Southern District of Iowa
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Prior Owners of SUlly's Pub, West Des Moines, Sentenced on Tax Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA - On April 12, 2017, James Perin, age 66, and Mardeen Perin, age 63, heather Jean Reekrof West Des Moines, Iowa, appeared before Chief United States Judge James A. Jarvey and were sentenced to tax fraud charges arising out of their operation of Sully's Pub in 2013, announced Kevin E. VanderSchel. The Perins admitted to failing to report cash earned through the business that was then deposited into personal bank accounts without being reported on either business or personal tax returns.
The conduct involved tax years from 2008 to 2013, and resulted in a tax loss of $108,375. Mardeen Perin was sentenced on her guilty plea to aiding and assisting the preparation of a false return. James Perin was sentenced on his guilty plea to making and subscribing a false return. Both defendants were sentenced to a three years of probation and required to pay all due and owing taxes, penalties, and interest.
The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) - Criminal 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].
Iowa City Man Sentenced to 51 Months in Prison for Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On April 10, 2017, Keethan Re’shaun Roland, age 24, of Iowa City, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 51 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Roland was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On December 5, 2016, Roland pleaded guilty to the offense and admitted he sold a Remington .22 caliber rifle to someone for $250. Roland was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to multiple felony convictions from Johnson County, Iowa.
This investigation was conducted by the Davenport Police Department and the United States 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 Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].
Davenport Man Sentenced to 160 Months in Prison for Crack Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On April 11, 2017, Sultan Tippu Bismillah, heather Jean Reekr38, of Coralville, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 160 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute a mixture or substance containing cocaine base, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Bismillah was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Between December 2013 and December 4, 2015, Bismillah was a member of a conspiracy that distributed crack cocaine throughout Iowa City and Coralville. During that time period, law enforcement conducted several controlled transactions with these conspiracy members, and the members identified Bismillah as a crack cocaine supplier. On October 17, 2016, Bismillah pled guilty and admitted that he knowingly entered into an agreement to distribute cocaine base in Iowa City and Coralville, and in furtherance of the conspiracy, he obtained, purchased, and distributed cocaine base.
This investigation was conducted by the Johnson County Inter Agency Drug Task Force and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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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 140 Months in Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On April 11, 2017, Gary Eric Arnold, age 50, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 140 months in prison on the charge of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and to 120 months for the charge of felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. The two sentences will run concurrently. Arnold was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release following his imprisonment and to pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On October 11, 2016, Arnold pleaded guilty to both offenses, admitting he had distributed over 500 grams of methamphetamine and possessed a firearm on January 22, 2016. The charges resulted from a drug trafficking investigation that occurred in Davenport, Iowa.
This investigation was conducted by the Quad City Metropolitan Enforcement Group and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. 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 Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].
California Man Sentenced to 300 Months in Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On April 10, 2017, Derrick Christopher Johnson, age 50, of Lakeview Terrace, California, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 300 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Johnson was also ordered to serve seven years of supervised release following his imprisonment and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The charge resulted from an investigation showing Johnson regularly drove quantities of methamphetamine from California to Iowa. At the sentencing hearing, the District Court found Johnson distributed over 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine.
This investigation was conducted by the Quad City Metropolitan Enforcement Group and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. 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 Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].
Shelby County Resident Sentenced to Prison for Reciept and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On April 11, 2017heather Jean Reekr, Matthew E. Gross, a 40 year-old resident of Westphalia, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 60 months in prison, and five years of supervised release to follow his imprisonment, for receipt and possession of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.
On November 3, 2016, the defendant pled guilty to a two-count indictment, charging him with possession and receipt of child pornography. The defendant received child pornography images from at least as early as February of 2014 and up to August of 2014. In addition, the defendant was found in possession of child pornography images on or about September 25, 2014, in his Westphalia residence.
This investigation was conducted by the Iowa Department of Public Safety, Division of Criminal Investigation, the Iowa Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office. 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 Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].
Davenport Woman Sentenced to Prison for Stealing from the Scott County JailRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On April 10, 2017, Jennifer Wierson, age 43, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 21 months in prison for theft from a government agency receiving federal program funds, announced United States Attorney Kevin VanderSchel.
Wierson, a former Scott County Jail Senior Account Clerk, admitted stealing from different jail programs from as early as 2011 until April of 2015. The Scott County Sheriff’s office receives federal assistance in currency over $10,000 every calendar year and did so from 2011 through 2015, which makes Wierson’s thefts a federal offense. Wierson was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following her imprisonment and to pay $100 towards the Crime Victims’ Fund.
In April of 2015, Scott County Jail employees discovered irregularities in the financial handling of various jail programs managed by Wierson. McGladrey LLP conducted a forensic audit to investigate these irregularities. That investigation revealed Wierson had stolen or misappropriated more than $160,000. On September 16, 2016, the United States Attorney filed a felony information, charging Wierson with theft from a government agency receiving federal program funds.
On September 29, 2016, Wierson pled guilty to a charge admitting she stole or misappropriated at least $169,000 from the Scott County Sheriff’s Office. After pleading guilty, Wierson was released and will report to the designated facility within the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
This investigation was conducted by the Davenport 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.
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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 130 Months in Prison for Two Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On April 10, 2017, Shawn Eugene Lee, age 39, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 130 months in prison for each of two separate bank robberies, announced United States Attorney Kevin VanderSchel. The sentences were ordered to run at the same time. Lee was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment and to pay $200 towards the Crime Victims’ Fund. Lee was ordered to pay restitution to both banks. In addition, $733 found on Lee when arrested was ordered forfeited to the United States.
On June 22, 2016, the grand jury returned a two-count indictment. Lee was charged with taking money by intimidation from the Northwest Bank and Trust on West Locust Street in Davenport on April 25, 2016, and with taking money by intimidation from the US Bank on North Division Street in Davenport on April 27, 2016. Both banks were then insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. On November 10, 2016, Lee entered guilty pleas to both bank robberies.
This investigation was conducted by the Davenport 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.
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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].
Nebraska Resident Sentenced to 160 Months in Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On April 6, 2017, Gerald N. Holden, age 42, of Bellevue, Nebraska, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 160 months in prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Holden will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release following his release from prison.
