Southern District of Iowa
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Opioid Traffickers SentencedRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced that on November 12, 2019, 35 year-old Kentriss Thomas Rhodes, 33 year-old Ashley S. Fleming, and 45 year-old Antoine Sanders, all residents of Chicago, Illinois, were sentenced by District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger, for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance (Oxycodone).
The investigation of Rhodes, Fleming and Sanders began on August 16, 2018, when the Council Bluffs Police Department responded to a call from the Madison Avenue Hy-Vee on a report of a fraudulent prescription being presented at the store’s pharmacy.
Council Bluffs Police arrested two individuals who had presented the forged prescription, and then obtained assistance from the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement and the Drug Enforcement Administration determined that the two arrested persons were working for a Chicago organization that was sending out groups of people to obtain oxycodone by forging prescriptions and presenting them to area pharmacies.
Rhodes, Fleming, and Sanders used vulnerable adults from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to present forged prescriptions for the oxycodone. Using this method, Rhodes, Fleming, and Sanders obtained oxycodone from Council Bluffs, Cedar Rapids, Des Moines and other locations in Iowa, in addition to pharmacies in Nebraska, Illinois, Missouri, and South Dakota. Rhodes, Fleming, and Sanders had obtained, or attempted to obtain, over 6,500 oxycodone pills through the use of fraudulent prescriptions during a nine month period.
As a result of their conduct, Rhodes was sentenced to 72 months in prison, Fleming was sentenced to 46 months in prison, and Sanders was sentenced to 110 months in prison. All three were also ordered to serve three years of Supervised Release once they are released from incarceration.
This case was investigated by Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; Nebraska State Patrol; Council Bluffs, Iowa, Police Department; Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Police Department; Iowa Division of Intelligence; Chicago, Illinois, Police Department; and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Iowa City Man Sentenced to 90 Months in Prison for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On November 12, 2019, the Honorable Michael J. Melloy, Senior United States Circuit Judge for the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, sentenced Marcus Henry Benjamin, 28, of Iowa City, Iowa, to 90 months in prison for receiving child pornography, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Benjamin was also ordered to serve 6 years of supervised release following his imprisonment, pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund, pay $5,000 in restitution, and comply with the sex offender registry requirements upon release.
On June 21, 2019, Benjamin pleaded guilty to one count of receiving child pornography. The investigation began in 2018 when FBI agents discovered sexually explicit posts on a social media discussion website. The investigation led agents to identify Benjamin and his residence, and a search resulted in agents seizing twelve electronic devices. The forensic evaluation of the electronic devices revealed that Benjamin collected child pornography for more than four years, amassing a collection of over 1200 images plus videos.
This matter was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation and National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Clinton Man Sentenced to 130 Months in Prison for Receiving and Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On November 12, 2019, the Honorable Michael J. Melloy, Senior United States Circuit Judge for the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, sentenced Ryan Mitchell Budde, 34, of Clinton, Iowa, to 130 months in prison for receiving and distributing child pornography, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Budde was also ordered to serve 6 years of supervised release following his imprisonment, pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund, pay $5,000 in restitution, and comply with the sex offender registry requirements upon release.
On July 9, 2019, Budde pleaded guilty to one count of receiving and distributing child pornography. The investigation began in 2017 when a tip to law enforcement was received from a social media company regarding 27 files containing child pornography which had been uploaded to the social media site. Two cellular phones and two laptops belonging to Budde were seized and examined, and a total of 365 images were identified as child pornography and recovered from these devices. The investigation also revealed that Budde had chat sessions with young boys, where he pretended to be a 15 year-old virgin.
This matter was investigated by Clinton County, Iowa, Police Department and National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
19 Davenport Area Men Charged with Federal Gun and Robbery ViolationsRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Nineteen individuals are facing 38 criminal charges as part of federal gun, robbery and drug investigations announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Sixteen Indictments by a Federal Grand Jury were filed in the last eight weeks in United States District Court in Davenport, Iowa. This is in addition to the 25 individuals charged for federal violations of gun crimes announced in August 2019 by United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum.
All of the investigations occurred in Scott County, Iowa, and involved the seizure of multiple firearms and drugs. The public is reminded that charges contain only accusations and are not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, the Court must impose reasonable sentences under federal sentencing statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
“The reduction of violent crime is our highest priority,” said Davenport Police Chief Paul Sikorski. “Through effective collaboration and partnerships with our Federal, State and Community partners, we have a shared focus in vigorously investigating and pursuing violent offenders. All areas of our Department are committed and focused on reducing violent crime. Our Gun Investigation Unit has been instrumental in our violent crime reduction strategy with the seizure of 62 firearms and the service of 58 search warrants in the first six months of existence. It is our solid partnerships with our Federal and Local prosecutors and law enforcement agencies, as well as initiatives such as Project Safe Neighborhoods and the National Public Safety Partnership where we share an effective violent crime strategy. This year Davenport has experienced a 5% reduction in violent crime.”
“In the past few years our office in Davenport has substantially increased prosecutions of violent criminals, with a focus on those who illegally use and possess guns,” said United States Attorney Krickbaum. “That has been possible only because of our partnerships with law enforcement, which are as strong today as they have ever been.”
These cases are 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. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime. The cases were investigated by the Davenport Police Department, Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Bettendorf Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The cases are being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
To date, 13 defendants have been arrested and are outlined below. The other cases remain sealed pending arrest.
DEFENDANT
Darrell Kenneth Holloway Case Number 3:19-cr-92
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) – Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custody
Title 21, U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C) – Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance
Maximum Penalty is 20 years in custody
DEFENDANT
Paris Larue Davis Case Number 3:19-cr-100
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C) – Possession With Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance
Maximum Penalty is 20 years in custody
Title 18, U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i) – Possession of a Firearm During and In Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime
Maximum Penalty is life in custody; 5 year mandatory minimum
DEFENDANT
Alex Rogelio Barrera Case Number 3:19-cr-78
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 1951 – Interference with Commerce by Robbery
Maximum Penalty is 20 years in custody
Title 18, U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(ii) – Use and Carry a Firearm During and In Relation to a Crime of Violence
Maximum Penalty is life in custody; 5 year mandatory minimum
DEFENDANT
James Curtis Pryor Case Number 3:19-cr-78
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 1951 – Interference with Commerce by Robbery
Maximum Penalty is 20 years in custody
DEFENDANT
Christopher Lee Schultz Case Number 3:19-cr-79
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 2113(a) – Armed Bank Robbery (Three Counts)
Maximum Penalty is 20 years in custody per count
DEFENDANT
Benjamin David Watkins Case Number 3:19-cr-79
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 2113(a) – Armed Bank Robbery (Two Counts)
Maximum Penalty is 20 years in custody per count
DEFENDANT
Alexander Rene Holcomb Case Number 3:19-cr-70
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 21, U.S.C. § 846 – Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance
Maximum Penalty is life imprisonment; 10 year mandatory minimum
Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) – Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custody
DEFENDANT
Curlie Marque Quarterman Case Number 3:19-cr-85
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 1951 – Interference with Commerce by Robbery
Maximum Penalty is 20 years in custody
DEFENDANT
James Lawrence Salkil Case Number 3:19-cr-86
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) – Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custody
Title 21, U.S.C. § 844(a) – Possession of a Controlled Substance
Maximum Penalty is 1 year in custody
DEFENDANTS
Isaiah Ramon Henderson Case Number 3:19-cr-94
Jaquan Leonte Jones Case Number 3:19-cr-95
Justin Lee Watson Case Number 3:19-cr-96
Tray Everett Miller Case Number 3:19-cr-101
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) – Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custody
Pella Man Sentenced to Prison for Multi-Million Dollar Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On November 1, 2019, Mark Alan Blankespoor, of Pella, Iowa, was sentenced to 80 months in prison by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger for wire fraud, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Blankespoor was ordered by the Court to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term. Additionally, he must pay $8,464,103 in restitution to over 100 victims.
