Southern District of Iowa
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Iowa City Man Sentenced to 27 Months in Federal Prison for Possessing Ammunition as a FelonRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – An Iowa City man was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of ammunition.
According to public court documents, in May 2024, Alfred Washington, Jr., 46, possessed ammunition as a felon. A receipt for shooting accessories was found during the search warrant at Washington’s Iowa City residence and videos showing Washington at a gun range were found on Washington’s phone. Washington is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition because he is felon, including a 2018 conviction for possessing a firearm as a felon and domestic abuser in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Iowa.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Washington will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Iowa City Police Department.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Iowa City Man Sentenced to 168 Months in Federal Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – An Iowa City man was sentenced on September 15, 2025, to 168 months in federal prison for Receipt of Child Pornography.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, during a 2023 investigation, an account, later determined to be associated with Jeffrey Alan Guentert, 57, downloaded files containing child sexual abuse material. Law enforcement seized 87 electronic devices during a search of Guentert’s Iowa City residence and place of employment. Guentert was a city employee. A forensic examination of the seized electronic devices showed that Guentert used at least 44 of the devices to receive, view, and possess images and videos containing child sexual abuse material, including more than 5000 images and 1500 videos, between 2019 and 2023.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Guentert will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Guentert was also ordered to pay $100,000 in restitution.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Johnson County Joint Forensic Analysis Cyber Team and the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Davenport Man Sentenced to 87 Months in Federal Prison for Possession of Child Pornography While on Federal Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison for possessing child pornography.
According to public court documents, David Anthony Tumea, 44, resided at a residential reentry center as a term of his federal supervised release resulting from a 2014 conviction for possessing an unregistered firearm and possessing ammunition as a felon. Residential Reentry Center staff located four flash drives inside Tumea’s hat when he entered the facility, which led to searches of Tumea’s vehicle and room where additional storage devices and a cell phone located. A total of 27 devices were seized from Tumea and multiple devices were found to contain child sexual abuse material.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Tumea will be required to serve a ten-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Tumea was also ordered to pay $35,000 in restitution.
Tumea’s supervised release for his prior federal conviction was revoked and the Court sentenced Tumea to 18 months imprisonment, consecutive to the 87-month sentence.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Scott County Sheriff's Office.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Oskaloosa Man Sentenced to 18 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Exploitation of a ChildRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – An Oskaloosa man was sentenced on September 10, 2025, to 18 years in federal prison for the sexual exploitation of a child.
According to public court documents, Matthew Scott Beal, 42, produced child pornography of a minor child. Beal also used the internet to distribute four videos of child pornography to an undercover law enforcement account operated by the Homeland Security’s Newark Child Exploitation Task Force. Later, law enforcement seized Beal’s phone during a search of his home in Oskaloosa. Beal’s phone contained over 100 images and videos of child pornography, including prepubescent children engaged in sex acts with adults.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Beal will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Beal was also ordered to pay $15,938.50 in restitution to multiple victims.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Homeland Security Investigations Newark Child Exploitation Group, the Oskaloosa Police Department, and the Iowa Department of Public Safety Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Federal Search Warrants ExecutedRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – On September 11, 2025, federal search warrants were executed at the following locations in the Des Moines metropolitan area:
- 800th block of SW Ordnance Road, Ankeny;
- 1400th block of Arlington Avenue, Des Moines;
- 1200th block of Wall Avenue, Des Moines;
- 2500th block of East 23rd Street, Des Moines;
- 1300th block East Sheridan Avenue, Des Moines;
- 900th block of Emma Avenue, Des Moines;
- 100th block of East 28th Street, Des Moines;
- 1600th block of Army Post Road, Des Moines;
- 2200th block of Lyon Street, Des Moines;
- 2900th block of Dubuque Avenue, Des Moines; and
- 3000th block of Gateway Drive, Carlisle.
The searches at these locations were an official law enforcement action involving officers, agents, investigators, and analysts from Des Moines Police Department, FBI Des Moines Resident Agency of the Omaha Field Office, Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force (MINE), Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement East (MINE East), Mid-Iowa Drug Task Force, Metro Special Tactics and Response (STAR), FBI Omaha Field Office, Iowa Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement (DNE), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), FBI Omaha SWAT, FBI Kansas City SWAT, Iowa State Patrol, Iowa State Patrol SWAT, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Dallas County Sheriff’s Office, Story County Sheriff’s Office, Clive Police Department, West Des Moines Police Department, Altoona Police Department, Carlisle Police Department, Knoxville Police Department, Ankeny Police Department, Marshall County’s Sheriff’s Office, Urbandale Police Department, Windsor Heights Police Department, Newton Police Department, Pleasant Hill Police Department, Suburban Emergency Response Team (SERT), and Cedar Rapids Police Department.
