Southern District of Iowa
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Silvis, Illinois Man Sentenced to Prison for Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Tuesday, February 23, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced LaShawn DJames Hensley, age 28, originally of Silvis, Illinois, to 90 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following his prison term, Hensley will serve three years of supervised release, as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation of Hensley began in 2018 when Hensley was driving eastbound on Interstate 74 in Bettendorf approaching the Mississippi River. While crossing the bridge, another vehicle pulled up beside Hensley’s vehicle. While alongside the vehicle, Hensley flashed a black pistol at the occupant of the second vehicle. The driver of the second vehicle slowed down, called 911, and reported what happened. Moline, Illinois police officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop on the vehicle, however Hensley fled at a high rate of speed back toward Bettendorf. Hensley continued to elude Bettendorf and Davenport police officers, as well members of the Iowa State Patrol while driving at high speeds. As the chase ended, Hensley lost control of his vehicle on Welcome Way just south of Kimberly Road in Davenport. Hensley then ran from the officers and threw a loaded Glock 22 .40 caliber pistol onto a commercial rooftop. Upon search of Hensley’s vehicle, officers found three cell phones, sandwich bags, a digital scale, 24 Alprazolam pills, and approximately one ounce of marijuana.
This matter was investigated by the Iowa State Patrol, Bettendorf Police Department, Davenport Police Department, and the Moline Police Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Iowa City Woman Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Monday, February 22, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Stefani Amber Goodwin, age 38, of Iowa City, to 96 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following her prison term, Goodwin was ordered to serve five years of supervised release, as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation of Goodwin and her co-defendant, Shaun Michael Farrington, began in late-September 2019 when they were observed driving a vehicle that was identified as being involved in a different methamphetamine trafficking investigation. GPS records showed the vehicle traveling to various locations throughout Southeast Iowa, making numerous stops at known drug trafficking locations. On October 2, 2019, the decision was made to stop the vehicle as officers believed it was beginning another drug run, and Farrington was driving with a suspended license. A positive K-9 alert prompted a search of their vehicle resulting in the uncovering of approximately 350 grams of ice methamphetamine. Goodwin admitted to conspiring with Farrington to sell significant quantities of actual methamphetamine throughout Southeast Iowa.
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.
Corning Man Sentenced to Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA—On February 19, 2021, Lonnie Ray Schafroth, age 54, of Corning, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 65 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release for receiving child pornography announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal.
Microsoft provided law enforcement a cyber-tip that resulted in a search warrant served on Schafroth’s residence in Corning. The search resulted in the seizure of a computer which contained over 3,000 images of child pornography, many of which depicted children under the age of 12. Schafroth had obtained the images from searches conducted on the Internet between July of 2017 and June 12, 2019.
This matter was investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation - Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Adams County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of Iowa.
Coralville Man Sentenced to Prison for Heroin and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Tuesday, February 23, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Bryant Richard Smith, age 32, of Coralville, to 225 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Heroin as well as 120 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Those sentences were ordered to be served concurrently. Following his prison term, Smith was ordered to serve ten years of supervised release well as pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Smith was previously convicted of federal drug-related charges in 2013. He was serving a term of supervised release for the prior offense when he resumed methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin trafficking. Chief Judge Jarvey ordered the term of release revoked and imposed a consecutive 36-month prison sentence for the violation. The total sentence is 261 months in prison.
This investigation began in approximately 2018 after Smith was released from custody for his prior federal conviction. Upon release, Smith manufactured and distributed “ice” methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin. By 2019, a co-conspirator began to provide Smith money for investment into the illicit drug business. Smith’s co-conspirators took over part of the drug activities when Smith was arrested with drugs in July of 2019, and his term of supervised release from the 2013 case was revoked. Upon release from custody in October, Smith continued selling drugs. Then, in January of 2020, Smith purchased a Kel Tec Sub 2000, 9-millimeter caliber firearm in Iowa City. As a convicted felon, Smith is prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.
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.
Coralville Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug Conspiracy and Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Monday, February 22, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Jeffrey Fitzgerald Goins, age 33, of Coralville, to 190 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing detectable amounts of methamphetamine and 120 months imprisonment for felon in possession of a firearm announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following his prison terms, Goins was ordered to serve ten years of supervised release as well as pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Goins was previously convicted of federal drug charges in 2013. Goins was serving a term of federal supervised release for the prior offense when he participated in the methamphetamine conspiracy. Chief Judge Jarvey ordered the term of supervised release revoked and imposed a consecutive 30-month prison sentence for the violation. Goins’ total sentence is 220 months in prison.
This investigation began in 2019 when law enforcement learned Goins was a prominent supplier and distributor of drugs in the Johnson County area. Police determined Goins was involved in a conspiracy to disseminate drugs with codefendants Bryant Smith, Geneva Hudson, and others. Goins and Hudson distributed methamphetamine to law enforcement and Goins was caught with a firearm when he was arrested in February of 2020. Goins, a prior felon, was prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.
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.
Clinton Man Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Tuesday, February 23, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Shayne Russell Cox, age 33, of Clinton, to 120 months in prison for conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following his prison term, Cox was ordered to serve five years of supervised release as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
An investigation revealed beginning in 2015, Shayne Cox and other co-conspirators knowingly agreed to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute “ice” methamphetamine. The conspiracy involved multiple kilograms of ice. In furtherance of this drug conspiracy, Cox regularly obtained large quantities of methamphetamine from individuals in Arizona and arranged for its transportation to Clinton. The supplier was suspected of having direct ties to Mexico.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Red Oak Man Sentenced to Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – On Friday, February 19, 2021, Mark Fredrick Sandell, age 63, of Red Oak, was sentenced to 180 months in prison and five years of supervised release announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. At the time Sandell committed the present offense, he was on supervised release for a previous conviction of Receipt of Child Pornography. At sentencing, Sandell’s term of supervised release on the prior conviction was revoked and he was ordered to serve 30 months in prison consecutive to the 180-month sentence – for a total sentence of 210 months. Both sentences were imposed by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey.
