pay a $200 Special Assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
According to court documents, the investigation into Black began when law enforcement was dispatched to a domestic incident where Black was identified as the suspect. A subsequent search of Black resulted in the seizure of two baggies containing methamphetamine and a loaded Draco rifle. Law enforcement also confirmed that Black had multiple state warrants outstanding. On January 24, 2022, Black pleaded guilty to the charges.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
This case was a 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 make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Peru Man Sentenced for False Statements to the Social Security AdministrationRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – Troy John Pitzen, age 58, of Peru, Iowa, was sentenced May 26, 2022, to 24 months in prison following his guilty plea to making false statements to the Social Security Administration (SSA). Pitzen’s term of imprisonment will be followed by three years of supervised release.
Between 2006 and 2017, Pitzen stole approximately $371,356 in Social Security survivors benefits belonging to his three minor children. Those benefits were paid to Pitzen, as the children’s representative payee, following the death of the children’s mother. During that time, Pitzen repeatedly submitted paperwork to the SSA falsely claiming the children were living with him and he was using the children’s survivors benefits to care for the children. In fact, the children were living with and being cared for by other individuals while Pitzen continued to receive the children’s benefits and converted most of those benefits to his own use.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This matter was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Des Moines Man Sentenced to 55 Years in Federal Prison for Child Pornography and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – Gary Dale Elliott, Sr., age 62, of Des Moines, was sentenced May 27, 2022, to 660 months in prison. That sentence followed Elliott’s guilty pleas to production of child pornography, receipt of child pornography, and felon in possession of a firearm.
The investigation of Elliott began in early 2021, when a woman reported to law enforcement that she had found thumb drives containing child pornography in Elliott’s Des Moines residence. Elliott, a felon, later threatened the woman while armed with a loaded gun.
In February 2021, officers executed a search warrant at Elliott’s residence and seized computers, thumb drives, and other electronic devices. Officers searched those devices and located thousands of images and videos of child pornography. The investigation also revealed that Elliott produced child pornography in 2018 by filming three minor victims with a camera hidden in the bathroom of his residence.
Elliott’s criminal history includes a 1988 conviction resulting from the death of Elliott’s infant son. Elliott spent approximately 27 years in prison for that offense before being paroled in 2015.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This matter was investigated by the Des Moines Police Department, Iowa Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Chicago Man Sentenced to 294 Months in Federal Prison for Drug Offense Resulting in Girlfriend’s DeathRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Antonio Larvell Thomas, Jr., age 25, of Chicago, Ill., was sentenced on Tuesday, May 17, 2022, to 294 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death. Thomas was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow his prison term and immediately pay a $100 Special Assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
According to court documents, in 2019, law enforcement initiated an investigation into Thomas for his involvement in a heroin and methamphetamine conspiracy operating in the Quad Cities area. Multiple controlled buys were conducted where Thomas arranged to distribute fentanyl purported to be heroin to a cooperating individual. Thomas was implicated in multiple drug and gun seizures conducted by law enforcement. On January 5, 2020, Thomas’s girlfriend was found unresponsive in a Davenport hotel room she shared with Thomas. She was pronounced dead and an autopsy revealed she died of a fentanyl overdose. The fentanyl she ingested belonged to Thomas. Thomas was arrested in possession of additional fentanyl.
On December 18, 2020, Thomas pleaded guilty to the conspiracy charge and admitted that death resulted from the fentanyl he was distributing.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This matter was investigated by the Bettendorf Police Department, Davenport Police Department, Scott County Sheriff’s Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Burlington Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Laroy Dashun Redmond, age 29, of Burlington, was sentenced yesterday in federal court to 120 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Five Grams or More of Methamphetamine and Less Than 50 Kilograms of Marijuana, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. Redmond was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow his prison term and immediately pay a $300 Special Assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
According to court documents, the investigation into Redmond began when the Burlington Police Department responded to a shooting incident at Redmond’s residence in January 2021. During the search, law enforcement seized ammunition, over 400 grams of marijuana, and methamphetamine. In May and June of 2021, Redmond was stopped twice by police for driving while impaired. Law enforcement seized a nine-millimeter handgun from Redmond during the May encounter and a .40 caliber handgun and a distribution amount of cocaine from Redmond’s vehicle in June. In post-Miranda statements, Redmond admitted ownership of the nine-millimeter gun and stated his fingerprints would be found on the .40 caliber handgun. Redmond also admitted that he carried the gun in furtherance of his drug trafficking. On January 3, 2022, Redmond pleaded guilty to the charges.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This matter was investigated by the Burlington Police Department and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Ames Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – Lonnie Allen Hill, age 53, of Ames, was sentenced May 12, 2022, to 216 months in prison following his guilty pleas to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and felon in possession of a firearm. Hill’s term of imprisonment will be followed by five years of supervised release.