The defendant pleaded guilty to wire fraud in June of 2019. According to court documents, Blankespoor was a health coach and consultant in Pella. He represented to others he was involved in developing medically-oriented gyms and licensed the program to fitness clinics across the United States. For more than four years, Blankespoor represented to investors they had an opportunity to make money by investing in the medically-oriented gym concept. At least 100 investors provided Blankespoor with approximately $15 million in investment funds. Blankespoor admitted he used the investors’ money for unauthorized purposes that were not for the benefit of the affected investors. Blankespoor used the investor money, unbeknownst to them, for his personal expenses and paying other investors to further the scheme.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this matter. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Des Moines Police Department Special Enforcement Team Secures over 20 Federal Indictments, Seizes 71 GunsRead the Press Release
The Des Moines Police Department and the United States Attorney’s Office announced the results of a summer enforcement effort, which took dozens of guns off the street and resulted in federal indictments against multiple violent criminals in Des Moines.
The Des Moines Police Department Special Enforcement Team operated from April to October 2019. During that time, the team’s investigations led to over 20 federal indictments for gun- and drug-related crimes, and the seizure of 71 guns from Des Moines’s streets. These prosecutions are part of a series of local, state, and federal efforts known as Project Safe Neighborhoods.
“Project Safe Neighborhoods is more than just a concept,” said Des Moines Police Chief Dana Wingert. “In Des Moines, it has developed into a highly effective crime fighting strategy. United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum and his staff have taken a hardline stance on prosecuting our most violent criminals, particularly gun offenders, in an effort to reduce violent crime in our neighborhoods. To date, the effect has been dramatic, and this working relationship is poised to continue these efforts long into the future. In many larger cities across the country, efforts such as this may seem to have less of an impact on overall violent crime numbers. In Des Moines, the results are real and the crimes trends validate the impact.”
In announcing the results of this effort in Des Moines, United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum noted that, “What’s impressive about the work of the Special Enforcement Team is not just the volume of cases—which has been amazing—but also the quality of those cases. We’re arresting and charging the right people.”
One example is United States v. Xzavier Justin Lee Clark, case number 4:19-cr-138. In July 2019, Clark led Des Moines officers on a high-speed chase, during which he tossed a loaded handgun out of a car. He pleaded guilty to being a drug user in possession of a firearm. At a sentencing hearing scheduled for February 13, 2020, the government expects to present evidence linking Clark to multiple acts of violence in the Des Moines area.
Another case is United States v. Kaytjuan Tyrez Gibbs & Devon Laron Williams, case number 4:19-cr-103. Gibbs and Williams have pleaded guilty to being drug users in possession of firearms, and sentencing for both is scheduled for January 31, 2020. Between September 2018 and May 2019, Gibbs and Williams were involved in a series of gun-related crimes in Des Moines, including possession of at least six firearms, several of which were stolen, and one of which had an obliterated serial number to prevent it from being traced.
“In the past few years our office in Des Moines has substantially increased prosecutions of violent criminals, with a focus on those who illegally use and possess guns,” said United States Attorney Krickbaum. “That has been possible only because of our partnerships with law enforcement, which are as strong today as they have ever been.” Krickbaum added, “Des Moines PD has been front and center in this fight, joined by ATF, FBI, and other local, state, and federal agencies. Our united effort is making a difference in Des Moines.”
The public is reminded that an indictment is merely an accusation, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless they are proven guilty.
These enforcement actions and partnerships are 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. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.
Three Men Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on October 16, 2019, Marcus John Josephson, age 35, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Josephson was sentenced to 102 months in prison, to be followed by a term of supervised release of three years.
On August 20, 2019, Judge Ebinger sentenced Josephson’s co-defendants, Dustyn Russell Bond, age 47, and Clayton Dean Stucker, age 31, for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Bond was sentenced to 176 months of imprisonment, to be followed by a term of supervised release of eight years; and Stucker was sentenced to 77 months in prison, to be followed by a term of supervised release of five years. All three defendants had earlier pleaded guilty to this charge.
On January 10, 2018, Bond and Stucker were stopped by law enforcement in Mills County and found to be in possession of methamphetamine. Bond and Stucker were associated with Marcus Josephson, who assisted them in the distribution of controlled substances in Montgomery County.
This case was investigated by the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, United States Drug Enforcement Administration, Mills County Sheriff’s Department and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Two Men Sentenced to Prison for Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on October 16, 2019, Brian Lee Rhodes, age 39, and Jeremy Eugene Jameson, age 46, were sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger for child pornography related offenses. Each defendant had earlier pleaded guilty to the charges.
Rhodes was sentenced to 30 years in prison on each of three counts of Coercion and Enticement of a Minor, and 20 years in prison for one count of Distribution of Child Pornography. The sentences will run concurrently. Rhodes’ imprisonment will be followed by a term of supervised release of 15 years for each count, also to run concurrently.
Jameson was sentenced to 35 months in prison, to be followed by a term of supervised release of five years for Access with Intent to View Child Pornography.
In March of 2018, a concerned parent made a report to the Creston Police Department regarding an inappropriate conversation she found on her 11 year-old daughter’s Facebook account with Rhodes. During a search of Facebook accounts created by Rhodes, officers located conversations with other minors in which Rhodes asked the minors to send him inappropriate images and videos. The Douglas County Nebraska Sheriff’s Office and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation also received a tip from Facebook that Rhodes, through a fraudulent Facebook account, sent Jameson an image of child pornography.
This case was investigated by the Creston Police Department, Atlantic Police Department, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation - Internet Crimes Against Children Unit and the Douglas County Nebraska Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Pottawattamie County Man Sentenced to Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on October 16, 2019, Jason Nicholas Feller, age 38, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Feller was sentenced to 200 months in prison to be followed by a term of supervised release of 5 years. Feller pleaded guilty in April of 2019.
On December 30, 2018, Council Bluffs Police conducted a traffic stop on Feller. Feller admitted he had drugs in the vehicle. During the search of the vehicle, officers recovered two baggies containing approximately 12 grams of methamphetamine. Officers later located a container with a false bottom that held approximately 63 grams of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Council Bluffs Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Creston Man Appears in U.S. District Court and Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa—On October 11, 2019, United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced that Brandon Robert Fry, age 38, of Creston, Iowa, appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Celeste F. Bremer and entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Fry admitted that he knowingly possessed over 500 grams of methamphetamine on June 4, 2019, which was found by law enforcement in a white Mercedes, in Creston, Iowa. Fry admitted that prior to being arrested on June 4, 2019, he had intended to distribute the methamphetamine. At the time of this offense, Fry was on federal supervised release for a prior conviction of felon in possession of a firearm.
Pursuant to the plea agreement, Fry faces an agreed-upon sentence of 188 months in prison. He is also subject to at least 5 years of supervised release following the imprisonment. Sentencing is scheduled for February 24, 2020, at 9:30 a.m., before the Honorable Chief Judge John A. Jarvey at the United States Courthouse in Des Moines, Iowa.