On November 29, 2016, Holden pleaded guilty to the charge and admitted he participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in the Southern District of Iowa during the month of August 2016. Holden’s charge was the result of a law enforcement investigation of drug trafficking that occurred in both Omaha, Nebraska, and Council Bluffs, Iowa.
This investigation was conducted by the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, the Omaha Police Department, the Council Bluffs Police Department, and the Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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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 135 Months in Prison for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On April 6, 2017, Ramon Cisneros Aguilera, a 33-year-old Mexican citizen living in Council Bluffs, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 135 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Aguilera will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release following his release from prison.
On November 29, 2016, Aguilera pleaded guilty to the distribution charge and admitted he possessed over one kilogram of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute in the Southern District of Iowa in August of 2016. The charge was the result of a law enforcement investigation of drug trafficking that occurred in both Sioux City and Council Bluffs, Iowa.
This investigation was conducted by the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, the Sioux City Police Department, the Council Bluffs Police Department, the Omaha Police Department, the Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. 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 Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected].
Pottawattamie County Resident Sentenced to Prison for Scheme to Defraud Former EmployerRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On March 31, 2017, Bradley R. Cornelsen, age 40, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 48 months’ imprisonment following his convictions on five counts of wire fraud. Additionally, he was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow the term of imprisonment, and was ordered to pay $1,400,320 in restitution to the victim of his scheme to defraud, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.
A jury convicted Cornelsen at trial on November 1, 2016, finding him guilty of five counts of wire fraud. This case was the result of an investigation by law enforcement of Cornelsen’s scheme to defraud his former employer, MV Transportation, where he was employed as Chief Financial Officer. The scheme involved paying himself large monetary bonuses that were unauthorized, totaling $297,985. Additionally, in furtherance of the scheme, Cornelsen used his company credit card and company manual checks for multiple personal expenses, including Rolex watches, collector baseball cards, Louis Vuitton luggage, and furniture for his personal residences in Council Bluffs and Okoboji, Iowa. The estimated loss to MV Transportation arising from this fraudulent conduct was determined to be approximately $1.4 million dollars.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and 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 either calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
Former Coralville Attorney Pleads Guilty to Eleven Counts of Mail FraudRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On March 21, 2017, Dennis A. Bjorklund, age 52, from Coralville, Iowa, pled guilty to 11 counts of mail fraud, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Each count carries a maximum potential penalty of not more than 20 years’ imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, a term of supervised release of not more than three years, and a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims' Fund. Bjorklund also agreed to pay $8,300 in restitution to the victims of these offenses. By June 9, 2017, the parties will advise the court if this matter is ready for sentencing. Bjorklund was indicted in July of 2010, arrested in Colorado on April 16, 2015, and has remained in custody since the date of his arrest.
During the time period of this mail fraud scheme, Bjorklund was an attorney practicing law in Johnson County, Iowa. As part of this scheme, potential criminal clients would contact Bjorklund for legal representation on Iowa state charges of Operating While Intoxicated (OWI).
From August 3, 2005, to January 9, 2006, 11 separate individuals entered into an agreement with Bjorklund to represent them in relation to Iowa OWI charges. As part of this representation, each individual met and was directed by Bjorklund to make a voluntary donation of $100 to $500 to "Re-Adapt" under the false pretense this contribution would result in a more favorable resolution of the criminal charges. Bjorklund caused a post office box to be opened in Coralville under the name of Re-Adapt. Additionally, Bjorklund caused a bank account to be opened in Wisconsin in which multiple checks issued to Re-Adapt were subsequently deposited. In 2006, Bjorklund caused checks to be written and drawn on this Wisconsin Re-Adapt bank account payable to entities personally owned and controlled by him.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, and 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 either calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
Rock Island Man Sentenced to 130 Months in Prison for Drug Distribution OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On March 16, 2017, Dajuan Parnell, 22, of Rock Island, Illinois, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 130 months in prison for possession of crack cocaine with intent to distribute and possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Parnell was ordered to serve four years of supervised release following his prison term and to pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On October 17, 2016, Parnell pleaded guilty to the drug distribution charges and admitted on June 12, 2016, he was in possession of both crack cocaine and cocaine with the intent to distribute each controlled substance. The charges were the result of an investigation that began when a marked Iowa State Patrol (ISP) vehicle pulled behind Parnell’s vehicle at a red light in downtown Davenport at approximately 3:20 a.m. Parnell immediately ran the red light and eluded the ISP vehicle. Following a pursuit, which lasted approximately eight miles and involved speeds of approximately 90 miles per hour, Parnell’s vehicle became disabled and Parnell and two passengers fled the vehicle on foot. Parnell dropped a quantity of crack cocaine on the ground as he ran. In the vehicle, law enforcement recovered additional an additional quantity of crack cocaine, a quantity of cocaine, and a loaded, .40 caliber handgun. In total, law enforcement recovered 67.44 grams of crack cocaine and 10.51 grams of cocaine.
This matter was investigated by the Iowa State Patrol, with assistance from the Davenport Police Department and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. 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 either calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
Davenport Man Sentenced to 188 Months in Prison for Crack Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On March 17, 2017, Corey Anthony Jones, heather Jean Reekr28, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 188 months in prison for possession with the intent to distribute 28 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing cocaine base, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Jones was ordered to serve a four-year term of supervised release following his imprisonment and to pay $100 towards the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Between May 2, 2016, and May 9, 2016, Jones distributed crack cocaine on three separate occasions. On May 9, 2016, law enforcement officers found and seized approximately 66 grams of crack cocaine from a vehicle driven by Jones. That same day, officers obtained a search warrant for Jones’ Davenport residence and seized approximately 38 grams of powder cocaine and items consistent with the manufacture of crack cocaine. On October 19, 2016, Jones pleaded guilty and admitted he knowingly possessed the crack cocaine found on May 9, 2016, in the vehicle and intended to distribute some or all of the crack cocaine to others.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department’s Tactical Operations Bureau, the Davenport Police Department, and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Learn more about this release by either calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
Bettendorf City Employee Sentenced to Prison for BriberyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On March 16, 2017, Robert W. Webster, heather Jean Reekr66, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 12 months and one day in prison for conspiracy to bribe a public official, 12 months and one day on each of two counts of bribery of a public official, the sentences to run concurrently, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Webster was fined $50,000 and will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release following his imprisonment. Chief Judge Jarvey ordered Webster to pay $300 in assessments.
