Southern District of Iowa
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
St. Ann, Missouri Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On January 8, 2018, United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger sentenced Peter Alan Lundberg, 60, of St. Ann, Missouri, to 180 months in prison for bank robbery, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Lundberg was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On April 20, 2017, Lundberg was driven to Bank of the West in Coralville, Iowa by Bridgette Durborow of St. Peters, Missouri. Durborow waited in the car while Lundberg demanded money from a bank teller and robbed the bank. Approximately $1,080 was stolen. The two were apprehended a short time later traveling eastbound on Interstate 80 near Davenport. Durborow admitted they drove around other eastern Iowa cities, including Cedar Rapids, Marion,
and Iowa City, looking for a bank to rob. Peter Lundberg has two prior federal convictions for bank robbery, and one prior state robbery conviction.Bridgette Durborow pleaded guilty on June 8, 2017. She was sentenced to 24 months in prison on October 6, 2017.
This matter was investigated by the Coralville Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
California Man Sentenced to Prison for Mail and Wire FraudRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On January 8, 2018, Nikolai Monastyrski, age 37, of Folsom, California, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 57 months in prison for mail and wire fraud involving unemployment benefits falsely obtained from Iowa Workforce Development announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum.
Monastyrski, a Russian national who became a naturalized United States citizen during the fraudulent activity, pleaded guilty to seven counts of mail fraud and seven counts of wire fraud, all involving false and fraudulent applications with Iowa Workforce Development for unemployment benefits. Monastyrski falsely stated several businesses were operating in the State and employing workers. He then used the identifications of the false workers to apply for and obtain unemployment benefits. Monastyrski resided in California at the time of the fraudulent activity.
The Iowa fraud commenced in 2014 and was discovered in late 2015. Monastyrski also defrauded unemployment insurance programs in Illinois and Pennsylvania. Monastyrski was ordered to pay restitution in excess of $390,000 to the three state agencies. Monastyrski was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his period of imprisonment and to pay $1,400 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General in Chicago with assistance from Iowa Workforce Development, the Illinois Department of Employment Security, and the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Atlantic Woman Sentenced for Involvement in Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Council Bluffs, Iowa – On January 5, 2018, Selena Marie Hansen, 21, of Atlantic, Iowa, appeared in federal court before United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger and was sentenced to 135 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum.
Hansen, with her co-defendant Michael Beltran, distributed methamphetamine in Southwest Iowa from January to April 2016. The methamphetamine was imported into the United States disguised as candy. The investigation of this conspiracy began when a package of “candy” was delivered to an empty residence in Bedford, Iowa, and was recovered by law enforcement. During the course of the conspiracy, over 500 grams of methamphetamine was distributed by Hansen and Beltran in Cass, Mills, Page, and Taylor Counties in Iowa.
This investigation was conducted by the Cass, Mills, Page, and Taylor County Sheriffs’ Offices; Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force; and Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.Twenty Individuals Sentenced for Involvement in Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering OrganizationRead the Press Release
Des Moines, Iowa – On December 21, 2017, sentencings were completed in the federal
prosecution of twenty defendants charged with drug trafficking, money laundering, obstruction,
firearms, and immigration offenses stemming from the investigation of a multi-state drug
trafficking organization, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. This investigation
began in March 2016 and revealed the organization was involved in the distribution of
methamphetamine, cocaine, cocaine base, and marijuana in the Des Moines area. Subsequent
investigation consisted of controlled narcotics purchases from the organization and the execution
of over twenty search warrants of residences located in Des Moines, Colorado, and California in
September 2016. All defendants charged in this investigation pleaded guilty and were sentenced
by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger.- Jacinto Loza Gil, 48, sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 292 months
- Jonathan Escareno Chavez, 28, sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 210 months
- Gumaro Escareno Chavez, 33, sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 90 months
- Jairo Escareno Chavez, 27, sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 71 months
- Heriberto Escareno Chavez, 34, sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 108 months
- Dennis Ugarte, 28, sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 46 months
- Mujo Becirovic, 26, sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 73 months
- Israel Morales Flores, 33, sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 63 months
- Jose Manuel Cano Basurto, 43, sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 37 months
- Basman Danuvio Urbina Caceres, 42, sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 100 months
- David Coos Tello, 49, sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 24 months
- Marcos Caballero Ybarra, 30, sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 4 months
- Hugo Plaza Garcia, 19, sentenced to a term of imprisonment of time served (4 months)
- Lee Anthony Flores Escareno, 27, sentenced to a term of probation of five years
- Jimmy Oswald Kiapas Hidalgo, 28, sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 24 months
- Antonio Salazar, 48, sentenced to a term of imprisonment of time served (15 months)
- Helen Mariela Osorio Ventura, 22, sentenced to a term of probation of four years
- Oscar Corea Holt, 21, sentenced to a term of probation of three years
- Miguel Flores Torres, 39, sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 8 months
- Steven A. See, 31, sentenced to a term of probation of three years
This investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and
Explosives, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal
Investigations, with significant assistance of numerous state and local agencies, including
Des Moines Police Department and Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force. The case was
prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.Iowa Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Tax Evasion Concealed More Than $5.5 Million in Gross Receipts and Lied to IRSRead the Press Release
Council Bluffs, Iowa – A McClelland, Iowa, businessman pleaded guilty today to tax
evasion, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard Zuckerman and United
States Attorney Marc Krickbaum for the Southern District of Iowa.According to documents and information provided to the court, Michael Collins, 49, was
part-owner of a real-estate development firm that earned significant income in 2006. As a result
of his ownership in the company, Collins received approximately $289,000 in income that year,
but did not report it on his individual income tax return. In 2008, the Internal Revenue Service
(IRS) contacted Collins regarding the unreported income and Collins filed an amended return
reporting the income and reflecting a tax due of more than $100,000. However, Collins did not
pay the tax liability.From 2006 through the present, Collins also operated an excavating and trucking company
that generated more than $5.5 million in gross receipts. To evade payment of his outstanding tax
liability, Collins registered the business as well as its bank accounts in the name of nominees,
used nominee entities to conceal over $5 million in gross receipts from the business, filed
fraudulent corporate tax returns that listed nominees as the owners of the business and paid his
personal expenses using the business’ unreported income. Collins also filed fraudulent
documents with the IRS claiming to have no gross business receipts for the company and falsely
told IRS employees that his only source of income was unemployment benefits. He admitted to
causing a tax loss of more than $250,000.Sentencing is scheduled for May 11, 2018, before United States District Court Judge
Stephanie M. Rose. Collins faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison. He also
faces a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties.Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and United States Attorney Marc
Krickbaum thanked special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who conducted the
investigation, and Tax Division Trial Attorneys Matthew Hoffman and Lee Langston, who are
prosecuting the case.Additional information about the Tax Division’s enforcement efforts can be found on the
division’s Website.Arrests Made in Connection to Des Moines Metro Gun Store BurglariesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa - Dcember 19, 2017, David Marken Aikoriegie and Myles Jordan Maricle Pena, both of Des Moines, Iowa, appeared in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Celeste F. Bremer on charges related to a series of gun store burglaries in the Des Moines area, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum.