Adel Man Sentenced to 108 Months in Federal Prison for Transportation of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – An Adel man was sentenced on Friday, September 5, 2025, to 108 months in federal prison for transportation of child pornography.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a CyberTip that an account, later determined to be associated with Douglas Harsh, 55, received files containing child sexual abuse material. Law enforcement seized electronic devices during a search of Harsh’s Adel residence. The investigation showed that Harsh was a member of an online chat group whose members shared images and videos of child pornography including content of prepubescent children.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Harsh will be required to serve a seven-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Harsh was also ordered to pay $15,000 in restitution.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children, and the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc. For information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the resources tab.
Nevada Woman Sentenced to Three Years Probation for Trafficking in Counterfeit GoodsRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Nevada woman was sentenced on September 3, 2025, to three years of probation for trafficking counterfeit Louis Vuitton merchandise.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Traci Linn Hubbard, 57, in March 2023, sold counterfeit Louis Vuitton merchandise out of her store, Unique Boutique, in Nevada, Iowa. On March 23, 2023, a search warrant was executed at Unique Boutique and over 100 counterfeit Louis Vuitton items were seized.
Hubbard was also ordered to pay $13,800.41 in restitution to Louis Vuitton North America, Inc.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.
Clinton Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Receipt and Attempted Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Clinton man was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for receipt of child pornography and attempted production of child pornography.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received CyberTips that an account, later determined to be associated with Eric Jensen Salter, 37, received files containing child sexual abuse material. Law enforcement seized electronic devices during a search of Salter’s Clinton residence. The investigation showed that Salter’s email account was used to seek out, receive, view, and possess child pornography, including content of prepubescent children. The Clinton County Sheriff’s Office further received records from Salter’s email account that revealed an email exchange with a sixteen-year-old female between May and October 2018. Salter attempted to use, persuade, induce, or entice the minor female to engage in sexually explicit conduct, with the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct, by requesting her to send sexually explicit images of herself to him.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Salter will be required to serve a ten-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Salter was also ordered to pay $8,000 in restitution.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Clinton County Sheriff's Office, Davenport Police Department, and the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc. For information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the resources tab.
Arizona and Indiana Individuals Sentenced to Federal Prison for Nationwide Bank Fraud and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – Three of the leaders of a nationwide bank fraud and money laundering conspiracy were sentenced to a combined 421 months in federal prison.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Thaddeus Jerome Lee, Latroy L. Currie, and Johnnie Lee Thomas, were the founders and leaders of bank fraud and money-laundering conspiracies that operated from California to Connecticut, and numerous states in between, including Iowa. Over the course of approximately two and a half years, they attempted to deposit at least $15 million in stolen checks at various financial institutions throughout the country. They successfully obtained at least $2.9 million in fraudulent proceeds.
Lee and Thomas lived in Arizona, and Currie lived in Indiana. They recruited dozens of individuals to commit acts of bank fraud and money laundering as part of the scheme. They obtained tens of millions of dollars’ worth of stolen checks; created many fake business entities to facilitate the fraud and laundering; and supervised many co-conspirators who went into banks and credit unions in several states, opened fraudulent checking accounts, and deposited the stolen checks. Lee, Thomas, and Currie laundered the proceeds of the stolen checks by withdrawing the funds from the fraudulently obtained accounts and sharing the proceeds with their co-conspirators. Lee was sentenced to 151 months’ imprisonment, Currie to 135 months’ imprisonment, and Thomas to 135 months’ imprisonment. After completing their terms of imprisonment, all three will be required to serve terms of supervised release—Lee and Currie will serve five-year terms, and Thomas will serve a three-year term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Eleven more co-conspirators have been sentenced on similar charges for their roles in the conspiracy. Tiarra Lenae Jones, was sentenced to a 96 month prison term, followed by a five-year term of supervised release; Stephen Rashad Haley, was sentenced to a 384 month prison term, followed by a five-year term of supervised release; Lovely Hall was sentenced to a 60 month prison term, followed by a three-year term of supervised release; Kila Wright was sentenced to a 54 month prison term, followed by a three-year term of supervised release; Kira Ashleigh Johnson, was sentenced to a 42 month prison term, followed by a three-year term of supervised release; John Ivory Winston, Jr. was sentenced to a 30 month prison term, followed by a three-year term of supervised release; Reanna R. Haymon was sentenced to a 12 months-and-one-day prison term, followed by a three-year term of supervised release; Shapara Monee Hunter, was sentenced to a 8 month prison term, followed by a two-year term of supervised release; Mario Ricardo Smith was sentenced to a 6 month prison term, followed by a three-year term of supervised release; Jazlinn Tapp, was sentenced to a 4 month prison term, followed by a three-year term of supervised release; and Somore Renee Hill, was sentenced to a 12 months-and-one-day prison term, followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Four more co-conspirators, Malik K. Marshal, Toni Lynette Renfroe, Carnell A. Thomas, Jr., and Erin R. Smith, are awaiting sentencing.