Between May and July 2020, law enforcement officers in Polk and Marshall Counties repeatedly encountered Hill with drugs and firearms. In two incidents, Hill led officers on high-speed vehicle pursuits in Marshalltown, including one in which Hill crashed into an occupied vehicle. In the course of these incidents, officers seized large quantities of marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin, two firearms, and thousands of dollars in cash. The investigation revealed Hill was trafficking drugs, including methamphetamine, in the Marshalltown area.
Hill has a lengthy criminal history, including multiple prior felony drug trafficking convictions. Hill was serving a state term of parole when he committed the offenses charged in this case.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, Marshalltown Police Department, Mid-Iowa Drug Task Force, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, and the Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of Iowa.
United States Attorney’s Office Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Richard D.Westphal recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and local law enforcement. Thisyear, the week is observed Wednesday, May 11 through Tuesday, May 17, 2022.
“This week, we gather to pay tribute to the law enforcement officers who sacrificed their lives in service to our country,” said Attorney General Garland. “We remember the courage with which they worked and lived. We recommit ourselves to the mission to which they dedicated their lives. On behalf of a grateful Justice Department and a grateful nation, I extend my sincerest thanks and gratitude to the entire law enforcement community.”
U.S. Attorney Westphal stated, “This week we pause to recognize the daily commitment of law enforcement officers for their dedication and courage in protecting and serving our communities in Iowa. In particular, we honor the lives of Iowa State Troopers Ted Benda and Sergeant Jim K. Smith, who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting and serving Iowans. We stand together in remembering the brave men and women who have died in the line of duty and will continue to support all law enforcement in their efforts to keep our communities safe.”
Trooper Ted Benda and Sergeant Jim Smith were honored at the 2022 Iowa Peace Officer Memorial Ceremony in Des Moines. Trooper Benda served the Iowa Department of Public Safety for 15 years and died in the line of duty while assisting a local law enforcement agency with the 1
apprehension of a wanted subject in Clayton County. Trooper Benda is survived by his wife and four children. Sergeant Smith was a 27-year veteran of the Iowa State Patrol and was killed while attempting to arrest a subject who assaulted and disarmed another law enforcement officer during a traffic stop. Sergeant Smith is survived by his wife and two children.Nationally, the names of the 619 fallen law enforcement added this year to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Friday, May 13, 2022, during a Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C., starting at 7:00 p.m. Those who wish to view the vigil live online, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/TheNLEOMF .
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Council Bluffs Men Sentenced for Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – Dalton Theodore Holland, age 30, of Council Bluffs, was sentenced Tuesday, May 10, 2022, to 51 months in prison for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm. His term of imprisonment will be followed by three years of supervised release. According to court documents, Holland pleaded guilty to the firearm charge on November 18, 2021. Holland’s co-defendant, Joshua Michael Holmes, age 26, also pleaded guilty to Prohibited Person on Possession of a Firearm on April 15, 2021, and was sentenced on August 31, 2021, to 63 months in prison and three years of supervised release.