David Marken Aikoriegie is charged with three counts of theft of firearms from a federal firearm licensee and one count of unlawful possession, receipt, and sale of a stolen firearm. The Complaint alleges between the dates of November 16, 2017, and December 14, 2017, Aikoriegie burglarized and stole firearms from JLM Gun Shoppe in Urbandale and Rangemasters in Clive. It is also alleged Aikoriegie sold some of the stolen firearms.
Myles Jordan Maricle Pena appeared on the charge of unlawful drug user in possession of a firearm. The Complaint Affidavit alleges on or about December 14, 2017, Pena sold a stolen firearm to another individual. The firearm was stolen from one of the burglaries alleged to have been committed by Aikoriegie. The complaint further alleges, during the execution of a search warrant at his home, Pena was found in possession of a firearm and marijuana.
The public is reminded the charges are an accusation, and individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This investigation is being conducted by the Clive Police Department; United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Des Moines Police Department; and Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Law enforcement request the public’s assistance in supplying any information as to the location of firearms stolen from JLM Gun Shoppe and Rangemasters. You can contact the Clive Police or the ATF.
Clive Police, during business hours 515-278-1312
Clive Police, 24/7 through Westcom 515-222-3312
ATF Tip Line 24/7 1-800-ATF-GUNS (1-800-283-4867)
ATF Online 24/7 https://www.atf.gov/contact/atf-tips
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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected] (link sends the e-mail).
West Des Moines Store Owner Charged with Attempted Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – Robert Kuhn, 48, the owner of Wayback Records in West Des
Moines, Iowa, was indicted in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Iowa on
November 28, 2017, for attempted production of child pornography. The charge is punishable by
between 15 and 30 years’ incarceration in federal prison, a $250,000 fine, or both, up to life of
supervised release, restitution, forfeiture, and the requirement to comply with the Sex Offender
Registry.On December 5, 2017, Kuhn was ordered detained pending trial. During a related state
court proceeding, it was revealed that the incident occurred in August 2017, when a minor
employee of Kuhn’s discovered a hidden video camera placed by him in the bathroom where he
had sent her to undress and try on clothing sold by the store. During the detention hearing, it was
disclosed that law enforcement also discovered videos of other females disrobing on the camera
when it was recovered by law enforcement.The U.S. Department of Homeland Security-HSI is investigating the matter, and requests
any people who have used the changing room / rest room at the store and believe they may have
been surreptitiously recorded disrobing, or otherwise victimized, to call Special Agent Aaron
Simon at (515) 323-2425.The charge is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven
guilty.Des Moines Tax Preparer Sentenced to 45 Months in Prison for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – On November 29, 2017, United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger sentenced Lony Tap Gatwas, 48, of Ames, Iowa, to 21 months in prison for wire fraud and tax fraud, and 24 months for aggravated identity theft, to be served consecutively to one another, for a total of 45 months, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Gatwas was also ordered to pay $132,585 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment, and pay $1,800 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On July 26, 2017, following a jury trial, Gatwas was found guilty of four counts of wire fraud, seven counts of aggravated identity theft, and seven counts of preparing and presenting false tax returns. Gatwas operated a tax preparation business in Des Moines. As stated in the indictment, Gatwas engaged in a scheme to defraud the IRS by preparing and filing personal income tax returns listing false dependents. During trial, the government presented evidence that Gatwas placed his own children, as well as other children, on his clients’ personal income tax returns as dependents, when these children had no relationship to the taxpayers, did not live with the taxpayers, and the taxpayers provided no financial support for the children.
Gatwas inflated his clients’ refunds by thousands of dollars by placing false dependents on his clients’ tax returns. Clients’ testimony established Gatwas charged them from $1,000 to $2,000 for each false dependent he put on their return. When his clients were audited, Gatwas instructed some clients to lie to IRS Revenue Agents about their relationship with the false dependents.
The IRS – Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Urbandale Man Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for Sex Trafficking of ChildrenRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – On November 17, 2017, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Clark Wesley Betts, Jr., 41, of Urbandale, Iowa, to life imprisonment for two counts of sex trafficking of a child, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Betts was also sentenced to three, concurrent terms of 40 years’ imprisonment for three counts of distribution of a controlled substance to a person under the age of 21. Betts was ordered to pay restitution in the amounts of $349,032 to the first minor victim and $374,400 to the second minor victim. He also must pay $500 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On June 8, 2017, a jury convicted Betts of the sex trafficking and drug charges, which arose from an investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Des Moines Police Department. Betts was convicted of providing two minor victims to Betts’s drug dealer for sex acts in exchange for crack cocaine. Betts was also convicted of providing crack cocaine to the three minor victims.
“Human trafficking is a crime that occurs in the shadows,” said United States Attorney Krickbaum. “Its victims are amongst the most vulnerable members of society. We depend upon all members of society to alert law enforcement where they suspect someone may be a victim of human trafficking, so that we can protect the victims and see that justice is done.”
Human trafficking is a crime involving the exploitation of youth under the age of 18 for commercial sex; the exploitation of adults for commercial through the use of force, fraud, or coercion; and the exploitation of any individual for compelled labor. Human trafficking does not require the transportation of individuals across state lines, or that someone is physically restrained. Signs that a person is being trafficked can include working excessively long hours, unexplained gifts, physical injury, substance abuse issues, running away from home, isolation from others, or having a person their life controlling them or monitoring them closely. Anyone who suspects human trafficking is occurring, be it a minor engaged in paid sex acts, or anyone being coerced into prostitution or labor, is urged to please call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Des Moines Police Department. Support services were provided by the Blank Children’s STAR Center, the Iowa Department of Human Services, and Polk County Crisis and Advocacy Services. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Man Sentenced to 210 Months in Prison for Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering ChargesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa - On November 17, 2017, Jonathan Escareno Chavezheather Jean Reekr, 28, of Des Moines, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 210 months’ imprisonment for conspiracy to distribute marijuana, cocaine, and cocaine base and for money laundering, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. These sentences were ordered to be served concurrently.
On July 12, 2017, Escareno pleaded guilty to these charges, admitting he was engaged in the distribution of marijuana, cocaine, and cocaine base between September of 2015 and September of 2016, and had engaged in laundering drug proceeds in July of 2016. These charges stemmed from a several-month investigation of Escareno Chavez, in which numerous controlled purchases of marijuana and cocaine were made from him. Law enforcement agents also intercepted Escareno Chavez’s wire and electronic communications, which permitted them to identify a broad network of over 20 persons engaged in the distribution of controlled substances in the Des Moines area.
This investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, with significant assistance of numerous other federal, state, and local agencies, including the Des Moines Police Department and Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Des Moines Man Sentenced for Assault upon a Federal Law Enforcement Officer and Unlawful Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – On November 17, 2017, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Raymond Lee Rhodeman, 39, of Des Moines, Iowa, to 70 months imprisonment for assault upon a federal officer and felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Upon his release from imprisonment, Rhodeman will serve three years of supervised release. Rhodeman was also ordered to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund and $380 of restitution.
As part of his guilty plea, Rhodeman admitted to fighting, resisting and forcibly assaulting two federal officers during an investigation in November of 2015. Rhodeman, a previously convicted felon, also admitted to unlawfully possessing a Model M-11, 9 mm handgun at the Centerville, Iowa, residence where he was staying in February of 2016.