“A combined total of 421 months in prison for the leaders of this check fraud scheme should send a message about the seriousness of the crime,” said Special Agent in Charge William Steenson of IRS Criminal Investigation’s St. Louis Field Office. “Stealing checks, money laundering, and bank fraud…these are not victimless crimes. The sentences imposed are the result of IRS-CI’s commitment to identifying and investigating check fraud and working with other federal agencies to ensure the guilty are held accountable.”
The FBI stated “These defendants orchestrated a sophisticated illegal scheme to defraud businesses and our banking systems. This kind of criminal activity erodes public trust and undermines our nation’s economic security. The FBI will continue to work with our partners to aggressively investigate and hold accountable criminals who use deception and dishonesty to steal money from innocent victims and businesses. Financial fraud is not a victimless crime.”
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations Division and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case with assistance from the Postal Inspection Service; Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms; Homeland Security Investigations; and Secret Service, as well as with assistance from numerous state and local agencies.
Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph Lubben, Kristin Herrera, and Kyle Essley (former) prosecuted the case.
Waterloo Man Sentenced to 168 Months in Federal Prison for Attempted Enticement of a Minor ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Waterloo man was sentenced to 168 months in federal prison for Attempted Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Illicit Sexual Activities.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, in October 2023, Gabriel Keith Usher, 47, began messaging over the internet with an undercover officer posing as a 15-year-old minor. Within days, Usher professed his love for the minor and suggested sexual acts they could engage in. When Usher arrived at a designated location to meet with the minor, law enforcement seized his cell phone. In October 2024, Usher was sentenced in Black Hawk County, Iowa to 5 years in state prison on unrelated state charges of enticing a minor under age 16, and sexual exploitation of a minor.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Usher will be required to serve a ten-year term of supervised release. Usher was also ordered to register. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa. This case was investigated by the Iowa City Police Department.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc. For information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the resources tab.
Des Moines Man Sentenced to 262 Months in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Des Moines man and reported member of the Black P Stones criminal street gang was sentenced on August 27, 2025, to 262 months in federal prison for his participation in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.
According to public court documents, in the spring of 2024, law enforcement learned that Kevin Stanley Harris, Jr., 44, was a high-level fentanyl dealer operating in Des Moines. Following a seven-month investigation, law enforcement confirmed that Harris traveled to and from Chicago, Illinois, to obtain large quantities of fentanyl for redistribution in Des Moines and had multiple co-conspirators working with and for him to distribute fentanyl on a daily or near daily basis. Harris was arrested on December 18, 2024, the same day thirteen federal search warrants were executed, which resulted in the seizure of approximately 610 grams of heroin/fentanyl mixture, approximately 135 grams of methamphetamine, approximately 260 grams of marijuana, as well as 19 firearms and more than $13,000 in U.S. currency amongst the residences. Harris was sentenced under the United States Sentencing Guidelines as a career offender and has an extensive criminal history that includes possession of weapons and multiple drug-related convictions, including a prior federal conviction out of the Northern District of Iowa, as well as convictions involving cocaine and THC.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Harris will be required to serve an eight-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Des Moines Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and United States Postal Inspection Service.