This investigation began when the Nebraska State Patrol conducted peer-to-peer Internet network investigations and discovered that an Internet Protocol address associated with Sandell received child pornography files. On February 27, 2020, a search warrant was obtained and executed at Sandell’s home located in the 1800 Block of Eastern Avenue in Red Oak. Sandell was at his home and admitted to police he was in possession of child pornography. Officers seized numerous electronic devices and a forensic examination identified a total of 483 videos and 125 images of child pornography.
This matter was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security - HSI, Nebraska State Patrol, and the Bellevue, Neb. Police Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Council Bluffs Pair Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine OffensesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA – On February 19, 2021, Casey Gantt, age 33, of Council Bluffs, was sentenced to 151 months in prison and five years of supervised release announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. On December 15, 2020, Gantt’s co-defendant Angela Garges, age 42, also of Council Bluffs, was sentenced to 120 months in prison and five years of supervised release. Both sentences imposed by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey.
This investigation was initiated by the Iowa Department of Correctional Services Fourth Judicial District when Gantt failed to meet with his parole officer. Iowa parole officers went to Gantt’s home located at the 300 Block of Huntington Avenue in Council Bluffs and upon arrival encountered numerous people,including Garges, inside his home. Officers located over 500 grams of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and $4,600 in United States currency in Gantt’s home.
On January 24, 2020, Council Bluffs Police responded to Best Western Inn in Council Bluffs to serve a warrant for a room rented by Garges. Officers searched the hotel room for the wanted person and located 111 grams of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.
This investigation was conducted by the Council Bluffs Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force, and the Iowa Fourth Judicial District Probation and Parole Office. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Clinton Man Sentenced to Prison for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On February 22, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Kyle Charles Julian, age 26, of Clinton, to 46 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Julian 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 charge in this case was based on a May 1, 2020, traffic stop conducted by the Clinton Police Department where Julian was found to be in possession of a firearm after having been convicted of a felony offense.
This matter was investigated by the Clinton Police Department and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Des Moines Man Sentenced to Four Years Probation, Six Months Home Confinement for Illegal Storage of Hazardous WasteRead the Press Release
Des Moines, IA—On February 19, 2021, Russell Allen McKeehan, Sr., age 60, of Des Moines, appeared before United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger and was sentenced to four years of probation for storage of hazardous waste without a permit. The sentence includes a six-month term of home confinement. McKeehan pleaded guilty to this offense on October 14, 2020.
McKeehan, doing business as Chrome Reflections, operated a chrome and metal plating and polishing business. He ceased chrome and metal processes at the East 14th Street facility around March 2013. After, he continued to store over 3,800 kilograms of hazardous wastes, including corrosive chemicals and reactive cyanide at the location. Cleanup of the site began in September 2016 and concluded in November 2017 and cost $79,926. The Court ordered McKeehan pay restitution in the amount of $49,926 toward the cleanup costs.
“Hazardous wastes pose serious public health and environmental dangers, so it’s imperative they be handled and disposed of safely and legally,” said Special Agent in Charge Lance Ehrig of the EPA’s criminal enforcement program in Iowa. “Today’s sentencing sends a clear signal that EPA and its law enforcement partners are committed to holding individuals accountable who violate the environmental laws that protect the health of our communities.”
“Our office will continue to aggressively enforce these important environmental laws to protect the citizens of the Southern District of Iowa,” said Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. “This case demonstrates the committed partnership between the EPA and the United States Attorney’s Office to protect the environment and ensure individuals and companies follow the law.”
This matter was investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency Criminal Investigation Division (EPA-CID). The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Ottumwa Man Found Guilty of Federal Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
Des Moines, IA—On February 10, 2021, Hector Ramon Iglesias Tovar, age 34, of Ottumwa, Iowa, was found guilty by a jury of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person in violation of federal law. The verdict came after a two-day trial before United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger.
The evidence at trial included an AR-15 rifle seized from the residence of Iglesias Tovar and a .45 handgun seized from a vehicle he was driving. Law enforcement also seized 142 grams of methamphetamine from the residence of Iglesias Tovar. The jury found Iglesias Tovar possessed both firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking. He faces a sentence of 5 years to life on the possession in furtherance of drug trafficking charge and a sentence of up to 10 years on the prohibited person in possession of a firearm charge. Iglesias Tovar previously pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine which were also charged in this case. Sentencing is scheduled for June 30, 2021.
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 (DEA), and ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Distribution of Cocaine BaseRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On February 9, 2021, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Ira Lee Clark, age 29, of Davenport, to 168 months in prison for Distribution of Cocaine Base, announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following his prison term, Clark was ordered to serve five years of supervised release, as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Clark was involved in the distribution of significant quantities of cocaine and cocaine base. Clark acknowledged maintaining a premises for the purposes of manufacturing and distributing a controlled substance on Locust Street in Davenport. Clark also admitted to possessing a firearm related to his drug trafficking activities.
Clark’s criminal history includes convictions for Involuntary Manslaughter; Child Endangerment, Serious Injury Resulting and Eluding; and Aggravated Battery. Clark was under criminal justice supervision at the time of this offense.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Omaha Man Sentenced to Prison for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal announced that Brian Keith Messer, age 39, of Omaha, Neb., was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose on February 3, 2021, to 24 months in prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release for failure to register as a sex offender. Messer pleaded guilty to the charge on October 16, 2020.
Messer was convicted in Nebraska in 2016 of attempted sexual assault on a child in the third degree. As a result of this conviction, Messer is a sex offender and is required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (“SORNA”). In October 2018, Messer moved from Nebraska to Iowa and did not register in the State of Iowa as required.
This investigation was conducted by the United States Marshals Service and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to Prison for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal announced that Patrick Daniel Kampe, age 56, of Council Bluffs, was sentenced on February 3, 2021, by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 60 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release for prohibited person in possession of a firearm. Kampe pleaded guilty to the charge on September 21, 2020.
