Southern District of Iowa
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Ottumwa Man Sentenced to 332 Months in Prison on Gun and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – On August 24, 2021, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Clinton Andrew Wynn, age 43, of Ottumwa, to 332 months in prison on gun and drug charges.
According to court documents, Wynn previously pleaded guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Carrying a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime.
These charges arose from a traffic stop of Wynn in Fairfield on October 3, 2020, where Wynn was found in possession of 33 pounds of ice methamphetamine, a gun, and $11,541 cash. Wynn admitted he had been involved in importing and distributing ice methamphetamine in Southeastern Iowa. When officers in Ottumwa subsequently arrested Wynn on his federal warrant, Wynn struck multiple police vehicles.
Wynn has prior criminal convictions for assault, domestic abuse assault, assault while displaying a dangerous weapon, burglary, harassment, arson, violations of no contact orders, and OWI. At the time of this offense, Wynn was under criminal justice supervision for two felony drug offenses, a harassment first degree charge, and a charge for assault while displaying a dangerous weapon.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Jefferson County Sherriff’s Office, Fairfield Police Department, Southeast Iowa Inter-Agency Drug Task Force, South Central Iowa Drug Task Force, Southeast Iowa Narcotics Task Force, South Iowa Drug Task Force, Centerville Police Department, Appanoose County Sheriff’s Office, Ottumwa Police Department, and Wapello County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office, in conjunction with the Jefferson County Attorney’s Office.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhood, a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Felon in Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – A Davenport man, Christopher Michael Screechfield, age 23, was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 24 months in prison for Felon in Possession of Ammunition. Screechfield was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund. This sentence is to be served consecutively to a supervised release revocation sentence for a prior federal offense from 2017.
According to court documents, Screechfield was identified after officers responded to a residence in Davenport where Screechfield attempted to commit suicide and injured himself. Screechfield was transported to the hospital. Further investigation from law enforcement revealed Screechfield was wanted for a supervised release violation by the United States Marshals Service. When officers took Screechfield into custody, he had three bullets in his possession. On April 20, 2021, Screechfield pleaded guilty to the charge.
Screechfield had previously been convicted of possession of an unregistered firearm in March of 2018 and was sentenced to 42 months in prison with three years of supervised release to follow. Screechfield was placed on supervised release on October 15, 2020. Due to the instant charge, his supervised release was revoked, and he was sentenced to serve 14 months in prison. That term was ordered to be served consecutive to the 24-month term imposed today.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Davenport Police Department investigated the case.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – A Davenport man, Willie James Powell, Jr., age 22, was sentenced today by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 57 months in prison for the offense of Felon in Possession of Firearms. Powell was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation began on September 2, 2020, when Davenport Police responded to a report of suspicious and threatening activity in the area of West 8th Street. Shortly after, officers located a vehicle associated with the activity and attempted to initiate a traffic stop. The vehicle fled from officers along many residential streets, exceeded 80 miles per hour, and eventually crashed. Powell, Jr. was the front seat passenger of the vehicle, which was discovered to have been stolen. A search of the vehicle produced two firearms—a Glock nine-millimeter pistol and a H&K nine-millimeter pistol. On April 19, 2021, Powell, Jr. pleaded guilty to knowingly possessing both the firearms. As a convicted felon, Powell, Jr. knew he was prohibited from possessing firearms.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Davenport Police Department investigated the case.
Clinton Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – A Clinton man, Ray Daytrel Hopkins, age 45, was sentenced on August 24, 2021, by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 120 months in prison for Possession of Child Pornography. Hopkins was ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund and $6,000 in restitution.
According to court documents, Hopkins was identified by law enforcement when an SD card from a camera belonging to Hopkins was turned over to the Clinton Police Department. Upon reviewing the SD card’s contents, law enforcement uncovered multiple videos of nude minor females. Law enforcement then executed a valid search warrant at Hopkins’s residence and seized additional electronic devices. On Hopkins’s cell phone, law enforcement located additional sexually explicit images of minor females. Hopkins pleaded guilty to the charge on April 9, 2021, admitting to knowingly possessing these visual depictions.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Clinton Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.
Burlington Man Sentenced to 320 Months in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Ice MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – Michael Antonio Davison, age 36, of Burlington, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 320 months in prison for trafficking ice methamphetamine into Burlington. Davison was involved in importing/distributing approximately 160 kilograms of ice methamphetamine in the Burlington area. Davison was also a leader/organizer of a drug trafficking group and possessed a firearm related to his drug trafficking activities. Davison has five prior convictions for felony drug offenses, and was under criminal justice supervision for two different drug felony offenses at the time of this criminal activity. Davison was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow his prison term. Davison was also ordered to pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Compensation Fund.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Southeast Iowa Narcotics Taskforce, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office, and the Burlington Police Department. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Kansas City Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Kansas City, Missouri man, Andre Emmanuel Sanders, age 53, was sentenced yesterday by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 100 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine and Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and 60 months in prison for Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking, to be served consecutively, for a total of 160 months in prison. Sanders was ordered to serve four years of supervised release to follow his prison term as well as pay $300 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
According to court documents, Sanders was involved in an investigation that began in January 2020 when Sanders fled a traffic stop at a high rate of speed and drove in the wrong lane of travel – nearly causing two crashes. After crashing his own vehicle, Sanders discarded a loaded firearm and ran from law enforcement. Once apprehended, prescription pills were found in his possession. Two weeks later, police observed Sanders illegally park a car in West Burlington and walk away. The officer observed a firearm wedged between the driver’s seat and the center console of the vehicle Sanders drove. The officer towed the vehicle and obtained a valid search warrant. Approximately 25.86 grams of methamphetamine and ammunition were located in the center console. As a convicted felon, Sanders knew he was prohibited from possessing firearms.
Acting U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Burlington Police Department investigated the case.
Des Moines Woman Sentenced to Prison for Making a False Statement During the Purchase of a FirearmRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IOWA – On Thursday, August 19, 2021, a federal judge sentenced Jennifer Elizabeth Shorter, age 23, of Des Moines, to 33 months in prison for making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm. Shorter previously pleaded guilty to the charge.
At sentencing, United States District Court Senior Judge James E. Gritzner found Shorter had illegally purchased eleven firearms by lying on the purchasing forms. For ten of the firearms, Shorter claimed she was the actual buyer, when she actually purchased the firearms for others. Two of those firearms were recovered in the hands of prohibited individuals, a felon and a juvenile. Eight of the firearms remain unrecovered.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Des Moines Police Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, 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.
Casey Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IOWA – A Casey man, Dale Lee Waldroupe, age 36, was sentenced on August 19, 2021, by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 150 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Carrying a Firearm During and in Relation to Drug Trafficking. His term of imprisonment will be followed by five years of supervised release. According to court documents, Waldroupe pleaded guilty to the methamphetamine and firearm offenses in March of 2021.
