Southern District of Iowa
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Des Moines Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking Several VictimsRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – Marlin Santana Thomas, age 45, of Des Moines pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to sex trafficking six victims by force, fraud, and coercion announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Thomas is scheduled to be sentenced on September 10, 2021, before United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey.
Thomas pleaded guilty to sex trafficking six adult victims and admitted to trafficking a 14 year-old victim. Thomas admitted in his plea agreement to trafficking victims beginning in 2009, and as recently as February 28, 2018, when he was arrested as part of a separate federal drug investigation, for which he is currently serving a term of federal imprisonment. Thomas admitted to posting online escort advertisements of victims, transporting them to hotels and motels within and outside of Iowa to engage in commercial sex acts, and taking proceeds of the commercial sex acts. Thomas admitted to using physical violence towards all six adult victims, and admitted to providing heroin to one victim to keep her engaging in sex acts. Thomas also admitted in his plea agreement to arranging for a 14-year-old to engage in commercial sex acts, knowing that she was not yet 18 years old.
Thomas is subject to a fifteen-year mandatory minimum prison term for each count of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion, up to life imprisonment. The terms of imprisonment may be imposed consecutive to or concurrent with one another.
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. If anyone has information about this defendant, they are urged to call the Des Moines Police Department Vice/Narcotics Office at 515-237-1516, or call the Hotline.
This case was investigated by the Des Moines Police Department and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Rock Island Man Sentenced to Prison for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On Tuesday, May 4, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Christopher Mateo Perez, age 29, of Rock Island, to 180 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Perez was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
In August of 2019 Perez was arrested on an outstanding warrant. A search warrant was conducted on Perez’s residence and officers located a loaded Glock 17 nine-millimeter pistol and various items consistent with drug trafficking. The gun contained 17 rounds of ammunition and had been reported stolen. Perez admitted the firearm belonged to him. At the time, Perez knew he was a convicted felon, therefore he was prohibited from possessing firearms.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This 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 Prison for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On Tuesday, May 4, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Tremayne Lamar Clemons, age 29, of Coralville, to 30 months in prison for Unlawful Drug User in Possession of Firearms announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Clemons was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation of Tremayne Lamar Clemons began on December 25, 2019, when law enforcement responded to the scene of a shooting in the 900 block of Boston Way in Coralville. The following day officers conducted a search warrant at Clemons’s residence -- a residence some people involved in the shooting the day before were seen exiting just prior to the shooting. During the search, law enforcement located three firearms, boxes of ammunition, and drug paraphernalia. Clemons admitted to possessing the firearms found. He also admitted to using controlled substances. On December 31, 2019, Clemons possessed two additional firearms at a retail store in Coralville. Clemons admitted to being an unlawful user of controlled substances at the time of his possession of the five firearms.
This matter was investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On Tuesday, May 4, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Chad Michael Oxley, age 38, of Davenport, to 144 months in prison for Receiving Child Pornography announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Oxley was ordered to serve seven years of supervised release to follow his prison term as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund and $9,000.00 to the victims of his crime.
The investigation of Oxley began in January of 2019 when the Davenport Police Department received a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children concerning a video containing child pornography that had been uploaded to Google in December of 2018. Information from the CyberTip traced back to Oxley. Officers conducted a search warrant at Oxley’s known residences in February of 2019 and several cellphones were located. A review of the cellphones revealed many images and videos containing child pornography as well as chat sessions wherein Oxley was purporting to be a female and exchanging child pornography with others. At the plea hearing on November 16, 2020, Oxley agreed he received more than 600 images and/or videos of child pornography.
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 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 20 Years in Prison for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On Monday, May 3, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Darvill Jimmy Joseph Bragg, age 26, of Davenport, to 240 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Bragg was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow his prison term as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund. On August 26, 2020, following a jury trial, Bragg was found guilty of illegally possessing a Taurus Judge revolver.
On October 25, 2019, law enforcement received multiple 911 calls regarding shots fired in the area of the 1300 block of East 37th Street in Davenport. The Davenport Police Department responded and located multiple fired shell casings, as well as damage consistent with bullet holes in a nearby apartment building. The target of the shooting informed law enforcement Bragg and another man shot at him as he drove through the parking lot—Bragg with a revolver and the other man with an automatic pistol. Officers observed damage consistent with bullet holes in the target’s vehicle. Later that same night, law enforcement encountered Bragg as the front passenger in a vehicle in the area of the earlier shooting. A Taurus Judge revolver was in the door bin next to his seat. At the time of the offense, Bragg had been convicted of Willful Injury in the Iowa District Court for Scott County.
At sentencing, Bragg was subject to Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(e) (the Armed Career Criminal Act). He was subject to the Act due to prior convictions for armed robbery in 2011 in Rock Island County, Illinois, and Willful Injury in 2015 in Scott County.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Des Moines Kum & Go Shooter Found Guilty of Federal Ammunition ChargeRead the Press Release
Federal Charge Brought Following Split Jury Verdict in Polk County District Court
DES MOINES – Today a federal jury convicted Ceeron Tearrence Williams, age 29, of Des Moines, for felon in possession of ammunition. Williams faces a sentence of up to 10 years in prison on the conviction. Williams was ordered to remain detained pending his sentencing on September 10, 2021.
According to court documents and evidence presented at the three-day trial, shortly after 4 a.m. on January 21, 2018, Williams fired nine gunshots from a pistol while he and a group of individuals were standing near the storefront of a Des Moines Kum & Go store. Williams struck a victim with seven of his gunshots, including in the stomach and hips. Williams fled the shooting scene with his pistol. The victim survived.