On May 12, 2020, a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Task Force Officer received a tip regarding a felon with warrants living in Council Bluffs who was in possession of a firearm. Kampe was located at the targeted residence and arrested. Officers located a loaded Glock 26 9mm pistol, small amounts of methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia in the home.
This investigation was conducted by the Council Bluffs Police Department and the ATF. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Council Bluffs Man Pleads Guilty to Coercion and Enticement of Foreign Exchange StudentsRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA—On February 3, 2021, Thomas Donald Boatright, age 52, of Council Bluffs pleaded guilty in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Iowa to four counts of coercion and enticement of a minor, announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal.
Boatright worked as a foreign exchange coordinator and host for a program in which 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 student reported that a hidden camera was discovered in Boatright’s bathroom where two minor foreign students were assigned to live as part of this program.
An investigation unveiled that Boatright used his cellular phone and computer to engage in conversations with the students prior to and after arriving in the United States that were sexual in nature. Boatright used his position as a foreign exchange coordinator and host parent to coerce and entice the students to engage in sexual activity.
Boatright is scheduled to be sentenced in Council Bluffs on June 4, 2021.
This case was investigated by the Council Bluffs Police Department, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of Iowa.
Lenox Woman Sentenced to 46 Months for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - On February 3, 2021, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Elizabeth Villanueva, age 36, of Lenox to 46 months in prison for possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Villanueva was ordered to serve a period of supervised release of five years to follow her prison term and pay a $100 special assessment payable to the Crime Victims’ Fund. There is no parole in the federal system.
On January 8, 2020, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on Villanueva as she drove into Taylor County, Iowa. During a search of her car, approximately a half-pound of methamphetamine was discovered and seized. Villanueva pleaded guilty on October 16, 2020, to the charge.
This case was investigated by the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Walcott Man Sentenced to 19 Years in Prison for Firearm and Robbery OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On January 19, 2021, United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger sentenced Curlie Marquee Quarterman, age 35, of Walcott, to 228 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Robbery announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following his prison term, Quarterman was ordered to serve five years of supervised release, as well as immediately pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Quarterman was charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm in May of 2016, after police were called regarding a domestic dispute and Quarterman was found in possession of a stolen firearm. On July 20, 2017, Quarterman was placed on federal pretrial release. Quarterman subsequently cut off his ankle monitor and fled from supervision, stole a truck and a haircut, and on July 22, 2017, committed Interference with Commerce by Threats and Violence (Hobbs Act Robbery). Following the robbery, Quarterman was spotted by law enforcement in Johnson County and fled at speeds over 100 mph. Quarterman’s vehicle was debilitated, and he was eventually apprehended in Muscatine, Iowa.
Quarterman had three prior felony convictions for robbery, which qualified him as an Armed Career Criminal under federal law.
These matters were investigated by the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Davenport Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, 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.
Former Radio Personality Martin Tirrell Sentenced to Prison for FraudRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa — On January 20, 2021, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Martin James Tirrell, age 60, formerly of West Des Moines, to 41 months in prison for Mail Fraud announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following his prison term, Tirrell was ordered to serve three years of supervised release, as well as immediately pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund. Tirrell was also ordered to pay over $1.4 million in restitution to victims.
Tirrell pleaded guilty to the offense on December 6, 2019. Evidence presented at the sentencing hearing established that Tirrell had been participating in sports ticket scams for over ten years. He marketed himself as a sports insider who had access to prime seating for sporting events. He found investors by giving them free sports tickets and access to VIP seating. Tirrell then convinced them to give him money to purchase sports tickets at a discount, that he would then sell to the general public at a higher price. Tirrell promised to return their investments and split the profits. Tirrell instead took the money and paid off other victims, made unauthorized purchases, or used the money to place online sports bets. When Tirrell was unable to find new “investors,” he kited checks, stole credit cards, and made fraudulent claims to banks to try to obtain more money to perpetuate his scheme. Tirrell also scammed people out of money by promising sports tickets, receiving payment, then failing to produce the promised tickets.
These matters were investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Ankeny Police Department. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Richard D. Westphal Appointed Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of IowaRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa — On Friday, January 8, 2021, Richard D. Westphal was appointed as Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa following the resignation of Marc Krickbaum. Mr. Westphal will serve as Acting United States Attorney until November 16, 2021, or until the new presidential administration selects a nominee, if prior to November 16.
Mr. Westphal was born and raised in Davenport, Iowa. He graduated from the University of Iowa in 1986 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, and in 1990 received a law degree from the University of Iowa, College of Law. Mr. Westphal was admitted into the State of Iowa bar in June of 1990. He began private practice from 1990-1993 at Reynolds and Kenline in Dubuque, Iowa. From 1993-1996, Mr. Westphal served as an assistant county attorney in Johnson County and Muscatine County.
Mr. Westphal has extensive federal prosecution experience. In April 1996, he was designated as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in both the Northern and Southern Districts of Iowa specializing in methamphetamine prosecutions. From June 1997 to the present, Mr. Westphal has been an Assistant United States Attorney in the Southern District of Iowa. While at the U.S. Attorney’s Office he has been Branch Chief of the Davenport Branch Office (2013), Criminal Chief (June 2018), and First Assistant United States Attorney (January 2021).
Jeffrey Dworek Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding Metro Waste AuthorityRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa — On Friday, January 8, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Jeffrey Scott Dworek, age 55, formerly of the Des Moines area, to 57 months in prison for mail fraud, announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following his prison term, Dworek was ordered to serve three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay over $1.6 million in restitution to Metro Waste Authority (MWA).