In November of 2020, officers observed Holland and Holmes arrive at a home in Council Bluffs driving stolen vehicles. As officers attempted to approach Holland and Holmes, they attempted to flee in one of the stolen trucks but the truck got stuck. Officers boxed the truck in and apprehended Holmes. Holland ran from the bed of the truck and was stopped a short distance away by a police dog. Holland and Holms were found in possession of stolen items and firearms. Officers located a firearm on Holmes in a hip holster and another in his coveralls pocket. Two firearms were also located in the stolen Silverado that Holland drove to the home.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Council Bluffs Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of Iowa.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – Cole Jacob Bergantzel, age 20, of Council Bluffs, was sentenced Thursday, May 12, 2022, to 48 months in federal prison for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm. His term of imprisonment will be followed by three years of supervised release. According to court documents, Bergantzel pleaded guilty to the charge on January 5, 2022.
In March of 2021, Bergantzel attempted to sell firearms on Snapchat and in September of 2021, Bergantzel was arrested after he discharged a firearm in a residential area. Bergantzel was prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition as he is a drug user and addicted to a controlled substance.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Council Bluffs Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of Iowa.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced for Child Pornography OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – Andrew Russell White, age 34, of Council Bluffs, was sentenced Thursday, May 12, 2022, to 42 months in prison for Possession of Child Pornography. White’s term of imprisonment will be followed by five years of supervised release and he will be required to register as a sex offender. According to court documents, White pleaded guilty to the charge on January 5, 2022.
In March of 2019, a cybertip was sent to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regarding child pornography being uploaded to a Google account. The email address was traced to White and law enforcement obtained and executed a search warrant for White’s Gmail account and his residence in Council Bluffs. White admitted to law enforcement he downloaded images of child pornography onto his phone from the Internet. White was arrested and was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2021.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Council Bluffs Police Department and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of Iowa.
Yale Man Sentenced for False StatementsRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – Kendall Dean Kipp, age 53, of Yale, was sentenced today in federal court to three years of probation for making a False Statement. He was also ordered to pay a $9,500 fine and perform 180 hours of community service over a three-year period. According to court documents, Kendall pleaded guilty to the charge on December 16, 2021.
Kipp submitted falsified documents to the State of Iowa concerning the quality of water produced for the residents of the City of Yale. This violated the provisions of the Safe Drinking Water Act and, in turn, the False Statement statute. “As a certified drinking water operator, the defendant was entrusted not only with ensuring compliance with our environmental laws, but with the health and safety of the community,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Cate Holston of EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in Lenexa, KS. “His actions betrayed that trust, and today’s sentencing demonstrates that EPA will pursue and hold accountable those who intentionally violate the law.”
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Criminal Division of the Environmental Protection Agency and The Iowa Department of Natural Resources investigated the case. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of Iowa.
Omaha Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – Jeremy Joel Binns, age 44, of Omaha, was sentenced yesterday in federal court to 144 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. His prison term will be followed by five years of supervised release. According to court documents, Binns pleaded guilty to the charge on November 18, 2021.
In March of 2021, Binns was arrested for selling methamphetamine at a gas station in Council Bluffs. The following month, Binns was again arrested with methamphetamine in Omaha following a high-speed chase. He was indicted by a federal grand jury in May 2021.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Council Bluffs Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Nebraska State Patrol, and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Burlington Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Burlington man, Quanathan Naiji Knox Ivery, age 33, was sentenced on Monday, April 25, 2022, to 110 months in prison for Felon in Possession of Firearms. Ivery was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term and immediately pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
In Spring of 2020, law enforcement investigated felons shooting firearms at an indoor shooting range in Burlington. Law enforcement observed Ivery outside of the range and determined he was a felon and was ineligible from possessing firearms. When Ivery left the range, law enforcement stopped his vehicle and located three firearms, including a rifle, and a large amount of ammunition. Law enforcement also located a drum magazine, capable of holding 100 rounds of ammunition. Surveillance video from the range showed Ivery shooting all three of the firearms. On December 20, 2021, Ivery pleaded guilty to the charge.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Mary R. Jensen Appointed as Acting U.S. Trustee for the Judicial Districts Established for the States of Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota and South DakotaRead the Press Release
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland has appointed Mary R. Jensen as the Acting U.S. Trustee for the judicial districts established for the States of Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota and South Dakota effective May 7, 2022, the Executive Office for U.S. Trustees (EOUST) announced today. She will replace James L. Snyder, who is retiring after more than 32 years of government service.