Williams was indicted in federal court in February 2021 for possessing ammunition on the date of the shooting, having been previously convicted of a felony. The federal indictment followed a prosecution by the Polk County Attorney’s Office where Williams was charged with Attempted Murder, Intimidation with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent, and related state charges. In September 2020, a Polk County jury acquitted Williams of Attempted Murder but convicted him of several less severe charges. He also has an undischarged term to serve on the state convictions.
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, assisted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and FBI Safe Streets Task Force. The case was prosecuted by United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On Monday, May 3, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Teron Deachon Conley, age 26, of Davenport, to 96 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Conley was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
In September of 2019, the Davenport Police Department responded to the 6300 block of Appomattox Road for multiple shots fired complaints. At that location, officers found eleven shell casings in the road as well as three other casings in a yard. Witnesses described Conley as one of the two shooters and stated the shooters and another man left in a tan SUV. When officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop of the SUV the car fled from law enforcement. All three occupants of the car eventually ditched the vehicle and left a firearm on the ground nearby the car.
The gun matched the shell casings found in the street. On November 18, 2020, Conley admitted to possessing the firearm in September 2019. As a convicted felon, Conley was prohibited from possessing firearms.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Federal Search Warrant Executed in Treynor, IowaRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – On Thursday, April 29, 2021, a federal search warrant was executed at a home on the 100 block of Ehrig Avenue in Treynor, Iowa. The search at this residence was an official law enforcement action involving agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are unaware of any safety risk to the public.
This is an ongoing investigation and no other information will be released at this time.
Burlington Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On Thursday, April 22, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Terry Lee Douglas, III, age 34, of Burlington, to 200 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Douglas was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow his prison term as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
In January of 2020, Douglas was caught with approximately 250 grams of ice methamphetamine in the Burlington area. On multiple occasions between January and May of 2020, Douglas was associated with methamphetamine transactions. In May of 2020, Douglas and others traveled together to obtain ice methamphetamine from a supplier in Galesburg, Illinois. Upon returning to Iowa, the vehicle was stopped, and Douglas was arrested. At the time of the stop and arrest, Douglas had two ounces of ice in his possession. On December 1, 2020, Douglas admitted to knowingly and intentionally joining in an agreement to distribute methamphetamine in the Burlington area.
This matter was investigated by the Southeast Iowa Narcotics Task Force and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Marshalltown Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – On April 22, 2021, United District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger sentenced Tanner Jo Halverson-Weese, age 36, of Marshalltown, to 211 months in prison for Possession With Intent to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Halverson-Weese was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On January 1, 2020, law enforcement stopped a vehicle in which Halverson-Weese was a passenger. After a brief struggle with officers, Halverson-Weese was detained. Halverson-Weese possessed two loaded firearms, $2,280 in cash, and over 300 grams of methamphetamine in a container on the passenger floorboard in front of him.
This matter was investigated by the Mid-Iowa Narcotics Task Force and the Marshalltown Police Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On Thursday, April 22, 2021, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Marion Joseph Hare, age 30, of Davenport, to 94 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition and Distribution of Methamphetamine announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Hare was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term as well as pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
In February of 2020 Hare sold ten ecstasy pills that contained methamphetamine to another person in exchange for $40. Later that month, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Hare’s known residence. In his bedroom officers located a loaded Ruger .380 pistol, two digital scales, a box of plastic sandwich baggies, one federal .380 round of ammunition, a box of 39 rounds of .22 caliber ammunition, and indicia indicating Hare lived in the residence. At the time of this incident Hare knew he had prior felony convictions for crimes punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year.
This matter was investigated by the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa. 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.
Buffalo Man Sentenced to Prison for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On Wednesday, April 21, 2021, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Bobby Wilson, III, age 23, of Buffalo, to 24 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Wilson 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 investigation began in January 2020 when police officers were dispatched to a disturbance at a bar in downtown Davenport. A report had been made regarding a male who stated he had a gun during a verbal altercation. Law enforcement made contact with the subject, later identified as Wilson, who ran to evade officers and resisted arrest when he was caught. Officers located a loaded Springfield XDS .45 caliber handgun in his sweatshirt pocket. At the time of this incident, Wilson knew he had a prior felony conviction for a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year and was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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.
Rock Island Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Wednesday, April 21, 2021, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Donovan Ryan Schmacht, age 40, of Rock Island, Illinois, to 30 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Schmacht was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
In April 2020, Davenport Police Department officers made contact with Schmacht after he and his friend had confronted two individuals near Locust and Main Street in Davenport with what appeared to be firearms concealed under their shirts. When officers responded to the area, Schmacht noticed the officers, and walked behind a dumpster. As officers approached Schmacht, he fled on foot disregarding verbal commands to stop. Officers were able to catch Schmacht and a physical struggle ensued. Once arrested, officers recovered a loaded black Taurus nine-millimeter semi- automatic pistol behind the dumpster where Schmacht had thrown it. As a convicted felon, Schmacht is prohibited from possessing firearms.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Mexican Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Immigration, Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Wednesday, April 21, 2021, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Ismael Salazar Montes, age 30, of Nogales Sonora, Mexico, to 160 months in prison for Illegal Reentry, Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances, and Illegal Alien in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following his prison term, Salazar Montes was ordered to serve five years of supervised release and pay $300 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation began in October 2019, when law enforcement stopped Salazar Montes’s vehicle in Mount Pleasant. After stopping the vehicle, law enforcement had a canine conduct a sniff of the vehicle, resulting in an alert as to the presence of narcotics. As officers searched the vehicle, Salazar Montes admitted he had a handgun in his suitcase. Officers searched the suitcase and located an unloaded, nine-millimeter Ruger handgun. Salazar Montes admitted he did not have a permit for the firearm and knew he could not lawfully possess the firearm because he was not legally present in the United States. A search of the backseat of the vehicle revealed a cooler where officers located three bags of controlled substances—812.8 grams of methamphetamine, 958.7 grams of heroin, and 307.27 grams of fentanyl. Salazar Montes admitted he placed the controlled substances in the cooler and was transporting them from Tucson, Arizona to Chicago, Illinois.