Jeff Dworek served as the Director of Operations at MWA. Over the course of nearly five years, Dworek stole money from MWA. Dworek created a front company, Britad – incorporated by Dworek in South Dakota – and proceeded to fraudulently bill MWA for services Britad never provided. In addition to setting up one front company, Dworek was also aware that two other MWA “vendors,” Lamar Programming Company and International Telemetry Technologies, also submitted false invoices to MWA and Dworek approved those invoices, knowing they were not legitimate. In addition to approving the fake invoices, Dworek also received payment from these companies, presumably as a kickback for Dworek’s role in the scheme.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Iowa State Auditor’s Office. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum Announces ResignationRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – Marc Krickbaum, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa, announced he is resigning today. “Serving as United States Attorney has been the privilege of my professional life,” Mr. Krickbaum said. “I am grateful to the law enforcement and agencies we serve with, and to the people of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. They have done great things, and they have many more to come.”
Mr. Krickbaum has served as United States Attorney, the district’s chief federal prosecutor, since 2017, and before that worked for almost a decade as a career prosecutor in two United States Attorney’s Offices. During his tenure, the U.S. Attorney’s Office brought significant prosecutions against violent street gangs and others responsible for gun crime, targeted those who sexually exploit children, and obtained significant civil settlements against those who commit health care fraud and other fraud against the government.
North Liberty Man Sentenced to Prison for Heroin DistributionRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On December 30, 2020, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Eric Allen Rhine, age 55, of North Liberty, to 120 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following his prison term, Rhine was ordered to serve five years of supervised release as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
This investigation began in 2018 involving narcotics trafficking between Johnson County and Chicago, Illinois. Law enforcement determined Rhine and his co-conspirator, Robert Rankins, Jr., obtained heroin in Chicago and sold it in Johnson County. Rhine admitted the conspiracy was responsible for selling more than 1,000 grams of heroin and he was supplying heroin to numerous individuals in the Iowa City/Coralville/North Liberty area.
This matter was investigated by the Johnson County Drug Task Force. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Mount Pleasant Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On December 30, 2020, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Robert Dean Stagers, age 32, of Mount Pleasant, to 140 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Stagers was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow his prison term and to pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation began in March of 2018 when law enforcement discovered Stagers had become a supplier of methamphetamine in the Southeast Iowa area. Stagers knowingly distributed methamphetamine to his purchasers who then distributed to others. In 2019, a search warrant was executed on Stagers’ residence in Mount Pleasant. Officers found a safe that contained 132.01 grams of methamphetamine and seven loaded guns. A vehicle associated with Stagers was also searched and officers found four more firearms. Stagers admitted he knowingly carried and used these firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
This matter was investigated by the Henry County Sheriff’s Office, Mount Pleasant Police Department, and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana and Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On December 31, 2020, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Curtis Lee Smith, age 26, of Davenport, to 65 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following his prison term, Smith will serve three years of supervised release as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On January 25, 2019, officers were dispatched to the Quad City Inn in Davenport in response to a 911 call describing a person being held against her will in a room. When officers arrived at the room, two people were found inside— a woman and Smith. Officers obtained a search warrant for the motel room. Upon execution of the warrant, officers discovered 128 grams of marijuana, a .380 caliber pistol, a .45 caliber pistol, and another .380 caliber pistol. Smith admitted to placing the marijuana and firearms in the ceiling of the room near a vent. Additionally, officers found a digital scale, drug packaging materials, and $2,060 United States currency. Smith admitted to possessing the marijuana with the intent to distribute it and using the firearms in furtherance of that drug distribution.
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.
Burlington Woman Sentenced to Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On December 30, 2020, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Pamela Sue Hester, age 59, of Burlington, to 130 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following her prison term, Hester was ordered to serve five years of supervised release as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation began in 2018 when law enforcement learned of Hester being a distributer of methamphetamine in the Burlington area. In February 2019, Hester was arrested on a warrant and officers located 58 grams of methamphetamine and $764.00 that was comingled with proceeds for drug trafficking in her possession. At a search warrant of Hester’s residence that same day, law enforcement located 217 grams of methamphetamine, $2,000 cash, drug packaging material, and a digital scale. Hester admitted to knowingly possessing the materials and drugs with the intent to distribute and deliver it to others.
This matter was investigated by the Southeast Iowa Narcotics Taskforce. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Rock Island Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On December 30, 2020, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Darrell Kenneth Holloway, age 29, of Rock Island, Illinois, to 150 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Felon in Possession of a Firearm announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following his prison term, Holloway was ordered to serve three years of supervised release and pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation began on the evening of July 4, 2019, when a domestic dispute between Holloway and his girlfriend erupted into a violent altercation. While in Illinois, Holloway shot at his girlfriend’s vehicle as she drove away from him. Holloway then fled into Iowa, where he and another individual eluded law enforcement through the streets of Bettendorf. During their flight, Holloway’s vehicle drove the wrong way down streets, caused property damage, and struck squad cars, nearly striking police officers. Once stopped and apprehended by law enforcement, officers located a .45 caliber Smith and Wesson handgun in the vehicle and 36 pills containing a mixture of methamphetamine and caffeine. As a convicted felon, Holloway is prohibited from possessing a firearm.
The case was investigated by the Bettendorf Police Department. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Keokuk Man Sentenced to Prison for Felon in Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On December 29, 2020, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Logan David Bode, age 32, of Keokuk, to 100 months in prison for Felon in Possession of Ammunition announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following his prison term, Bode was ordered to serve three years of supervised release and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation began on September 1, 2019, when law enforcement was dispatched to a shots-fired incident in Keokuk. The investigation revealed Bode had argued with another male and shot at the man’s vehicle. On September 28, 2019, officers located Bode and arrested him on outstanding warrants. At that time, Bode was in possession of an inoperable firearm with a defaced serial number and three .45 caliber bullets. As a convicted felon, Bode is prohibited from possessing ammunition.
This matter was investigated by the Keokuk 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.