In November 2020, Waldroupe was involved in a car accident in Council Bluffs and prior to law enforcement’s arrival he fled the scene. Waldroupe was located by law enforcement a short distance from the accident and officers discovered Waldroupe possessed fifty grams of methamphetamine, a scale, and a stolen firearm.
Acting 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.
Des Moines Woman Sentenced to 304 Months in Prison for Hate CrimesRead the Press Release
Nicole Poole Franklin attempted to kill two children because of their race and national origin
DES MOINES, IA – Nicole Poole Franklin, age 43, of Des Moines, was sentenced to 304 months in prison by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose after pleading guilty to two hate crime charges for attempting to kill two minors because of their race and national origin. The federal sentence will run concurrently with the 25-year sentence imposed in the Iowa District Court for Polk County on May 28, 2021, for two counts of attempted murder. Poole Franklin was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow her prison term and pay a $200 special assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On the afternoon of December 9, 2019, Poole Franklin drove her Jeep Grand Cherokee on Creston Avenue in Des Moines, where the first child-victim and a minor family member were walking on the sidewalk. Upon seeing the children and believing the victim was of Middle Eastern or African descent, Poole Franklin intentionally drove her vehicle over the curb, striking one of them. She then drove away from the scene. The child victim suffered cuts, bruising, and swelling. Poole Franklin later stated she believed the child was “ISIS” and was going to take her out. Approximately 30 minutes later, Poole Franklin drove her vehicle near Indian Hills Junior High School in Clive, where the second child-victim was walking on the sidewalk. Poole Franklin, drove her Jeep over the curb and struck the victim, causing serious injury, including a concussion, bruises, and cuts. Poole Franklin later told law enforcement that she believed the minor victim was Hispanic, and was “takin over . . . our homes, and our jobs,” and “wasn’t supposed to be in our country.” Poole Franklin again left the scene but was apprehended by law enforcement later that day.
Acting Southern District of Iowa United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal wrote in his sentencing memorandum to the district court, “Nothing can be more devastating to the American dream of equal rights than the actions of Poole Franklin on a hate filled December 9, 2019, as she callously attempted to run over and kill a 12 year old boy, and a 14 year old girl. Two minors who had done nothing wrong other than innocently walk on a street, and happen to be of a different race and skin color from Poole Franklin. Her actions temporarily shattered, but did not permanently defeat this dream. Because these two courageous victims, and their amazing families, continue to epitomize the hopes of what our society can be. Holding Poole Franklin accountable, not only for her intentional actions, but for the malicious beliefs behind them, is what our justice system should be, and a must to provide just punishment, afford adequate deterrence, and protect the public from further crimes by this defendant.”
Following today’s sentencing, FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel stated, “Nicole Poole Franklin committed a despicable crime. She targeted and seriously injured two children because of the color of their skin. FBI Omaha will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate hate crimes and seek justice for the victims. We encourage everyone to report such crimes to the FBI.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Des Moines Police Department, the Clive Police Department, the West Des Moines Police Department, and the Polk County Attorney’s Office. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa, in conjunction with the Department of Justice-Civil Rights Division prosecuted the case.
Foreign Exchange Student Coordinator Sentenced to over 27 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – A Council Bluffs man was sentenced Thursday, August 12, 2021, by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 327 months in prison for Coercion and Enticement of minor foreign exchange students. According to court documents, Thomas Donald Boatright, age 52, pleaded guilty to the offenses in February 2021. His prison term will be followed by 10 years of supervised release. Boatright was ordered to pay restitution to the minor victims.
Boatright worked as a foreign exchange student coordinator and host parent for a program where students from other countries enrolled in a year of high school in the United States. The students were assigned a host family to live with while they attended high school. In February 2020, a report was made by a foreign student after visiting Boatright’s residence. The student reported that a hidden camera was discovered in the bathroom. Boatright had two minor foreign students living with him as part of the exchange program. A search warrant of Boatright’s residence recovered numerous electronic devices. A forensic examination discovered numerous videos of three minor foreign exchange students in the bathroom of Boatright’s home. An investigation unveiled that Boatright used his cellular phone and computer to engage in conversations with the foreign students prior to and after arriving in the United States that were sexual in nature. Boatright used his position as a foreign exchange student coordinator and host parent to coerce and entice foreign students to engage in sexual activity after they arrived in the United States.
Acting 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, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation - Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the United States Secret Service National Computer Forensics Institute provided computer forensic training and equipment.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – A Council Bluffs man was sentenced Thursday, August 12, 2021, by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 121 months in prison for Possession of Child Pornography. His term of imprisonment will be followed by 10 years of supervised release. According to court documents, Cody Goodwin Taylor, age 31, of Council Bluffs, pleaded guilty to Possession of Child Pornography in April 2021.
In July 2020, a cybertip was received by Council Bluffs Police Department that numerous images of suspected child pornography had been uploaded to a Google drive account. While CBPD was investigating the cybertip, they received a report that Taylor’s cellular phone contained child pornography. A search warrant was executed on Taylor’s cell phone and a forensic analysis discovered over one hundred photos and videos of child pornography.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Council Bluffs Police Department investigated the case and the United States Secret Service National Computer Forensics Institute provided computer forensic training and equipment.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to Prison for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – A Council Bluffs man, Dylan Michael Joseph Hoffman, age 30, was sentenced on Thursday, August 12, 2021, by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 63 months in prison for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm. His term of imprisonment will be followed with three years of supervised release. According to court documents, Hoffman pleaded guilty to the offense in March of 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Council Bluffs Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case.
Minton Man Sentenced to Prison for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT – On Wednesday, July 28, 2021, a Minton man was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 80 months in federal prison for distributing child pornography.
According to court documents, Joshua Emil Sullivan, age 46, admitted to distributing child pornography over the internet. After Sullivan’s term of imprisonment, he will be required to serve a term of supervised release of five years and register as a sex offender.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
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 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 210 Months in Prison for Production and Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – A Davenport man was sentenced on Wednesday, July 28, 2021, by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 210 months in federal prison for production and receipt of child pornography.
According to court documents, Keith Allen Shrum, age 32, admitted he sexually abused a child, produced child pornography related to that sexual abuse, and received child pornography over the internet. Shrum came to the attention of law enforcement after sexual text messages between Shrum and the minor victim were discovered. Shrum initially denied inappropriate contact with the child, but eventually admitted to law enforcement the sexual contact had been going on for approximately one year. During the execution of search warrants, Shrum was found in possession of thousands of images of child pornography dating back to 2016. Following Shrum’s prison sentence he will be required to serve a ten-year term of supervised release and register as a sex offender.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Davenport Police Department.
This matter 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.