This matter was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, Drug Enforcement Agency, Mount Pleasant Police Department, and the Henry County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Federal Prison on Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Wednesday, April 21, 2021, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Larry Dean Weir, age 40, of Davenport, to 120 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Weir was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
In September of 2019, law enforcement investigated a suspicious vehicle believed to belong to Weir. Officers located Weir at a hotel in Bettendorf and obtained a search warrant for his room, where they located 111.30 grams of methamphetamine and a digital scale underneath a mattress. A female acquaintance of Weir’s admitted receiving methamphetamine from him earlier that day. Weir admitted he possessed the methamphetamine with the intent to distribute some or all of it to other persons.
This matter was investigated by the Bettendorf Police Department and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Fifteen Defendants Charged in a 37-Count Racketeering Indictment Against Lowrider Criminal Street GangRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Four additional members and associates of the Lowrider Street Gang have been federally charged in a Superseding Indictment. In addition to the added defendants, a Federal Grand Jury charged members and associates with a Racketeering Conspiracy spanning from in and around 2013 to the present. In total, members and associates of the Lowrider Street Gang have been charged with five separate shootings and one stabbing against rival gang members that occurred between August 2015 and June 2020.
In August 2020, charges were previously announced for eleven members and associates of the Lowriders, a Davenport-based street gang, for various crimes including attempted murder in aid of racketeering, drug trafficking, tampering with witnesses, knowingly transfer of a handgun to a juvenile, lying to the grand jury, use of persons under 18 years of age in drug operations, and firearms charges. Five members or associates of the Lowriders have been charged in state court for intimidation with a dangerous weapon, willful injury, criminal gang participation, and drug-related offenses.
Two other members were previously charged with federal firearms violations. Specifically, in November 2019, Alejandro Francisco Herrera, Jr., was sentenced after pleading guilty to prohibited person in possession of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance. In February 2020, Zacharia Allen Clark was sentenced to 200 months of imprisonment after pleading guilty to prohibited person in possession of ammunition related to an incident in which he shot at another person in the parking lot of a Davenport nightclub. As a result of this investigation, twenty-two Lowrider Street Gang members and associates have been charged with crimes.
Those arrested on federal charges include AUSTIN NICHOLS, ADAN HERRERA, CODY HERRERA a/k/a Cody Williamson, KERRI JOANNE REITZ, JOSE MIGUEL PENA, ANDRES JOSEPH ARRIAGA, TEVIN MAXWELL LIRA, JACOB TRUJILLO, ANTONIO HERRERA, CARMELO REYES, ANGEL MORA, MARIO HERRERA, EDUARDO HERRERA SR., and ARNOLDO HERRERA. The identities of those who have not yet been arrested remain sealed at this time.
The charges were announced by Richard D. Westphal, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa, and Paul Sikorski, Davenport Police Chief. In addition, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations, Bettendorf Police Department, Moline Police Department, and Scott County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the investigation.
“The law-abiding citizens in these neighborhoods deserve to feel safe from violent gangs such as the Lowriders, and their criminal rivals,” said Acting United States Attorney Westphal. “Along with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to aggressively pursue this goal of community safety and use every available state and federal prosecution tool to charge those individuals committing these acts of violence.”
It is alleged the Lowrider Street Gang is a criminal enterprise that engaged in racketeering activity, namely offenses involving controlled substances; acts involving murder; and acts relating to the tampering with a witness, victim, or informant. The Lowrider 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 that the Lowrider 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 West Side Mafia and Latin King street gang. The Lowrider Street Gang allegedly operated and conducted their affairs through a series of rules and policies; held regular meetings at which they discussed, planned, and otherwise engaged in criminal activity; and initiated new members through the practice of causing them to endure physical assaults conducted by members of the gang at various gang-related gatherings. It is alleged that members agreed to distribute drugs, recruited juveniles to commit violent 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.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Tuesday, April 20, 2021, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Phillip Darnell Hicks, age 38, of the Quad Cities-area, to 51 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Hicks was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation began August of 2019 when Hicks met with an individual with the intent to sell them marijuana. Rather than selling marijuana, Hicks sold an empty bag. As a result, a car chase ensued, and Hicks’s vehicle was fired upon. The vehicle Hicks occupied got into a collision, and Hicks ran from the scene carrying a loaded Taurus Slim PT709 nine-millimeter pistol that he later threw away in a residential neighborhood in Davenport. At the time of this incident, Hicks knew he had a felony conviction for a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year and was prohibited from possessing a gun.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa. 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.
Clinton Man Sentenced to Federal Prison on Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Tuesday, April 20, 2021, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Johnathon Lawrence Rose, age 33, of Clinton, to 210 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Felon in Possession of a Firearm announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Rose was ordered to serve four years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation began in January 2020 when Defendant Rose was stopped by police for illegally tinted windows and no valid driver’s license. Officers located pills that tested positive as eutylone, methamphetamine, cocaine, and caffeine in Rose’s pockets. A search warrant was executed at Rose’s residence and yielded a large amount of ammunition, parts for an AR-15, and drug paraphernalia. During the intake process at the jail, a firearm fell out of Rose’s pants during a search by a corrections officer. A search of his jacket revealed additional pills and more than 35 grams of methamphetamine. Rose was previously convicted of a felony and prohibited from possessing firearms.