On August 31, 2017, Judge Rose previously sentenced Rhodeman’s co-defendant, Melissa Renee Zanders, 45, of Centerville to 67 months imprisonment for unlawful possession of a firearm. As part of her guilty plea, Zanders, a previously convicted felon, admitted to unlawfully possessing a 9 mm handgun at the same Centerville residence in February of 2016.
This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the South Central Iowa Drug Task Force. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
* Supplemental Release * Fentanyl Overdose Case SentencedRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – This supplemental release to the previously distributed November 8, 2017, release, “Fentanyl Overdose Case Sentenced,” seeks to clarify the charges upon which each defendant has been sentenced.
Charles Jesse Beuterbaugh, 30, of Pottawattamie County, Dustin C. Sullivan, 27, of Council Bluffs, and, Cody Lanus, 31, of Omaha, Nebraska, were each convicted of conspiracy to distribute at least 400 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing fentanyl, a Schedule I controlled substance, which resulted in the reasonably foreseeable death of a 20-year-old male and serious bodily injury to another male.
Michael David Redmond, Jr., 22, of Council Bluffs, was convicted of conspiracy to distribute at least 400 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing fentanyl, a Schedule I controlled substance.
All defendants charged in this case have entered guilty pleas. To date, United States Senior District Court Judge James E. Gritzner has sentenced Beuterbaugh to 240 months in prison; Sullivan to 162 months in prison; Lanus to 144 months in prison; and, Redmond, Jr. to 120 months in prison. Amanda N. Pandis and Walter John O’Donohue, III are scheduled to be sentenced in February of 2018.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Fentanyl Overdose Case SentencedRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IOWA - On November 7, 2017, United States Senior District Court Judge James E. Gritzner sentenced Charles Jesse Beuterbaugh, 30, of Pottawattamie County, to 20 years in prison for conspiracy to distribute a fentanyl analogue that caused death or serious bodily injury, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Beuterbaugh will serve five years of supervised release following imprisonment and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund. Beuterbaugh was part of a drug trafficking organization that was responsible for receiving and distributing fentanyl analogues obtained from a source in China to users in western Iowa and eastern Nebraska.
The investigation into the drug trafficking group began on June 28, 2015, when law enforcement was called to a Carter Lake, Iowa, residence regarding an unresponsive male. Law enforcement found the body of a 20-year-old male in Beuterbaugh’s living area. In addition, law enforcement learned that a second male had been transported to a local hospital from the Beuterbaugh residence prior to law enforcement being called, and had been placed on life support.
The investigation revealed that Beuterbaugh had provided "acetyl fentanyl" to both victims, which was determined to be the cause of death of the 20-year-old male, and the reason for the hospitalization for the second male. Beuterbaugh had obtained the acetyl fentanyl through an organization that began distributing fentanyl, or an analogue of fentanyl, in November of 2014 and continued to distribute in April of 2016. All members involved in the distribution of the acetyl fentanyl have entered guilty pleas.
On October 26, 2017, Senior Judge James E. Gritzner sentenced Beuterbaughs’ co-defendants, Dustin C. Sullivan, 27, of Council Bluffs, to 162 months in prison, and Cody Lanus, 31 of Omaha, Nebraska, to 144 months in prison. Both Sullivan and Lanus were also ordered to serve five years of supervised release following imprisonment.
Michael David Redmond, Jr. was previously sentenced by Senior Judge James E. Gritzner to 120 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release. Redmond, Jr., Sullivan, and Lanus were also ordered to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund. Amalia N. Pandis and Walter John O’Donohue, III are pending sentencing in February of 2018.
This investigation was conducted by the Carter Lake Police Department, the Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office, the Council Bluffs Police Department, the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force, the Omaha, Nebraska, Police Department, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, the Iowa Division of Narcotic Enforcement, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Drug Enforcement Administration in Nebraska. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Minnesota Resident Sentenced to 170 Months in Prison for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On November 7, 2017, United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger sentenced Michael W. Kennedy, a.k.a. Ian Curtis, 49, of Monticello, Minnesota, to 170 months in prison for distribution of visual depiction of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Kennedy was also ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release following his imprisonment, pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund, and comply with the Sex Offender Registry Requirements upon release.
On May 18, 2017, Kennedy pled guilty to the charges, which arose from an investigation initiated by the University of Iowa Police Department. As stated in the plea agreement, Kennedy was a patient at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinic in Iowa City. While there, hospital staff thought Kennedy was taking photographs of female staff with his tablet, which is against written hospital policy. The staff confiscated his electronic devices and saw what appeared to be multiple images of child pornography. A forensic examination was conducted which showed that Kennedy was posing as a young male and trading child pornography videos with others through multiple social media applications on his tablet while he was a hospital patient.
This matter was investigated by University of Iowa Police Department, National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and the Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Police Department. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Drug Enforcement Administration Collects Record Number of Unused Pills as Part of Its 14th Prescription Drug Take Back DayRead the Press Release
The public returns record number of potentially dangerous prescription drugs
WASHINGTON – Americans nationwide did their part to reduce the opioid crisis by bringing the DEA and its more than 4,200 local and tribal law enforcement partners a record-setting 912,305 pounds—456 tons—of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs for disposal at more than 5,300 collection sites. That is almost six tons more than was collected at last spring’s event. This brings the total amount of prescription drugs collected by DEA since the fall of 2010 to 9,015,668 pounds, or 4,508 tons.
DEA’s St. Louis Division, which covers Missouri, Southern Illinois, Kansas, Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota, collected 76,294 pounds—38 tons of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs for disposal at its more than 500 collection sites. Iowa’s 112 sites received a total of 11,526 pounds of drugs.
Now in its eighth year, this event continues to remove ever-higher amounts of opioids and other medicines from the nation’s homes, where they could be stolen and abused by family members and visitors, including children and teens. The DEA action comes just days after President Donald J. Trump announced the mobilization of his entire Administration to address drug addiction and opioid abuse by directing the declaration of a Nationwide Public Health Emergency to address the opioids crisis.
“More people start down the path of addiction through the misuse of opioid prescription drugs than any other substance. The abuse of these prescription drugs has fueled the nation’s opioid epidemic, which has led to the highest rate of overdose deaths this country has ever seen,” said Acting Administrator Robert W. Patterson. “This is a crisis that must be addressed from multiple angles. Educating the public and removing these medications from households across the Unites States prevents misuse where it often starts.”
This year, DEA worked with its tribal law enforcement partners to set up 115 collection sites on tribal lands. Opioid addiction impacts Native American communities just as it does all parts of American society. By partnering with FBI, BIA, and tribal law enforcement, the DEA was able to greatly expand tribal participation in the Take Back program. DEA remains committed to supporting public safety in American Indian and Alaska Native communities.
This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. DEA launched its prescription drug take back program when both the Environmental Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration advised the public that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines—flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash—posed potential safety and health hazards.
Helping people to dispose of potentially harmful prescription drugs is just one way DEA is working to reduce the addiction and overdose deaths plaguing this country due to opioid medications.