Burlington Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – On Wednesday, July 28, 2021, a Burlington man was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 20 years in federal prison for distributing methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Gerald Victor Terry, age 50, admitted to distributing ice methamphetamine in Burlington. Terry had several prior criminal convictions and was on State of Iowa parole for two felony convictions at the time of this offense. After Terry’s prison term he will serve five years of supervised release.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Southeast Iowa Narcotics Taskforce, Burlington Police Department, Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Oskaloosa Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Distribution of Methamphetamine Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
DES MOINES – An Oskaloosa man, Cody James Vancenbrock, age 28, was sentenced on July 29, 2021, by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger, to 240 months in prison for Distribution of Methamphetamine Resulting in Death. Following imprisonment, Vancenbrock is ordered to serve five years of supervised release, pay restitution, and pay $100 to the Crime Victims Fund. Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal made this announcement.
According to court documents, on August 4, 2019, Vancenbrock intentionally injected methamphetamine at an Oskaloosa apartment into a twenty-four-year-old female victim. Soon after, the methamphetamine injected by Vancenbrock caused the death of the victim. After the victim died in the apartment, Vancenbrock and another person carried the victim’s body out of the apartment, placed her in a vehicle, drove to a location in rural Mahaska County, and disposed of the body in the Skunk River. The body was later found and recovered on August 6, 2019.
The United States Attorney’s Office-Southern District of Iowa prosecuted this case. This investigation was conducted by the Iowa Department of Public Safety-Division of Criminal Investigation, the Oskaloosa Police Department, the Mahaska County Sheriff’s Office.
La Porte City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for CyberstalkingRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – A La Porte City man, Austin Michael Kiler, was sentenced today by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 21 months in prison for Cyberstalking. Kiler was ordered to serve two years of supervised release to follow his prison term, as well as pay $ 100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund. On March 26, 2021, Kiler was found guilty following a jury trial.
According to court documents, Austin Michael Kiler, age 24, was in a relationship with an identified victim between the winter of 2018 and March 2019. After their relationship ended, the victim began dating another person. Kiler then electronically and physically followed the victim and the new partner. As a result, the victim obtained a civil protective order against Kiler. Over the next nine months the victim reported to the police multiple instances in which Kiler had been stalking them—which included Kiler driving by the victim’s known residence, Kiler driving by the new partner’s residence, numerous fake dating/social media accounts that continuously contacted the victim and the new partner, and contact with the victim through spoofed text messages. One of the text messages the victim received contained information leading them to believe Kiler had been watching them through the windows of their home.
Evidence on Kiler’s electronic devices revealed calendar events regarding the whereabouts of the victim, screenshots of the victim and the new partner’s dating/social media profiles, evidence of Kiler having created fake online personas, as well as videos and photos— taken through a window—of the victim and the new partner engaged in sexual activities. Geolocation data from Kiler’s accounts corroborated nearly all the victim’s reported sightings of Kiler.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Iowa City Police Department investigated the case.
Twenty-Seven Defendants Charged in Joint Federal and State Investigation of Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IOWA -- Twenty-seven defendants are facing federal criminal charges as part of a joint federal and state investigation of a heroin and fentanyl drug trafficking organization. Most of these defendants were arrested on July 21, 2021; three individuals have yet to be arrested.
These defendants are charged with federal drug offenses in two criminal indictments:
- Malek Shawn Holmes, age 21, of Des Moines
- Pierre Fontain Black, age 30, of Des Moines
- Deshawn Levell Greer, age 29, of Des Moines
- Desmond Lamar Howard, age 30, of Des Moines
- Carl Murphy, age 52, of Chicago, Illinois
- Earl Otis Clay, III, age 29, of Des Moines
- Gregory Izell Spight, age 42, of Des Moines
- Michael Byrd, age 28, of Chicago, Illinois
- Azim Abdul-Ahad, age 22, of Des Moines
- Ronald Harris, age 35, of Des Moines
- Derrick Fleming, age 27, of Chicago, Illinois
- Patrick Staples, age 28, of Chicago, Illinois
- Brandon Reed, age 28, of Chicago, Illinois
- Tabaris Brown, age 22, of Des Moines
- Dandre Cox, age 21, of Des Moines
- Daeante Dewayne Neely, age 28, of Des Moines
- Elijah Seymour, age 33, of Des Moines
- Felicia Olson, age 29, of Des Moines
- Sarah Hume, age 39, of Des Moines
- Andrew Price, age 29, of Des Moines
- Jason Beaman, age 46, of Knoxville
- Jamisha Canada, age 44, of Des Moines
- Tonie Canada, age 39, of Des Moines
- Rickey’a Dee Jackson, age 22, of Des Moines
- Devante Jave Taylor, age 26, of Des Moines
- Tyler Robert Wood, age 30, of Des Moines
- Zakar Jeffrey, age 28, of Des Moines
All defendants arrested on July 21 have or will soon appear in federal court on the charges.
The charges stem from a months’ long investigation into heroin and fentanyl distribution within the Des Moines area. The charges carry maximum penalties of up to life imprisonment, with a ten- year mandatory minimum prison term as to Malek Holmes, and five-year mandatory minimum prison terms as to Pierre Black, Deshawn Greer, Carl Murphy, Earl Clay, III, Gregory Spight, Michael Byrd, Azim Abdul-Ahad, Ronald Harris, Derrick Fleming, Patrick Staples, Brandon Reed, Tabaris Brown, Daeante Neely, Felicia Olson, Andrew Price, Jason Beaman, Jamisha Canada, and Tonie Canada. The public is reminded that charges contain only accusations and are not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, the Court must impose reasonable sentences under federal sentencing statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
The charges were announced by Richard D. Westphal, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa. Investigating and assisting agencies include: the Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force; Central Iowa Gang Task Force; Des Moines Police Department; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; Polk County Sheriff’s Office; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; Iowa State Patrol; Iowa Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center; Iowa State Patrol SWAT; United States Marshals Service; Central Iowa Drug Task Force; Drug Enforcement Agency; Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force East; Homeland Security Investigations; Altoona Police Department; Story County Sheriff’s Office; Ames Police Department; Norwalk Police Department; West Des Moines Police Department; Ankeny Police Department; METRO Star; SERT; Iowa 5th Judicial District; Federal Bureau of Investigation Chicago; Federal Bureau of Investigation Kansas City; Federal Bureau of Investigation Minneapolis; Federal Bureau of Investigation Omaha; and the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF).
OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Council Bluffs Businessman Convicted of Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFF, IA – On Friday, July 23, 2021, Hershal James Ratliff, age 71, long time businessman and owner of Jimmy’s All American Malt Shop and Grill in Council Bluffs, Iowa, was found guilty of four counts of sex trafficking minors, two counts of sex trafficking adults and two counts of distributing a controlled substance to a person under twenty-one years of age. The verdict came after a four-day trial before United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey.
Evidence presented at trial showed that RATLIFF, over the last ten years, would have minor girls come to his house an perform sex acts on him and with his friends in exchange for money, drugs, and other material things. The testimony showed that Ratliff provided the minor girls with alcohol, prescription Xanax, and marijuana both before and after they participated in sex acts at his residence.