This matter was investigated by the Clinton Police Department and the Blackhawk Area Task Force. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Cedar Rapids Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Monday, April 19, 2021, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Christopher Michael Goerdt, age 40, of Cedar Rapids, to 69 months in prison for Bank Fraud, Aggravated Identity Theft, Wire Fraud, and Misapplication by Bank Officer announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Goerdt was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay $1,500 to the Crime Victims’ Fund. Furthermore, Goerdt was ordered to pay $1,124,343.60 in restitution to the victims of his crimes. The victims include County Bank, Peoples Trust and Savings Bank, Farm Bureau Financial Services, and Everest Insurance.
This investigation began as early as 2006 when Goerdt participated in fraudulent activities at multiple financial institutions. Goerdt obtained and used a credit card in the name of a bank for his personal use. Further, Goerdt falsified loan documents, diverted loan proceeds, altered appraisals, made false statements to investigators, and obtained loans without the knowledge of customers. The Court found the loss attributable to Goerdt for the 15 counts he pleaded to was nearly $900,000. Furthermore, Goerdt knew he was being investigated by law enforcement and continued his pattern of deception by seeking employment that would allow him to commit additional fraud at Farm Bureau Financial Services.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Office of Inspector General (FDIC OIG). This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Kansas City Man Sentenced to Prison for Gun and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – On April 19, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced D'Ante Decarl Dirks, age 26, of Kansas City, Missouri, to 132 months in prison for distributing methamphetamine, carrying a firearm in relation to drug trafficking and knowingly in possession of a firearm as a felon announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Dirks was ordered to serve four years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay $300 to the Crime Victims’ Fund. There is no parole in the federal system.
On July 7, 2020, the Iowa State Patrol conducted a traffic stop on a car driven by Dirks. As the Trooper attempted to issue a citation, Dirks sped off. In an effort to elude law enforcement, Dirks drove in excess of 100 mph, drove into oncoming traffic, and passed on the shoulder of the highway until he was forced into a ditch in rural Mills County. Dirks ran from the scene and threw a loaded handgun into a nearby cornfield.
A search of the car Dirks was driving located marijuana, synthetic marijuana, powder cocaine and cocaine base (crack cocaine). Further investigation revealed Dirks intended to sell the drugs found in the car. Dirks pleaded guilty on December 4, 2020, to the gun and drug charges.
This investigation was conducted by the Iowa State Patrol, Mills County Sheriff’s Office, and Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Iowa Drug Traffickers Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – On April 19, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Jessica Joy Martinez, age 31, of Carroll, to 120 months in prison; Shaun Lee Walker, age 40, of Council Bluffs, to 135 months in prison; and Jonathan Samuel Dings, age 28, of Glidden, to 160 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Each defendant was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow their prison terms and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund. There is no parole in the federal system.
On January 10, 2020, Carroll County law enforcement served a search warrant on Dings’ residence in Glidden. While conducting the search, law enforcement learned Martinez and Walker planned to supply Dings – that day – with approximately a pound of methamphetamine they obtained from Omaha, Nebraska. Dings was to sell the methamphetamine in Carroll and Audubon Counties. Law enforcement attempted to intercept the load car containing the methamphetamine that was driven by Walker with Martinez as a passenger, in Audubon, which resulted in a pursuit occurring before Walker and Martinez were arrested.
This investigation was conducted by the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, Audubon County Sheriff’s Office, Audubon Police Department, Iowa State Patrol, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement and the Drug Enforcement Agency. The case was 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 — On Monday, April 19, 2021, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Detavion Marques Levi, age 24, of Davenport, to 52 months in prison for Felon in Possession of Firearm announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Levi was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation of Levi began in June 2020 when law enforcement officials executed a search warrant on a hotel room related to a stolen vehicle. Upon search of the room, officers located Levi, a previously convicted felon, another individual, marijuana, keys to the stolen car, and a loaded firearm. Levi initially denied possessing the firearm, but then claimed he briefly handled the gun before police arrived. Levi’s fingerprint was subsequently found on the loaded magazine of the firearm. Officers located additional evidence that Levi had been dealing marijuana and been in possession of other firearms. Levi was under federal supervision for a prior gun conviction at the time of this offense.
This matter was investigated by the Bettendorf Police Department, the Davenport Police Department, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Urbandale Man Sentenced to Twelve Years in Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On April 16, 2021, United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger sentenced Joseph Mikel Cerwick, age 33, of Urbandale, to 144 months in prison for Receipt of Child Pornography announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Cerwick was ordered to serve eight years of supervised release to follow his prison term, pay $9,000 in restitution, and comply with sex offender registry requirements upon his release from prison.
This investigation began in December of 2017 when the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Child Exploitation Task Force received a tip that a video of child pornography had been sent to an individual through the Kik internet application. Following further investigation, the FBI executed a search warrant at Cerwick’s Urbandale apartment in September 2018. Police seized Cerwick’s cellular telephone which was found to contain hundreds of images of child pornography. Cerwick also received and sent a video of child pornography to other persons via the Kik app in November 2017.
This matter was investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force. The 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.
Johnson County Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Thursday, April 15, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Geneva Kristine Hudson, age 28, of Iowa City, to 270 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and heroin, distribution of five grams and more of methamphetamine, and distribution of 50 grams and more of methamphetamine announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Hudson was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow her prison term as well as pay $300 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation of Hudson began in 2019 when she was identified as having supplied heroin to individuals in Coralville. Hudson conspired with Bryant Smith, Jeffrey Goins, and Heather Simmons in the Iowa City and Coralville areas to distribute heroin, methamphetamine, and other drugs. Hudson was arrested in Coralville in February of 2020 and was convicted after a jury trial held in Davenport in October of 2020.