On July 22, 2016, Webster pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bribery from as early as 2004 until July of 2010 concerning programs receiving federal funds, and two additional counts charging bribery on March 27, 2009, and September 18, 2009, concerning programs receiving federal funds.
As part of a written plea agreement, Webster admitted he was the Bettendorf City Electrician and for several years he received payments from Brown Traffic Products (BTP), Inc., and its subsidiary Traffic Systems Solution Company. Payments included travel, meals, drinks, entertainment and other expenses – such as tickets to NASCAR events in Las Vegas and Chicago and trips to business conferences, to reward and influence him to conduct business with BTP. Webster admitted on March 27, 2009, his wife received a check for $2,700 for a trip funded by BTP. Webster also admitted on September 18, 2009, he received golfing fees in Gilbert, Arizona, from an employee of BTP to reward and influence him.
During the sentencing hearing, Chief District Judge Jarvey found Webster had obstructed the due administration of justice and had not accepted responsibility for his crimes.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the complete cooperation of the City of Bettendorf. 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 either calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
Des Moines Man Faces Charges Related to Dispensing of HydrocodoneRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On March 14, 2017, Shawn Michael Kerby, 38, of Des Moines, Iowa, appeared in U.S. District Court in connection with multiple charges related to the distribution and dispensing of hydrocodone and possession of firearms, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.
Specifically, on February 23, 2017, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Kerby with the following:
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Eight counts of distributing and dispensing hydrocodone outside the usual course of professional practice and not for any legitimate medical purpose on multiple occasions between May 10, 2012, and November 18, 2015;
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One count of obtaining hydrocodone by misrepresentation, fraud, deception, and subterfuge, alleged to have occurred on November 18, 2015;
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One count of using a communication facility, specifically, a cellular telephone, in connection with the distribution and dispensing of hydrocodone outside the usual course of professional practice and not for any legitimate medical purpose on October 6, 2015; and
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One count of possession of firearms while being an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance.
The indictment also seeks forfeiture of the subject firearms and a 2013 Ford F-150 Raptor Truck. The indictment was unsealed upon Kerby’s initial court appearance.
Kerby pleaded not guilty to the charges and his case was set for trial on May 1, 2017. The public is reminded that an indictment is merely an accusation and that Kerby is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and 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 contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
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Former Central Iowa Psychiatrist Sentenced to Two Months in Prison for Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On February 28, 2017, Richard Lee Hauser, M.D., 67, formerly of the Grinnell, Iowa, area was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge Robert W. Pratt to two months in federal prison for two counts of health care fraud, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. The two-month sentences were ordered to be served at the same time. Hauser was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term, pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund, and pay a total of $30,879 in restitution to the State of Iowa Medicaid program (Iowa Medicaid) and Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Iowa (Wellmark).
Hauser pleaded guilty to these charges on October 19, 2016. According to the plea agreement, from about October 2008 until about August 2013, Dr. Hauser, a psychiatrist licensed to practice in Iowa, oversaw and personally provided services at a clinic in Grinnell, Iowa. The clinic operated under the name Prevention Systems, Inc., and did business as The Hauser Clinic. Beginning by at least November 8, 2011, and continuing to at least on or about December 31, 2012, Dr. Hauser devised a scheme and artifice to obtain, by means of materially false and fraudulent representations, money from the Iowa Medicaid program and Wellmark, in connection with the delivery of and payment for health care benefits and services. As part of this scheme, Dr. Hauser “upcoded” claims, meaning he submitted claims to Iowa Medicaid and Wellmark, misrepresenting the service Hauser provided to certain patients by “coding” for a more expensive service, which was not, in fact, performed. The purpose of “coding” for a more expensive service was to increase the amount of reimbursement The Hauser Clinic would receive from Iowa Medicaid and Wellmark.
This matter was investigated by the State of Iowa Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and the United States Postal Inspection Service. 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 Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On February 27, 2017, Curtis Lee Dale, 44, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 300 months in prison for conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of cocaine, 28 grams and more of cocaine base, and 100 grams and more of heroin; and, for possession with intent to distribute 500 grams of cocaine, at least 28 grams of cocaine base, and 100 grams of heroin, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. A concurrent sentence of 120 months in prison was also imposed for a felon in possession of a firearm charge. Dale committed these offenses while on federal supervised release for drug and gun convictions from 1997. At the conclusion of the sentencing hearing, Chief Judge Jarvey imposed a concurrent sentence of 60 months for violating supervised release in the 1997 case. Dale was also ordered to serve eight years of supervised release following the period of imprisonment, and pay $300 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On June 2, 2016, Dale was arrested after U. S. Drug Enforcement Administration agents and members of the Rock Island Police Department searched a storage unit accessed by Dale. The agents discovered more than a kilogram of cocaine, 5 ounces of cocaine base, and more than 100 grams of heroin in the unit along with a Ruger, 9mm pistol and ammunition. That same day, Dale was located and found with individually wrapped baggies of heroin in his pocket and approximately two ounces of cocaine in his residence.
On October 3, 3016, trial commenced in the U.S. Courthouse in Davenport, Iowa. On October 5, 2016, the jury returned a verdict of guilty conspiracy involving 28 grams and more of cocaine base, 500 grams and more of cocaine, and 100 grams and more of heroin, and guilty of the drug possession charge and the gun offense.
This matter was investigated by the U. S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Rock Island Police Department, the Bettendorf Police Department, and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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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]
Mills County Iowa Man Sentenced for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On February 24, 2017, Daniel Logan Walden, 69, formerly of Glenwood, Iowa, was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge Robert W. Pratt to 87 months in prison for possession of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Walden was also ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release.