Des Moines Police Department Chief Michael McTaggart said the following of the investigation and sentence: “The Des Moines Police Department is grateful for the strong partnership with our federal agencies, whose collaboration has been essential in our ongoing efforts to protect our community from the devastating effects of the illegal distribution of fentanyl. Justice for families impacted, and the prevention of tragedies yet to happen, comes from the joint efforts of the men and women who work together to intervene in the trafficking of this deadly drug.”
“Through our joint enforcement efforts, we’ve dismantled a criminal organization that posed a direct threat to the safety and stability of various communities,” said Bryan Musgrove, Inspector in Charge of the Denver Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. “This sentencing is a result of a coordinated effort of our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to keep heroin and other drugs out of our communities.”
“Fentanyl is an exceptionally destructive drug that wreaks havoc on our communities. We will continue partnering aggressively with our law enforcement partners to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations operating in Iowa. The sentencing of Kevin Stanley Harris, Jr., is one important step in our continuing fight to keep fentanyl out of our neighborhoods” said FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel.
Harris’s co-defendants are scheduled to be sentenced as follows: Adonis Devora, 44, of Des Moines, on September 22, 2025; Devonte Hassell, 29, of Houston, Texas, on September 30, 2025; Ricky Ellis, 30, of Des Moines, on October 1, 2025; Ryan Redmond, 31, of Chicago, Illinois, on October 20, 2025; and Terrell Harris, 41, of Chicago, Illinois, on December 2, 2025.
Fentanyl is the leading cause of drug overdose deaths in the United States. Fentanyl deaths for youth ages 15 to 24 more than doubled between 2018 and 2022. Counterfeit, fentanyl-laced pills often resemble pharmaceutical pills, but contain potentially lethal doses of fentanyl. Visit the Drug Enforcement Administration’s website to learn more about One Pill Can Kill.
Iowa City Man Sentenced to 108 Months in Federal Prison for Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – An Iowa City man was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, in January 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the home of Janard Fitzgerald Goins, 34, and found methamphetamine, crack, and marijuana, $5,877 dollars, and a Glock 17 9mm handgun. Goins’ phone contained several photographs showing his possession of the Glock 17 handgun, along with other evidence of drug trafficking. Goins has a prior felony conviction from Illinois.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Goins will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by Iowa City Police Department.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Des Moines Woman Sentenced to 192 Months in Federal Prison for Distributing Fentanyl Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Des Moines woman was sentenced on August 28, 2025, to 192 months in federal prison for distribution of fentanyl resulting in death.
According to public court documents, on January 6, 2024, the Des Moines Police Department responded to the overdose death of a Des Moines man. Ashley Lynn Andrews, 38, was identified as the dealer of the fentanyl that killed the man. Thereafter, law enforcement conducted several controlled buys of fentanyl from Andrews. On April 12, 2024, Andrews was found slumped over the wheel of her vehicle at a gas station in possession of 36 grams of fentanyl, a distribution quantity.
After completing her term of imprisonment, Andrews will be required to serve a four-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Andrews was also ordered to pay $20,150 in restitution.
In March 2025, co-defendant Earl Sandeleo Galtney, 44, of Cedar Rapids, was sentenced to 142 months in federal prison, and co-defendant Shannon D. Robertson, 44, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced to 125 months in federal prison.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Des Moines Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Central Iowa Gang Task Force.
Fentanyl has become the leading cause of drug overdose deaths in the United States. Counterfeit, fentanyl-laced pills often resemble pharmaceutical pills, but contain potentially lethal doses of fentanyl. In 2023, accidental overdose was the number one cause of death in 37 states for residents under 40 years old. https://stateline.org/2023/09/05/death-rates-for-people-under-40-have-skyrocketed-blame-fentanyl/. In Iowa, opioid-related deaths reached a record high 258 in 2021, up 64% compared with 2019, and decreased 8% in 2022. https://hhs.iowa.gov/media/11935/download.