Complete results for DEA’s fall Take Back Day are available at www.deatakeback.com. DEA’s next Prescription Drug Take Back Day is April 28, 2018.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Former University of Iowa Student Appears on Computer Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On November 2, 2017, Trevor Graves, 19, a former University of Iowa student, appeared in federal court in front of United States Magistrate Judge Stephen B. Jackson, Jr., on a complaint charging from March of 2015 to November of 2016, Graves exceeded authorized access, knowingly caused the transmission of a code and command, and intentionally caused damage and loss that exceeded $5,000 to a University of Iowa protected computer, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum.
The complaint alleges that while an Iowa student, Graves exceeded his authorized access to the University of Iowa computer network, changed grades, and obtained copies of exams for himself and others. Graves was released on conditions of pretrial release pending further proceedings.
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the University of Iowa’s Department of Public Safety. This case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
The public is reminded that the charges are an accusation, and individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Knoxville Man Sentenced to 136 Months in Prison for Enticement and Attempted Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Illicit Sexual ActivitiesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa - On October 20, 2017, United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger sentenced Alex Trent VanderVeer, 21, of Knoxville, Iowa, heather Jean Reekrto 136 months in prison for enticement and attempted enticement of a minor to engage in illicit sexual activities, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. VanderVeer will serve 30 years of supervised release following imprisonment and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
VanderVeer pled guilty to the charges on June 21, 2017. As part of his plea, VanderVeer admitted that approximately between February 20, and through approximately February 23, 2017, he used a facility of interstate commerce, namely the internet and internet-based services, to violate the federal statute. VanderVeer further admitted that he knowingly used the facility of interstate commerce with the intent to persuade or entice a 14-year-old female to engage in illegal sexual activity, namely sexual intercourse with an adult more than four years older. VanderVeer is awaiting trial in Jasper County on charges of sexual abuse of a 13-year-old minor.
This matter was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, Office of the Inspector General, Marion County Attorney’s Office, Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Knoxville Police Department, Jasper County Attorney’s Office, Newton Police Department, and Mid Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force.
This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Childhood” initiative, which was started in 2006 as a nation-wide effort to combine law enforcement investigations and prosecutions, community action, and public awareness in order to reduce the incidence of sexual exploitation of children.
Any persons having knowledge of a child being sexually abused are encouraged to call the 24-hour Iowa Sexual Abuse Hotline at 1-800-284-7821. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) also operates a Cyber Tip line at www.cybertipline.com that allows parents and children to report child pornography and other incidents of sexual exploitation of children by submitting an online form.
NCMEC also maintains a 24-hour hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST, and a website at www.missingkids.com. Complaints received by NCMEC that indicate a violation of federal law are referred to the law enforcement for appropriate action.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - On October 31, 2017, Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Travis Wayne Clark, 27, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, heather Jean Reekrto 60 months in prison for possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute and a consecutive 60 months for possession of a firearm in furtherance of the drug trafficking offense, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Clark will serve four years of supervised release following imprisonment.
Clark entered a guilty plea to the two charges on June 5, 2017. The convictions resulted from an investigation that began with a traffic stop conducted by Council Bluffs Police Department. Located in a vehicle that Clark was driving was methamphetamine, approximately $1,000, along with methamphetamine distribution paraphernalia. In addition, law enforcement found a loaded 9mm handgun on Clark.
This matter was investigated by the Council Bluffs Police Department and the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Des Moines Man Sentenced to 40 Months in Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – On October 23, 2017, Chief United States District Court Judge A. Jarvey sentenced Carlton Wayne Jones, 39, of Des Moines, Iowa, to 40 months in prison for possession of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Jones was also ordered to serve 20 years of supervised release following imprisonment and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Jones pled guilty to the charge. As part of his plea, Jones admitted he knowingly possessed numerous computer files that contained visual depictions between January 31, 2016, and approximately February 4, 2016. He also knew that the visual depictions were of minors, including prepubescent minors, engaging in sexually explicit conduct; and, the computer files containing the visual depictions were produced using materials that had been mailed, shipped, and transported in interstate or foreign commerce. Jones possessed these visual depictions in the Southern District of Iowa.
This matter was investigated by the Iowa Department of Public Safety’s Division of Criminal Investigations and its Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Childhood” initiative, which was started in 2006 as a nation-wide effort to combine law enforcement investigations and prosecutions, community action, and public awareness in order to reduce the incidence of sexual exploitation of children.
Any persons having knowledge of a child being sexually abused are encouraged to call the 24-hour Iowa Sexual Abuse Hotline at 1-800-284-7821.
The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) also operates a Cyber Tip line at www.cybertipline.com that allows parents and children to report child pornography and other incidents of sexual exploitation of children by submitting an online form. The NCMEC also maintains a 24-hour hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST, and a website at www.missingkids.com.
Complaints received by the NCMEC that indicate a violation of federal law are referred to the FBI for appropriate action. The FBI can also accept tips at 1800-CALL FBI.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
DEA Prepares for Prescription Drug Take Back DayRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – On Saturday, October 28, 2017, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Des Moines Resident Office of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and other participating law enforcement agencies will give the public its 14th opportunity in 7 years to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. The DEA cannot accept liquids, needles or sharps, only pills or patches. The service is free and anonymous with no questions asked.
Last April, Americans turned in 450 tons (900,000 pounds) of prescription drugs at almost 5,500 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,200 of its state and local law enforcement partners. Overall, in its 13 previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have collected over 8.1 million pounds—more than 4,050 tons—of pills.
Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 91 Americans die each day from an opioid overdose. Some painkiller abusers move on to heroin: Four out of five new heroin users started with painkillers.
This initiative addresses vital public safety and public health issues that surround medications languishing in home cabinets, becoming highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. In addition, flushing medications down the toilet or throwing them in the trash create separate potential safety and health hazards.
For more information or to locate a collection site near you, go the DEA Prescription Drug Take Back Day website at https://takebackday.dea.gov/#collection-locator where you can search by zip code, city, or state.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Davenport Man Sentenced to 120 Months in Prison for Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On October 23, 2017, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Darrell Rasean Ratliff, age 28, of Davenport, Iowa, to 120 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Ratliff was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following imprisonment and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On April 14, 2017, Ratliff pled guilty to the charge. As part of his plea, Ratliff admitted he knowingly possessed a Ruger LCP .380 pistol with an attached extended magazine on September 23, 2016. Ratliff was prohibited from firearm possession due to multiple prior felony convictions from Scott County.
This charge resulted from a Davenport Police investigation. On September 23, 2016, Davenport Police Department members executed a search warrant at a residence on West 61st Street; they found and seized the Ruger pistol with an extended magazine.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Burlington Men Sentenced to Prison for Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On Monday, October 23, 2017, and Tuesday, October 24, 2017, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Burlington residents Robert Perkins, Sheldon William Krogmeier, and Victor Lamont Tate for their roles in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum.