On October 7, 2016, Walden entered a guilty plea to a federal indictment charging him with possession of child pornography on or about May 9, 2014. The charge was the result of an investigation by the Glenwood Iowa Police Department for an allegation that Walden sexually assaulted a minor female. Law enforcement obtained a search warrant; during the May 9, 2014, search of Walden's residence, numerous images of child pornography were recovered, both in printed form and on computer-storage devices.
This investigation was conducted by the Glenwood Iowa Police Department, the Ralston Nebraska Police Department, the Mills County Attorney's Office, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, Cyber Crimes Unit. 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 contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
Burlington Man Sentenced to 120 Months Imprisonment for Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On February 22, 2017, Anthony Maurice Walls, 41, of Burlington, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 120 months in prison on the charge of felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Walls was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund. Walls was found guilty of this charge by a Davenport jury on October 4, 2016.
Evidence presented at trial showed that just before midnight on October 23, 2015, Walls was involved in a dispute with two other people in Burlington. After the dispute, Walls entered a Burlington residence, and stole a shotgun and ammunition. Walls loaded the shotgun and attempted to leave the residence to return to the scene of the dispute. When occupants of the residence attempted to stop him, Walls, in an effort to appease them, tossed a small amount of crack cocaine at them. A concerned citizen saw Walls and called 911 while he was walking with the shotgun back to the scene of the dispute. Burlington police officers responded, and placed Walls into custody. Officers recovered the shotgun and additional crack cocaine nearby. Walls had multiple prior felony convictions from Des Moines and Henry Counties in Iowa.
This matter was investigated by the Burlington Police Department and the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the Project Safe Neighborhood initiative.
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Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
California Man Convicted of Trafficking Methamphetamine to Des Moines AreaRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On February 22, 2017, a jury in the Southern District of Iowa convicted Jonathan Leroy Homedew, 43, of Hemet, California, on a charge of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Sentencing has been scheduled for July 6, 2017, before Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey.
From about May 2016 through September 9, 2016, Homedew conspired with other persons to distribute methamphetamine in the Des Moines, Iowa, area. Over the course of this conspiracy, Homedew purchased multi-pound quantities of methamphetamine from sources in Southern California, and then shipped it, including through the United States Mail, to the Des Moines area. On September 7 and 9, 2016, the United States Postal Inspection Service, in concert with the Des Moines Police Department, seized nine parcels shipped from Southern California. The combined parcels contained over 25 pounds of methamphetamine sent by Homedew for redistribution by others in Iowa.
"The cooperation among the law enforcement agencies necessary to achieve this successful prosecution is commended," stated United States Attorney VanderSchel. "Together we are making a difference in keeping our community and mail service safe."
Craig Goldberg, Inspector in Charge of the Denver Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service, which includes Iowa, said, "This conviction reflects the successful teamwork among federal, state, and local law enforcement. We want the public to know that Postal Inspectors will aggressively pursue anyone who attempts to use the Postal Service to facilitate drug trafficking. We do not want the U.S. Mail to be used to commit crimes, and we aim to keep illegal drugs out of the mail for the safety of our employees and customers."
This investigation was conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, Des Moines Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. 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 contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
Muscatine Man Sentenced to 130 Months in Prison for Felon in Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Davenport, IA - On February 16, 2017, Gregory Wayne Wieskampheather Jean Reekr, age 43, of Muscatine, Iowa, was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner to 130 months in prison for felon in possession of ammunition, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Wieskamp was ordered to serve a three-year term of supervised release following his release.
On February 23, 2015, officers were notified of a burglary in Bennett, Iowa, Cedar County; a large gun safe containing approximately 15 firearms and ammunition were reported stolen, among other items. It was discovered that Wieskamp and a co-defendant drove a vehicle with the stolen gun safe to a residence in Moscow, Iowa, where the gun safe was cut open and the guns were divided among the participants, including Wieskamp. On March 3, 2015, officers conducted a search warrant at Wieskamp’s residence and seized a gun clip containing ammunition and a large television that were taken from the Bennett burglary. Wieskamp has a prior felony conviction for burglary third degree in 1995.
This matter was investigated by the Muscatine Police Department, Muscatine County Sheriff’s Department, Muscatine Drug Task Force, Wilton Police Department, Cedar County Sheriff’s Department, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Scott County Sheriff’s Department, Whiteside County Sheriff’s Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the Project Safe Neighborhood initiative.
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Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
Davenport Man Sentenced to 33 Months in Prison for Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Davenport, IA - On February 17, 2017, DeAries Napoleon Jonesheather Jean Reekr, age 28, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner to 33 months in prison for two counts of felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Jones was ordered to serve a three-year term of supervised release following his release.
On March 7, 2016, Davenport Police Department (DPD) received a shots-fired call. Upon investigation, they found a vehicle, belonging to Jones, that was possibly involved. Officers obtained a search warrant for Jones’ vehicle. Three spent-shell casings were found in the vehicle. Upon search of Jones’ residence, a Ruger P95 9mm handgun was recovered, along with 48 rounds of ammunition and marijuana.
On July 11, 2016, DPD initiated an unrelated investigation. Jones was located and a loaded Smith and Wesson M&P 9 mm handgun was found in Jones’ waistband.
This matter was investigated by the DPD 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 as part of the Project Safe Neighborhood initiative.
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Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
Federal Search Warrants ExecutedRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On February 3, 2017, federal search warrants were executed at the following locations in Des Moines, Iowa:
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Franklin Avenue
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Douglas Avenue
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East 16th Street
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16th Street
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Jefferson Avenue
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Hickman Road
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SE 19th Street
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1st Street
The searches at these locations were an official law enforcement action led jointly by the Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The official law enforcement action also involved agents and investigators from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Marshals Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Warren County Sheriff’s Office, Indianola Police Department, Mid-Iowa Drug Task Force, and Central Iowa Drug Task Force. Assistance was also provided by members of the Iowa Department of Human Services, and the Metro STAR, SERT, and Jasper County tactical teams.
The following individuals were charged with distribution of heroin:
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Bruce Edward McGee, 26, of Des Moines.
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Charles Junior Sims, 26, of Des Moines.
- Earl Deangelo Smith, of Des Moines.