This matter was investigated by the Johnson County Drug Task Force and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Iowa City Woman Sentenced to Prison for Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Thursday, April 15, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Tykeese McCray, age 44, of Iowa City, to three months in prison for Health Care Fraud and False Statements announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. McCray was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow her prison term and pay restitution in the amount of $118,943.19 and $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation revealed as early as 2011, McCray fraudulently completed application paperwork for the Section 8 housing assistance program administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). On the initial application, as well as the annual recertification forms filed every year, McCray purposefully did not list her husband as a household member, nor did she include his income for purposes of determining her eligibility. McCray also falsified benefit forms by indicating she was single when, in fact, she was married. In addition to defrauding HUD, McCray also falsified forms for food assistance benefits (aka SNAP), childcare assistance, and medical insurance through Medicaid. As a result of falsifying records, McCray agreed she received $54,032 in entitled housing assistance, $31,385 in unentitled food assistance, $31,835.73 in unentitled medical assistance, and $1,690.46 in unentitled medical assistance for a total loss amount of $118,943.19.
This matter was investigated by the Office of the Inspector General and the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Council Bluffs Woman Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – On April 19, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Destiny Marsh, age 21, of Council Bluffs, to 50 months in prison for possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Marsh was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow her prison term and pay a $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund. There is no parole in the federal system.
On March 3, 2020, Marsh was found unresponsive in her motel room at the Deluxe Inn in Council Bluffs. The Council Buffs Fire Department was dispatched to the scene and upon arrival saw a large bag containing approximately 800 grams of methamphetamine and cash next to Marsh. She pleaded guilty to the offense on November 6, 2020.
This investigation was conducted by the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force and the Council Bluffs Police Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Council Bluffs Woman Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – On April 12, 2021, United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger sentenced Lindsay Hurst, age 35, of Council Bluffs, to 126 months in prison for distributing methamphetamine announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Hurst was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow her prison term and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund. There is no parole in the federal system.
In January and February 2020, Hurst sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant on three occasions - selling approximately 130.83 grams total of actual methamphetamine. Hurst pleaded guilty on November 20, 2020, to the methamphetamine charge.
This investigation was conducted by the Council Bluffs Police Department and Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa
Ainsworth Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Thursday, April 15, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Curtis Anthony Cousins, age 37, of Ainsworth, to 210 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Cousins was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation began in January of 2019 when law enforcement identified Cousins as a distributor of “ice” methamphetamine in the Washington County area. Following a search warrant at a residence Cousins was renting, officers found distribution quantities of ice methamphetamine, materials consistent with drug trafficking, two handguns, and drug proceeds. Cousins, as a convicted felon, is prohibited from legally possessing firearms.
This matter was investigated by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Thursday, April 15, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Jaterius Deshawn Davis, age 22, of Davenport, to 140 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Davis was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay $300 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On July 17, 2019, Davis punched an officer in the face after the officer attempted to lawfully arrest him. Davis ran from officers but was quickly apprehended. In Davis’ pockets a loaded .380 caliber Ruger handgun with a defaced serial number, 15 grams of marijuana, and a digital scale with cocaine and marijuana residue were found. Officers also located five grams of crack cocaine concealed in his underwear. Immediately prior to his arrest, Davis was seen riding in a vehicle where officers had located a handgun and ammunition linked to a shooting six days earlier. Through his plea of guilty, Davis admitted knowingly possessing the handguns, ammunition, and narcotics.
Davis was previously convicted of Dominion/Control of a Firearm by a Felon. As a convicted felon, Davis knew he was prohibited from possessing firearms.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Omaha Man Sentenced to Prison for Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – On April 12, 2021, Jacob Benjamin Tuttle, Age 42, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced for being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm by District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 84 months in prison announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. In addition, Tuttle was ordered to serve 3 years of supervised release following his prison term and pay a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims Fund. Tuttle pleaded guilty to the offense on August 11, 2020.
On November 26, 2019 Tuttle was driving a stolen car on a rural two-lane highway in Mills County, IA. when Tuttle saw a Sheriff’s patrol vehicle behind him. Tuttle accelerated to 100 mph before he crashed the car on the side of the road and ran from the scene. He was arrested a short time later.
On the front passenger seat of the stolen vehicle, officers found a Taurus .357 Magnum, S# LP70893, along with 12 grams of methamphetamine. Tuttle is a convicted felon and drug user, therefore, prohibited from possessing firearms.
The investigation was conducted by the Mills County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to Prison for Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - On April 12, 2021, United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger sentenced David Robert Blake Vanderpool, age 35, of Council Bluffs, to 50 months in prison for the knowing possession of a short barrel shotgun that was not registered to him, announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Vanderpool was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund. There is no parole in the federal system.
On June 23, 2020, the Iowa State Patrol conducted a traffic stop on Vanderpool for speeding on Interstate 29. During the stop, troopers observed a sawed-off shotgun, found to be loaded, on the backseat of Vanderpool’s car. A check of the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record by law enforcement found the firearm was not registered to him. Vanderpool pleaded guilty on November 20, 2020, to the firearm charge.
This matter was investigated by the Iowa State Patrol and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Centerville Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Prison for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On April 12, 2021, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Ryan Don Andrew Ford, age 49, of Centerville, to 324 months in prison for Production of Child Pornography and 240 months in prison for Receipt of Child Pornography announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. The prison sentences are to be served concurrently. Ford was ordered to serve ten years of supervised release to follow his prison term and comply with sex offender registry requirements upon release.