Iowa City Man Sentenced to 132 Months in Federal Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – An Iowa City man was sentenced to 132 months in federal prison for Receipt of Child Pornography.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Heath Ashley Harmon, 49, received, uploaded, and distributed files containing child sexual abuse material. During an online investigation into the BitTorrent network, law enforcement discovered Harmon was distributing child pornography content over the internet from August 2023 through January 2024. During a search warrant at Harmon's Iowa City residence, law enforcement seized several electronic devices. A forensic examination showed Harmon stored child pornography on seven devices, including a laptop, two phones, SD cards, and other storage devices.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Harmon will be required to serve an eight-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Harmon was also ordered to pay $35,000 in restitution.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa. This case was investigated by Johnson County Joint Forensic Analysis Cyber Team.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Chicago Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal Prison for Escape from CustodyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Chicago man was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for Escape from Custody.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Terrance Martice Miller, 38, absented himself from a Residential Reentry Center (RRC) where he was ordered to reside after a supervised release violation. Miller left the facility and did not return. In May 2024, while on escape status from the RRC, Miller strangled an adult female victim until she could not breathe. Following a criminal charge due to the assault, Miller called the victim over 80 times attempting to her get her to drop the criminal charges.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to 180 Months in Federal Prison for Receipt of Child Pornography and Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Council Bluffs man was sentenced July 24, 2025, to 180 months in federal prison for receipt of child pornography and possession of a firearm as felon.
According to public court documents, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a CyberTip that an account, later determined to be associated with David Michael Morse, 55, received and uploaded an image containing child sexual abuse material. During a search of Morse’s Council Bluffs residence, law enforcement seized Morse’s electronics, including a cellular phone, and firearms. A forensic examination of Morse’s phone showed that Morse used the device to receive images and videos containing child sexual abuse material.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Morse will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Morse was also ordered to pay $9,000 in restitution.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Iowa Department of Public Safety – Cyber Crime Bureau; Council Bluffs Police Department; Iowa State Patrol; the Federal Bureau of Investigation-Child Exploitation Task Force; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Task Force.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to 42 Months in Federal Prison for Possession of Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Council Bluffs man was sentenced on August 21, 2025, to 42 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm as a felon.
According to public court documents, on October 28, 2024, Ronald Lee Behee, Jr., 51, a convicted felon and drug user, took a loaded pistol to work at Tyson’s Foods. After receiving a tip, law enforcement located a loaded Ruger, LCP, .380 caliber, pistol, with an obliterated and unreadable serial number in Behee’s locker. Behee was also found in possession of approximately 8 grams of methamphetamine and 4.4 grams of marijuana. Behee’s criminal history includes theft-related, controlled substance and domestic violence convictions.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Behee will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Behee was also ordered to forfeit the firearm and pay a $100 special assessment.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Council Bluffs Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated this case.
FBI Provides Website for Potential Victims of Former Gymnastics Coach Arrested on Federal Sexual Exploitation of Children ChargeRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – The Federal Bureau of Investigation is seeking to identify any potential victims of former gymnastics coach, Sean Michael Gardner. If you and/or your minor dependent(s) were victimized or you know of someone victimized by Sean Michael Gardner, you may contact the FBI by following the link below:
https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/victim-services/seeking-victim-information/seeking-victim-information-in-sean-michael-gardner-investigation
According to allegations in the criminal complaint filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi, between December 2017 and April 2018, Sean Michael Gardner, now 38, placed a hidden camera in a bathroom at a gymnastics studio in Purvis, Mississippi, where he was then working as a gymnastics coach. Gardner created multiple videos depicting numerous minors in stages of undress in that bathroom including close-up views of their anuses and genitals. Gardner moved from Mississippi to Iowa in 2018 to coach at a gym in West Des Moines, Iowa. West Des Moines Police searched Gardner’s apartment in late May 2025. Forensic examination of electronic devices seized from Gardner’s West Des Moines apartment uncovered the hidden camera recordings taken in the Mississippi gym bathroom.
Gardner will remain detained in federal custody pending further proceedings in the Southern District of Mississippi.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation-Child Exploitation Task Force, Federal Bureau of Investigation-Jackson, Mississippi Division, Iowa Department of Public Safety-Division of Criminal Investigation-Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and West Des Moines Police Department are investigating this case.
Earling Man Sentenced to Four Months in Federal Prison for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – An Earling, Iowa, man was sentenced on August 15, 2025, to four months in federal prison for wire fraud.
According to public court documents, from September 2021 to October 2022, Mitch William Gross, 34, defrauded his employer, Ruan Transportation Corporation, by using business-related credit cards for personal purchases, including prepaid gift cards, Pokemon cards, and gaming items. Gross submitted falsified receipts and mischaracterized fraudulent charges on his expense reports so that the purchases appeared as legitimate business expenses. His fraudulent purchases totaled over $140,000.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Gross will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Gross was also ordered to pay $146,590.15 in restitution.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Des Moines Police Department.