In addition, the evidence showed that Ratliff obtained sex acts for his friends from adult women by the use of force and coercion. No sentencing date has been set.
The investigation was conducted by the Council Bluffs Police Department with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Acting U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
Omaha Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA -- An Omaha, Nebraska man, Daniel James Haacke, age 35, was sentenced yesterday by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 160 months in prison for drug and firearms offenses. His term of imprisonment is to be followed by four years of supervised release.
According to court documents, Haacke pleaded guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking in February of 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Council Bluffs Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case.
Federal Search Warrants ExecutedRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa -- On Wednesday, July 21, 2021, federal search warrants were executed at the following locations in the Des Moines metropolitan area:
- 1100 block of 24th Street, Des Moines
- 1300 block of 13th Place, Des Moines
- 800 block of Loomis Avenue, Des Moines
- 1200 block of East 32nd Street, Des Moines
- 6300 block of Hickman Road, Des Moines
- 1300 block of Clark Street, Des Moines
- 5100 block of Ingersoll Avenue, Des Moines
- 1700 block of Logan Avenue, Des Moines
- 400 block of Aurora Avenue, Des Moines
- 2200 block of 32nd Street, Des Moines
- 1800 block of 2nd Avenue, Des Moines
- 300 block of East Grand Avenue, Des Moines
- 800 block of East County Line Road, Des Moines
The searches at these locations were an official law enforcement action involving officers, agents, and investigators from Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force; Central Iowa Gang Task Force; Des Moines Police Department; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; Polk County Sheriff’s Office; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; Iowa State Patrol; Iowa Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center; Iowa State Patrol SWAT; United States Marshals Service; Central Iowa Drug Task Force; Drug Enforcement Agency; Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force East; Homeland Security Investigations; Altoona Police Department; Story County Sheriff’s Office; Ames Police Department; Norwalk Police Department; West Des Moines Police Department; Ankeny Police Department; METRO Star; SERT; Iowa 5th Judicial District; Federal Bureau of Investigation Chicago; Federal Bureau of Investigation Kansas City; Federal Bureau of Investigation Minneapolis; Federal Bureau of Investigation Omaha.
East Moline Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – A East Moline man, Davion Demitri Gary, age 22, was sentenced on Wednesday, July 14, 2021, by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 65 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Gary was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term as well as pay $100.00 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
According to court documents, on April 21, 2020, Davenport Police were called to an apartment complex regarding a shots-fired incident. Officers made contact with Gary after stopping a vehicle suspected of being involved in the shots-fired incident. The vehicle Gary was in contained guns, drugs, and a large amount of ammunition. Gary was identified by a witness as the shooter. At the time of this shooting, Gary was on parole through the State of Iowa for Intimidation with a Dangerous Weapon and Willful Injury Causing Bodily Injury, related to his involvement in a prior shooting. In that incident, Gary shot another person.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Davenport Police Department investigated the case.
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 make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Three Men Guilty of Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On July 13, 2021, a federal jury convicted three men, all originally from Shreveport, Louisiana, of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances in Burlington, and elsewhere, as a part of a drug conspiracy dating back to 2008.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Kendrick Ramon Page, age 39; Tristan Kareem Davis, age 36; and Breon Raquon Armstrong, age 20; entered an agreement with each other, and others, to distribute crack cocaine and ice methamphetamine in Burlington and elsewhere. Page relocated from Shreveport to Burlington while he was still in school and had brought others, including Davis and Armstrong, from Shreveport to assist in Page’s drug trafficking activities. The evidence showed Page had been involved in trafficking drugs in Burlington since the early 2000s.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal made the announcement. “This case is a testament to the dedication and hard work of multiple federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, and our prosecution partners at the Des Moines County Attorney’s Office, working together to bring a long standing drug organization to justice,” stated Westphal.
Des Moines County Sheriff Kevin Glendengin stated, “This was a long-term, collaborative investigation involving numerous investigators from many different agencies. The excellent work and tireless efforts of these investigators are a testament to their dedication to making our communities a safe place to live, work, and play. The Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office is proud to have worked together with all the law enforcement professionals involved in this investigation, and to get these dangerous narcotic distributors out of our communities.”
Donald Payton of the Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 4 Commander remarked, “This investigation was a fantastic collaboration between local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in a multi-state area. The number of arrests made during this investigation will make a significant impact on narcotic distribution in West Central Illinois, Southeast Iowa, and Northeast Missouri. The West Central Illinois Task Force will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners and prosecutors in Iowa and Missouri to aggressively combat the illegal distribution of narcotics in the tri-state area.”
Page, Davis, and Armstrong were among eight defendants who faced federal charges as a result of an investigation in Burlington, Iowa; Quincy, Illinois; and elsewhere, which culminated in the execution of search warrants on November 19, 2019. Others charged as a part of this drug trafficking organization included Alphonso Edmond, Jr, who pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing; Frederrick Dewayne Reed, who pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 160 months of imprisonment; Lavelle Harris, who pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 262 months of imprisonment; Lamar Harris, who pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 210 months of imprisonment; and Michael Rees, who pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing. Other individuals associated with this drug trafficking organization have been charged federally in the Southern District of Iowa, the Central District of Illinois, and the Northern District of Texas.
These charges stem from a long-term investigation conducted by numerous federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies including: the Southeast Iowa Narcotics Taskforce; Burlington Police Department; Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office; Federal Bureau of Investigation; West Central Illinois Taskforce; Quincy, Illinois, Police Department; Drug Enforcement Administration; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; Henry County Sheriff’s Office; Mt. Pleasant Police Department; West Burlington Police Department; Keokuk Police Department; Ft. Madison Police Department; Lee County Sheriff’s Office; Iowa City Police Department; Johnson County Sheriff’s Office; North Liberty Police Department; Coralville Police Department; Muscatine County Sheriff’s Office; Louisa County Sheriff’s Office; Washington County Sheriff’s Office; Bettendorf Police Department; Illinois State Police; Monmouth, Illinois, Police Department; Macomb, Illinois, Police Department; Galesburg, Illinois, Police Department; Adams County, Illinois, Sheriff’s Office; and Fulton County, Illinois, Sheriff’s Office.
This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Solon Man Sentenced to Prison for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – A Solon man, Alfredo Alexander Lujan, was sentenced on June 30, 2021, by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 144 months in prison for Receipt and Possession of Child Pornography. Lujan was ordered to serve a five-year term of supervised release to follow his prison sentence, pay $200.00 to the Crime Victims’ Fund, and pay a $5,000.00 special assessment in accordance with the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act.
According to court documents, Alfredo Alexander Lujan, age 43, was identified by the Federal Bureau of Investigation as having traded child pornography with an individual in North Carolina. Further investigation revealed they had sent links containing child pornography via the KIK application to one other. Law enforcement executed a search warrant at Lujan’s residence and seized multiple electronic devices. Lujan admitted receiving and possessing child pornography. In total, Lujan possessed nearly 200 images and videos depicting child pornography. On February 19, 2021, Lujan pleaded guilty to the charges brought against him.