In 2018 and 2019, Ford sexually exploited children. In 2018, Ford secretly recorded three minors using hidden cameras Ford placed in his Centerville residence, including in the shower. Ford knowingly captured images of the minors that constituted child pornography, saved the images, and distributed some of the images to others. In addition, in 2018 and 2019, Ford downloaded images and videos of child pornography from the internet. Law enforcement executed a search warrant in June 2019 at Ford’s residence and located over 1,800 images and 27 videos of child pornography on his cell phone.
After the sentencing, FBI Omaha’s Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel said, “Identifying, investigating, and arresting those who sexually exploit children will always be a priority for the FBI. We work with our state and federal partners to hold these criminals accountable. Ryan Ford’s 27-year sentence today sends a clear message – preying on innocent children will not be tolerated.”
“The sentence imposed today is the result of law enforcement cooperation at the local, state, and federal levels,” stated Acting United States Attorney Westphal. “If you victimize children you will be pursued and brought to justice.”
This case was investigated by the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, FBI Child Exploitation Task Force, and the Centerville Police Department. 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.
Wayne and Clarke County Men Sentenced for Methamphetamine Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On Tuesday, March 30, 2021, United States District Court Senior Judge James E. Gritzner sentenced Jaime Morales Cisneros, age 27, of Corydon, to 126 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute five grams or more of actual methamphetamine announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. On the same date, Judge Gritzner sentenced Chad Andrew Moore, age 39, of Allerton, to 141 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine; and Seth Brian Miller, age 28, of Corydon, to four years of probation for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
The above individuals were the last participants to be sentenced of the defendants charged in this methamphetamine conspiracy. On March 10, 2021, Judge Gritzner sentenced Travis Wesley Boyce, age 47, of Humeston, to 97 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. On March 10, 2021, Judge Gritzner sentenced Ruben Rios-Sanchez, age 33, of Osceola, who was charged in a separate indictment, to 300 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine. Following each of the prison terms the defendants will serve several years of supervised release.
In 2017 and 2018, Osceola-resident Rios-Sanchez was supplying Morales with methamphetamine for re-distribution. Morales in turn supplied Moore, Boyce, and Miller with methamphetamine that they sold to customers in South Central Iowa. At times, Rios-Sanchez also directly supplied Moore, Boyce, and Miller with methamphetamine. The conspiracy involved drug transactions in several South-Central Iowa Counties, including Wayne, Clarke, and Lucas.
This case was investigated by the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, South Central Iowa Drug Task Force, Osceola Police Department, Chariton Police Department, Centerville Police Department, Clark County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Des Moines Police Department, Mid-Iowa Drug Task Force, and the Wayne County Attorney’s Office. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Search Warrant Execution at Rashid PharmacyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa –On Wednesday March 30, 2021, federal search warrants were executed at Rashid Long Term Care Pharmacy and Rashid Pharmacy PLC, both in Fort Madison, Iowa. The searches at these locations were official law enforcement actions involving officers, agents, and investigators from the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Iowa Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Fort Madison Police Department, and Lee County Sheriff’s Office.
This is an ongoing investigation and no other information will be released at this time.
Marshalltown, Minnesota, and Kansas City Residents Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa — On Wednesday, March 25, 2021, United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger sentenced Rachel Ann Danielson, age 42, of St. Paul, Minnesota, to 144 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine announced acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following her prison term, Danielson was ordered to serve five years of supervised release, as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Assistance Fund. At the time Danielson committed the offense, she was serving a term of federal supervised release for a prior drug conviction in the District of North Dakota. Judge Ebinger sentenced Danielson to two years in prison for the violation of supervised release, to be served consecutively to her 144 month sentence.
Danielson was the last individual to be sentenced of the five defendants charged in the methamphetamine conspiracy. In November 2021, Judge Ebinger sentenced Michael Roy Marsh, age 43, of St. Paul, Minnesota, to 150 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. Judge Ebinger also sentenced Jeremy Travis Beason, age 28, to 240 months of prison, and Tiffany Carol Wagner, age 26, to 96 months of prison, for the same offense. Both Beason and Wagner are from Marshalltown. Following their prison terms, Marsh and Beason were ordered to serve five years of supervised release and Wagner was ordered to serve three years of supervised release. Marsh, Beason, Wagner were also ordered to pay $100 each to the Crime Victims’ Assistance Fund.
In November 2021, Judge Ebinger sentenced Marco Antonio Hernandez Lopez, age 35, of Kansas City, Missouri, who was charged in a separate indictment, to 198 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. Following his prison term, Hernandez Lopez was ordered to surrender to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings. Hernandez Lopez was ordered to serve five years of supervised release, as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Assistance Fund.
The 2019 investigation of this drug conspiracy revealed Hernandez Lopez was supplying Marsh and Danielson with kilogram quantities of methamphetamine for distribution. Hernandez Lopez was receiving this methamphetamine from Mexico. Marsh and Danielson drove to Kansas City to obtain methamphetamine from Hernandez Lopez. Marsh and Danielson met Beason and Wagner on multiple occasions in Iowa to deliver kilogram quantities of methamphetamine. Beason and Wagner distributed the methamphetamine in Marshalltown and elsewhere. In total, Hernandez Lopez is responsible for the distribution of 45 kilograms of methamphetamine.
This matter was investigated by the Mid-Iowa Drug Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of Iowa.