Perkins, 46, was sentenced to 120 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute at least 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and ordered to serve five years of supervised release following his imprisonment. Krogmeier, 44, was sentenced to 96 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute at least five grams of methamphetamine and ordered to serve four years of supervised release following his imprisonment. Tate, 46, was sentenced to 72 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment. All three were also ordered to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Between May and June of this year, Perkins, Krogmeier, and Tate all pled guilty to the charges, which arose from an investigation of individuals selling methamphetamine in the Burlington area. Beginning in or about June of 2016 and continuing until on or about September 28, 2016, Perkins, Krogmeier, Tate, and others sold approximately 500 grams of ice methamphetamine to individuals in Burlington, including to an undercover officer. On September 28, 2016, law enforcement executed numerous search warrants in this investigation, seizing ice methamphetamine, marijuana, cocaine, crack cocaine, prescription pills, and three firearms.
This case was investigated by the Burlington Police Department, Johnson County Drug Task Force, Southeast Iowa Narcotics Task Force, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Three Muscatine Residents Sentenced to Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On October 19 and 20, 2017, Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Muscatine residents, Danielle Graves, 35, to 135 months in prison, Nathan Wagner, 36, to 300 months in prison, and Charles Rhoades, 39, to 106 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Graves and Rhoades were ordered to serve three years of supervised release following their imprisonment, Wagner was ordered to serve five years of supervised release following his imprisonment, and all three defendants were ordered to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On May 31, 2017, Rhoades pled guilty to methamphetamine conspiracy charges arising from individuals transporting methamphetamine from Des Moines to Muscatine and distributing it in southeast Iowa. The plea agreement stated that Rhoades distributed approximately seven grams of methamphetamine and also possessed with the intent to distribute over 100 grams of methamphetamine during a traffic stop in Nichols.
On June 2, 2017, Graves and Wagner pled guilty to methamphetamine conspiracy charges; they distributed approximately 25 to 30 pounds of methamphetamine from Des Moines to Muscatine. The conspiracy involved the defendants’ agreement to distribute the methamphetamine throughout the Muscatine area and the surrounding communities.
This matter was investigated by the Muscatine County Drug Task Force, the Des Moines Police Department, and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Iowa City Man Sentenced to 135 Months in Prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Possession of Cocaine Base with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On October 19, 2017, Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Lorenzo Jones, age 32, of Iowa City, Iowa, to 135 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm and possession of cocaine base with the intent to distribute, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Jones was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment and pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund. The firearm involved in the offense was forfeited.
On January 7, 2017, a traffic stop was conducted in Iowa City. As a result of the stop, Jones was found in possession a stolen, loaded Diamondback .380 semi-automatic handgun and 10 baggies of cocaine base that he intended to distribute.
Jones has at least two prior felony convictions.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Davenport Police Department. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Davenport Man Sentenced to 175 Months in Prison for Distributing Heroin and Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On October 16, 2017, United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger sentenced Anthony McKinley Harris, 27, of Davenport, Iowa, to 175 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute heroin and 120 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. McKinley was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund for both counts.
On March 27, 2017, McKinley pled guilty to the charges, which arose from an investigation of McKinley selling heroin. Beginning in February of 2016 and continuing until April 6, 2016, McKinley sold heroin to numerous individuals in the Davenport area, including a confidential informant working for law enforcement. In total, over 100 grams of heroin were attributed to McKinley. During that time period, law enforcement executed search warrants at McKinley’s residence and a hotel room where he was staying. Law enforcement seized numerous items, including over six grams of heroin, a loaded .380 semi-automatic Lorcin, and approximately $1,900. McKinley has a prior felony conviction for manufacturing/delivery of cocaine and six prior felony convictions for residential burglary.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Shelby Man Sentenced to 63 Months in Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - On October 11, 2017, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced Matthew P. Goodside, 32, of Shelby, Iowa, to 63 months in prison for possession of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Goodside was also ordered to serve ten years of supervised release following his imprisonment and comply with Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act requirements.
Federal and state authorities began investigating Goodside in July of 2014 regarding the suspected distribution of synthetic marijuana from his residence in Avoca, Iowa. During a search warrant that was conducted at the Avoca residence in January of 2015, several laptops and pieces of computer equipment were recovered. A later forensic examination of the computers revealed the presence of several images and videos reflecting child pornography that had been downloaded using a peer-to-peer file sharing program.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, the Avoca Police Department, and the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Taskforce. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Kevin E. VanderSchel at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
St. Peters, Missouri, Woman Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – On Friday, October 6, 2017, United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger sentenced Bridgette Durborow, 48, of St. Peters, Missouri, to 24 months in prison for Bank Robbery, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. Durborow was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following her imprisonment and pay $100 to the Crime Victim’s Fund.
On June 8, 2017, Durborow pleaded guilty to the charges, which arose from an investigation of the robbery immediately after it occurred. Durborow admitted that she drove Peter Lundberg to the Bank of the West in Coralville, Iowa, on April 20, 2017. Durborow waited in the car while Lundberg robbed the bank, taking approximately $1,080. The two were apprehended a short time later traveling eastbound on Interstate 80 near Davenport. Durborow admitted that the two drove around other eastern Iowa cities, including Cedar Rapids, Marion, and Iowa City, looking for a bank to rob.
Peter Lundberg pleaded guilty on September 1, 2017. He will be sentenced on January 8, 2018, at 1:00pm.
This matter was investigated by the Coralville Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigations. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Former Pharmacy Technician Indicted for Illegally Obtaining and Tampering with FentanylRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – On October 4, 2017, Victor Van Cleave appeared for his arraignment on federal charges in U.S. District Court in Des Moines, Iowa, announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum. A federal grand jury has returned a two-count indictment against Van Cleave, charging him with tampering with consumer products, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1365(a)(4), and obtaining fentanyl by misrepresentation, fraud, deception, and subterfuge, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 843(a)(3).
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
The public is reminded that an indictment is merely an accusation, and individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Felon in Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa - On September 21, 2017, Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Michael Scott Parker, 32, formerly of Davenport, Iowa, to 80 months in prison after pleading guilty to felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Parker was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On August 28, 2016, Davenport police responded to a disturbance call and encountered Parker, who attempted to flee while in possession of a loaded Taurus .38 caliber revolver.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Davenport Police Department conducted the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Jason T. Griess at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Denison Man Sentenced to 70 Months in Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – On September 19, 2017, Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Ivan Antonio Cervantes, age 31, of Denison, Iowa, to 70 months in prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Cervantes will also serve four years of supervised release following his imprisonment, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.
As part of his guilty plea, Cervantes admitted to possessing with the intent to distribute nearly 15 grams of pure methamphetamine when his vehicle was stopped south of Harlan in Shelby County, Iowa, in December of 2016. Cervantes further admitted three underage children were in the vehicle when he possessed the methamphetamine.
The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Jason T. Griess at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Omaha Man Sentenced for Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - On September 18, 2017, United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose sentenced John C. Gundersen Jr., 52, of Omaha, Nebr., heather Jean Reekrto 72 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release for possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute some or all of it, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.
Gundersen entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine on May 1, 2017. Gundersen was contacted by law enforcement at a traffic stop on June 2, 2016, and had active warrants for his arrest. He was arrested, and a vehicle search located methamphetamine, which Gunderson intended to distribute to other people, along with over $1,000 in cash.