Ms. Jensen has been with the U.S. Trustee Program (USTP) for 13 years, first as a Trial Attorney in the Madison, Wisconsin, office before being appointed as its Assistant U.S. Trustee in 2014. She received her law degree summa cum laude from Duquesne University and holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology magna cum laude from the University of Dallas and a master’s degree in professional writing with a concentration in management from Carnegie Mellon University.
“Ms. Jensen is an established leader within the USTP who will bring great focus and energy to this broader role,” said EOUST Acting Director Ramona D. Elliott. “I extend my best wishes and sincere thanks to Mr. Snyder for his immeasurable contributions to the Program and Region 12 over his long tenure with us.”
The U.S. Trustee Program is the component of the Justice Department that protects the integrity of the bankruptcy system by overseeing case administration and litigating to enforce the bankruptcy laws. The USTP has 21 regions and 90 field office locations. Region 12 has offices in Cedar Rapids and Des Moines, Iowa, and Minneapolis, Minnesota.
DOJ Commemorates National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa -- The Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime (“OVC”) and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa will join federal, state, and local communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and celebrating victims’ rights, protections, and services. This year’s observance takes place April 24-30 and features the theme, “Rights, access, equity, for all victims.”
As part of this observance, the Southern District of Iowa recognizes the courage and bravery of victims, and the outstanding work of law enforcement, victim advocates, and community service partners throughout Iowa. In particular, four individuals are recognized for outstanding service to victims. “These awards proudly recognize the exceptional efforts of four individuals providing assistance to federal and state victims in the Southern District of Iowa,” said United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. “Advocacy for the rights and safety of victims is a cogent reminder of the long-term human impact of these crimes. The service of these four individuals, and other state and federal victim advocates, are a vital component of our criminal justice system.”
The 2022 Award for Excellence in Victim Services is awarded to Mills County Attorney’s Office Victim Witness Coordinator Sarah McGinnis. Sarah’s dedication to victims is inspirational and unmatched. She has been there for each victim at every step of the criminal process, and has provided hope, support, and advocacy to numerous victims in sex abuse cases. Sarah has tirelessly worked to raise community awareness of sexual abuse and human trafficking, including producing a sexual assault awareness video where victims describe in their own words how abuse has affected them, and how they survived abuse. Sarah has clearly made a difference in multiple victims’ lives.
The 2022 Award for Excellence in Victim Services is awarded to Polk County Crisis and Advocacy Services Victim Advocate Sara McMillan. Sara continues to provide selfless and dedicated advocacy to state and federal crime victims. Sara provided the highest quality of victim advocacy in support of two minor victims and their families in a federal hate crimes prosecution. Also, she spent countless hours with, and provided empathy and support for, sex trafficking victims in the federal prosecution of a sex trafficker. Based on her skills and experience, Sara was able to provide valuable guidance to the prosecution team and victims, and never stopped offering her time and attention. Throughout her career, Sara has always been and continues to be a fierce advocate for victims.
The 2022 Award for Excellence in Victim Services is awarded to Audubon County Crime Victim Coordinator Angie Baylor. Angie’s self-motivated passion for victims and survivors has been described as “second to none.” She continues to go above and beyond to raise public awareness for victims of crime with community outreach, brochures, events, and public speaking. Angie has partnered with Catholic Charities to host the Survivor Statements awareness project during April - Sexual Assault Awareness month. She has organized efforts to wear blue and support the Pinwheels for Prevention project for April - National Child Abuse Prevention month. “Shedding Light on Domestic Violence” was Angie’s creative theme for the Purple Porch Project in recognition during October - Domestic Violence Awareness month. Most importantly, Angie has exemplified passion in her support of crime victims, to be their advocate, and provided a listening ear and a helping hand at a time when it was most needed. Angie has provided hope to victims, and clearly raised public awareness in Audubon County.