Rock Island Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Thursday, March 18, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Michael Christopher Lewis, age 33, of Rock Island, Illinois, to 248 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Lewis was ordered to serve four years of supervised release and to pay $300 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation began in 2019 when law enforcement attempted to arrest Lewis - who had an active warrant for his arrest. Lewis fled and ran into a utility pole, knocking himself unconscious. Law enforcement arrested Lewis and found a loaded black handgun and $617.00 of drug proceeds in his possession. Lewis’s vehicle was searched and methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, morphine and fentanyl, and pills, as well as a loaded handgun were found. As a prior convicted felon, Lewis knew he was prohibited from possessing firearms.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Coralville Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Thursday, March 25, 2021 United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Aquinas Lenell Jackson, Sr., age 60, of Coralville, to 70 months in prison for Bank Robbery announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following his prison term, Jackson, Sr. was ordered to serve three years of supervised release as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On March 4, 2020, Aquinas Lenell Jackson, Sr., entered the US Bank, located on 10th Avenue in Coralville, and, through threats and intimidation, took $4,300 from a bank teller. The bank’s deposits were insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation at the time of the
offense.This matter was investigated by the Coralville Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Colombian Man Sentenced to Prison for Misuse of a Social Security Number and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Thursday, March 25, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Jefren Moreno Godoy, age 39, a Columbian citizen, to 36 months in prison for Misuse of a Social Security Number and Aggravated Identity Theft announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Upon release from prison, Godoy will be deported, but was ordered to serve one year of supervised release if he returns to the United States. Godoy was also ordered to pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation revealed Godoy was convicted in 2014 of several residential burglaries in Scott County. Godoy gave the name and social security number of a United States citizen when arrested and prosecuted for burglary and continued to use that identity. Upon release to a half-way house in Davenport, Godoy provided the same false identification and social security number. On or about March 15, 2018, Godoy escaped. He was apprehended in December of 2019 in the State of Washington and was returned to the Southern District of Iowa to face federal charges.
This matter was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the Southern District of Iowa.
New London Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Friday, March 19, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Jason Earl Davis, age 43, of New London, to 240 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following his prison term, Davis was ordered to serve five years of supervised release, as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation on Jason Earl Davis began in 2018 when law enforcement identified Davis as a supplier of methamphetamine in the southeast Iowa area. As part of his drug trafficking activities, Davis maintained a premise for the purpose of manufacturing and distributing controlled substances. Davis has a prior federal conviction related to drug trafficking.
This matter was investigated by the Henry County Sheriff’s Office and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Friday, March 19, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Eric Joseph Holloway, age 29, of Davenport, to 300 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances, Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Felon in Possession of Firearms and Ammunition, announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Holloway was ordered to serve five years of supervised release and pay $300 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On September 2, 2020, Holloway pleaded guilty to three counts of a nine-count indictment. The investigation began in December 2017 when law enforcement identified Holloway following a pursuit and located 33 grams of marijuana and drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle. In August 2018, Holloway was involved in a hit and run vehicle crash in Davenport, and, while fleeing the scene, threw marijuana, cocaine, and prescription pills into a nearby dumpster. In December 2018, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Holloway’s residence and seized cocaine, marijuana, a .45 caliber Glock 30 handgun, a .223 caliber Palmetto Arms rifle, and ammunition. In July 2019, law enforcement located Holloway in a vehicle with methamphetamine, crack cocaine, marijuana, morphine and fentanyl, prescription pills, and a loaded .40 caliber Glock 22 handgun. Holloway admitted possessing the firearms in this case in connection with and furtherance of his drug trafficking activities. As a convicted felon, Holloway was prohibited from owning or possessing firearms and ammunition.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department, Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Scott County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Gun OffenseRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Thursday, March 18, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Isaiah Michael McAllister, age 22, of Davenport, to 37 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following his prison term, McAllister was ordered to serve three years of supervised release, as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Police encountered McAllister after he was involved in a verbal confrontation and possessed a gun. McAllister ran from the police and attempted to hide the loaded firearm in the common area of an apartment complex where children were playing. McAllister is a member of the MMG street gang.
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.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Wednesday, March 17, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Alexander Jamica Hubbard, age 40, of Davenport, to 180 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana and Felon in Possession of a Firearm announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following his imprisonment, Hubbard was ordered to serve three years of supervised release and pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation began in early 2019 when law enforcement received information that Hubbard was selling marijuana and possessed stolen firearms. On December 30, 2019, law enforcement conducted a search warrant at Hubbard’s residence in Davenport and seized 6,362.05 grams of marijuana and hemp; a loaded .380 caliber firearm; $20,100 in U.S. currency; a 2005 Cadillac Escalade; and a 2012 Jaguar Portfolio XJ. As a convicted felon, Hubbard was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department 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 EscapeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Wednesday, March 17, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Cordell McDowell, age 32, of Davenport, to two years in prison for escape announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following his prison term, McDowell was ordered to serve three years of supervised release, as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The charge arose in 2020 after McDowell failed to report to the residential reentry center in Davenport to serve the remainder of his prison sentence. McDowell’s whereabouts were unknown for approximately four months until he was arrested in relation to his involvement in a murder/robbery investigation. McDowell has a history of non-compliance with supervision and a prior federal conviction for escape.
This matter was investigated by the United States Marshals Service. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Burlington Man Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Wednesday, March 17, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Lavelle Harris, age 36, of Burlington, to 262 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following his prison term, Harris was ordered to serve five years of supervised release as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Harris was involved in the distribution of more than 4.5 kilograms of ice methamphetamine. Harris has a history of violence and was designated as a career offender under the United States Sentencing Guidelines, as he has two prior felony drug convictions. Harris was also under criminal justice supervision at the time of this offense. The defendant was identified as a member of the Black P Stones street gang. Harris was one of eight defendants who faced federal charges in the Southern District of Iowa after a multi-year joint federal and state narcotics investigation which culminated in the execution of several search warrants in various locations, including several in Burlington, on November 19, 2020.