Kalona Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa—On December 29, 2020, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Jackson Yaro Young, age 22, of Kalona, to 300 months in prison for Production, Receipt, Possession, and Transfer of Child Pornography announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following his prison term, Young was ordered to serve ten years of supervised release and pay $600.00 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation of Young began in March 2019 when the Washington County, Iowa Probation Office received information that Young had been seen interacting with a minor in public. At the time, Young was on probation for a sexual abuse conviction originating in Linn County. Following further investigation, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office seized two phones from Young. Forensic review of the phones revealed images and videos of child pornography, as well as sexually explicit communication between Young and multiple minors. In communications retrieved from his phone, Young knowingly coerced his victims to engage in sexually explicit conduct. Young acted with the purpose of creating pornographic content and visual depictions of such content, as well as storing the material. Photos and images, produced and collected by Young, were transported electronically through interstate commerce through cellphone usage, and Young knew his victims were under 18 years of age.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Washington County Sherriff’s Office. 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 Prison for Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On December 29, 2020, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Dawone Darnell Henderson, age 34, of Davenport, to 151 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Felon in Possession of a Firearm announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following his prison term, Henderson was ordered to serve three years of supervised release and pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation began in 2019 during routine patrol of a privately-owned park. Officers found two males loitering under a pavilion. As officers approached the men, one of the men— Henderson—fled. As he ran, Henderson threw a .40 caliber Smith and Wesson handgun over a fence into a residential yard. After arresting Henderson, officers located crack cocaine in his pocket. Henderson is a convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing a firearm.
This case was investigated by the Davenport Police Department. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Muscatine Man Sentenced to Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On December 29, 2020, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Emilio Daniel Dillon, age 23, of Muscatine, to 70 months in prison for Receipt of Child Pornography announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Dillon is required to pay $5,000 in victim restitution and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund. Following his prison term, Dillon will serve five years of supervised release.
The investigation of Dillon began in October of 2019 when Dillon sold a Samsung tablet to a pawn shop in Muscatine. A manager from the pawn shop brought the device to the Muscatine Police Department (MPD) reporting that child pornography was found on the tablet when it was being prepared for resale. Further investigation revealed several photos and eleven videos of child pornography with victims as young as five years old. In an interview with law enforcement on November 20, 2019, Dillon admitted to downloading the child pornography onto the tablet.
This matter was investigated by the Muscatine 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.
Iowa City Man Sentenced to Prison for Prohibited Person in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On December 22, 2020, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Junior Emilio Roldan Marin, age 34, of Iowa City, to 66 months in prison for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following his prison term, Roldan Marin was ordered to serve three years of supervised release as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On December 9, 2018, officers were dispatched to a residence in Iowa City regarding Roldan Marin threatening an individual who had turned around in his driveway. Officers located Roldan Marin, who admitted he had been in a confrontation with an individual at his residence and he did have a gun, though he denied threatening anyone. Officers executed a search warrant at Roldan Marin’s residence and located two red Winchester shotguns shells and a black MKA 1919 12-gauge magazine-fed shotgun. Roldan Marin was prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition because he had a prior conviction for domestic abuse assault, was subject to an active no contact order, and was an unlawful user of a controlled substance.
This matter was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, and the Iowa City Police Department. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa. This case was 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 OffenseRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On December 23, 2020, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Charls Peter Niphong, age 20, of Iowa City, to 64 months in prison for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following his prison term, Niphong was ordered to serve three years of supervised release, as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation of Niphong began in October 2019 when law enforcement officials were investigating a string of burglaries in and around Iowa City residences and parked vehicles. Niphong was identified as a suspect. Law enforcement learned that Niphong’s phone usage placed him in the area of the burglaries during the time frame where they occurred. Surveillance footage from local businesses further corroborated Niphong’s location, and showed Niphong using stolen credit cards to make purchases. A search warrant conducted on Niphong’s residence revealed a firearm that had been reported as stolen during one of the burglaries, along with items of stolen property taken during the burglaries. Officers also found two additional guns, including one stolen during one of the burglaries, while executing a search warrant at an additional residence. Niphong had sold those two guns to a person living at the residence. Niphong has an extensive criminal history in Iowa. As a result of being a felon, Niphong is prohibited from possessing firearms.
This matter was investigated by the Iowa City Police Department (ICPD). This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Iowa City Man Sentenced to Prison for Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Tuesday, December 29, 2020, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Darnell McConnell II, age 36, of Iowa City, to 100 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following his prison term, McConnell was ordered to serve three years of supervised release as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On August 16, 2019, law enforcement executed search warrants on two Iowa City residences associated with McConnell. At a residence on Taylor Drive, officers recovered three firearms: a .45 caliber pistol, a .40 caliber rifle, and a 12-gauge shotgun. Additionally, hundreds of packages of THC-infused edibles and vape pens were found. At a residence on Davis Street, officers recovered two additional firearms: a .38 caliber revolver and a .223 caliber rifle. Law enforcement also recovered multiple firearm magazines capable of accepting 30 and 40 rounds of ammunition. A review of McConnell’s phone pursuant to a search warrant revealed videos of him at a shooting range in possession of numerous firearms—five of which appear identical to the firearms recovered from the two search warrants. McConnell has previously been convicted of firearms-related and drug distribution felonies offenses in Cook County, Illinois.
This matter was investigated by the Iowa City Police Department Street Crimes Action Team. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Iowa City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa—On December 22, 2020, United States Chief District Court Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Michael Alan White, age 49, of Iowa City, to 144 months of imprisonment for Receipt of Child Pornography announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following his prison term, White was ordered to serve five years of supervised release, pay $10,000.00 in restitution to the two victims, and pay $100.00 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On March 13, 2020, White pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography. The investigation began in 2018 when law enforcement intelligence retrieved information from an Internet Protocol (IP) address that certain child pornography images were being downloaded. A returned subpoena from the internet provider listed Michael White as the registered user of the internet service from which the IP address originated. On March 7, 2019, a search warrant was conducted on White’s residence. Forensic examination of four electronic devices obtained in the search warrant revealed multiple depictions of child pornography. White had approximately fifty images and/or videos of child pornography on his devices. Many of the victims depicted in White’s images have been identified through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).