The 2022 Law Enforcement Victim Service Award recognizes the performance of Iowa Department of Public Safety, Division of Criminal Investigation, Special Agent Richard Vale. Special Agent Vale showed outstanding work in the federal sex trafficking investigation and prosecution of Darrius Redd. He epitomized exceptional dedication in locating multiple victims brutalized and trafficked by Redd. He not only performed his role as an investigator, but also demonstrated patience, empathy, and understanding with victims. As a result, this evidence provided a compelling case resulting in a guilty verdict at trial. Special Agent Vale went beyond the call of duty to assist victims in the Redd case, and the resulting conviction was largely the result of his commitment and service.
Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week in 1981, putting crime victims' rights, needs, and concerns in a prominent spot on the American agenda. He also established the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims.
For more information on how to create your own public campaigns to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights online and at events throughout the year, please visit: https://ovc.ojp.gov/ncvrw2022/overview.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – James Anthony Rogers, age 57, of Davenport, was sentenced Tuesday, April 26, 2022, to 214 months in prison for Production of Child Pornography, Distribution of Child Pornography, and Attempted Enticement of a Minor (two counts). Rogers was ordered to serve seven years of supervised release to follow his imprisonment and pay a $400 Special Assessment immediately payable to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
According to court documents, the Davenport Police Department initiated an investigation into Rogers after receiving information regarding his possible involvement in the sexual solicitation of a minor male. Multiple search warrants revealed that Rogers had attempted contact with over fifty minor males and engaged in sexually explicit conversations with them. Rogers attempted to persuade the minors to send nude photographs of themselves and to meet in-person to engage in sex acts for money or alcohol. A cellphone seized from Rogers contained numerous images of child pornography. On October 12, 2021, Rogers pleaded guilty to all charges.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department.
This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Childhood” initiative, which was started in 2006 as a nation-wide effort to combine law enforcement investigations and prosecutions, community action, and public awareness in order to reduce the incidence of sexual exploitation of children. Any persons having knowledge of a child being sexually abused are encouraged to call the Iowa Sexual Abuse Hotline at 1-800-284-7821.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man, Monterious Deshawn Bullock, age, 22, was sentenced on April 21, 2022, to 90 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime and Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Bullock was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term and immediately pay a $300 Special Assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
According to court documents, this investigation began when law enforcement executed two search warrants, which resulted in the seizure of two loaded handguns-one with an extended magazine-multiple rounds of ammunition, and bags of marijuana. In a post-Miranda interview, Bullock admitted ownership to the items located in the residence. On November 10, 2021, the defendant pleaded guilty to the charges.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Iowa City Woman Sentenced to Prison for Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – An Iowa City woman, Whitney Terrion Claybon, age 32, was sentenced yesterday in federal court to 27 months in prison for Felon in Possession of Ammunition. Claybon was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow her prison term, as well as immediately pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Law enforcement identified Claybon during a large-scale straw purchasing investigation. On January 4, 2021, Claybon and John Vest-Walker—who is also charged in this district with various firearm offenses—went into a local sporting goods store and looked at firearms. Claybon then surreptitiously provided money to Vest-Walker and he completed the firearm purchase. Law enforcement executed a search warrant on Claybon’s residence in Coralville, locating five rounds of ammunition in her purse. Claybon admitted knowing Vest-Walker was “flipping” firearms. Law enforcement recovered the firearm in the possession of one of Claybon’s relatives on January 21, 2021. Claybon pleaded guilty to this offense on November 5, 2021.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Iowa City Police Department investigated the case.