Marshalltown Woman Sentenced to Six Months in Federal Prison for Drug Diversion and False Statements in Medical RecordsRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Marshalltown woman was sentenced to six months in prison on August 14, 2025, for diverting controlled substances for her own use and falsely noting the administration of controlled substances in patient records.
According to public court documents, Amanda Nicole Manatt, 37, was employed as a registered nurse in the emergency room at Unity Point Marshalltown Hospital, Marshalltown, Iowa, where in 2023 she diverted controlled substances (fentanyl, hydromorphone, and morphine). She obtained controlled substances in patients’ names, documented them as administered to the patients, and then took them for her own use. In December 2023, Manatt’s employment ended at Unity Point Marshalltown Hospital. In January 2024, Manatt obtained employment as a nurse at the emergency room at Mary Greely Medical Center, where she again obtained controlled substances (hydromorphone) in patients’ names, recorded them as administered to the patients, and then took them for her own use until her employment ended in April 2024.
Court records reflect that in some cases patients experienced pain due to Manatt’s taking the controlled substances prescribed for them. In other cases, Manatt took controlled substances from patients in excess of what they needed. Manatt’s false statements in the medical records resulted in billing health care benefit programs for controlled substances not actually administered.
After completing her term of imprisonment, Manatt will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Manatt was also ordered to pay $5,258.20 in restitution, a $5,500 fine, and a $300 special assessment.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU), the Tama County Sheriff’s Office, and the Iowa Insurance Fraud Bureau investigated this case.
Honduran Man Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Honduran citizen was sentenced on August 8, 2025, to 18 months in federal prison for illegally returning to the United States after being deported.
According to public court documents, Mario Fernando Padilla Barahona, 28, had previously been deported from the United States once in 2020. In September 2024, law enforcement encountered Padilla Barahona when he was arrested for operating while intoxicated after he drove on the wrong side of the road, lost control of his vehicle, and crashed into a utility pole. Prior to his 2020 removal, Padilla Barahona was convicted of online solicitation of a minor in the Texas District Court for Montgomery County.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Padilla Barahona will be required to serve a two-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Texas Man Sentenced to 24 Months in Federal Prison for Threat OffenseRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A San Antonio, Texas man was sentenced August 7, 2025, to 24 months in federal prison for interstate transmission of threats.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Stephen Brody Crain, 30, sent threats by various means for approximately eight months to two Iowa victims and their family members. One victim sent more than $4000 to Crain. Crain also made false abuse reports to the Iowa Department of Human Services and sent pizza to the victim’s residences. Even after Crain was arrested, he sent letters to one of the victims and the victim’s family members.
Crain was previously convicted of stalking in Texas District Court for Smith County. As part of that offense, Crain similarly sent threatening messages, sent pizza, and called child services to falsely report abuse. Crain was paroled in November 2023, just two months before the threats to the Iowa victims began.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Crain will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Crain was also ordered to pay $4,117 in restitution.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations.
Coralville Man Sentenced to 144 Months in Federal Prison for Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Coralville man was sentenced to 144 months in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute 40 Grams or More of a Mixture and Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Fentanyl and Carrying a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Crime.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Jacky Michael Mabikulu, 35, possessed a loaded handgun and 397 fentanyl pills designed to look like prescription medication. In 2022 and 2024, Mabikulu was convicted in the Iowa District Court for Johnson County for possessing firearms as a felon.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Mabikulu will be required to serve a four-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Johnson County Drug Task Force, which was comprised of and/or assisted by members of the Iowa City Police Department, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement (DNE), University of Iowa Police Department, Coralville Police Department, Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, and the North Liberty Police Department.
Counterfeit, fentanyl-laced pills often resemble pharmaceutical pills, but contain potentially lethal doses of fentanyl. Just two milligrams of fentanyl is considered a potentially fatal dose. Fentanyl is the deadliest drug threat the United States has ever faced, killing 48,422 Americans in 2024. Visit the Drug Enforcement Administration’s website to learn more about One Pill Can Kill.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Omaha Man Sentenced to 72 Months in Federal Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – An Omaha man was sentenced on August 6, 2025, to 72 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Rafael Rashad Adams, 41, in September of 2024, was found by Council Bluffs’ police officers passed out in the driver’s seat of a vehicle with front-end damage near South Expressway and 30th Avenue in Council Bluffs. A search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of approximately 31.5 grams of marijuana, scales, drug packaging material, and a stolen, loaded nine-millimeter pistol and a loaded 15-round magazine. Adams’ criminal history includes convictions for drug possession and distribution, unlawful possession of a firearm, and driving under the influence.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Adams will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Council Bluffs Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Fairfield Man Sentenced for Prescription Drug DiversionRead the Press Release
Des Moines, Iowa – A Fairfield man was sentenced on July 28, 2025, to four years of probation for stealing thousands of prescription pills from a pharmacy that he owned and operated.