This matter was investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On December 23, 2020, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced John James Ramirez, age 45, of Davenport, to 60 months in prison for Possession of Child Pornography and Possession of Obscene Visual Representation of the Sexual Abuse of Children announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following his prison term, Ramirez was ordered to serve five years of supervised release and pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation began in 2019 when the Davenport Police Department received a report that Ramirez had depictions of child pornography on his home computer. Law enforcement executed a search warrant on Ramirez’s Davenport residence and seized electronic and storage devices. A forensic examination revealed 107 images depicting child pornography of children, ranging in age from infants to teenagers, and 106 computer-generated images depicting child pornography of children. Ramirez knowingly received these visual depictions of child pornography through interstate commerce via the Internet.
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.
Iowa City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Heroin DistributionRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Tuesday, December 22, 2020, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Robert Rankins Jr., age 50, of Iowa City, to 84 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute 1,000 grams and more of a mixture and substance containing heroin announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following his prison term Rankins Jr. was ordered to serve five years of supervised release as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
This investigation began in 2018 involving narcotics trafficking between Johnson County, Iowa and Chicago, Illinois. Law enforcement determined Rankins Jr. and his co-conspirator were obtaining heroin and selling heroin in Johnson County. Rankins Jr. and his co-conspirator, Eric Rhine, made trips to Chicago to retrieve drugs. Rankins Jr. admitted that the conspiracy was responsible for well over 1,000 grams of heroin and that he was supplying numerous individuals in the Iowa City/Coralville/North Liberty area.
This matter was investigated by the Johnson County Drug Task Force. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Tuesday, December 22, 2020, United States District Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Najawaun Marcus Quinn, age 23, of Davenport, to 48 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following his prison term, Quinn was ordered to serve three years of supervised release, as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation of Quinn began in September 2018 when law enforcement utilized a confidential informant to purchase a loaded, Colt .38 Special, revolver from Quinn in Davenport. Quinn was on parole for being a felon in possession of a firearm at the time that he possessed and transferred the firearm. Quinn has an extensive criminal history.
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. 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.
Burlington Man Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Tuesday, December 22, 2020, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Anthony David Collins, age 30, of Burlington, to 144 months in prison for distribution of methamphetamine announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following his prison term Collins was ordered to serve five years of supervised release, as well as pay $300 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
This investigation began in 2017 when law enforcement identified Collins as a distributor of methamphetamine in the Burlington area. Law enforcement purchased ice methamphetamine from Collins on seven separate occasions between 2017 and 2019. Collins was found to be in possession of a firearm in connection with his drug trafficking activities. Collins has a history of violence and was on court supervision at the time of these offenses.
This matter was investigated by the Southeast Iowa Narcotics Task Force, Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office, Burlington Police Department, and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Burlington Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Tuesday, December 22, 2020, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Scott Michael McAllister, age 37, of Burlington, to 230 months in prison for distribution of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following his prison term McAllister was ordered to serve five years of supervised release, as well as pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
In the spring of 2018, McAllister was identified as a methamphetamine supplier in southeast Iowa. McAllister admitted to being involved in the distribution of more than ten pounds of ice methamphetamine in the Burlington area. McAllister also admitted to possessing a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities.
This matter was investigated by the Southeast Iowa Narcotics Taskforce, Burlington Police Department, Des Moines County Sherriff’s Office, Quad City Metropolitan Enforcement Group, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. This 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.
Three Iowa Defendants Sentenced for Sex Trafficking ChildrenRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – Three defendants who pleaded guilty to sex trafficking children were sentenced in December 2020 announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. The cases were presided over by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose.
On December 7, 2020, Tommy Tate Collins of Cedar Rapids was sentenced to 210 months in prison following a guilty plea to one count of child sex trafficking. Collins admitted in his plea agreement that he trafficked a minor child, who was 15 and 16 years old at the time, by paying her for sex acts with money and drugs.
On December 18, 2020, Albert Kelly Price was sentenced to 348 months imprisonment. Price pleaded guilty to trafficking two minors and admitted to trafficking a total of three minors who were between 14 and 16 years old. Price paid all three minors for sex acts and used physical force on each minor. Price resided in Iowa City and North Liberty.
On December 21, 2020, Arrion Marcus West, Jr. of Iowa City was sentenced to 210 months imprisonment for trafficking two minors, who were 15 and 17 years old at the time of the offenses. West trafficked the minors by advertising them on escort websites, arranging prices and sex acts with customers, transporting them to engage in sex acts, and taking proceeds from the commercial sex acts. West also used physical violence towards one victim.
Co-defendants that were previously sentenced include Isaiah Patterson, sentenced to 144 months imprisonment in January 2020 for trafficking a 15 year old by posting advertisements of her for commercial sex acts, and Kendall Andrew Streb, who was sentenced in September 2020 to 268 months imprisonment for trafficking three minors and additional offenses.
“The defendants in these cases were buyers and sellers of children in our community,” stated Krickbaum. “They exploited vulnerable teenage girls for their own sexual gratification, and collectively they will serve many decades in federal prison. Federal law does not distinguish between ‘johns’ who will pay for sex with a minor, and pimps who offer minors for sex. Both groups are serious criminals, and we will treat them as such.”
Human trafficking is defined as 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. 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.
The case was investigated by the Iowa City Police Department, with assistance from the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation, and the Coralville Police Department. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on December 15, 2020, James Michael Willett, Sr., age 48, of Council Bluffs, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 135 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Willett 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. Willet pleaded guilty to the offense on August 04, 2020.
The Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force opened an investigation on Willett and other co-conspirators for distributing methamphetamine in the Council Bluffs metro area in 2019. On November 5, 2019, staff at a hotel in Omaha, Nebraska, contacted law enforcement after an employee observed drugs in a room where Willet had been staying. Law enforcement searched the room and located methamphetamine, fentanyl, and marijuana.