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Bernard Calvin Stigler, 28, of Des Moines.
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George Lamar Stigler, 26, of Johnston.
- Artellious Demond Young, 22, of Des Moines.
The following individuals, each of whom reside in Des Moines, were charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm:
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Peter Marcus Greene, 45.
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Clinton Ossie Taylor, 41.
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Artell Jamaryo Young, 25.
No other information or comments will be released until documents have been filed with the court as part of the public record.
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Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
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Former Washington Area Man Sentenced to Prison for False Statements to a Financial InstitutionRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On January 26, 2017, Thomas D. Gretter, 66, formerly of Washington, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 13 months in federal prison for two counts of making a false statement to a financial institution, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. The 13-month sentences were ordered to be served at the same time. Gretter was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release following his prison term, pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund, and pay a total of $1,185,704.77 in restitution to Hills Bank & Trust Company (“Hills Bank”).
Gretter pleaded guilty to these charges on September 20, 2016. According to the plea agreement, on or about December 18, 2013, and October 6, 2014, Gretter obtained loans from Hills Bank. As security for each of these loans, Gretter pledged multiple items of collateral that he knew included false statements, and were unavailable to Hills Bank as security. Specifically, Gretter forged the signatures of multiple people on items of pledged collateral and provided those documents to Hills Bank in order to influence Hills Bank to make the loans.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. 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 contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
Former Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for ArsonRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – On January 26, 2017, Gramann Richard Barnes, 44, formerly of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 84 months in prison after pleading guilty to arson, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Barnes was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term, and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On March 15, 2016, the Davenport Fire and Police Departments were dispatched to a duplex on Locust Street in Davenport. A victim reported earlier in the day, Barnes had assaulted the victim, injured a child, and caused the victim and child to flee the residence. The victim called 911 from a friend’s residence, and later returned to the residence to discover a strong gas odor and heat coming from the kitchen. When the victim entered the kitchen, the oven was glowing, the gas stove burners were on, and all the knobs were removed; inside the oven was a roll of burning paper towels.
The victim located the knobs and turned off the stove and oven. Additionally, the victim observed the inside of the apartment had been trashed with broken dishes, broken household items, and glass shattered throughout the residence. The victim also later discovered a number of jewelry items were missing. The victim left the residence and again called 911. The Davenport Fire and Police Departments arrived and cleared the apartment.
A fire department investigator found a makeshift wick consisting of a paper towel rolled tightly and placed down inside the oven, where the flame for the gas burner was located. Investigators concluded the knobs on the stove were removed and combustible materials consisting of paper towels were intentionally placed in the oven for the purpose of causing ignition, which would have likely resulted in a fire or explosion. The investigation also determined at the time the stove and oven were turned on, two upstairs neighbors were home, heard an argument, the sound of breaking dishes, and detected a gas odor.
When Barnes left the scene at the apartment, he stole a pick-up truck belonging to the victim’s father and fled to Texas. Barnes was arrested in Texas on April 5, 2016. After returning for a court appearance in Iowa, Barnes admitted he had rigged the apartment to explode.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Davenport Fire Department, and the Davenport Police Department. 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 contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
Harrison County Resident Sentenced for Sex Trafficking MinorsRead the Press Release
Council Bluffs, IA - On January 25, 2017, John F. Thomsenheather Jean Reekr, a 47-year-old resident of Missouri Valley, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 235 months in prison for coersion and enticement of a minor for sex and for transporting a minor with intent to engage in sexual activity, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Thomsen will be required to serve 15 years of supervised release after his prison term. Thomsen pleaded guilty to the two counts on September 1, 2016.
The guilty pleas and sentencing were the result of an investigation into the transportation of minor females from Arkansas to Missouri Valley, Iowa, so the minors could engage in sexual acts. The investigation showed Thomsen had met a 14-year-old female while working at a group home in Arkansas. After leaving his group home employment, Thomsen used social media to keep in contact with the minor female and convince her to live with him, and his wife, Trudy Thomsen, in Missouri Valley, Iowa.
The Thomsens traveled to Arkansas and drove the minor to Missouri Valley, Iowa, where the Thomsens engaged in various sexual acts with the girl. After the minor was returned to the group home, John Thomsen again contacted her via social media and arranged to have her, and a second minor female, transported back to Missouri Valley, Iowa, for sexual activities.
Co-defendant Trudy Thomsen is pending sentencing in the Southern District of Iowa.
This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Task Force, Arkansas State Police, Missouri Valley Police Department, Council Bluffs Police Department, Omaha Police Department, La Vista Police Department, and the Harrison County Attorney’s Office. 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 contacing Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
Waukee Man Sentenced to Prison and Ordered to Pay $321,927 in RestitutionRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On January 20, 2017, Donald Lynn Embree, 55, of Waukee, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 15 months in prison for three counts of false statements for the overvaluation of securities, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Embree was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term, pay $300 to the Crime Victims’ Fund, and pay a total of $321,927.13 to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) as restitution.
Embree pleaded guilty to these charges on September 22, 2016. According to the plea agreement, Embree obtained three loans from the Commodity Credit Corporation in March of 2015 by falsely certifying the existence of collateral. The Commodity Credit Corporation is an agency within the USDA that makes agricultural loans, which are administered by the FSA. Embree’s grain, bushels of corn and soybeans, served as collateral for these loans.
Embree certified the bushels of grain were eligible to be pledged as collateral for the loans, that the quantity was in existence and stored in bins on his property, and that he retained control of the grain. However, Embree had sold much of the grain prior to March of 2015, and did not have the collateral to pledge to the Corporation.
This matter was investigated by the United States Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General and 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 contacting Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300 or by emailing her at [email protected]
Former Des Moines Man Sentenced to Prison for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On January 23, 2017, Robert Dwayne Humburd IIIheather Jean Reekr, age 38, formerly of Des Moines, Iowa, was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner to 96 months in prison for two counts of bank robbery, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Humburd is required to serve a three-year term of supervised release following his prison term, pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund, and pay a total of $10,473 in restitution to the banks and a bank teller. The Court ordered the prison terms on each count are to be served at the same time.