Iowa City Man Sentenced to Prison for Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – An Iowa City man, John Curtis Vest-Walker, age 35, was sentenced yesterday in federal court to 37 months in prison for Drug User in Possession of a Firearm, False Statement During a Purchase of a Firearm, and Conspiracy. Vest-Walker was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term and immediately pay $300 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Law enforcement identified Vest-Walker as a subject in a large-scale straw purchasing investigation in December 2020, when he appeared at multiple search warrant locations seeking return of his firearms. On December 10, 2020, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Vest-Walker’s residence and seized one firearm. Vest-Walker admitted to law enforcement he was a marijuana user. Investigation revealed between May 2020 and January 2021, Vest-Walker purchased 13 firearms, but was only in possession of one firearm. Law enforcement recovered seven firearms purchased by Vest-Walker in the possession of felons, drug users, and others who were prohibited from possessing them. One firearm was recovered following a shots-fired incident. Law enforcement determined that Vest-Walker conspired with others to violate federal firearms laws by purchasing firearms for others and falsifying ATF Form 4473, indicating that he was the actual purchaser. Vest-Walker knew he was purchasing the firearms for others and immediately following the purchases he transferred the firearms to others. Vest-Walker pleaded guilty to the charges on December 6, 2021.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Iowa City Police Department investigated the case.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Child Pornography OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – Luke Alric Forman, age 31, of Council Bluffs, was sentenced Thursday April 14, 2022, in federal court to 210 months in prison for Receipt of Child Pornography. His term of imprisonment will be followed by five years of supervised release. According to court documents, Forman pleaded guilty to the offense on December 16, 2021.
The Council Bluffs Police Department initiated an investigation after they received a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in which ten videos of child pornography were uploaded using KIK messenger. The CyberTip was linked to Forman’s residence in Council Bluffs. A search warrant was executed at Forman’s home and a cellular phone was seized. A forensic examination was completed on the cellular phone and revealed Forman had distributed, received, and possessed images and videos of child pornography and engaged in numerous conversations about this activity using KIK messenger.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This matter was investigated by the Council Bluffs Police Department, with assistance from the United State Secret Service National Computer Forensics Institute, which provided training and equipment.
Des Moines Man Sentenced to over 26 Years in Federal Prison for Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IOWA – Nicholas Dwayne Jones, age 42, of Des Moines, was sentenced today in federal court to 322 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine, Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Prohibited Person in Possession of Firearms.
According to evidence presented at the two and a half-day jury trial, in the Spring of 2020, investigators with the Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement (MINE) Task Force began a drug investigation into Nicholas Jones and his wife, Nashia Jones. MINE investigators conducted four controlled buys of cocaine from the Jones’. Officers executed a search warrant at their residence and seized $154,000 in drug proceeds, four loaded firearms, over 1,200 rounds of live ammunition, digital scales, cutting agents, and drug notes. Jones was found guilty on all charges.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The investigation was conducted by the MINE Task Force. Assistant United States Attorneys Mallory E. Weiser and Amy L. Jennings prosecuted the case with the assistance of Victim Witness Specialist Charlotte Kovacs.
Omaha Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – Humberto Felipe Mancinas, age 22, of Omaha, Nebraska was sentenced today in federal court to 162 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. His term of imprisonment will be followed by five years of supervised release. According to court documents, Mancinas pleaded guilty to the charge on October 22, 2021.
On March 12, 2021, Mancinas was stopped by law enforcement while driving in Fremont County, Iowa. During the traffic stop, a K-9 was deployed and indicated narcotics were in the vehicle. A search located approximately ten pounds of methamphetamine. Law enforcement then conducted a second search of a residence outside of Sidney, owned by a relative of Mancinas and where Mancinas had left just prior to the traffic stop, and located an additional seventeen pounds of methamphetamine.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Fremont County Sheriff’s Office, Mills County Sheriff’s Office, Omaha Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigations Transnational Organized Crime Task Force investigated the case. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Des Moines Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – Eric Romun Hill, age 46, of Des Moines, was sentenced today in federal court to 10 years in prison for possession of a firearm as a felon. He was ordered to serve a term of supervised release, to follow his prison term, of three years; pay a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund; and forfeit any interest in the firearms he possessed.
According to court documents, Hill unlawfully possessed a .45 caliber pistol and a stolen 12-gauge shotgun on August 30, 2020. The sentence imposed by United States District Court Senior Judge James E. Gritzner took into consideration Hill’s criminal history – which included two convictions for violent crimes and, in the current matter, the reckless discharge of firearms in proximity to others in a Des Moines residential neighborhood. Following Hill’s actions on August 30, 2020, Hill removed a GPS monitoring device he was ordered to wear as a condition of parole for a state conviction. He remained at large until he was located and arrested five months later.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Des Moines Police Department investigated the case with assistance of the Iowa Department of Public Safety, Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Fifth Judicial District, Department of Correctional Services.