This matter was investigated by the United States Probation Office, the Creston Police Department, the Des Moines Police Department, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement (MINE) Task force. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney's office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Western Iowa Methamphetamine Traffickers SentencedRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced three sentences for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine imposed by Chief District Court Judge John Jarvey on October 8, 2019. Joseph A. Brown, a 35 year-old Omaha, Nebraska, resident, was sentenced to ten years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Christopher M. Rouse, a 31 year-old Omaha, Nebraska, resident was sentenced to twenty years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Bernave Navarrete, a 28 year-old resident of Council Bluffs, Iowa was sentenced to twenty years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release.
The convictions were the result of a lengthy investigation by Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force into methamphetamine trafficking in Western Iowa. The investigation revealed that methamphetamine was being brought into the Omaha, Nebraska, area from Mexico, and then transported to various locations in Nebraska and Western Iowa for distribution.
As part of this investigation, the following individuals were already sentenced to prison: Jackie Thielen, ten years; Brandy Kumpula, eight years; Chase Richard, fifteen years; Jessica Snavely, ten years; and William LaBenz, five years. The sentencing hearings for Omar Martinez, Laura Rausch-Anderson, Colby Dunn and Manda May Rowell are still pending.
This matter was investigated by Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force, Omaha Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force, Council Bluffs Police Department, Harlan, Iowa Police Department and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Pottawattamie County Woman Sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced that on October 8, 2019, 53 year old Laura Lynn Schubert was sentenced by District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Schubert was sentenced to imprisonment for 92 months followed by a term of supervised release for 5 years.
In October 2018, an Iowa State Trooper made a traffic stop of the vehicle Schubert was driving. Schubert was in possession of 90 grams of methamphetamine. A search warrant was obtained for her residence where officers located an additional 340 grams of methamphetamine. Schubert pled guilty to this charge in June 2019. Schubert has a prior federal felony conviction for distribution of a controlled substance in 2004.
This case was investigated by the Iowa State Patrol, Iowa Department of Narcotics Enforcement 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 Man Sentenced for Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual ConductRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced that on October 8, 2019, 69 year old Richard John Massey was sentenced by District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey for Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct. Massey was sentenced to imprisonment for 40 months followed by a term of supervised release for 5 years.
In November 2018, agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation arrested Massey on charges stemming from an investigation which started when a 17 year-old female student in Omaha, Nebraska confided to an adult about her relationship with Massey. A search of Massey’s Facebook and email accounts showed he was in contact with several females in other countries. Massey pled guilty to this charge in February 2019.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Council Bluffs Police Department, and the Omaha, Nebraska 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 Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on October 2, 2019, Martell Roberts, age 24, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger for Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Roberts was sentenced to a prison term of 100 months to be followed by a term of supervised release of three years. Roberts was ordered to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Roberts pleaded guilty to the offense on March 20, 2019. On July 31, 2018, Roberts possessed two loaded firearms located in his residence during the execution of a search warrant conducted by the Bettendorf Police Department. Roberts admitted one of the firearms had been reported stolen out of Muscatine. Roberts further acknowledged he had two prior felony convictions for drug felonies.
This case was investigated by the Bettendorf 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.
Two Women Charged with Offenses Related to Pipeline AttacksRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – On September 19, 2019, a federal grand jury returned an Indictment charging defendants, Jessica Rae Reznicek and Ruby Katherine Montoya, with one count of conspiracy to damage an energy facility, four counts of use of fire in the commission of a felony, and four counts of malicious use of fire, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Montoya was recently arrested in the District of Arizona and detained pending court proceedings to determine her appearance in the Southern District of Iowa. Reznicek appeared in Des Moines on October 1, 2019 and was conditionally released pending trial. Trial is currently scheduled for December 2, 2019, before United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger.
According to Count 1 of the Indictment, from at least as early as 2016 and continuing in 2017, in the Southern District of Iowa and elsewhere, Reznicek and Montoya conspired to knowingly and willfully damage and attempt to damage the property of an energy facility involved in the transmission and distribution of fuel, or another form or source of energy, in an amount exceeding or which would have exceeded $100,000, and to cause a significant interruption and impairment of a function of an energy facility.
Counts 2 through 9 of the Indictment allege specific instances of damage or attempts to damage portions of the Dakota Access Pipeline in the Southern District of Iowa by Reznicek and Montoya on various dates in 2017.
The public is reminded that an Indictment is merely an accusation, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless they are proven guilty.
If they are convicted of Count 1, conspiracy to damage an energy facility, Reznicek and Montoya face up to 20 years imprisonment, not more than a $250,000 fine, or both such fine and imprisonment.
If they are convicted of Counts 2, 4, 6 and/or 8, use of fire in the commission of a felony, Reznicek and Montoya face a mandatory minimum 10 years imprisonment to be served consecutive to the sentence imposed on Count 1. For each second or subsequent conviction of Counts 2, 4, 6 and/or 8, Reznicek and Montoya face a mandatory minimum 20 years imprisonment to be served consecutive to the sentence imposed on Count 1.
If they are convicted of Counts 3, 5, 7 and/or 9, malicious use of fire, Reznicek and Montoya face a mandatory minimum 5 years imprisonment and a maximum of 20 years imprisonment, not more than a $250,000 fine, or both such fine and
imprisonment.The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Pottawattamie County Man Sentenced for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on September 30, 2019, Jay R. Jahn, age 27, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Robert W. Pratt for Receipt of Child Pornography. Jahn was sentenced to five years in prison to be followed by a five year term of supervised release.
In July 2017, Carter Lake Police received a referral from the La Plata County Sheriff in Colorado regarding a 15 year old child who had received sexually explicit messages online from Jahn. A search warrant was obtained for Jahn’s residence, where officers located a computer and cell phone. A search of the electronic devices located images and videos of child pornography. Jahn pleaded guilty to this charge in May 2019.
This case was investigated by the La Plata County, Colorado Sheriff’s Office, Carter Lake Police Department, and Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Pottawattamie County Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on October 1, 2019, William Walter Batten, age 46, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Robert W. Pratt for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. Batten was sentenced to 10 years in prison, to be followed by a term of supervised release of five years.
In October 2018 Council Bluffs Police stopped a motorcycle driven by Batten and it was discovered he did not have a motorcycle endorsement or insurance. Batten was arrested and admitted he had methamphetamine in his motorcycle. A search warrant was obtained and officers located over 50 grams of methamphetamine. Batten pleaded guilty to this charge in March 2019.
This case was investigated by the Council Bluffs Police Department and the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Omaha Man Sentenced for Possession of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on September 30, 2019, Mathew William Finken, age 44, was sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine by United States District Court Senior Judge Robert W. Pratt. Finken was sentenced to ten years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release.
Finken was arrested by law enforcement with the Council Bluffs Police Department on January 25, 2019. At the time of his arrest, Finken was in possession of over 100 grams of methamphetamine, packaging materials and over $800. When
Finken pleaded guilty on April 15, 2019, he admitted he intended to sell the methamphetamine he had in his possession.
This case was investigated by Council Bluffs Police Department and the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force. The matter was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Illinois Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Methamphetamine and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa- On September 25, 2019, Michael Lee Davis, age 26, of New Boston, Illinois, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 120 months in prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and 120 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. The two terms of imprisonment were ordered to run concurrently. Davis was ordered to serve five years of supervised release following his prison term and to pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On May 20, 2019, Davis pleaded guilty to the offenses and admitted on May 18, 2018, he was driving a vehicle in Burlington, Iowa, and was in possession of a 55.75 grams of actual methamphetamine, a loaded 12-gauge shotgun, drug packaging material, and a digital scale. He further admitted at the time, he intended to distribute some or all of that methamphetamine to other people. Additionally, he admitted he had previously been convicted of two felony offenses in Mercer County, Illinois, in 2010 and 2015.
This matter was investigated by the Burlington Police Department and 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.