On September 21, 2016, Humburd pleaded guilty to two counts of bank robbery. According to the plea agreement, Humburd entered a U.S. Bank branch in Des Moines on September 9, 2015, and gave a note to the teller demanding cash. Humburd fled the bank with a sum of cash. On November 6, 2015, Humburd entered a Bankers Trust Company branch in Des Moines and handed a note to the teller demanding cash. Again, Humburd fled the bank with a sum of cash.
This matter was investigated by the Des Moines Police Department and 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 contacting Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – On January 23, 2017, Jacob Scott Watters, 24, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 240 months in prison for receipt of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Watters was ordered to serve ten years of supervised release following his prison term and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Watters pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography on August 25, 2016. According to the plea agreement, on August 18, 2014, Davenport Police Department was notified of an investigation in Merced County, California, that concluded Watters was engaging in sexual chats and sending and receiving nude pictures with a 15-year-old female. A search warrant executed at Watters’ residence led to the recovery of multiple electronic devices.
During the examination of the recovered devices, it was determined Watters was communicating with six other minor females, many of whom with he was having sexual conversations and exchanging pornographic pictures. At the time of the communications, Watters was a registered sex offender and on state probation for lascivious acts with a minor.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the Project Safe Childhood Initiative.
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Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
Davenport Man Sentenced for Felon in Possession of Ammunition ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On January 23, 2017, Marcus Anthony Brown, age 27, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to five years in prison after pleading guilty to felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Brown was ordered to serve three years of supervised release and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On September 9, 2016, an off-duty Davenport police officer observed a fight in a parking lot. A man, later identified as Brown, fired two shots into the air from what appeared to be a handgun. As the officer approached the scene, he observed Brown get in and out of a vehicle; the vehicle left before back-up officers arrived. Officers were unable to locate a firearm, but did find and seize several rounds of .380 caliber ammunition and Brown was arrested. Brown has two prior 2005 felony convictions.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Davenport Police Department. 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 contacting Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
Douglas County Man Sentenced to Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On January 18, 2017, Broc Todd Waltermeyer, heather Jean Reekra 44-year-old resident of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner to 196 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Waltermeyer’s term of imprisonment will be followed by five years of supervised release. Waltermeyer pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine on April 29, 2016.
The guilty plea and sentencing were the result of an investigation into methamphetamine distribution by the defendant between July of 2015 and November 11, 2015. During that time, the defendant distributed over two kilograms of methamphetamine, which was obtained in Omaha and transported to Pottawattamie County, where it was sold.
The investigation was conducted by the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force, Omaha Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.-END-
Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
Man Sentenced to Prison for Bribery Involving the City of BettendorfRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On January 18, 2017, Robert L. Budd, Jr., heather Jean Reekrage 73, of Bettendorf, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to four months in prison for conspiracy to bribe a public official and four months for bribery of a public official, the sentences to run concurrently, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Budd was fined $25,000, was ordered to serve a two-year term of supervised release following his imprisonment, and to pay $200 in special assessments to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On May 20, 2016, Budd pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery and bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds. As part of a written plea agreement, Budd admitted he was a manager at Brown Traffic Products, Inc. (BTP) in Davenport, Iowa, and he approved and made payments to Robert Webster, the Bettendorf City Electrician, for travel, meals, drinks, entertainment, and other expenses, including tickets to NASCAR events and trips to business conferences.
Budd also admitted on March 27, 2009, he reimbursed Webster for a trip by writing a check to Webster’s wife for $2,700, which was deposited into the Websters’ credit union account. Budd admitted this and other payments were made in an effort to influence Webster to continue doing business with BTP, and to reward him for conducting business with BTP.
In July of 2016, Robert Webster, former Bettendorf City Electrician, pleaded guilty to three felony counts. He is presently scheduled to be sentenced on March 16, 2017, in Davenport.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the cooperation of the City of Bettendorf. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Learn more about this release by contacing Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at [email protected]
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Davenport Woman Sentenced for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – On December 14, 2016, Audra Sue Rowson, 43, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 50 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Rowson was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following her prison term and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Rowson pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine on August 1, 2016. According to the plea agreement, Rowson conspired to distribute methamphetamine in the Davenport, Iowa, area from around January of 2014 and continuing until around March of 2016.
During that time, Rowson sold approximately 11.5 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant during the course of three controlled transactions. Law enforcement also executed a search warrant at Rowson’s Davenport residence where they located methamphetamine residue, drug ledgers, drug paraphernalia, and items consistent with the distribution of methamphetamine.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Scott County Sheriff’s Department, the Bettendorf Police Department, and the Quad City Metropolitan Enforcement Group. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Media Contact for this release is Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or [email protected]
Davenport Man Sentenced for Possessing a Molotov CocktailRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – On December 14, 2016, Theodore Cooke, 48, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 60 months in prison for Felon in Possession of an Unregistered Firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Cooke was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Cooke pleaded guilty to Felon in Possession of an Unregistered Firearm on August 17, 2016. There was no plea agreement in the case. According to statements made by all parties during the sentencing hearing, Cooke was in possession of a Molotov cocktail on November 2, 2015. On that date, Cooke went to a Davenport residence to look for his girlfriend. After several attempts to get her outside, Cooke lit the Molotov cocktail on fire and threw it at a parked vehicle, causing the vehicle to start on fire. No one was injured during the incident. A Molotov cocktail is a destructive device under federal law and must be registered as a firearm. Cooke has two prior felony convictions in Scott County, Iowa; one for Burglary-First Degree, the other for Burglary-Second Degree. Cooke also has prior convictions for Assault with Injury, Simple Assault, Cruelty to Animals, and Assault.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Davenport Police Department, and Davenport Fire Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Media Contact for this release is Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or [email protected]
Davenport Man Sentenced for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – On December 14, 2016, Chad Allen Moens, 43, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 90 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Moens was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Moens pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine on April 26, 2016. According to the plea agreement, Moens conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine in Davenport, Iowa, from June of 2014 to September of 2015. During that time, law enforcement used a confidential informant to purchase or attempt to purchase methamphetamine from Moens on four separate occasions.