Omaha Man Sentenced for Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – Erasmus Luis Gonzales, age 38, of Omaha, was sentenced Wednesday March 30, 2022, to 46 months in federal prison for Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct. His term of imprisonment will be followed by five years of supervised release. According to court documents, Gonzales pleaded guilty to the charge on October 22, 2021.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation engaged in an undercover investigation and Gonzales communicated with an agent who purported to be a thirteen-year-old girl in the seventh grade. Gonzales arranged to meet with the underage girl in June 2021 after he agreed to bring alcohol in exchange for a sex act.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement and this case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Council Bluffs Police Department.
Avoca Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – Jeffery Scott Holsinger, age 32, of Avoca, was sentenced today in federal court to 70 months in prison for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm. His term of imprisonment will be followed by three years of supervised release. According to court documents, Holsinger pleaded guilty to the charge on November 18, 2021.
On June 2, 2021, Holsinger was driving in Shelby County when he was stopped by law enforcement for not wearing a seatbelt and driving without a front license plate. During the traffic stop, law enforcement smelled the odor of burnt marijuana coming from the car and performed a probable cause search. During the search, law enforcement found a loaded 9mm handgun in a pouch on the front passenger seat that also contained pawn receipts for Holsinger. Holsinger is a prior convicted felon and prohibited from possessing a firearm.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement investigated the case. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of Iowa.
Wapello Man Pleads Guilty to Failure to File Income Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On March 24, 2022, Bradley Earl Ewart, age 50, of Wapello, appeared in federal court and pleaded guilty to two counts of failure to file federal income tax returns for the calendar years 2016 and 2018. Ewart is scheduled to be sentenced on July 28, 2022, by United States District Court Chief Judge Stephanie M. Rose. Each count of failure to file a tax return has a maximum sentence of one year in prison; a maximum fine of $25,000; or both. Ewart is responsible for paying his tax liability in full and must pay a $25 per count special assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Bradley Ewart has been the owner and operator of Louisa County Millwright, LLC since approximately 2004. Ewart acknowledged he received taxable income from this business during each of calendar years 2015 through 2018 in amounts that far exceeded the minimum amount that requires the filing of a federal income tax return. At the plea hearing, Ewart admitted he knew he was required to file federal income tax returns for the years 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018 and he willfully failed to do so. He additionally admitted he did not file federal income tax returns for the years 2004 through 2014.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Manchester Man Sentenced to 45 Years in Prison for Sex Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On March 23, 2022, Darrius Decnan Redd, age 33, of Manchester, was sentenced in federal court to 45 years in prison for sex trafficking an adult victim by force, fraud, and coercion; five years for facilitation of prostitution; and 40 years for distribution of a controlled substance to a person under the age of 21. The sentences are to run concurrently (i.e., at the same time). A jury unanimously convicted Redd of those crimes in September 2021.
According to evidence presented at the four and a half-day trial and court documents submitted for sentencing, Redd used deceptive and coercive tactics as well as physical force to compel a victim to engage in sex acts in exchange for money. Redd kept all the proceeds from the victim’s sex acts. Redd trafficked the victim in Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, Clive, and surrounding areas in March 2020. Redd also supplied the victim with a controlled substance and posted advertisements for paid sex acts with the victim and other women on an escort website.
Redd’s sex trafficking pursuits were not limited to one victim. Evidence at trial suggested Redd trafficked or attempted to traffic multiple women. Witnesses testified that Redd targeted vulnerable and broken women whom he could traffic and he had boasted about doing so for years. To recruit women for purposes of sex trafficking, Redd, among other things, plied the women with drugs, made video recordings of the women engaged in sex acts to use as blackmail, lied to the women about his intentions, and told the women that they owed him or others money.