Davenport Man Sentenced to 260 Months in Prison for Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa- On September 25, 2019, United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced, Demajor Alexander Nettles, age 26, of Davenport, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 200 months in prison for Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute and 60 months in prison Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense. These sentences were ordered to run consecutively. Nettles was ordered to serve four years of supervised release following his prison term and to pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On May 20, 2019, Nettles pleaded guilty and admitted he distributed cocaine base to another individual. He further admitted that during the course of a search warrant executed on his hotel room officers located cocaine base and methamphetamine, a digital scale, packaging material, and a loaded firearm. Nettles admitted that $1,974 dollars in his possession were proceeds from narcotics trafficking.
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 Neighborhood (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Burlington Man Sentenced to Prison for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on September 25, 2019, Tyreon Leseanjea Woodard, age 22, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey for Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Woodard was sentenced to a prison term of 70 months to be followed by a term of supervised release of three years. Woodard was ordered to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Woodard pleaded guilty to the offense on May 15, 2019, and admitted on September 13, 2018, he possessed a loaded, semi-automatic Smith and Wesson nine-millimeter pistol, a loaded semi-automatic Zastava rifle, and a loaded semi-automatic rifle. Woodard had previously been convicted of a felony and was not allowed to possess firearms.
This case was investigated by the Burlington 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.
Western Iowa Methamphetamine Traffickers SentencedRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on September 19, 2019, Chase Lee Richard, age 34; Brandy Lee Kumpula, age 28; and Jackie Lynn Thielan, age 31, were sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine by United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey. Richard was sentenced to 15 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release; Kumpula was sentenced to eight years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release; and Thielen was sentenced to 10 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release.
In late 2017, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement with the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force began investigating a large drug trafficking organization that was transporting large quantities of methamphetamine in and around the Western Iowa and Eastern Nebraska areas. As part of that investigation, law enforcement determined that Jackie Thielen was transporting and distributing large amounts of the methamphetamine to various locations in Shelby County, Iowa. Law enforcement determined that Thielen was obtaining the methamphetamine from Chase Richard. Law enforcement learned that Richard was also providing large quantities of methamphetamine to multiple people including Brandy Kumpula, who was selling methamphetamine to individuals in Council Bluffs and Omaha.
Previously sentenced in this case were Jessica Snavely to a prison term of ten years and William LaBenz to a prison term of five years. Four additional defendants are pending sentencing.
The case was investigated by the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force, Omaha Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force, Council Bluffs Police Department, Harlan Police Department and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Pottawattamie County Man Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on September 19, 2019, Travis Wright Scott, age 31, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Carrying a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime. Wright was sentenced to prison for a total of 160 months. He was sentenced to 100 months of imprisonment on the drug charge and 60 months of imprisonment for the gun charge. The sentences will run consecutively. Following Scott’s prison term, he will serve five years of supervised release.
In 2018, detectives with the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force conducted controlled buys of narcotics with Scott. Following the issuance of an arrest warrant, when Scott was located, he possessed a small amount of methamphetamine, a digital scale, serialized money from the controlled buys, and a loaded Smith and Wesson M&P 9mm handgun that was reported stolen. Scott pleaded guilty to these charges in April 2019.
This case was investigated by the Council Bluffs Police Department and the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
California Man Sentenced for Heroin OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on September 18, 2019, Jorge Alejandro Salazar Machado, age 28, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge James E. Gritzner for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Salazar Machado was sentenced to 10 years in prison to be followed by a five year term of supervised release.
In January 2019, Salazar Machado was arrested by Council Bluffs Police for possession of drug paraphernalia. A subsequent search warrant was executed on his vehicle. During the search, officers located two packages containing a total of 1,891.28 grams of heroin. Salazar Machado pleaded guilty to the charge in May 2019.
This case was investigated by the Council Bluffs Police Department and the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Altoona Man Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding United Way of Central Iowa, Embezzling from a Labor UnionRead the Press Release
Des Moines, IA—On September 17, 2019, Theodore Eric Watson, age 54, of Altoona, appeared before United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey and was sentenced to 18 months in prison for mail fraud and embezzlement of labor union assets, with three years of supervised release to follow his prison term. Watson pleaded guilty to these offenses on April 15, 2019.
Watson admitted from 2007 until September 2016, while employed as the Business Manager for Local 74 of the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers (AFL-CIO), he sent fraudulent requests for payment of grant funds for training to the United Way of Central Iowa. These fraudulent requests were unauthorized and unknown to Local 74.
Watson also admitted to embezzling from Local 74 by making unauthorized purchases and cash advances on a Local 74 credit card and then concealing the fraud by submitting altered credit card statements and false monthly reports to Local 74. Watson additionally opened a bank account in the name of Local 74, without Local 74's consent or knowledge, and from December 2013 through January 2016, Watson diverted Local 74 funds into this account for his personal use.
Watson was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $125,443.24 ($55,604.91 to Local 74 and $69,838.33 to United Way of Central Iowa).
This matter was investigated by the United States Department of Labor—Management Standards. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Iowa Man Sentenced to Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – United States Attorney Mark Krickbaum announced on August 22, 2019, Robert Milton Kimber II, age 46, was sentenced by United States District Senior Judge James E. Gritzner for Possession of Child Pornography. Kimber was sentenced to 189 months in prison to be followed by a term of supervised release of seven years. Kimber was ordered to pay $2,000 to each victim seeking restitution.
The investigation began in 2018 when multiple online service providers sent the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children multiple Cyber Tip Line reports indicating Kimber was sending child pornography to other persons using the internet. A subsequent law enforcement investigation showed in early 2018 Kimber sent and received child pornography on multiple internet platforms and engaged in a sexually explicit chat online with a person who indicated she was only 13 years old. Kimber solicited and received a sexually explicit picture from that person. Later in 2018, police seized a cellular phone that stored videos and images of child pornography from the defendant. Kimber is a registered sex offender since his conviction in the Iowa District Court for Polk County in 1993 for assault with intent to commit sexual abuse.
This case was investigated by the Iowa Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Council Bluffs Police Department, Pottawattamie County Attorney’s Office, West Des Moines Police Department, and the FBI Child Exploitation Task Force. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Omaha Man Sentenced for Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on August 20, 2019, Terrance Terrell Jackson, Sr., age 40, was sentenced to seven years in prison to be followed by seven years of supervised release for sex trafficking involving force. United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger sentenced Jackson.
The conviction was the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Child Exploitation Task Force. On May 11, 2018, an undercover law enforcement officer responded to an advertisement on an internet website offering sexual services from a person identified as “Savannah.” A meeting was arranged between “Savannah” and the undercover officer at a hotel in Lincoln, Nebraska. “Savannah” arrived at the agreed to location and was arrested by law enforcement.
Law enforcement determined Jackson had placed the ad that offered the services of “Savannah” and had driven her to Lincoln, Nebraska to meet the undercover officer. Investigation revealed Jackson had been offering the services of “Savannah” by placing ads on internet web sites beginning in late 2017. When a date was arranged, Jackson transported “Savannah” to the agreed to location, including locations in Omaha, Nebraska and Council Bluffs, Iowa for acts of prostitution. The investigation determined Jackson had physically assaulted “Savannah” to ensure she would participate in acts of prostitution, having injured her seriously enough to have her hospitalized on several occasions.
The investigation was done by the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force; Lincoln, Nebraska, Police Department; Omaha, Nebraska, Police Department; and the Council Bluffs, Iowa, Police Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Colorado Man Sentenced to Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on August 20, 2019, Chad Alan Soderman, age 43, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime. Soderman was sentenced to 120 months of imprisonment for the drug charge and 60 months of imprisonment for the gun charge. The time will run consecutively. He will serve a term of supervised release for five years when released from prison.