In total, Moens provided or attempted to provide the confidential informant with approximately 190 grams of methamphetamine. Law enforcement also located approximately 55 grams of methamphetamine during a search warrant executed at Moens’ Silvis, Illinois, residence. According to statements made at Moens’ sentencing hearing, Moens traveled to Chicago, Illinois, and Omaha, Nebraska, to obtain methamphetamine, and then returned to the Davenport area to sell methamphetamine. Moens is responsible for conspiring to distribute nearly 900 grams of methamphetamine in the Davenport, Iowa, area.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Scott County Sheriff’s Department, the Bettendorf Police Department, and the Quad City Metropolitan Enforcement Group. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Media Contact for this release is Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or [email protected]
Davenport Man Sentenced to Six Months in Prison for EscapeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On December 14, 2016, Keith Nelson, age 28, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to six months in prison for escape from federal custody, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Nelson was ordered to serve a two-year term of supervised release following his imprisonment.
On September 9, 2016, Nelson pleaded guilty to this charge. Nelson was serving a term of 120 months in federal prison when he was released in December 2015, to the residential re-entry center (RRC) in Davenport to complete that term. In June 2016, Nelson left the RRC without permission and was arrested by the United States Marshal Service (USMS) approximately three days later.
This investigation was conducted by the USMS and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Media Contact for this release is Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or [email protected]
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Making False Statements When Purchasing FirearmsRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On December 14, 2016, Michael D’Shon Aguilar, age 23, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to one year and one day in prison for three counts of making False Statements During the Purchase of a Firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Aguilar was ordered to serve a three-year term of supervised release following his imprisonment.
On July 25, 2016, Aguilar pleaded guilty to the charges and admitted that on three occasions, he made false statements regarding his current residence when filling out the mandatory Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ form when purchasing the guns. Two of the three guns ended up in the possession of prior felons.
This investigation was conducted 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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Media Contact for this release is Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or [email protected]
Davenport Man Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On December 13, 2016, Kaylo O’Neal Roelandt, age 22, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to three years in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Roelandt was ordered to serve a three-year term of supervised release following his imprisonment.
On August 1, 2016, Roelandt pleaded guilty to the charge and admitted he had previously been convicted of a drug felony in 2012, and then possessed a firearm on December 16, 2014.
This investigation was conducted by the Davenport Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Media Contact for this release is Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or [email protected]
Davenport Man Sentenced to 292 Months in Prison for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On December 13, 2016, Eric Nathan Hans, age 46, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 292 months in prison for Production of Child Pornography, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Hans also will be required to serve a ten-year term of supervised release following his imprisonment.
On June 13, 2016, Hans pleaded guilty to this charge and admitted that in December 2010, he used his cellular phone to produce child pornography by taking multiple pictures of a 12-year-old child. Additionally, Hans had downloaded child pornography onto his computer in June of 2014.
The investigation was conducted by the Davenport Police Department and the Child Protection Response Center. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Media Contact for this release is Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or [email protected]
Davenport Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute Crack and for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On December 14, 2016, Antonio Deshawn Thomas, age 38, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 188 months in prison on the charge of Conspiracy to Distribute Crack Cocaine and to 120 months for the charge of Felon in Possession of a Firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin VanderSchel. The two sentences will run concurrently with one another. Thomas was ordered to serve four years of supervised release following his imprisonment and to pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On July 25, 2016, Thomas pleaded guilty to the charges and admitted that between September 1, 2015, and November 7, 2015, he was part of a conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine in the Quad Cities area, and that on November 6, 2015, he was in possession of a firearm. The charges were the result of an investigation by the Davenport Police Department, which resulted in the execution of search warrants at two Davenport residences. At one residence, officers found approximately 40 grams of crack cocaine, 32 grams of powder cocaine and a .38 caliber handgun. At the other, officers found approximately 56 grams of crack cocaine. Thomas was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to multiple prior felony convictions from Rock Island County, Illinois.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Media Contact for this release is Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or [email protected]
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On December 13, 2016, Jonathan S. Featherstone, a 23 year-old resident of Council Bluffs, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey, to 33 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.
Featherstone entered a guilty plea on July 14, 2016, to the charge of Felon in Possession of a Firearm as a result of his possession of a Walter P38 9mm pistol. Featherstone was contacted on February 17, 2016, by Council Bluffs Police Department officers following a traffic stop, where it was discovered Featherstone had a loaded 9mm pistol in his backpack. Featherstone had been convicted of a prior felony offense in July of 2015.
This investigation was conducted by the Council Bluffs Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Media Contact for this release is Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or [email protected]
Federal Court Sentences Davenport Man for Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On December 12, 2016, Herman Terrill Baylor, age 28, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 102 months in prison on the charge of Felon in Possessionof a Firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin VanderSchel. Baylor was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following the period of imprisonment and to pay $100 towards the Crime Victims’ Fund.
On August 12, 2016, Baylor pleaded guilty to this charge and admitted that he took possession of two shotguns in exchange for crack cocaine in December of 2016. The charge resulted from an investigation that was initiated when a concerned citizen alerted the Davenport Police Department that Baylor had stashed the shotguns in the basement of a residence in Davenport. Baylor was prohibited from possessing firearms due to a December 26, 2007, conviction in the Scott County, Iowa District Court for the offense of Possession of Crack Cocaine with the Intent to Deliver.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Media Contact for this release is Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or [email protected]
Davenport Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – On December 12, 2016, Brandon Marquis Kelly, 31, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 96 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Kelly was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term and to pay $100 towards the Crime Victims’ Fund.
Kelly pleaded guilty to Felon in Possession of a Firearm on July 22, 2016. There was no plea agreement in the case. According to court documents, Kelly possessed a loaded Hi-Point .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol at an apartment complex in Davenport, Iowa, on December 18, 2015. Kelly discharged the firearm, causing a bullet to enter the apartment unit directly below the unit Kelly occupied, damaging both the upstairs and downstairs unit. Kelly has one prior felony conviction for Delivery of a Controlled Substance, cocaine, in 2010 in Rock Island County, Illinois. He also has prior convictions for Battery, Domestic Abuse Assault without Intent Causing Injury, Domestic Abuse Assault, and Domestic Abuse Assault – second offense.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department’s Tactical Operations Bureau 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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Media Contact for this release is Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or [email protected]
California Residents Sentenced to Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On December 12, 2016, Manuel Espinozaheather Jean Reekr, a 33 year-old resident of Pico Rivera, California, was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner to 240 months of imprisonment for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine, and to 120 months of imprisonment for being a Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm, to run concurrently. Espinoza was also sentenced to five years of supervised release to follow the term of imprisonment.