The investigation was conducted by the Council Bluffs Police Department, Omaha Police Department, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to Prison for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on December 15, 2020, John Randall Parson, age 37, of Council Bluffs, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 51 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release for felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Parson was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund. Parson pleaded guilty to the offense on July 24, 2020.
The investigation was conducted by the Council Bluffs 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.
California Man Sentenced to Prison for Marijuana OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on December 15, 2020, Dmitry Alexander Borisov, age 35, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 60 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Borisov was ordered to serve four years of supervised release to follow his prison term and pay a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund. Borisov pleaded guilty to the offense on August 21, 2020.
On January 1, 2020, Borisov was driving a rental truck on Interstate 80. He was stopped for speeding by the Council Bluffs Police. While issuing a citation, a police dog alerted to the presence of a controlled substance in Borisov’s vehicle. Law enforcement discovered that the truck contained over 1,200 pounds of marijuana.
The investigation was conducted by the Council Bluffs Police Department 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.
Des Moines Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Prison for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On December 3, 2020, United States District Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Joseph Lee Fultz, age 52, of Des Moines, to 324 months in prison for Production of Child Pornography announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Fultz was ordered to serve ten years of supervised release to follow his prison term and comply with sex offender registry requirements upon release.
The investigation began in May of 2019 when the Des Moines Police Department received a report that Fultz produced child pornography of four minors, ages 10 and under, while they were under his care. Subsequently, Des Moines police officers executed a search warrant at Fultz’s apartment where they seized his computers and electronic devices. The investigation showed that Fultz produced and possessed child pornography images of the four minors, as well as two additional children, including an infant. All six children were located and identified.
This matter was investigated by the Des Moines Police Department, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the FBI 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.
Cedar Rapids Man Appears in Federal Court on Threat and Damage to Federal Property ChargesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – On December 8, 2020, John Edward Miller, age 39, of Cedar Rapids, appeared in federal court before United States Northern District of Iowa Magistrate Judge Mark A. Roberts on a Complaint charging him with influencing, impeding or retaliating against a federal official by threatening a United States official, a United States judge, or a federal law enforcement officer; malicious damage to federal property; and interstate communications with the intent to injure, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum.
This matter will be prosecuted by Southern District of Iowa Assistant United States Attorney Melisa Zaehringer, who has been designated as Special Assistant United States Attorney, based on the recusal of the Northern District of Iowa United States Attorney’s Office.
According to the Complaint, Miller is alleged to have sent a threatening message via Facebook to a federal prosecutor and named several other federal employees in the message. Miller is additionally accused of firing a flare gun at the Cedar Rapids United States Courthouse, causing a fire that needed to be extinguished.
The public is reminded that charges contain only accusations and are not evidence of guilt. The defendant is 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 a reasonable sentence under federal sentencing statutes and the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines.
Miller’s detention hearing will be held at the Cedar Rapids United States Courthouse on December 11, 2020, at 1 p.m.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Explosives and Firearms, United States Marshals Service, and the Cedar Rapids Police Department. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa will prosecute this case.
West Des Moines Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On December 7, 2020, United States District Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger sentenced Bryant Dale Voss, age 33, of West Des Moines, to 84 months in prison for Possession of Child Pornography announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Voss was ordered to serve five years of supervised release to follow his prison term and comply with sex offender registry requirements upon release.
The investigation began in July 2017 when law enforcement were operating a law enforcement version of the file sharing program BitTorrent in an undercover capacity. Agents located child pornography files available for sharing from Voss’ computer and downloaded multiple files from him in July 2017. Voss knew that his file sharing program made certain child pornography files on his computer available to others to download. Subsequently, investigators executed a search warrant at Voss’ West Des Moines residence where they seized his computers and electronic devices. The investigation showed that Voss knowingly possessed hundreds of images and ten videos of child pornography on an external hard drive and used his computer to knowingly access and view videos of child pornography.
This matter was investigated by the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the FBI 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.
Twenty-Five Defendants Charged in Joint Federal and State Investigation of Drug and Firearms Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa -- Twenty-five defendants are facing federal criminal charges as part of a joint federal and state investigation of a methamphetamine, cocaine, crack cocaine, and marijuana drug trafficking organization. Most of these defendants were arrested on November 18, 2020, during the execution of 45 federal search warrants in and around Des Moines. Those warrants resulted in the seizure of 37 firearms, three pounds of cocaine, one ounce of methamphetamine, 18 pounds of marijuana, 1.5 ounces of heroin and approximately $50,000 in cash.
The defendants are charged across three criminal indictments and eight criminal complaints with federal drug or firearms offenses:
- Jerome Valentino Wilson, 32, of Des Moines
- Derek Shantell Thompson, 41, of Des Moines
- Kenee L. Triplett, 39, of Des Moines
- Cory Andrew Turner, 33, of Des Moines
- Coty Arnez Turner, 31, of Des Moines
- Daryl Stephen Jones, Jr., 45, of Des Moines
- Jerome Jamar Hall, 35, of Des Moines
- Ornandes Raeshon Bennett, 41, of Des Moines
- Antoine Moishawn Williams, 49, of Des Moines
- Dewayne Allen Haynes, 40, of Des Moines
- Marcus Antonio-Shay Hall, 25, of Des Moines
- Kenny Eugene Smart, Jr., 47, of Des Moines
- Michael Lindell Teasley, 32, of Des Moines
- Jerron Tandre Johnson, 30, of Des Moines
- Nolan Hamilton-Allen, 32, of Des Moines
- Richard Lee David Brown, 45, of Des Moines
- Anthony Levon Robinson, Jr., 35, of Des Moines
- Leon Dale Edwards, 36, of Des Moines,
- Leroy Williams II, 50, of Des Moines
- Terry Eugene Hambrick, 40, of Des Moines
- Damir Halkic, 32, of Urbandale
- Keiffer Michael Simmons, 28, of Des Moines
- William Lloydellton Speed, Jr., 27, of Des Moines
- Amanda Raye Reed, 40, of Des Moines
- Tyler James Althaus, 34, of Des Moines
Many of the charged defendants, including Jerome Valentino Wilson, Derek Shantell Thompson, Cory Andrew Turner, Coty Arnez Turner, Daryl Stephen Jones, Jr., Jerome Jamar Hall, Ornandes Raeshon Bennett, Michael Lindell Teasley, Kenny Smart, Jr., among others, have prior felony drug convictions. Kenny Smart, Jr., Michael Lindell Teasley, and Jerron Tandre Johnson, each presently charged with possessing a firearm as a felon, have prior convictions for possessing a firearm as a felon. On November 18, 2020, Jerron Tandre Johnson was arrested on charges of attempted murder, filed in the Iowa District Court for Polk County.