On July 7, 2018, while driving from Colorado to Minnesota, two-time convicted felon Chad Alan Soderman was stopped by an Iowa State Patrol Trooper in Pottawattamie County for speeding. Soderman’s vehicle was found to have contained 223.2 grams of methamphetamine, 576.4 grams of marijuana, a loaded 9mm pistol, 61 rounds of 9mm ammunition, a digital scale, and $3,417 in cash.
This case was investigated by the Iowa State Patrol, Council Bluffs Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, 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.
Bettendorf Doctor Pleads Guilty to Failure to Pay Employment TaxesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA-- On August 12, 2019, Nirander Kumar, age 66, from Bettendorf, Iowa, pled guilty to Failure to Pay Employment Taxes announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. This crime carries a maximum potential penalty of not more than 5 years’ imprisonment, up to a $10,000 fine, a term of supervised release of not more than (3) three years, and a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims Fund. Kumar’s sentencing is scheduled for December 19, 2019.
On or about July 31, 2014, Nirander Kumar had a duty and was responsible for paying withheld employment taxes on behalf of Jai Mata Lakshmi, doing business as Embers of Phoenix. Jai Mata Lakshmi operated two businesses at the same Davenport location Echelon Sports Bar, and Embers of Phoenix. In violation of federal tax laws, Kumar willfully failed to pay the second quarter 2014 withheld employment taxes due on behalf of Jai Mata Lakshmi. In total, Kumar admitted to willfully failing to pay approximately $187,000 in employment taxes withheld from Jai Mata Lakshmi employees. Additionally, as part of his plea agreement, Kumar also admitted that he willfully failed to pay over $234,000 of employment taxes withheld from employees’ pay at Bettendorf Pediatric; and over $39,000 in employment taxes for another business, Funky Desi, in Moline, Illinois.
This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa, and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division.
Twenty-Five Men Charged and Seventy-Eight Guns Seized in Crackdown on Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Twenty-five people, all of whom are prohibited possessors of firearms, are facing 58 criminal charges as part of federal drug and gun investigations announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Seven Indictments and 18 Superseding Indictments by a Federal Grand Jury were filed last week in United States District Court in Davenport, Iowa. Several of the defendants had previously been charged and appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Stephen B. Jackson, Jr.
The investigations occurred in several Iowa counties including: Clinton, Des Moines, Johnson, Scott, and Washington County and involved the seizure of approximately 78 firearms including two sawed-off shotguns. The public is reminded that charges contain only accusations and are not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, the Court must impose reasonable sentences under federal sentencing statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
“Our message is simple,” said United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. “If you commit a gun crime, we will do our best to prosecute you in federal court.” Krickbaum added, “Federal law has a long reach. If you have a gun and you are a drug user, a felon, are near a school, have a conviction for misdemeanor domestic violence, or you know the gun is stolen, you can go to federal prison.”
These cases are 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. The cases were investigated by the Davenport Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Clinton Police Department, Burlington Police Department, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Drug Enforcement Administration, Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa State Patrol, Department of Homeland Security, and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The cases are being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
To date, 17 defendants have been arrested and are outlined below. The other cases remain sealed pending arrest.
DEFENDANT
Robert Lee Poore Case Number 3:19-cr-31
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) – Felon in Possession of a Firearms
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custody
Title 26, U.S.C. §§ 5841, 5845, 5861(d), 5871 – Receive and Possess Machineguns and Silencers
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custodyDEFENDANT
Adam Steven White Case Number 3:19-cr-65
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 21, U.S.C. § 846 – Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance
Maximum Penalty is 40 years in custody; 5 year mandatory minimum
Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(3) – Unlawful Drug User in Possession of a Firearm
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custody
Title 21, U.S.C. § 844(a) – Possession of a Controlled Substance
Maximum Penalty is 1 year in custodyDEFENDANT
Larenzo Marshan Grandberry Case Number 3:19-cr-30
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) – Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custody
Title 21, U.S.C. § 844(a) – Possession of a Controlled Substance
Maximum Penalty is 1 year in custodyDEFENDANT
Deshawn Mitchell Case Number 3:19-cr-45
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 21, U.S.C. § 846 – Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance
Maximum Penalty is 40 years in custody; 5 year mandatory minimum
Title 18, U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B) – Possession With Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance
Maximum Penalty is 40 years in custody; 5 year mandatory minimum
Title 18, U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i) – Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime
Maximum Penalty is life in custody; 5 year mandatory minimum
Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) – Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custodyDEFENDANT
Rodolfo Tellez Gutierrez Case Number 3:19-cr-45
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 21, U.S.C. § 846 – Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance
Maximum Penalty is life in custody; mandatory minimum of 10 years
Title 18, U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A) – Possession With Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance
Maximum Penalty is life in custody; mandatory minimum of 10 years
Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(3) – Unlawful Drug User in Possession of a Firearm
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custodyDEFENDANT
Curtis Lee Smith Case Number 3:19-cr-46
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(D) – Possession With Intent to Distribute Marijuana
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custody
Title 18, U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i) – Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime
Maximum Penalty is life in custody; 5 year mandatory minimum
Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) – Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custodyDEFENDANT
Devario Dewayne Talley Case Number 3:18-cr-87
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C) – Possession of a Controlled Substances with Intent to Distribute
Maximum Penalty is 20 years in custody
Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) – Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custody
Title 18, U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i) – Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime
Maximum Penalty is life in custody; 5 year mandatory minimum
Title 18, U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i) – Carry a Firearm During and In Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime
Maximum Penalty is life in custody; 5 year mandatory minimumDEFENDANT
Adam Christopher Smith Case Number 3:19-cr-40
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 21, U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C) – Distribution of a Controlled Substance
Maximum Penalty is 20 years in custody
Title 18, U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C) – Possession With Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance
Maximum Penalty is 20 years in custody
Title 18, U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i) – Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime
Maximum Penalty is life in custody; 5 year mandatory minimum
Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) – Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custodyDEFENDANT
Michael Terrell Richardson Case Number 3:18-cr-98
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) – Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custody
Title 18, U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C) – Possession With Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance
Maximum Penalty is 20 years in custody
Title 18, U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(D) – Possession With Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custody
Title 18, U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i) – Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime
Maximum Penalty is life in custody; 5 year mandatory minimum
Title 21, U.S.C. § 846 – Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance
Maximum Penalty is 40 years in custody; 5 year mandatory minimumDEFENDANT
Zacharia Allen Clark Case Number 3:19-cr-27
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) – Felon in Possession of Ammunition
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custodyDEFENDANT
Terry Eugene Cook Case Number 3:19-cr-33
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B) – Possession With Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance
Maximum Penalty is 40 years in custody; 5 year mandatory minimum
Title 18, U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i) – Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime
Maximum Penalty is life in custody; 5 year mandatory minimum
Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(3) – Unlawful Drug User in Possession of a Firearm
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custodyDEFENDANT
Junior Emilio Roldan Marin Case Number 3:19-cr-44
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(3), 922(g)(8), 922(g)(9) – Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custodyDEFENDANTS
Joseph Roosevelt Howard Rogers Case Number 3:19-cr-29
William Walter Franklin Case Number 3:19-cr-74
Justin Joseph Halter Case Number 3:19-cr-23
Levi Shelby Roe Case Number 3:19-cr-35
Marc Andrew Dietrich Case Number 3:19-cr-67
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) – Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Maximum Penalty is 10 years in custody
Pottawattamie County Man Sentenced to Prison for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on July 31, 2019, Kevin Lee Longo, age 46, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm. Longo was sentenced to 46 months in prison, to be followed by a term of supervised release for three years.