Acting U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The FBI investigated the case. The 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.
Des Moines Woman Sentenced to Prison for Providing Firearm to a FelonRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IOWA – On Thursday, July 8, 2021, a federal judge sentenced Mariah Lynn Cross, age 24, of Des Moines, to 12 months and one day in prison for providing a firearm to a felon and illegally possessing firearms as a drug user. Cross previously pleaded guilty to the charges.
At sentencing, United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger found Cross had illegally purchased three firearms by lying on the purchasing forms. All three of those firearms were recovered in the hands of prohibited persons, including felons, drugs users, and an individual subject to a domestic violence restraining order.
Acting U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Des Moines Police Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, 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.
Des Moines Man Sentenced for Defrauding WIC and SNAP ProgramsRead the Press Release
Des Moines, Iowa – A Des Moines man was sentenced on Friday, July 2, 2021, to 15 months in prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
According to court documents, Osman Rashid Jama, age 39, defrauded the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) from at least January 2017 through April 2019. Jama owned and operated the MidCity Halal Food Market Inc., d/b/a International Food Market (International), in Des Moines. Jama, and others at his direction, scanned SNAP and WIC recipients’ EBT cards at his store. Instead of giving the recipient the WIC and/or SNAP approved items, Jama and others gave recipients non-approved items, store credit, and cash. Jama also used SNAP recipients’ EBT cards to purchase items to stock his store. Jama was found to have defrauded the programs a total of $1,445,460.47 and was ordered to pay restitution to the agencies that administer the programs.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal made the announcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and United States Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General investigated the case.
Ottumwa Man Sentenced to 19 Years in Prison on Drug Trafficking and Firearms ConvictionRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On June 30, 2021, an Ottumwa man was sentenced to 19 years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person in violation of federal law. In February 2021, following a two-day trial, a jury found the defendant guilty of the two firearm charges. Defendant had previously pleaded guilty to the drug charges.
According to court documents and proceedings, Hector Ramon Iglesias Tovar of Ottumwa, age 35, was involved in trafficking over 1.5 kilograms of “ice” methamphetamine, in Ottumwa and elsewhere. He possessed an Anderson AR 15 rifle and a Springfield XD .45 handgun in furtherance of drug trafficking. Because defendant was unlawfully in the United States his possession of these firearms was also a violation of federal law.
Iglesias’ co-defendant, David Lemley, also of Ottumwa, was sentenced in May 2021 to 84 months in prison for his plea of guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The investigation was conducted by the Southeast Iowa Inter-Agency Drug Task Force, the Ottumwa Police Department, the Wapello County Sheriff’s Office, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Des Moines Woman Sentenced to Eight Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Damage the Dakota Access PipelineRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – A Des Moines woman was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to eight years in federal prison for Conspiracy to Damage an Energy Facility. Jessica Rae Reznicek, age 39, was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow her prison term and pay $3,198,512.70 in restitution.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa and FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel made the announcement.
According to court documents, Reznicek, as early as November 8, 2016, and continuing until May 2, 2017, conspired with other individuals to damage the Dakota Access Pipeline at several locations within the Southern District of Iowa, Northern District of Iowa, and the District of South Dakota. Specifically, the defendant admitted to damaging and attempting to damage the pipeline using an oxy-acetylene cutting torch and fires near pipeline instrumentation and equipment in Mahaska, Boone, and Wapello Counties within the Southern District of Iowa.
Acting U.S. Attorney Westphal stated, “This was a federal crime of terrorism. Criminal acts conducted on multiple instances, at multiple locations, over a sustained period of time, resulting in over $3 million dollars in ordered restitution. After which Reznicek sought to encourage others to engage in similar conduct. As this investigation and punishment show, any crime of terrorism will be aggressively investigated and prosecuted by the federal government.”
Following the sentencing, FBI Special Agent in Charge Kowel commented, “Protecting the American people from terrorism – both international and domestic – remains the FBI’s number one priority. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to bring domestic terrorists like Jessica Reznicek to justice. Her sentence today should be a deterrent to anyone who intends to commit violence through an act of domestic terrorism.”
Reznicek’s co-defendant, Ruby Montoya, is scheduled to be sentenced at a later date. This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – A Davenport man, Brenton Mon’Shae Jones, age 24, was sentenced on Tuesday, June 29, 2021, by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 46 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Receipt and Possession of a Machinegun, and Receipt and Possession of an Unregistered Machinegun. This sentence is to be served consecutively to a supervised release revocation sentence of 18 months imposed the same day. Jones was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison sentence and pay $300.00 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On August 12, 2020, Jones was in possession of a Glock 23 .40 caliber pistol. The pistol had a switch affixed to it that converted the Glock pistol from semi-automatic to fully automatic. As a result, the Glock pistol functioned as a fully automatic machinegun. Jones was prohibited from possessing any firearms due to prior felony convictions including a 2018 conviction in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Iowa for the offenses of felon in possession of a firearm and possession of heroin with intent to distribute. On August 12, 2020, Jones was serving a period of supervised release associated with that conviction.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The Davenport Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – A Davenport man, Donell Jamar Hines, age 32, was sentenced on Monday, June 28, 2021, by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 57 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Mixture and Substance Containing Cocaine Base, Cocaine, and Heroin. This sentence is to be served consecutively with a supervised release revocation sentence of 24 months for a prior offense that Hines had been sentenced to in 2016. The total sentence impose was 81 months in prison. Hines was ordered to serve a three-year term of supervised release to follow his prison term as well as pay $100.00 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
According to court documents, Hines was identified by law enforcement as a participant in drug activities. On September 25, 2019, members of the Davenport Police Department executed a search warrant on the known residence of Hines in the area of Betsy Ross Place in Davenport. During the search, officers located a large amount of United States currency, multiple plastic baggies of drugs including cocaine and heroin, and a digital scale. Following laboratory testing, the controlled substances recovered were determined to be approximately 166 grams of cocaine, 12 grams of cocaine base, and 4 grams of heroin. On February 19, 2021, Hines admitted that on or about September 25, 2019, he was knowingly and intentionally in possession of the controlled substances mentioned above and had the intention to distribute some of all the controlled substances to another person. Hines, furthermore, admitted to the currency found being proceeds from his activity in distributing controlled substances.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The Davenport Police Department investigated the case.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to Prison for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IOWA – A Council Bluffs man was sentenced on Tuesday, June 29, 2021, by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 41 months in prison for felon and drug user in possession of a firearm. The prison term is to be followed by three years of supervised release.