At sentencing, United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger ruled that, during the commission of his crimes, Redd had raped two women. She found further Redd had physically restrained those women and he had abducted them against their will. She also noted Redd had failed to express any remorse for his actions and he had lied while testifying at trial.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This investigation was conducted by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, Clive Police Department, University of Iowa Police Department, Iowa City Police Department, Manchester Police Department, Iowa Department of Corrections, and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The Des Moines Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation participated in trial presentation. Assistant United States Attorneys Amy L. Jennings and Kyle J. Essley, along with Former Assistant United States Attorney Virginia Bruner, prosecuted the case with the assistance of Victim Witness Specialist Charlotte Kovacs.
Human trafficking is a crime involving the exploitation of youth under the age of 18 for commercial sex; the exploitation of adults for commercial sex through the use of force, fraud, or coercion; and the exploitation of any individual for compelled labor. Human trafficking does not require the transportation of individuals across state lines, or that someone is physically restrained. Signs that a person is being trafficked can include working excessively long hours, unexplained gifts, physical injury, substance abuse issues, running away from home, isolation from others, or having a person in their life controlling them or monitoring them closely. Victims particularly susceptible to being trafficked include those with criminal histories, a history of physical or sexual abuse, uncertain legal status, and dependency on controlled substances. Individuals who purchase sex from minors or from those who are otherwise exploited for commercial sex are also subject to prosecution for sex trafficking under federal law, if they knew or were in reckless disregard of the fact that they were under the age of 18, or that force, fraud, or coercion was used.
Anyone who suspects human trafficking is occurring, be it a minor engaging in paid sex acts, or anyone being coerced into prostitution or labor, is urged to call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
Treynor Man Sentenced for Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – Jeffrey M. Carley, age 53, formerly of Treynor, was sentenced Tuesday, March 22, 2022, to five years in prison. Following his prison term, Carley will serve three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $1,364,163.02 in restitution to the victims. Carley pleaded guilty to Wire Fraud on October 22, 2021.
Carley was a financial investment counselor and he owned or had an ownership interest in Carley Financial Group, Prosperity Partners, and Main Street Solutions. From as early as 2013, until December of 2020, Carley encouraged his clients to move money from their traditional IRA accounts to a “self-directed” IRA. Carley then advised his clients to move their money from the “self-directed” IRA to investment opportunities Carley owned or had ownership interest in and advised clients they would receive a financial return. Carley never told his clients that he owned or had an interest in the investments he represented to them as solid investments. Carley also failed to invest the clients’ money and instead used the funds for his personal expenses.
“The defendant…has destroyed the savings of people that trusted him and there is no way to quantify the damage the defendant did to the emotional security of those he stole from. Making this crime even more egregious, it appears, although one cannot be sure, that the defendant flitted away all the money he stole for personal purposes, leaving nothing available to repay the victims,” wrote Assistant United States Attorney Richard E. Rothrock in the government’s sentencing brief. The sentencing judge noted the length of time the scheme lasted and the harm and age of the victims as some of the aggravating factors in this case she considered in determining the five-year sentence.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Omaha Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – Tiloe Cardel Williams, age 43, of Omaha, was sentenced yesterday in federal court to 36 months in prison for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm. His term of imprisonment will be followed by three years of supervised release. According to court documents, Williams pleaded guilty to the charge on November 4, 2021.
On July 30, 2021, a police officer stopped Williams’ vehicle for overly dark window tint. The officer could smell marijuana and requested the assistance of a canine officer. Marijuana and a firearm were located under the cup holder of the center console. At the time of the offense, Williams was a convicted felon and drug user and was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Council Bluffs Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of Iowa.
Council Bluffs Nurse Sentenced for Fraudulently Obtaining NarcoticsRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – Jadelyn Marie Maher, age 39, of Council Bluffs, was sentenced yesterday in federal court to six months in prison for Acquiring a Controlled Substance by Misrepresentation, Fraud, Deception and Subterfuge. Her term of imprisonment will be followed by one year of supervised release. Maher was also ordered to pay a $3,000 fine. According to court documents, Maher pleaded guilty to the charge on November 4, 2021.
Maher was employed as a registered nurse at facilities where she falsified health care records and narcotics log sheets when she checked out narcotics/opioids for patients. Maher took the Hydrocodone and Oxycodone pills for her own use. Maher’s nursing license was forfeited by the Court.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Iowa Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigated the case. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of Iowa.