On September 20, 2018, Council Bluffs Police responded to a call about a man who had pointed a gun and fired a round into the air. An investigation revealed the Defendant and a victim had an exchange regarding a former girlfriend of Longo’s, after which Longo pulled out a firearm and threatened the victim. Officers received permission to search Longo’s vehicle and located a pellet gun, marijuana, methamphetamine, crushed pills, pipes, a scale, bb’s, CO2 cartridges, and .380 ammunition. A subsequent search yielded a loaded black and silver Walther PK380 firearm Longo had hidden in a shed.
This case was investigated 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.
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.
Pottawattamie County Man Sentenced for Coercion and Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on July 31, 2019, Andrew Steven Newport, age 31, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger for Coercion and Enticement of a Minor. Newport was sentenced to 10 years in prison to be followed by a term of supervised release of 10 years.
In September 2018, Council Bluffs Police received a call from a concerned parent who had received messages through Facebook from Newport and thought Newport was communicating with her thirteen year old daughter. The mother gave the Facebook information to the Council Bluffs Police and an undercover officer continued to communicate with Newport. Newport asked who he believed to be the minor girl to meet him at the Council Bluffs Library and offered her $200 to have sex. Council Bluffs Police Officers met Newport at the arranged meeting place and arrested him. Newport had his phone, a pocket knife, airsoft gun with light mount, and a fraudulent FBI investigator card. Newport admitted he went to the library to meet a 13 year old girl for sex. Newport pleaded guilty to this charge in March 2019.
This case was investigated by the Council Bluffs Police Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Illinois Men Sentenced to Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on Tuesday, July 16, 2019, Cameron Felder, age 41, and Nathaniel Thomas, age 37, were sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Felder was sentenced to 70 months in prison and Thomas was sentenced to 150 months imprisonment. They will each serve a term of supervised release of four years when released from prison.
In August 2018, the Iowa State Patrol conducted a traffic stop of Felder and Thomas’ vehicle for speeding on I-29 in Fremont County. As the trooper approached the vehicle, the occupants were uncooperative and required numerous commands to shut the car doors and turn the car off.
The trooper immediately detected the odor of burnt marijuana. Thomas handed the trooper a baggie of marijuana out the passenger window. A search was performed on the vehicle and officers located over 200 grams of methamphetamine in pill form.
This case was investigated by the Iowa State Patrol, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Ames Man Charged with Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – Jona Shitaleni Paulus, age 33, of Ames, was charged by a grand jury on July 18, 2019, with one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. The Indictment alleges Paulus knowingly received and possessed child pornography on his cell phone in April of 2019.
The public is reminded that an Indictment is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until he is proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security with assistance from the Iowa State University Police Department. This matter is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Child Initiative.
Pottawattamie County Woman Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on July 16, 2019, Swann Michelle Thomas, age 37, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. Thomas was sentenced to 100 months in prison to be followed by a term of supervised release of four years.
On September 5, 2018, a Council Bluffs police officer on patrol saw Thomas in a vehicle and knew she had an active warrant for a parole violation. The officer approached the car and observed a Crown Royal bag on the driver’s side of the vehicle that contained a pipe and approximately 21.5 grams of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated 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.
Pottawattamie County Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on July 16, 2019, Devin Lee Graham, age 25, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm. Graham was sentenced to ten years in prison to be followed by a term of supervised release of three years.
On September 13, 2018, Devin Graham was a passenger in a vehicle stopped for traffic violations. The officer smelled marijuana and performed a search of the vehicle. Officers located a backpack containing a small amount of controlled substances, drug paraphernalia and a loaded firearm. Graham admitted the backpack belonged to him. Graham is prohibited from possessing firearms as he has two prior felony convictions for possession with intent to deliver marijuana in Pottawattamie County, Iowa District Court.
This case was investigated by the Council Bluffs Police Department 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.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Georgia Woman Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Money Laundering in Case Involving Theft of University of Iowa Employee IdentificationsRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA- On Monday, July 15, 2019, Nadine Nzuega Robinson, age 39, from Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 120 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 United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum.
Robinson was the owner/operator of a check cashing business in Doralville, Georgia. The bank account of this business was used by Robinson to launder hundreds of money orders purchased with the proceeds of the fraudulently obtained tax refunds. More than $450,000 in tax refunds of University of Iowa employees was obtained fraudulently through this scheme and more than $5,000,000 in fraudulently obtained funds passed through the account during March and April of 2015. In June of 2015, Robinson purchased a residence in Atlanta with the proceeds of the fraud. Robinson was ordered to forfeit the residence. Robinson was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following the period of imprisonment and to pay $100 towards the Crime Victims’ Fund.
This investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Cass County Residents Sentenced to Prison for Distribution of Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on July 16, 2019, Mary Mayo, age 50, Tony Martin Mayo Jr., age 34, Jessica Lynn Gross, age 31, and Alex Lee Pleis, age 25, were sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey for Conspiracy to Distribute Oxycodone. Mary Mayo was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment to be followed by 48 months of supervised release. Tony Martin Mayo was sentenced to 12 months in prison followed by 36 months of supervised release. Jessica Lynn Gross was sentenced to time served and 60 months of supervised release. Alex Lee Pleis was sentenced to time served and 36 months of supervised release.
In late August of 2015, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration received information regarding the illegal distribution of prescription drugs in and around Cass County, Iowa. Using a confidential informant, the DEA determined Mary Mayo obtained prescriptions for oxycodone, hydrocodone and other controlled substances from medical professionals through false representations of injury or illness and related pain management. Mary Mayo then used her Medicare/Medicaid benefits to obtain controlled substances from local pharmacies. She also obtained oxycodone from a co-defendant, Rebecca Canfield.
Once the prescription drugs were obtained, Mary Mayo negotiated a price for the pills with a known buyer. If an agreement was reached, Mary Mayo had a member of her family deliver or assist in the delivery of the controlled substances. During the yearlong investigation, DEA arranged the purchase of oxycodone and hydrocodone from Mary Mayo and the pills were delivered to a DEA agent, who was working in an undercover capacity. With the exception of Rebecca Canfield, all co-defendants are members of Mary Mayo’s family.
During the course of the investigation, it was determined Mary Mayo was receiving Social Security benefits she was not entitled to. As part of her sentence, Mary Mayo was ordered to pay restitution to Medicare/Medicaid, and the Social Security Administration.
The case was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration; United States Department of Health and Human Services-Office of the Inspector General; Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit; United States Social Security Administration-Office of the Inspector General; Cass County Sheriff’s Office; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; and the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Burlington Man Sentenced to 312 Months in Prison for Drug Offenses and Providing Contraband to an Inmate of a Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa- On July 16, 2019, Kelly Everett Mitchell, age 47, of Burlington, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to a total of 312 months in prison for distribution of methamphetamine, possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute, and providing contraband to an inmate of a federal prison, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Mitchell was ordered to serve five years of supervised release following his prison term and to pay $500 towards the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On September 17, 2018, in case number 3:17-cr-38, Mitchell pleaded guilty to the offenses of distribution of methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Mitchell admitted on March 14, 2017, in two transactions, he distributed 42.46 grams of 99% pure methamphetamine to another person. He further admitted on September 25, 2017, he was in possession of 219.62 grams of 99% pure methamphetamine, 16.41 grams of heroin, 117.88 grams of marijuana and in excess of $10,000 United States currency and he intended to distribute some or all of the controlled substances.