According to court documents, Garrett Duane Hanika, age 33, of Council Bluffs, was attempting to elude officers and speeding -- 60 mph in a 35 mph zone -- down the center turn lanes on Broadway in Council Bluffs until he crashed the vehicle and attempted to run. Hanika was apprehended and a loaded Bryco Amrs, Model 48, .380 caliber pistol was found in his car.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The Council Bluffs Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case.
Omaha Man Sentenced to 37 Months in Prison for Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IOWA – A Nebraska man was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 37 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for knowingly possessing a firearm as a prohibited person.
According to court documents, on May 17, 2020, Matthew C. Banfield, age 36, of Omaha, was in possession of a Springfield 45 caliber handgun. Banfield fired the weapon at various stationary targets in a rural location located in Pottawattamie County. Prior to this date, Banfield had been convicted of a felony. During his possession of the firearm, Banfield knew he was a prohibited person based on his prior felony convictions. Banfield pleaded guilty to the gun charge on January 8, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The Council Bluffs Police Department, Omaha Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Marshals Southern Iowa Fugitive Task Force investigated the case.
Mount Pleasant Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Child Pornography OffenseRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – A Mount Pleasant man was sentenced on June 28, 2021, by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 132 months in prison for Receiving and Distributing Child Pornography. Alanis was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow his prison term, pay $100.00 to the Crime Victims’ Fund and $6,000 in restitution.
According to court documents, Jacob Hugo Alanis, age 21, was identified by the Mount Pleasant Police Department when they received a cyber tip from Dropbox alleging the presence of child pornography related to a particular email address. On October 15, 2019, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the residence associated with the email address. At the residence, Alanis admitted the email address belonged to him. Alanis also admitted downloading, watching, and trading child pornography. Law enforcement seized multiple electronic devices, on which law enforcement located hundreds of images and videos of child pornography.
Acting U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The Mount Pleasant Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this matter. The 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.
Muscatine Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – A Muscatine woman, Kayla Jean Crabtree, was sentenced on June 22, 2021, by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 180 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Following her prison term, Crabtree was ordered to serve five years of supervised release and pay $100.00 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
According to court documents, Crabtree, age 34, was identified as a drug trafficking suspect in approximately January of 2019. When attempting a traffic stop on Crabtree for an outstanding arrest warrant based on a parole violation, Crabtree fled by striking into police squad cars that were blocking her path. When apprehended, a glass methamphetamine pipe and functioning compact digital scale were found on her. A search warrant was executed on Crabtree’s vehicle and officers found approximately 70 grams of methamphetamine, drug packaging materials, and $3,389.25 cash. As part of the investigation, law enforcement learned Crabtree was involved with the distribution of over 1.5kg of ice methamphetamine. Crabtree pleaded guilty to the conspiracy charge on January 28, 2021 and admitted to being involved in an ice methamphetamine distribution conspiracy beginning by as early as January 1, 2019, and continuing until April 23, 2019, when Crabtree was arrested.
The Muscatine County Sheriff’s Department investigated the case and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa prosecuted this matter.
Riverside Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – A Riverside man, Jakari Eman Smith, Sr., age 29, was sentenced on Monday, June 21, 2021, by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 50 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Smith was ordered to served three years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal made the announcement.
According to court documents, Smith was involved in a vehicle crash in North Liberty. Law enforcement officers approached Smith, noting his breath smelled strongly of alcohol. Smith, was uncooperative with law enforcement and a struggle ensued, during which Smith reached at his waistband area. Subsequently, law enforcement found a firearm directly below the area where Smith had grasped. On February 12, 2021, Smith pleaded guilty to the charge.
The North Liberty Police Department investigated the case and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa prosecuted the matter.
Fulton Missouri Man Arrested on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
Davenport, Iowa – A Missouri man was arrested June 16, 2021, in Missouri on criminal charges related to his alleged production of child pornography and sextortion of minor females in Muscatine, Iowa.
According to court documents, Chad Alan Craghead, age 44, of Fulton, Missouri, who is a teacher and coach, posed as a teenage boy online and obtained nude images of Minor Victim 1, a sixteen- year-old from Muscatine. 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.
Minor Victim 1’s sixteen-year-old cousin, Minor Victim 2, tried to help her. As a result, Craghead extorted Minor Victim 2, threatening 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.
The FBI assisted the Muscatine Police Department in the investigation and, through several Snapchat accounts associated with Craghead, located a number of other minor females across the country, some as young as 13 years old, who either sent him nude images or from whom Craghead extorted or attempted to extort nude images.
Craghead is charged with two counts of Production of Child Pornography, two counts of Interstate Communications with Intent to Extort, and one count of Cyberstalking. If convicted, Craghead faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Acting U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case.
Fort Madison Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Tuesday, June 22, 2021, United States District Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced George Freeman Cary, age 57, of Fort Madison, to 360 months in prison for Receiving and Distributing Child Pornography and Possessing Child Pornography, announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following his prison term, Cary was ordered to serve twenty years of supervised release, as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Cary was caught distributing child pornography on the Kik messaging application. Cary has previous convictions for Indecent Contact with a Child, Lascivious Acts with a Child, and Sexual Abuse in the Third Degree. Cary also had two prior convictions for failing to comply with the sex offender registry.
This investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations. The 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 ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – A Davenport man, Lelen Lee Bonds, age 42, was sentenced on Monday, June 21, 2021, by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 270 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. Bonds was also on supervised release at the time he committed this offense and was sentenced to a period of 36 months in prison to run consecutive to the 270 month sentence. Following his imprisonment, Bonds was ordered to serve ten years of supervised release and immediately pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal made the announcement.
According to court documents, Bonds was involved in drug trafficking activities in the Quad Cities area beginning in September of 2019. A vehicle identified in the investigation was found to be owned by Bonds. Law enforcement obtained a search warrant and installed a GPS tracker for the vehicle and noted it made a trip to the area of South 10th Street in Burlington, Iowa—which is known to law enforcement as a high drug trafficking area. Once back in the Quad Cities, Bonds would distribute the methamphetamine. Further surveillance revealed more trips to the Burlington area as well as additional instances of suspected drug distribution. On October 3, 2019, search warrants were conducted on Bonds, his vehicle, and a residence he was associated with. During a search of the residence officers found over four ounces of ice methamphetamine.
On January 28, 2021, a jury found Bonds guilty of the charge that was brought against him. The Davenport Police Department (DPD) investigated the case and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa prosecuted this matter.
Johnston Man Arrested in Ankeny Explosives InvestigationRead the Press Release
Des Moines, Iowa – A Johnston man was arrested Friday night on criminal charges related to his alleged involvement in the manufacture and possession of an explosive device that was located in 1400 block of SE Waywin Drive in Ankeny on June 9, 2021.
According to court documents, Chad Allen Williams, age 46, of Johnston, unlawfully manufactured and possessed an unregistered explosive device in violation of federal law.