United States Attorney Krickbaum stated, “These arrests had a specific target: those accused of carrying guns, slinging drugs, and endangering our community. We look forward to proving these charges in federal court. And we are grateful to our law enforcement partners, who took almost 40 guns and many pounds of drugs off the streets of Des Moines.”
“ATF has no higher priority than investigating violent crime and ensuring that those who use firearms in furtherance of their criminal activities are held accountable. This investigation demonstrates ATF’s commitment and the commitment of our law enforcement partners to ensure that the Des Moines communities remain a safe place to live, work and raise families. Utilizing firearms to injure or intimidate others cannot be tolerated and there is no question that Des Moines is safer today because of the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of all of the agencies that played a part in this investigation,” said James Ferguson, Acting Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Kansas City Field Division.
Des Moines Police Chief Dana Wingert added, “The size and magnitude of this operation speaks for itself, but the most important aspect is the impact it will have on violent crime and the distribution of illegal drugs in our community. This will absolutely move the needle in terms of restoring the safe environment that our citizens deserve and affirms the commitment to use all available resources to preserve this expectation. This was truly a team effort, and we can’t thank our Local, County, State and Federal partners enough for their unwavering dedication and commitment to ensuring that our most dangerous criminals are held accountable for selfishly and intentionally compromising the safety and security of the wonderful people that call this region ‘home.’ Our commitment to serve extends beyond jurisdictional lines, and our collective efforts will be on- going.”
All defendants arrested on November 18 have or will soon appear in federal or state court on the charges. The charges carry maximum penalties of five years to life imprisonment. If convicted, the Court must impose reasonable sentences under federal sentencing statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
The charges were announced by Marc Krickbaum, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa; James Ferguson, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the Kansas City Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and Dana Wingert, Chief of Police of the Des Moines Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Mikaela Shotwell and MacKenzie Benson Tubbs represent the government.
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.
Investigating and assisting agencies include: Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); Des Moines Police Department (DMPD); Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement (DNE); Iowa State Patrol (ISP); Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force (MINE); Tri-County Task Force; Central Iowa Drug Task Force (CIDTF); Mid-Iowa Drug Task Force (MIDTF); Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation (DCI); Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI); Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); Altoona Police Department; West Des Moines Police Department; Urbandale Police Department; Marshalltown Police Department; Polk County Sheriff’s Office; Dallas County Sheriff’s Office; and Iowa State Fire Marshal. This is an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces investigation.
Burlington Man Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Thursday, November 12, 2020, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Allen Julian Fields Jr., age 33, of Burlington, to 121 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Manufacture or Distribute 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following his prison term, Fields was ordered to serve four years of supervised release as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
In October of 2019, law enforcement officers attempted to stop Fields’ vehicle, and Fields drove away at a high rate of speed - in excess of 50 miles per hour on city streets. Fields wove in and out of traffic and drove directly at officers. Fields’ vehicle was eventually disabled and Fields and a passenger ran away. After both individuals were caught, officers located a bag containing 446.4 grams of methamphetamine. A search warrant was executed on Fields’ cell phone, which revealed text messages consistent with drug trafficking.
This matter was investigated by the Southeast Iowa Narcotics Task Force (SEINT); Burlington Police Department; Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office; Henry County Sheriff’s Office; West Burlington Police Department; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations; and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Coralville Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Defrauding GovernmentRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Thursday, November 12, 2020, United States District Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Walkesha Shavon Jamison, age 41, of Coralville to fifteen months in prison for Concealment of Events Affecting Benefits, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Following her prison term, Jamison was ordered to serve three years of supervised release, pay $161,627.76 to the Commissioner of Social Security and $31,727.64 to the Iowa City Housing Authority in restitution, as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
This investigation began in 2017 when the Social Security Administration (SSA) learned Jamison obtained employment in 2015, which she failed to report while she was receiving government benefits. This employment information, coupled with a psychiatric analysis, was inconsistent with Jamison’s reports of disability to SSA. An investigation concluded Jamison fraudulently obtained the diagnoses upon which her benefits were premised and SSA officially terminated the benefits in 2018. Further, Jamison obtained benefits from the Iowa City Housing Authority, which were funded by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. Jamison obtained these benefits partially as a result of her fraudulent SSA disability claim and through other false statements. In total, the loss amount to these federal programs attributed to Jamison was $193,355.40.
This matter was investigated by the Social Security Administration. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Des Moines Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Child Pornography OffenseRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On Tuesday, November 10, 2020, Robert Joe Hennings, age 33, of Des Moines, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 240 months in federal prison, to be followed by 20 years of federal court supervision, for receipt of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Hennings was ordered to forfeit the electronic media used in the offense, pay $15,000 in restitution to victims, and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund. Hennings was also ordered to register as a sex offender after his release.
According to the record made at sentencing, Hennings collected in excess of 550,000 images of child pornography over a three-year period, including material involving sexual assaults on prepubescent minors, including an infant. The sentence was, in part, a reflection of the danger Hennings posed to children, based on the Court’s finding that he engaged in chats with others where he expressed his desire to have sex with boys younger than five years old and said he wanted to purchase a young prostitute under five years of age.
The case was a joint federal-state effort involving both the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Child Exploitation Task Force and the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
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.