The Missouri Valley Police Department and Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement conducted the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Jason T. Griess at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Alexander Hamilton Sentenced to 190 Months on Robbery and Drug Charges Connected with 2016 String of Robberies of Git-N-Go, Kum & Go, Hy-Vee, and U.S. BankRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa - On September 18, 2017, Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Alexander Hamilton, 26, heather Jean Reekrof Des Moines, Iowa, to 190 months in prison for robbery and drug charges related to a string of armed robberies in 2016 of Git-N-Go, Kum & Go, Hy-Vee, and U.S. Bank, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Hamilton pled guilty to interference with commerce by robbery and conspiracy to distribute hydromorphone (Dilaudid) in April of 2017.
As a part of his plea agreement, Hamilton admitted he committed the following 17 robberies charged in the indictment:
Date
Count
Business
Location
3/21/16
3
Git-N-Go
4224 N.W. 2nd Avenue, Des Moines, IA
3/22/16
4
Git-N-Go
100 Watrous, Des Moines, IA
3/23/16
6
Kum & Go
4506 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA
3/23/16
7
Git-N-Go
816 E. Euclid Avenue, Des Moines, IA
3/24/16
8
Git-N-Go
2601 SW 9th Street, Des Moines, IA
3/29/16
10
Kum & Go
4506 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA (attempt)
3/30/16
11
Kum & Go
5830 S.E. 14th Street, Des Moines, IA
3/30/16
12
Git-N-Go
890 County Line Road, Des Moines, IA
3/31/16
13
Git-N-Go
2601 S.W. 9th Street, Des Moines, IA
4/3/16
14
Git-N-Go
4224 N.W. 2nd Avenue, Des Moines, IA
4/5/16
15
Git-N-Go
2911 Douglas Avenue, Des Moines, IA
4/6/16
16
Hy-Vee
2540 E. Euclid Avenue, Des Moines, IA
4/8/16
17
Hy-Vee
2540 E. Euclid Avenue, Des Moines, IA
4/11/16
18
Git-N-Go
865 42nd Street, Des Moines, IA
4/12/16
19
Git-N-Go
2911 Douglas Avenue, Des Moines, IA
4/13/16
20
U.S. Bank
2500 E. Euclid Avenue, Des Moines, IA
4/17/16
23
Hy-Vee
1107 E. Army Post Road, Des Moines, IA
Hamilton also admitted he obtained hydromorphone (Dilaudid) from co-defendant Luke Martin Jr., and distributed it to others, including co-defendants Sarah Coe, Shelly Avery, and Chris Avery. Hamilton admitted the robberies helped fund the drug conspiracy.
The following co-defendants have been previously sentenced to the months indicated in parentheses: Martin (151 months); Chris Avery (36 months); and, Shelly Avery (30 months). Sentencing of Sarah Coe is pending.
The Des Moines Police Department, Ames Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tabacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Jason T. Griess at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected] (link sends e-mail).
Other components include: The Des Moines and Ames Police Departments, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tabacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Kevin Darnell Williams Sentenced for Robbery, Drug, and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Williams shot victim at drug deal in Ames, Iowa
DES MOINES, IA – On September 12, 2017, Kevin Darnell Williams, also known as “Splash,” 24, was sentenced to 270 months in federal prison for the crimes of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana, robbery, discharge of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime and a crime of violence, and felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Sentence was imposed by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey. Williams was convicted of these crimes by a jury on April 20, 2017.
According to evidence presented at trial, Williams set up a marijuana deal with the victim in Ames. Once the two met, on August 9, 2016, the drug deal turned into a robbery, and Williams shot the victim four times. Williams was apprehended by law enforcement in Chicago several days after the shooting.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Central Iowa Gang Task Force, the Ames Police Department, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, 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.
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Learn more about this release by calling Jason T. Griess at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected].
Harrison County Resident Sentenced for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Council Bluffs, IA- On September 5, 2017, James Lee Palmer, a 56 year-old resident of Missouri Valley, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger, to 120 months in prison for possession of child pornography announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Palmer’s term of imprisonment is to be followed by ten years of supervised release.
On April 20, 2017, Palmer entered a guilty plea to a federal indictment charging Palmer with possession of child pornography on or about May 11, 2016. The charge was the result of an investigation into the posting of an image depicting child pornography upon a cloud based storage service. Law enforcement followed up with a search warrant of Palmer’s residence and located computers that contained over 300 of images of child pornography.
The investigation was conducted by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Missouri Valley, Iowa Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to 360 Months in Prison for Drug Conspiracy and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On September 5, 2017, William Henry Adkins, 65, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 360 months in prison for his participation in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and firearms offenses, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Co-defendant Windy Marie Hannon, 40, also of Council Bluffs, Iowa, was sentenced by Judge Ebinger on August 9, 2017, to 150 months in prison for her role in the conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
On April 17, 2017, Adkins proceeded to a jury trial and was found guilty on all counts -- conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, two counts of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Co-defendant Hannon previously entered a plea of guilty on April 4, 2017.
Evidence at trial proved Adkins was responsible for conspiring to distribute over 2,300 grams of methamphetamine. Upon his arrest on federal charges in January 2017, Adkins was found in possession of methamphetamine, scales, baggies, drug ledgers, a loaded .40 caliber handgun, and deposit receipts totaling over $32,000.
This investigation was conducted by the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, which consists of the Council Bluffs Police Department, Mills County Sheriff’s Office, Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office, and Iowa Department of Public Safety Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The United States Marshals Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives assisted with the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Missouri Man Pleads Guilty to Coralville Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – Peter Lundberg, 60, of St. Ann, Missouri, pled guilty to one count of bank robbery in United States District Court on September 1, 2017, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.
During his plea, Lundberg admitted to robbing Bank of the West in Coralville, Iowa, on April 20, 2017. Lundberg stole approximately $1,080 from the bank, which law enforcement later recovered.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 8, 2018, at 1:00 p.m. Lundberg faces a maximum prison term of 20 years, and/or a fine up to $250,000; and, up to five years of supervised release. A mandatory special assessment of $100 per count will also be imposed.
The Coralville Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation. This case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Jason T. Griess at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at [email protected].
Sure Shot Gun Store Owner Bradley Ries Sentenced to Prison for Federal Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – On August 30, 2017, Bradley James Ries, 51, the owner of the Sure Shot Gun Shop in Clinton, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to two concurrent six-month prison terms for the transfer of a firearm without a National Instant Criminal Background Check, and knowingly making a false statement required by firearms law, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Ries will serve one year of supervised release following his imprisonment, to include an additional six months of home confinement, a $5,500 fine, and a $50 special assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund. At sentencing, Judge Goodgame Ebinger emphasized these violations were more than just bookkeeping errors, and were knowing violations of federal firearms laws.
On December 20, 2014, Ries submitted a firearm transfer request using the National Instant Background Check System (NICS). Licensed dealers are required to have purchasers fill out Form 4473 prior to submitting a NICS request under federal firearms regulations. Knowing the purported purchaser was a felon, Ries failed to have the purchaser fill out a Form 4473 for the firearm purchase. Although NICS denied the transaction, Ries called and informed the felon he could purchase firearms. On February 4, 2015, a federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) agent contacted Ries and requested the required Form 4473 transaction. Ries falsely claimed gun bluing chemical was spilled on the form.