Allen is charged by criminal complaint with possession of an unregistered explosive device in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 5861(d), and manufacture of an explosive device in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 5861(f). If convicted, Allen faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The Ankeny Police Department, State of Iowa Fire Marshall’s Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are investigating the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Six Defendants Charged in a 15-Count Racketeering Indictment Against OTB Criminal Street GangRead the Press Release
DES MOINES – Six members and associates of the OTB Criminal Street Gang have been charged in a federal indictment. A Federal Grand Jury charged members and associates with various crimes, including attempted murder in aid of racketeering; using, carrying, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence; felon in possession of a firearm; drug user in possession of a firearm; possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number; and witness tampering. In total, six members and associates of OTB, a Des Moines-based street gang, have been charged with four separate shootings against rival gang members that occurred between May 2020 and December 2020.
Those arrested on federal charges include Raekwon Malik Patton a/k/a Kwon and Nutt; Fabrece Jamar Bower Turner a/k/a Fab and Vell; Braden Craig Shafer a/k/a Stickup; Austin James Mallory; Yuri Perren Green Jr. a/k/a YG; and Jordan Marie Wilkerson.
Six other members of the OTB Street Gang were previously charged with federal drug and firearms violations. Specifically, on December 3, 2020, Logan James Elmquist was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. On February 18, 2021, Marcus De Shawn Ford was sentenced to 96 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. On April 28, 2021, Javontay Dequan Johnson was sentenced to 41 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and MDMA and drug user in possession of a firearm. On March 11, 2021, Robert John Manuel Jr. pleaded guilty to being a drug user in possession of a firearm. Manuel Jr.’s sentencing in federal court is set for July 9, 2021. On March 29, 2021, Montreel Robinson pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Robinson’s sentencing in federal court is set for August 24, 2021. On July 28, 2020, Dejon Gene Watley pleaded guilty to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. Watley’s sentencing in federal court was set for December 8, 2020; however, he failed to appear for sentencing and remains a fugitive.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa, as well as Des Moines Police Department Chief Dana Wingert, made the announcement.
“All members of this community deserve to live free from the fear of being victimized by the individual and repeated acts of violence by these criminal gangs and their rivals,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Westphal. “We will continue to make community safety one of our highest priorities, and work hand in hand with our local law enforcement and prosecution partners to aggressively prosecute those individuals who are the primary drivers of violent crime.”
Des Moines Police Chief Dana Wingert stated, “This is another example of local and federal partners working collectively to actively pursue the most violent criminals in our community. In recent years, this continuous pursuit has resulted in numerous significant arrests and prosecutions, the impact of which cannot be overstated. The feeling of safety in your neighborhood is a basic necessity that we are committed to protecting. Those who compromise the quality of life for our citizens through violent crime should be prepared for a similar outcome to this most recent indictment. As partners, we remain vigilant in this effort.”
It is alleged in the indictment the OTB Street Gang is a criminal enterprise that engaged in racketeering activity, namely offenses involving controlled substances and acts involving murder. The OTB Street gang and its members are alleged to have preserved and protected the profits of the gang through the threatened or physical use of violence and kept victims and witnesses in fear of the street gang through these threats of violence. In addition, it is alleged the OTB Street Gang provided support to gang members who were incarcerated for gang-related activities; and retaliated against acts of violence perpetrated against the street gang including acts of violence against rival gangs known as the C-Block and C-Block-affiliated street gangs. The OTB Street Gang allegedly operated and conducted their affairs through a series of rules and policies; and initiated new members through the practice of having them discharge a firearm at, and hit, another person. It is alleged that members and associates of the OTB Street Gang managed the procurement, transfer, use, concealment, and disposal of firearms to protect gang-related personnel and operations, and to deter, eliminate, and retaliate against other rival street gangs. It is alleged that members agreed to distribute drugs, recruited juveniles to commit acts for the gang’s benefit, and agreed or conspired to commit acts of violence, including acts involving murder, against rival gangs.
The charges in the indictment carry maximum penalties of between 10 years and life imprisonment. If convicted, the Court must impose reasonable sentences under federal sentencing statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. There is no parole in the federal court system.
The public is reminded that charges contain only accusations and are not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt
The investigation was conducted by the Des Moines Police Department, Crimes Against Persons and Intelligence Sections. The case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa, with assistance from the Polk County Attorney’s Office, as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, 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 Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Davenport, Iowa – On Friday, June 11, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Lamar Harris, age 37, of Burlington, to 210 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Harris was ordered to serve four years of supervised release to follow his prison term as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Harris was found to have been involved in a long-standing conspiracy to distribute significant quantities of controlled substances, with his involvement dating back to 2011. Harris has a history of violence and had two prior felony drug convictions. Harris was under criminal justice supervision at the time of this offense.
Harris was one of eight defendants who faced federal charges in the Southern District of Iowa after a multi-year joint federal and state investigation which culminated in the execution of several search warrants in various locations, including several in Burlington on November 19, 2019.
This investigation was conducted by numerous federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies including: the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Southeast Iowa Narcotics Taskforce; Burlington Police Department; Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office; West Central Illinois Taskforce; Quincy, Illinois Police Department; Drug Enforcement Administration; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; Henry County Sheriff’s Office; Mt. Pleasant Police Department; West Burlington Police Department; Keokuk Police Department; Ft. Madison Police Department; Lee County Sheriff’s Office; Iowa City Police Department; Johnson County Sheriff’s Office; North Liberty Police Department; Coralville Police Department; Muscatine County Sheriff’s Office; Louisa County Sheriff’s Office; Washington County Sheriff’s Office; Bettendorf Police Department; Illinois State Police; Monmouth, Illinois Police Department; Macomb, Illinois Police Department; Galesburg, Illinois Police Department; Adams County, Illinois Sheriff’s Office; and Fulton County, Illinois Sheriff’s Office.
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 make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Des Moines Man Sentenced to 18 Years in Prison for Child Pornography OffenseRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – A Des Moines man was sentenced today to 18 years in prison for producing child pornography.
According to court documents, Michael Aaron Estrada, age 35, used Snapchat in 2019 and 2020 to communicate with a minor who lived in Massachusetts. Estrada knew the minor with whom he was communicating was 15 years old. On multiple dates between August 2019 and June 2020, Estrada knowingly solicited from that minor pictures and videos of the minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The minor created “selfie” photos and videos of herself as requested and sent them to Estrada via Snapchat. Separate from the conduct involving the 15-year old, Estrada also downloaded other pictures and videos of child pornography from the internet in 2019 and 2020 and distributed videos of child pornography via the internet in March 2020.
Acting U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The FBI Child Exploitation Task Force and the Iowa Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force investigated the case. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the United States 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.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Marijuana ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Davenport, Iowa – A Davenport man, Cory Lamar Carter, age 33, was sentenced Thursday, May 27, 2021, by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to five years in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana. Following his prison term Carter was ordered to serve four years of supervised release.