According to public court documents, Bryan Paul Vander Linden, 43, admitted that from June 2022 to at least November 2023, he obtained prescription pills from Summit Pharmacy of Iowa for his own use. To obtain the pills, Vander Linden would order and not report the pills in the pharmacy’s inventory, take from the pharmacy stock, or take pills from the controlled substance collection bin. In total, Vander Linden obtained more than 3,500 oxycodone and hydrocodone pills, Schedule II controlled substances, and more than 400 carisoprodol pills, a Schedule IV muscle relaxant.
Vander Linden was ordered to pay a $9,500 fine.
“Pharmacists are entrusted with the handling of controlled substances and ensuring that laws are followed in their handling,” DEA Omaha Division Acting Special Agent in Charge Rafael Mattei said. “This Iowa pharmacist broke that trust by diverting controlled substances for his own use. I commend the DEA Diversion Investigators whose work uncovered the diversion of controlled substances in this case and who work diligently to ensure that pharmacies follow the law and maintain a safe and secure environment.”
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa and Drug Enforcement Administration made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Muscatine Men Sentenced to Federal Prison Related to Events Surrounding Officer Involved ShootingRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Two Muscatine men were sentenced on July 22, 2025, to federal prison for drug and gun crimes, related to an officer involved shooting in Muscatine on May 29, 2024.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, on May 29, 2024, Juan Aldo Beltran Delgado, 34, and Isidro Barajas, Jr., 30, drove to a residence in Muscatine, Iowa, to await the delivery of a package they expected to contain more than 4.5 pounds of methamphetamine. Law enforcement observed Beltran Delgado and Barajas pick up the package from the residence and attempted to stop their vehicle. Beltran Delgado was driving the vehicle and drove over 100 miles per hour through Muscatine, drove through multiple red lights, attempting to evade law enforcement. Ultimately, Beltran Delgado crashed into two other vehicles near Highway 61 and Cedar Street. After crashing, both Beltran Delgado and Barajas fled from the car on foot carrying firearms. Officers arrived in the area and Beltran Delgado shot at officers. Officers were able to take both Beltran and Delgado and Barajas into custody.
Beltran Delgado was sentenced to 35 years in federal prison, followed by a five-year term of supervised release, following his plea to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and carrying and discharging a firearm during an in relation to his drug trafficking. Barajas was sentenced to 32 years in federal prison, followed by a ten-year term of supervised release, following his plea to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, carrying and displaying a firearm during an in relation to his drug trafficking, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Muscatine County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa Department of Public Safety, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations, Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Muscatine Police Department, Cedar County Sheriff’s Office, Muscatine County Drug Task Force, Johnson County Drug Taskforce, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Keokuk Men Sentenced to 240 Months in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute 50 Grams or More of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Two Keokuk men were sentenced to federal prison for Conspiracy to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at trial, between at least April and July 2024, Ronald Dickey Mason, 75, and Ronald Kieth Mason, 43, father and son, conspired to sell large amounts of methamphetamine in Keokuk, Burlington, Riverside, Des Moines, and Cedar Rapids. In July 2024, law enforcement located 28 pounds of methamphetamine in the trunk and a pistol in the center console of Ronald Dickey Mason’s car.
In February of 2025 Ronald Kieth Mason plead guilty as charged and Ronald Dickey Mason plead guilty to conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. In March 2025, a jury convicted Ronald Dickey Mason of carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. On July 22, 2025, the Court sentenced him to 22 years in federal prison, followed by a five-year term of supervised release.
Ronald Keith Mason was sentenced on June 25, 2025, to 20 years in federal prison, followed by a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by Lee County Narcotics Task Force, the Iowa Department of Public Safety’s Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Keokuk Police Department.