On January 9, 2019, in case number 3:18-cr-73, Mitchell pleaded guilty to the offenses of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and phentermine, and providing contraband to an inmate of a federal prison. Mitchell admitted while in the custody of the United States Marshals Service and detained in the Muscatine County Jail, he regularly received coloring sheets, greeting cards, letters, envelopes and other products made of paper which had been soaked in a liquid in which methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, and phentermine, a Schedule IV controlled substance, had been dissolved. He further admitted he provided a portion of the papers that contained methamphetamine and phentermine to other inmates housed at the Muscatine County Jail in Muscatine, Iowa, for the other inmates to ingest.
The two cases were consolidated for sentencing. In case number 3:17-cr-38, Mitchell was sentenced to 292 months of imprisonment and five years of supervised release. In case number 3:18-cr-73, for the offense of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and phentermine, Mitchell was sentenced to 240 months of imprisonment, to run concurrently with the 292 months in case number 3:17-cr-38, and three years of supervised release. For the offense of providing contraband to an inmate of a federal prison, Mitchell was sentenced to 20 months of imprisonment, to run consecutively with the 292 months in case number 3:17-cr-38, and three years of supervised release. All periods of supervised release are to run concurrently.
This matter was investigated by the Southeast Iowa Narcotics Task Force, Des Moines County Sheriff’s Department, Muscatine County Sheriff’s Department, Illinois State Police, Macomb (Illinois) Police Department, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, United States Drug Enforcement Agency, and the United States Marshals Service. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Illinois Man Found Guilty of 15 Counts Involving Pipe Bombs, Stalking, Domestic Violence, Interstate Truck Theft, and Tampering with a Witness and EvidenceRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA- On Monday, June 24, 2019, a jury found Chad Eric Mink, age 43, of Rock Island, Illinois, guilty of fifteen (15) separate federal offenses including interstate transportation of a stolen motor vehicle, stalking (two counts), interstate domestic violence (two counts), possession of unregistered destructive devices (pipe bombs) (two counts), being a prohibited person in possession of explosives (two counts), fraudulent use of a means of identification of another person, malicious use of explosives, possession of a destructive device in furtherance of a crime of violence, carrying explosive materials during commission of a federal felony, tampering with a witness, and obstruction of official proceedings.
The jury trial commenced on June 10, 2019. The Government presented more than 70 witnesses, including several forensic experts who testified about Mink using a stolen truck to ram a vehicle occupied by a former intimate partner and her boyfriend, possessing multiple pipes bombs, planting a pipe bomb near his former intimate partner’s room at the Quad City Inn in Davenport, and attempting to influence a witness to destroy evidence and to fabricate evidence. Sentencing is presently scheduled for November 14, 2019 at 1:30 p.m. The defendant faces up to life in prison and mandatory minimum sentences of five years, 10 and 30 years, all to be served consecutively to each other and any other sentence imposed.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Quad City Bomb Squad, Davenport, Milan (IL), Moline (IL), and Rock Island (IL) Police Departments, Scott County and Rock Island County Sheriff’s Departments, Illinois State Police, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Federal Judge Finds Davenport Man Guilty of Distributing Fentanyl to a Drug User Resulting in His DeathRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA- On Wednesday, June 26, 2019, the Honorable Stephanie M. Rose, United States District Court Judge for the Southern District of Iowa, found Jonas Ross, III, age 38, of Davenport, guilty of one count of distribution of a controlled substance resulting in death.
Beginning on May 4, 2019, a bench trial was held before Judge Rose. The evidence showed the victim, who was familiar with Ross, had traveled to Davenport from Ohio on or about November 30, 2017, and checked into the Days Inn on Northwest Boulevard. The victim had contacted Ross to obtain heroin. On December 2, 2017, the victim’s body was discovered in his motel room. Forensic evidence revealed the victim had overdosed and died from ingesting fentanyl. The police recovered heroin, fentanyl, and furanyl-fentanyl in the victim’s room.
Ross had previously entered guilty pleas to three counts of distribution of heroin, some of which contained fentanyl and acryl-fentanyl. The defendant faces a maximum sentence of 30 years each for the three counts of distribution of heroin and a mandatory life sentence for distribution of a controlled substance resulting in death. Sentencing is presently scheduled for October 29, 2019 at 3:00 p.m.
The investigation was conducted by the City of Davenport Police Department, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Iowa State Medical Examiner’s Office. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Low-Income Housing Developer Sentenced to Prison for Creating a False Pass-Through Company in Scheme to Defraud Lenders and USDARead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa —On June 19, 2019, Jeffrey W. Voorhees, age 75, of Waukee, Iowa, was sentenced by United States Southern District of Iowa Senior Judge Robert W. Pratt to two years in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Voorhees pleaded guilty on November 1, 2018, to one count of wire fraud affecting a financial institution. Voorhees was ordered to pay $416,440 in restitution and a fine of $25,000.
During the sentencing hearing, Judge Pratt stated the defendant conducted a “sophisticated, long-running device or scheme.” According to court documents, Voorhees, acting through his own consulting company and what he purported to be a not-for-profit entity called National Affordable Housing Foundation, purchased and rehabilitated seven properties which together formed what was referred to as Candleridge VII. The properties were rehabilitated with a private bank loan, guaranteed by the United States Department of Agriculture in the event of default. Voorhees artificially inflated construction costs and created a pass-through shell company in order to obtain approximately $359,000 in artificially inflated loan proceeds. The loan proceeds were to be repaid using USDA-subsidized tenant rents.
The purpose of the USDA loan programs that the defendant defrauded is to support the development of rental units in rural areas for low- and moderate-income individuals and families. USDA regulates how the loan proceeds can be spent, and also imposes requirements on the borrowers to disclose any identity of interest relationships. According to court records, Voorhees was an expert in these regulations but did not follow them in order to unlawfully profit from the USDA loan programs.
The United States Department of Agriculture - Office of Inspector General investigated this matter. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Former Urbandale Man Sentenced to Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on June 5, 2019, Kacey Alyn Duall Bruse, age 23, was sentenced by United States District Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger for Possession of Child Pornography. Bruse was sentenced to 70 months in prison to be followed by a term of supervised release of six years. Bruse was ordered to pay $3,000 to each victim seeking restitution.
The investigation began in June 2017, when an undercover Urbandale Police Officer downloaded images of child pornography from an IP address, later identified as being used by Bruse. Bruse was making the files available for download via a peer-to-peer file sharing program. Later in June 2017, police executed a search warrant at Bruse’s Urbandale residence. Police seized computer equipment belonging to Bruse that stored depictions of child pornography. The investigation showed Bruse downloaded child pornography from the internet from about March 13, 2014 to June 21, 2017.
This case was investigated by the Urbandale Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Task Force, and Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Eight Defendants Charged in Joint Federal and State Investigation of Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa -- Eight defendants are facing criminal charges as part of a joint federal and state investigation of a cocaine and marijuana trafficking organization. Criminal complaints unsealed in the United States District Court in Des Moines and United States District Court for Central District of California charge eight defendants with federal drug offenses. Many of the federal defendants were arrested today, and preliminary and detention hearings will be held early next week.
The charges were announced by Marc Krickbaum, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa; Bryan VanDuen, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the Omaha Field Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; and Dana Wingert, Chief of Police of the Des Moines Police Department. Valuable assistance was provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; Drug Enforcement Administration; Dallas County Sheriff’s Office; Polk County Sheriff’s Office; Story County Sheriff’s Office; and the Altoona Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Mikaela Shotwell and Kristin Herrera represent the government.