In April of 2015, ATF conducted a federal firearms compliance inspection at Sure Shot and noted several violations. In September of 2015, ATF held a warning conference in Des Moines and again discussed these violations with Ries.
On November 4, 2015, Ries sold a Taurus Circuit Judge .45/.410 caliber rifle to a prohibited person. Ries transferred the firearm prior to obtaining sale authorization from NICS. NICS denied the purchase based on the buyer having a no contact order, which prohibited this buyer from purchasing firearms under federal law. When contacted by an ATF agent on or about December 14, 2015, Ries falsely claimed the firearm transfer to this buyer involved a Remington 870 20-gauge shotgun. Ries also faxed certain pages of a purported Form 4473 for an apparent Remington 870 20-gauge shotgun purchase by this buyer, but the form’s information was false.
In January of 2016, Ries directed the prohibited buyer of the Taurus Circuit Judge .45/.410 caliber rifle to provide false information to the ATF. In February of 2016, after being warned by an ATF agent it was a federal crime to make a false statement to the agent, Ries again falsely stated this buyer wanted to purchase a Remington 870 shotgun and was upset when the transaction was denied. In April of 2016, after a search warrant at Sure Shot, Ries admitted he had lied to federal agents.
As part of his plea agreement, and as ordered by the District Court as a supervised release condition, Ries agreed to: surrender his Federal Firearm’s License (FFL), and to not reapply for a FFL, or serve as a responsible person or officer of any federal firearm’s licensee; not apply through any individuals or corporations presently holding any listed licenses, through the officers or directors of such corporations, or through any surrogates acting on behalf of any entities or individuals holding the license; and, not to deal in firearms or obtain employment with a business whose primary business is the sale, distribution, use, or firing of firearms following the surrender of his FFL or aid, abet or otherwise conspire with others to actually or constructively possess firearms or ammunition.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Jason Griess at 515-473-9300, or by emailing him at Jason.Griess@usdoj.gov.
Former Davenport Alderman Bill Boom Sentenced to Two Years of Probation for Making False Statements to a Federal Grand JuryRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – On August 30, 2017, Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced William Boom to two years of probation, a $5,000 fine, 80 hours of community service, and a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund for making false statements to a federal grand jury, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Boom’s probation terms include, but are not limited to, refraining from illegal possession and/or use of a controlled substance and participation in a substance abuse testing and/or treatment program.
On April 18, 2017, Boom pleaded guilty to the offense. During his plea, Boom admitted in July of 2016, he was placed under oath and testified before a federal grand jury in Davenport. During his testimony, Boom was advised by an Assistant United States Attorney of his oath to testify truthfully and potential criminal penalties for providing false testimony. Boom made the following declarations to the Assistant United States Attorney’s questions during his testimony:
Q: Prior to April 6th of 2016, were you aware that G.W. used methamphetamine?
A: I wasn’t aware that he used methamphetamines. There was a time when I found a syringe in his room, but he told me that that was from one of his friends that had diabetes. But every time that I suspected something, I would give him holy hell.
Q: So prior to April 6th of 2016, were you aware that G.W. used ice methamphetamine?
A: No.
Q: Have you ever given the person depicted in Exhibit 1 any money?
A: No. The only person I ever gave money to was G.W., or his relatives, but never to this gentleman.
The person depicted in Grand Jury Exhibit 1 was Joseph Allen Terry, also known as Lump and/or Lumpy. At the time, Boom knowingly made these false declarations. Prior to April 6, 2016, Boom knew G.W. used methamphetamine and Boom had given money to Terry, who has since pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and will be sentenced on September 21, 2017. These questions and answers were material to an investigation into the distribution of methamphetamine in the Southeastern Iowa.
The Scott County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].
Davenport Man Sentenced to 84 Months in Prison for Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On August 30, 2017, Romance Desuave Armstrong, 29, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 84 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Armstrong will serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On April 20, 2017, Armstrong pleaded guilty to the offense and admitted that on October 16, 2016, he possessed a Ruger P95 9mm semi-automatic handgun while inside his vehicle in his Davenport driveway. Armstrong was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to multiple felony convictions from Scott County, Iowa. The charge resulted from an investigation initiated when Davenport Police responded to a call of Armstrong suffering a gunshot wound at his residence and to a call of a walk-in patient suffering a gunshot wound at Genesis Medical Center.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Davenport Police Department conducted the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].
Davenport Man Sentenced to 70 Months in Prison for Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – On August 30, 2017, Eugene Williams, Jr., 22, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 70 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Williams will serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment. The firearm involved in the offense was forfeited.
In July and August of 2016, Davenport police officers received information that Williams, a felon, was in possession of guns and was selling drugs. On August 30, 2016, officers obtained a search warrant for his apartment and vehicle. Officers contacted Williams at the state probation office, searched the vehicle Williams was driving, and found a 9 mm Hi-Point gun along with a box of 9 mm ammunition, and small amounts of heroin and marijuana.
After his arrest, Williams threatened to shoot the officers after serving his time.
The Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Davenport Police Department conducted the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].
Davenport Man Sentenced to 36 Months in Prison for Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On August 29, 2017, Leroy Lynell Grandberry, 30, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 36 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Grandberry was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On April 24, 2017, Grandberry pleaded guilty to the offense and admitted on August 27, 2016, he possessed a Bersa Thunder .380 caliber semi-automatic handgun while a passenger in a vehicle in Davenport. Grandberry was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a 2005 felony conviction from Scott County, Iowa.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Davenport Police Department conducted the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].
Davenport Man Sentenced to 120 Months in Prison for Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – On August 30, 2017, Paris Hollingshed, 37, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 120 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Hollingshed will serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment. Hollingshed was found guilty of this charge after a three-day jury trial on March 3, 2017.
In August of 2015, officers received information that Hollingshed, a felon, was in possession of guns and selling drugs. Officers executed a search warrant at Hollingshed’s residence and found a loaded Taurus 38 caliber handgun, along with evidence of drug trafficking, on August 20, 2015.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Davenport Police Department conducted the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].
Burlington Man Sentenced to Prison for Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – On August 30, 2017, Daniel James Lusk, 26, formerly of Burlington, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey to 60 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Lusk will serve three years of supervised release and pay a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On October 24, 2016, Lusk was arrested in Burlington in possession of two handguns. Lusk was arrested after burglarizing a private residence.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Burlington Police Department, and Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].
Pottawattamie County Men Sentenced to Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On August 23, 2017, Jeffrey W. Porterheather Jean Reekr, 41, and Gregory T. McCoy, 62, both from Council Bluffs, Iowa, were sentenced individually by Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Porter was sentenced to 120 months in prison and five years of supervised release following his imprisonment. McCoy was sentenced to 57 months in prison and to three years of supervised release following his imprisonment.
This case resulted from a large-scale law enforcement investigation of methamphetamine trafficking occurring in the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area for approximately one year. Beginning at least as early as November of 2014, and continuing through September of 2015, these defendants conspired with other individuals who, as a group, distributed nearly 40 kilograms of methamphetamine in the Southern District of Iowa and elsewhere.
Last year, on June 27, 2016, a jury convicted co-defendants Jose Luis Tizoc and Manuel Espinoza at trial, finding them guilty of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and prohibited persons in possession of a firearm. Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner sentenced Jose Luis Tizoc to 300 months of in prison and five years of supervised release and Manuel Espinoza to 240 months of in prison and five years of supervised release.