This investigation was conducted by 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. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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.
Three Council Bluffs Residents Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – On March 3, 2021, Bruce Lee Gamble, age 42, and Alberto Monroe Rocha, age 43, both of Council Bluffs, were sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Gamble was sentenced to 60 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund. Gamble pleaded guilty to the offense on September 21, 2020.
Rocha was sentenced to 18 months in prison for prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund. Rocha pleaded guilty to the offense on August 21, 2020.
Co-conspirator Daniel Walker Gabehart, age 49, also of Council Bluffs, was sentenced by Judge Ebinger on December 16, 2020. Gabehart was sentenced to 60 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and another 60 months, to run consecutively, for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Gabehart was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay a $200 special assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund. Gabehart pleaded guilty to the offense on August 4, 2020.
Detectives with the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force conducted several controlled methamphetamine purchases with Gabehart, which led to a search warrant of his residence. Gabehart, Gamble, and Rocha were located at the Council Bluffs apartment along with methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and several firearms.
This investigation was conducted by the Council Bluffs Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Omaha Man Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – On March 3, 2021, Jeffrey Scott Leisure, age 56, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 126 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Leisure was ordered to serve ten years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund. Leisure pleaded guilty to the offense on October 9, 2020.
The Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task force began investigating numerous leads regarding Leisure distributing several pounds of methamphetamine in the Council Bluffs and Omaha metro area. At the same time, detectives with the Bellevue Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted several controlled methamphetamine purchases with Leisure, leading to his arrest.
This investigation was conducted by the Council Bluffs Police Department, Bellevue Police Department, Omaha Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Georgia Man Sentenced to Prison for Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Defendant participated in fraudulent tax return scheme using University of Iowa employees’ personal information
DAVENPORT, IA- On Friday, March 5, 2021, Edoghogho Collins Oloton, age 33, of Sandy Springs, Georgia, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 24 months in prison for conspiracy to commit money laundering in connection with a scheme to obtain federal tax refunds by fraud using the identification information of dozens of University of Iowa employees announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Oloton was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Oloton worked with others to launder dozens of money orders purchased with the proceeds of the fraudulently obtained tax refunds. More than $60,000 from tax refunds of University of Iowa employees was obtained fraudulently through this scheme. More than $1,400,000 in fraudulently obtained funds passed through bank accounts associated with the scheme in February, March, and April of 2015. In April of 2015, Oloton purchased a 2014 Mercedes Benz, E-class, convertible with the proceeds of the fraud.
“Today’s sentencing reflects how seriously the courts take federal tax crimes. Mr. Oloton was knowledgeable of the Stolen Identity – Refund Fraud Scheme and illegally obtained the proceeds of the fraud for his own benefit. The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation will continue to aggressively pursue others who engage in this conduct,” stated Acting Special Agent in Charge David Talcott.
Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal stated, “In collaboration with our IRS partners, this prosecution shows we will hold accountable those like Mr. Oloton who use tax refund schemes to defraud the citizens of the Southern District of Iowa for personal gain.”
This investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Wednesday, February 24, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Shelby Lamonte Miller, age 52, of Davenport, to 121 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Base, Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, and Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following his imprisonment, Miller was ordered to serve eight years of supervised release and pay $300 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On August 20, 2020, Miller was found guilty on all counts following a jury trial. The investigation began in April 2019 when law enforcement learned Miller was distributing crack cocaine in the Davenport area. Law enforcement executed a search warrant on Miller’s residence, at the Quad City Inn in Davenport, where they located both crack cocaine and methamphetamine, along with other items consistent with drug trafficking.
At the time of this offense, Miller was on federal supervised release for a prior drug conviction. Chief Judge Jarvey revoked Miller’s supervised release and sentenced him to 36 months in prison, to be served consecutively to the 121-month sentence.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Burlington Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Wednesday, February 24, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Adam Brent Branton, age 39, of Burlington, to 262 months in prison for Distribution of 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine and 120 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. The sentences will run concurrently. Following his prison term, Branton was ordered to serve five years of supervised release, as well as pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation of Branton began in February 2020 when law enforcement identified Branton as a distributor of “ice” methamphetamine in the Burlington area. In February 2020, officers utilized a confidential source to purchase approximately half a pound of ice methamphetamine from the defendant. On May 21, 2020, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Branton’s home. During the search, officers found a loaded New England Firearms .22 caliber revolver in addition to a large quantity of cash and methamphetamine. Branton was later interviewed and admitted to distributing methamphetamine and possessing the gun found in his home, despite being a convicted felon. He further admitted to distributing five to six pounds of ice methamphetamine over the course of the last six months leading up to his arrest.
This matter was investigated by the Burlington Police Department and the Southeast Iowa Narcotics Taskforce and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Former Muscatine Man Sentenced to Prison for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa—On February 24, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Patrick Vincent Maddox, age 42, of Mobile, Alabama, formerly of Muscatine, to 180 months in prison for the production, receipt, and distribution of child pornography announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Maddox was additionally ordered to serve five years of supervised release following his imprisonment.
The investigation of Maddox began in 2017, when Maddox moved out of a Muscatine residence he abandoned seven electronic storage devices. The electronic devices were reviewed and suspected child pornography was discovered. The items were turned over to law enforcement. After forensic review, law enforcement uncovered child pornography in six images and a video he produced. The video captured Maddox setting up his cellular phone concealed in a bathroom, videotaping a minor child nude.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.