Eight federal defendants are charged across two complaint affidavits, stemming from a months-long investigation of RAYLON CANADA and his associated cocaine and marijuana trafficking organization. The primary complaint (Case Nos. 4:19-MJ-357 through 363) alleges that CANADA, 28, of Des Moines, has been involved in the distribution of cocaine since before October 2018. On March 26, 2019, the day prior to a law enforcement action that resulted in the arrest of numerous members of the Des Moines-based criminal street gang C-Block, law enforcement obtained court authorization to intercept telephone communications of CANADA.
The primary complaint alleges that CANADA began receiving cocaine in the mail from a California-based source of supply in April 2019. This source was later identified as PEDRO BUSTAMANTE MACHUCA, 28, of Los Angeles, who was arrested today in conjunction with the Des Moines arrests. BUSTAMANTE will have his initial appearance in Central District of California before reporting to Des Moines.
The complaints identify additional customers and redistributors of controlled substances who have been charged with drug conspiracy and distribution:
• TERIKAH MEIKETIA MAHANEY, 26, of Des Moines
• MICHELLE LEE MIRELES, 39, of Des Moines
• ERIC ELMONT BOWMAN, 33, of Des Moines
• KATARIO WADE PATTON, 48, of West Des Moines
• MARVIN HAYGOOD, JR., 33, of Des Moines
• JOSEPH MANUEL JONES, 47, of Des MoinesThe months-long investigation culminated in the execution of federal narcotics and firearms search warrants on June 6, 2019, at the following locations:
• 1200 block of East 18th Street, Des Moines
• 2700 block of Southwest 9th Street, Des Moines
• 3000 block of Wright Street, Des Moines
• 2800 block of 53rd Street, Des Moines
• 400 block of East Pleasant View Drive, Des Moines
• 400 block of East Sheridan Avenue, Des Moines
• 4000 block of EP True Parkway, West Des Moines
• 2800 block of Southeast 19th Street, Des Moines
• 900 block of Northeast 56th Street, Pleasant Hill
• 4000 block of Hubbell Avenue, Des Moines
• 2800 block of Southeast 20th Street, Des Moines
• 600 block of Cutler Avenue, Des MoinesThe charges in the complaints carry a maximum penalties of twenty years’ imprisonment. If convicted, the Court must impose reasonable sentences under federal sentencing statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
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.
Pottawattamie County Man Sentenced to Prison for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on June 4, 2019, Luke Harrison Bird, II, age 31, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm. Bird was sentenced to a prison term of 90 months to be followed by a term of supervised release of three years. This sentence will run consecutively to Bird’s state prison sentence for a parole violation.
Bird was released from the Iowa State Penitentiary in January 2018 after serving state prison time for intimidation with a dangerous weapon, going armed with intent, felon in possession of a firearm, assault while participating in a felony, and eluding. On July 15, 2018, Iowa 4th Judicial District Probation Officers were conducting routine random home visits. The Probation Officer searched Bird’s room and located a loaded sawed off shotgun and ammunition.
This case was investigated by the Iowa 4th Judicial District Probation Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Council Bluffs Police Department and the Pottawattamie County 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 (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.
Omaha Man Sentenced to Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on June 4, 2019, William Labenz, age 38, was sentenced to five years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine .
In late 2017, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement with the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force investigated a large drug trafficking organization responsible for transporting large quantities of methamphetamine to and around the western Iowa and eastern Nebraska areas.
On March 4, 2018, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop and the driver, William Labenz, was arrested for driving under suspension. Inside the vehicle’s trunk one quarter pound of methamphetamine was located. On April 26, 2018, in a search of Labenz’s home, additional methamphetamine, scales and baggies were found. The investigation revealed Labentz was transporting methamphetamine for the drug trafficking organization.
This case was investigated by Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force, Omaha Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force, Council Bluffs Police Department, and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
LaVista, Neb.Woman Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on June 4, 2019, Jessica L. Snavely, age 26, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine. Snavely was sentenced to ten years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release.
In late 2017, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement with the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force investigated a large drug trafficking organization responsible for transporting large quantities of methamphetamine to and around western Iowa and eastern Nebraska. During the investigation, law enforcement received information that a large amount of methamphetamine was distributed out of a motel in Council Bluffs.
On April 26, 2019, law enforcement searched a room at the Red Roof Inn in Council Bluffs and recovered over a pound and a half of methamphetamine, along with a stolen handgun and other drug trafficking paraphernalia. It was determined Jessica Snavely received and distributed methamphetamine from the Red Roof Inn motel room.
This case was investigated by the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force, Omaha Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force, Council Bluffs Police Department, and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Bloomfield Man Sentenced to 120 Years in Prison for Sexual Exploitation of a ChildRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – On June 3, 2019, Steven Douglas Crook, Jr., of Bloomfield, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to the maximum penalty of 120 years in prison. Crook previously pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual exploitation of a child.
The evidence showed that Crook sexually abused a little girl, sometimes violently, from the time she was an infant, until law enforcement rescued the girl from Crook’s home in March 2018, when she was six years old. Crook took photographs and videos of the sexual abuse, and, in some cases, livestreamed the abuse using the popular social media application Live.me. In doing so, he encouraged his followers on Live.me to watch him rape the little girl live on the Internet.
While announcing what is effectively a life sentence, Judge Rose described Crook’s crimes as “horrific.” The judge noted that Crook controlled the victim and hid his crimes for years, and called Crook’s actions “insidious,” “thoughtful,” and “manipulat[ive].” Judge Rose explained that the effective life sentence was necessary because Crook remains “so very dangerous” to children in the community.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa prioritizes cases involving the sexual exploitation of children. As United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum explained, “Any time a child is abused in Iowa, if we have photographs or videos of the abuse, the defendant can be prosecuted in federal court, and face decades, if not life, behind bars.” Krickbaum continued, “Steven Crook will spend the rest of his life in federal prison, where he belongs. We want to make sure that other defendants like him, who are a threat to our children, face the stiffest penalties federal law allows.”
U.S. Attorney Krickbaum added a warning about those who remain silent in the face of child abuse. “In this case, sexual abuse went undetected for years because family members failed to report it to authorities.” Krickbaum said that, “anyone who believes a child may be a victim of abuse, sexual or otherwise, should report the suspected abuse to law enforcement immediately.”This case was investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Task Force, Bloomfield Police Department, Davis County Sheriff’s Office, and the Davis County Attorney’s Office, with critical assistance from the National Center For Missing and Exploited Children.
Sioux City Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine OffensesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on May 29, 2019, Jose Valentin Carrillo, age 35, of Sioux City, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey for Conspiracy and Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. Valentin Carrillo was sentenced to prison terms of 190 months each for Counts 1 and 2; the sentence is to run concurrently. The prison term will be followed by a term of supervised release of five years on each count, also to run concurrently.
According to court documents, Valentin Carrillo organized and arranged the transportation of approximately eight kilograms of methamphetamine from Kansas City, Missouri to Nebraska City, Nebraska. On August 13, 2017, the vehicle transporting the methamphetamine was stopped by law enforcement in Fremont County, Iowa.
This case was investigated by Fremont County Sheriff’s Department, Iowa State Patrol, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Bettendorf Man Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa—On May 29, 2019, Laron Josiah Carr, age 26, of Bettendorf, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 84 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and felon in possession of a firearm.
According to the plea agreement, on May 31, 2018, Bettendorf Police officers responded to a domestic dispute involving a firearm. When they arrived, Carr ran from the police and drew a loaded firearm. Carr was eventually taken into custody without incident. Carr was also found to be in possession of methamphetamine packaged for sale. Carr pleaded guilty to the charges on January 22, 2019.
This case was investigated by the Bettendorf Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.