Other defendants who pleaded guilty for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and have been sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner included the following:
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Richard Hull, Jr., 150 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release;
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Salvador Nunez Trejo, 120 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release;
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Jessica Moreno, 35 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release;
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Jaime Castillo Gomez, 168 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release;
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Kristopher Hatch, 151 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release;
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Jane Song, 60 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release;
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Grant M. Carman, 120 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release;
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Greg M. Price, 120 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release; and,
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Amelia J. Lesemann, 120 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Greater Omaha Safe Streets Task Force and Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force conducted the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].
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Council Bluffs Woman Pleads Guilty to Identification FraudRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On August 23, 2017, Gina K. Malloy, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, pleaded guilty to the unlawful use of an identification document, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Malloy will be sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner on January 24, 2018, at 10:30 a.m. at the Council Bluffs Federal Courthouse.
According to the plea agreement, in 2014, Malloy applied for a $30,000 loan from Windset Capital Corporation. The loan application was made in the name of Habitat for Humanity of Council Bluffs, where Malloy was the Executive Director. The promissory note required a second signature from a Habitat for Humanity member. Malloy signed the name of an unknowing victim, used the victim’s name, social security number, and attached the victim’s driver’s license’s copy to the promissory note. The application was then sent to Windset Capital Corporation via an electronic transfer service.
Malloy also admitted she applied for a U.S. Bank business Visa credit card for Habitat for Humanity on or about January 13, 2015. The application was sent to the U.S. Bank by Malloy, and contained the same victim’s personal data. Malloy has agreed to pay at least $13,490 to Habitat for Humanity of Council Bluffs and $12,100 to U.S. Bank in restitution.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation. This case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to 70 Months in Prison for Methamphetamine and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On August 23, 2017, Ivan Wade Diaz-Rodrigues, 26, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner to 70 months in prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Diaz-Rodrigues will serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment.
Diaz-Rodrigues pleaded guilty to these charges on April 3, 2017, and admitted he offered to sell methamphetamine to a confidential source in Council Bluffs in February of 2017. Diaz-Rodrigues was apprehended by authorities after arranging the methamphetamine sale, and was found in possession of methamphetamine and a loaded .40 caliber handgun.
The case resulted from an investigation by Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, which consists of the Council Bluffs Police Department, Mills County Sheriff’s Office, Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office, and Iowa Department of Public Safety Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives assisted with the firearm investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].
Bettendorf Doctor Pleads Guilty to Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – On August 22, 2017, Dr. Paul Matthew Bolger, 45, of Bettendorf, Iowa, pleaded guilty to 18 counts of false statements relating to health care matters and five counts of introduction of misbranded drugs. He also pleaded guilty to one count of false statements relating to health care matters for conduct occurring in California and transferred from the Central District of California to the Southern District of Iowa, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Bolger will be sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey on January 9, 2018, at 9:30 a.m. at the Davenport Federal Courthouse.
Bolger knowingly and willfully made false statements by signing multiple prescription forms authorizing prescription drugs and indicating prescriptions were medically necessary. Bolger signed and attested to the validity of each prescription based only on an intake form recorded by non-medical staff (generated by call centers outside of the United States), and an accompanying prescription form. Bolger signed each of the prescription forms without talking to the patient, conducting a physical examination, or reviewing medical records. These signed prescription forms were then faxed to DCRX, a Florida pharmacy; or Haoeyou, a California pharmacy; the pharmacies filled the prescriptions, mailed them to the patients, and billed Tricare. Tricare is a federal health care benefit program providing medical care for U.S. military members and their dependents. Tricare reimbursed the pharmacies for the fraudulent compounded medication prescriptions.
Bolger authorized a total of 1,375 prescriptions for compounded medications from March through April of 2015. Based on 284 patients and 763 prescriptions Bolger authorized and filled by DCRX, Tricare paid approximately $2,920,354. Based on 32 patients and 112 similar prescriptions filled by Haoeyou (or its designee), Tricare paid approximately $566,836.
Bolger additionally wrote prescriptions for patients in 16 states where he was not licensed and misbranded those prescriptions. Bolger issued misbranded prescriptions for 11 Alabama patients, costing Tricare $268,000. Approximately 105 patients, located in states where he was licensed, received prescriptions authorized by Bolger, costing Tricare approximately $681,000.
The maximum penalty for counts related to false statements is five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and a special assessment of $100 per count. The maximum penalty for misbranding charges is one year in prison, a $100,000 fine, one year of supervised release, and a special assessment of $25 per count. Bolger agreed to pay at least $10,000 in restitution to Tricare.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Defense conducted the investigation. This case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa and the Central District of California.
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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].
Man Sentenced to 180 Months in Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearm’s ChargesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA - On August 18, 2017, Derek Duane Mullennaxheather Jean Reekr, 46, of Prairie City, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 60 months in prison for distribution of methamphetamine and 120 months in prison for discharging a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Mullennax will serve a total sentence of 180 months in prison.
On January 11, 2017, Mullennax pleaded guilty to distribution of methamphetamine between February and March of 2016 and discharging a firearm during his flight from law enforcement officers. The distribution charge stemmed from controlled purchases made from Mullennax in February of 2016. When law enforcement officers attempted to arrest Mullennax, he fled in his vehicle, leading officers on a chase through the Pleasant Hill and Colfax areas. Mullennax fired a Taurus 9mm pistol out the roof of his vehicle at an Iowa State Trooper during the chase. No injuries occurred during the chase.
The investigation was conducted by Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Iowa State Patrol, Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, Pleasant Hill Police Department, Prairie City Police Department, and other federal, state, and local agencies also provided significant assistance with the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].
Clinton Man Sentenced to 240 Months for Trafficking in “Ice” MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – On August 17, 2017, John Allen Abbott, 50, of Clinton, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 240 months in prison for conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of actual methamphetamine and 500 grams and more of mixtures containing methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Abbott was ordered to serve five years of supervised release following his imprisonment and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On May 25, 2016, Abbott was arrested after he and others arranged to have approximately two pounds of highly pure “ice” methamphetamine transported to Iowa from Nevada. On October 26, 2016, Abbott pleaded guilty and admitted that he and others traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada, on multiple occasions to obtain highly pure “ice” methamphetamine for distribution.
The case was investigated by U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement with assistance from Clinton Police Department, Clinton County Sheriff’s Office, Rock Island County Sheriff’s Office, and Camanche (Iowa) Police Department. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].
Shelby County Resident Sentenced for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On August 11, 2017, Colton James Klein, 22, from Harlan, Iowa, was sentenced heather Jean Reekrby United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 120 months in prison followed by ten years of supervised release for receipt of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.
Klein pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography on March 16, 2017, based on information developed by a multi-jurisdiction law enforcement investigation beginning in August of 2015. The investigation showed that Klein was using several Facebook accounts, along with other social media sites, to obtain sexually explicit images of minor females. After obtaining the images, Klein distributed some of the images to others linked to his social media networks.
The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, Red Oak Iowa Police Department, La Vista Nebraska Police Department, Olathe Kansas Police Department, Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].