Jose Luis Tizoc, a 23 year-old resident of San Diego, California, was also sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner to 300 months of imprisonment for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine, and to five years of supervised release to follow the term of imprisonment, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.
A jury convicted these defendants at trial on June 27, 2016, finding the defendants guilty on all counts charged, being Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Prohibited Persons in Possession of a Firearm. This case was the result of a large-scale investigation by law enforcement of methamphetamine trafficking that occurred 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, the defendants conspired with multiple other individuals to distribute at least 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine in the Southern District of Iowa or elsewhere.
Other defendants who pled guilty for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine and have been sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner, include the following:
- Salvador Nunez Trejo, 120 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release;
- Jessica Moreno, 35 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release;
- Jaime Castillo Gomez, 168 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release;
- Kristopher Hatch, 151 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release;
- Jane Song, 60 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release;
- Grant M. Carman, 120 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release; and,
- Greg M. Price, 120 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Greater Omaha Safe Streets Task Force and the Southwest 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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Media Contact for this release is Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or [email protected]
West Burlington Man Sentenced to 48 Months in Prison for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA - On December 12, 2016, Aaron Lamonte Miles, age 47, of West Burlington, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 48 months in prison for failure to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Miles also will be required to serve a ten-year term of supervised release following his release from imprisonment.
On June 27, 2016, Miles pleaded guilty to this charge and admitted that he had previously been convicted of three sex offenses and was required to register as a sex offender per the laws of the state in which he resides, which was most recently Iowa. Miles failed to comply with the sex offender registry from August 24, 2015, through November 3, 2015. During that time period, Miles traveled to Ohio without notifying either Iowa or Ohio sex offender registry officials.
The investigation was conducted by the United States Marshals Service. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
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Media Contact is Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300 or at [email protected]
Former Des Moines Tax Preparer Charged with Tax FraudRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA – On November 21, 2016, Lony Tap Gatwas, 47, of Ames, Iowa, was charged in an 18-count indictment with preparing and presenting false tax returns, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.
According to the indictment, from on or about February 2011, through at least March 2013, Gatwas operated a tax preparation business in Des Moines and prepared and filed federal personal income tax returns on behalf of taxpayers. Gatwas devised a scheme to defraud by claiming dependents on taxpayers’ returns when he knew the dependents did not meet IRS requirements, such as living with the taxpayers for a certain length of time out of the year, and being supported financially by the taxpayer. Gatwas charged taxpayers an additional fee for each dependent he put on their return.
Gatwas has a trial date of January 30, 2017, before United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger, at the Des Moines Federal Courthouse. Preparing and presenting a false tax return is punishable by a maximum of three years imprisonment and a maximum $100,000 fine. The crime of wire fraud has a maximum prison term of 20 years, and up to a $250,000 fine. Gatwas faces a minimum prison term of two years and up to a $250,000 fine for the crime of aggravated identity theft.
An indictment is only an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Prior Owners of Sully's Pub, West Des Moines, Plead Guilty to Tax Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, IA - On December 5, 2016, James Perin, age 66, and Mardeen Perin, age 62, of West Des Moines, Iowa, appeared before Chief United States Magistrate Judge Celeste F. Bremer and pleaded guilty to tax fraud charges arising out of their operation of Sully's Pub in 2013, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. The Perins admitted to failing to report cash earned through the business that was then deposited into personal bank accounts without being reported on either business or personal tax returns.
Mardeen Perin pleaded guilty to aiding and assisting in the preparation of a false return, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7206(2). James Perin pleaded guilty to making and subscribing a false return, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7206(1).
Both defendants face potential maximum penalties under the statute of up to three years of imprisonment and three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
Sentencings are presently scheduled for April 12, 2016, before Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey.
The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) – Criminal Investigation. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Iowa Woman Sentenced for Mortgage FraudRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On December 2, 2016, Mandy Lea Whipple, formerly Mandy Lea Johnson, a 34 year-old resident of Page County, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose, to 18 months in prison followed by five years of Supervised Release for Mortgage Fraud, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.
Whipple entered a guilty plea on June 9, 2016, to Mortgage Fraud for falsifying mortgage loan papers to purchase a house in Fremont County, Iowa. The investigation began with a report of delinquent payments on the purchased Fremont County residence, leading to the discovery that Whipple had falsely obtained a Veteran Administration’s loan to purchase the home, using the name and identifiers of a military veteran that employed her.
As part of the sentence, the Court ordered Whipple to make restitution to the Veteran’s Administration in the amount of $41,675.00; to J.G. Wentworth Mortgage Home Lending, LLC, in the amount of $28,904.27; and to Discover Financial Services in the amount of $5,780.04.
The investigation was conducted by the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office, Fremont County Attorney’s Office, Department of Veteran Affairs-Office of Inspector General, and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Bettendorf Man Sentenced to 120 Months in Prison for Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
Davenport, IA- On December 1, 2016, Andrew Thomas Zinngrabe, 37, of Bettendorf, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 120 months in prison for receiving and distributing child pornography, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Zinngrabe was ordered to serve ten years of supervised release following his release from prison.
On July 26, 2016, Zinngrabe pleaded guilty to the charges and admitted he received and distributed child pornography in the Southern District of Iowa between April 1 and April 6, 2015. The charges were the result of a peer-to-peer file sharing investigation by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Investigators downloaded a file supplied by Zinngrabe that contained over 100 images of child pornography. A search of Zinngrabe’s computer revealed he possessed 1,680 pictures and six videos containing child pornography.
This investigation was conducted by the Scott County Sheriff’s Department, Bettendorf Police Department, Davenport Police Department and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.