According to court documents, Carter was involved in multiple instances of marijuana trafficking between the summer of 2018 and the fall of 2019. As a part of this investigation, the United States Postal Inspector intercepted multiple packages destined for Carter’s residence, which contained pounds of marijuana. Carter has a prior federal conviction for Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Marijuana. On January 28, 2021, Carter pleaded guilty to the charge.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Davenport Police Department, and the United States Postal Inspector were involved in the investigation of this matter. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Burlington Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
Davenport, Iowa – Kevin Cortez Garrett, age 39, of Burlington, was sentenced Thursday, May 27, 2021, by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 34 months in prison for Felon in Possession of Firearms. Garrett was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
According to court documents, law enforcement identified Kevin Cortez Garrett as a felon who was present at a shooting range in Burlington on two occasions in April 2020. While inside the range, surveillance video showed Garrett in possession of five firearms and a large amount of ammunition. Garrett removed three of the handguns from his waistband and one from his coat pocket. Garrett obtained four of the five firearms from a straw purchaser, who purchased the firearms and ammunition specifically for him. As a convicted felon out of Cook County, Illinois, Garrett is prohibited from possessing firearms.
Acting U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
The Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, 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.
Bettendorf Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
Davenport, Iowa – Deandre Darnell Blakely, age 26, of Bettendorf, was sentenced on Thursday, May 27, 2021, by United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey, to 80 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana and Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Following his prison term, Carter was ordered to serve three years of supervised release.
According to court documents, Blakely was involved in the distribution of marijuana and possessed multiple firearms as a felon. After his arrest, Blakely attempted to obstruct justice by soliciting others to provide false information on his behalf. Blakely has prior convictions for Reckless Discharge of a Firearm (related to a shooting), Obstructing Justice, and a prior felony drug conviction. Blakely pleaded guilty to the charges on November 16, 2020.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The Davenport Police Department investigated this matter and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for False StatementsRead the Press Release
Davenport, Iowa – Joshua Lee Scheper, age 40, of Davenport, was sentenced on May 27, 2021, by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 30 months in prison for Making False Statements During Firearm Purchases. Scheper was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
According to court documents, law enforcement identified Joshua Lee Scheper as an individual who straw purchased firearms on behalf of persons who were prohibited from possessing them. On forms required to purchase a firearm, Scheper stated he was the intended buyer of the firearms and was not purchasing them on behalf of others. But, in some instances, Scheper did acquire the firearms on behalf of others and sold them immediately after the purchase. Scheper admitted he did so with the intent to make a quick profit. Multiple instances of violence in the Quad Cities and Chicago involved firearms purchased by Scheper. Between 2014 and 2016, Scheper purchased 26 firearms, at least seven of which were involved in criminal acts, including four homicides in Chicago.
Acting U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
The Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case.
This case was prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods, a national initiative bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Woman Sentenced to Prison for False Statements to PoliceRead the Press Release
DES MOINES – On Tuesday, May 25, 2021, a federal judge sentenced Allison Danielle Doyle, age 25, of Des Moines, to 18 months in prison for making a false statement to a Des Moines Police Detective investigating a federal crime. Doyle had previously pleaded guilty to the charge.
At sentencing, United States District Court Senior Judge James E. Gritzner found that Doyle’s lies to police were designed to thwart law enforcement’s investigation into gun-related crimes. Specifically, police were investigating a gang-related shooting that occurred on May 10, 2020. During the course of that investigation, a search warrant was executed at Doyle’s residence and a firearm was discovered. Doyle and her boyfriend then concocted a scheme to have Doyle falsely claim responsibility for the firearm to avoid her boyfriend being federally charged. Doyle then subsequently lied to a Des Moines Police Detective during an interview.
Acting U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The investigation was conducted by the Des Moines Police Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, 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.
Iowa City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On May 21, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Parish Bennett, age 33, of Iowa City, to five years in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Following his term of imprisonment, Bennett was ordered to serve a term of supervised release of three years.
Bennett was charged in a one-count Indictment filed on March 11, 2020, in the Southern District of Iowa for being a Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm, on or about December 11, 2019. On September 14, 2020, Bennet pleaded guilty to the Indictment.
This charge arose from the execution of a search warrant on a residence in Iowa City after obtaining information that Bennett and his girlfriend were selling drugs out of the residence and locating controlled substance residue in their trash. During execution of the search warrant, officers located a firearm in the home. Bennett admitted using methamphetamine, being a felon, and possessing the firearm. The firearm was previously reported stolen.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The Johnson County Drug Task Force (JCDTF) investigated the case.
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 make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Grand Jury indictment charging six individuals with various drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IOWA – A federal grand jury in Davenport returned a 19-count Indictment last week charging six individuals with various drug and firearms charges announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal.
According to court documents, Taylor Christopher Graeber, age 23; Joshua John Paarmann, age 30; Karley Ann Smith, age 27; Joshua Steven Ennis, age 38; Donnie Wayne Robinson, Jr., age 34; and Robert Stanley Nelson III, age 40; are each charged in a Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine that started by at least July 1, 2020, and continued until March 29, 2021. The conspiracy involved the possession of numerous firearms, multiple pounds of methamphetamine, and continued distribution of methamphetamine throughout the Quad Cities area during the conspiracy’s duration.
Graeber is charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm. If convicted, Graeber faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a maximum of life imprisonment.
Paarmann is charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, two counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. If convicted, Paarmann faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a maximum of life imprisonment.
Smith is charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. If convicted, she faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life imprisonment.
Ennis is charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a maximum of life imprisonment.
Robinson is charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Felon in Possession of Ammunition, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a maximum of life imprisonment.
Nelson is charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life imprisonment.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Following a finding of guilt, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors for each individual defendant.
The Davenport Police Department, Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Quad City Metropolitan Enforcement Group, and the Drug Enforcement Administration are investigating this matter. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa is prosecuting the case.
Gunna Gang Affiliate Sentenced to 20 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
DES MOINES – Today a federal judge sentenced Dreshon Rene Frazier, age 25, of Des Moines, to 20 years in prison for drug and gun crimes. Frazier had previously pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
At sentencing, United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger found over the course of 2019 to 2020, Frazier repeatedly acquired and dealt marijuana. During that year, Frazier, a known Gunna Gang affiliate, also possessed numerous firearms, including those with high capacity magazines. A search of Frazier’s residence on February 26, 2020, revealed two loaded pistols, drug-related items, and ammunition.
In December 2019, Frazier was involved in a gang-related shooting in Des Moines. During that shooting, Frazier and two other Gunna Gang members shot at the occupied residence of a rival gang member. Frazier pleaded guilty in the Iowa District Court for Polk County to charges related to that shooting. Frazier, a convicted felon, has an extensive criminal history that categorizes him under the United States Sentencing Guidelines as a career offender. He was serving two terms of parole when he committed both the shooting and the federal crimes.
Acting U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
The investigation was conducted by the Des Moines Police Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, 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.