Des Moines Man Sentenced to 220 Months in Federal Prison for Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Des Moines man was sentenced on July 17, 2025, to 220 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, in the fall of 2024, Sean Michael O’Boyle, 34, was selling and receiving distribution-quantities of fentanyl. On September 30, 2024, law enforcement approached O’Boyle’s car, and he fled. O’Boyle hit a police vehicle, crashed into a tree, and then continued to run on foot. During the foot pursuit, O’Boyle threw a stolen, loaded firearm into a yard. In the car O’Boyle drove, police found a distribution quantity of fentanyl and another firearm.
At the sentencing hearing, O’Boyle was found responsible for 315 grams of fentanyl and found to have recklessly created a substantial risk of injury during his flight from law enforcement. After completing his term of imprisonment, O’Boyle will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Fentanyl has become the leading cause of drug overdose deaths in the United States. Fentanyl deaths for youth ages 15 to 24 more than doubled between 2018 and 2022. Counterfeit, fentanyl-laced pills often resemble pharmaceutical pills, but contain potentially lethal doses of fentanyl. Visit the Drug Enforcement Administration’s website to learn more about One Pill Can Kill
Two Des Moines Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – Two Des Moines men were sentenced on July 11, 2025, to federal prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, in the summer of 2023, Ajang Malou Wour, 43, began trafficking fentanyl pills, shortly after he was discharged from a term of federal supervised release. By September 2024, Wour began bringing trafficking fentanyl powder. Within an 18-month period, Wour obtained and distributed over 60,000 fentanyl pills and 40 ounces of fentanyl powder. Omar Mohamed Nurani, 22, received fentanyl pills from Wour frequently and sold the pills to other distributors and customers.
In June 2024, Wour sold Nurani fentanyl pills, which Nurani then to a customer. The victim used the pills, overdosed, and died. After the victim’s death, Wour and Nurani continued to sell fentanyl pills and fentanyl powder. Nurani obtained and distributed over 2,000 fentanyl pills and eight ounces of fentanyl powder.
Wour was sentenced to 144 months in prison, followed by a five-year term of supervised release. Nurani was sentenced to 120 months in prison, followed by a four-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Des Moines Police Department, with assistance from the Ankeny Police Department and the Mid-Iowa Drug Enforcement Task Force.
Fentanyl has become the leading cause of drug overdose deaths in the United States. Fentanyl deaths for youth ages 15 to 24 more than doubled between 2018 and 2022. Counterfeit, fentanyl-laced pills often resemble pharmaceutical pills, but contain potentially lethal doses of fentanyl. Visit the Drug Enforcement Administration’s website to learn more about One Pill Can Kill.
Iowa City Man Sentenced to 120 Months in Federal Prison for Firearm and Ammunition ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – An Iowa City man was sentenced on June 26, 2025, to 120 in federal prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a felon.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, O’Sean Dentale Horton, 29, possessed two loaded pistols, a distribution quantity of marijuana, and drug paraphernalia in December 2020, within two backpacks found at Horton’s sister’s residence. In May 2023, Horton was witnessed on surveillance video shooting at another person multiple times in an apartment complex parking lot in Coralville and left behind .40 caliber shell casings. Horton was on probation in the Iowa District Court for Johnson County for failure to affix a drug tax stamp at the time he committed these offenses.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Horton will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Iowa City Police Department, University of Iowa Police Department, Johnson County Drug Task Force, Johnson County Special Emergency Response Team, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Blue Grass Man Sentenced to 216 Months in Federal Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Blue Grass man was sentenced on June 26, 2025, to 216 months in federal prison for producing child pornography.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received CyberTips that an account, later determined to be associated with Christian Brew Allen, 58, received, uploaded, and distributed files containing child sexual abuse material. Law enforcement seized electronic devices during a search of Allen’s Blue Grass residence. A forensic examination of the seized electronic devices showed that Allen used the devices to receive, upload, and distribute more than 2000 images and 175 videos containing child sexual abuse material. The investigation revealed that Allen produced and saved several videos of a minor victim.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Allen will be required to serve an eight-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Allen was also ordered to pay $97,000 in restitution.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by Scott County Sheriff’s Office.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Oxford Man Sentenced to 156 Months in Federal Prison for Attempted Enticement of a Minor and Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – An Oxford man was sentenced on June 25, 2025, to 156 months in federal prison for Attempted Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Illicit Sexual Activities and Receipt of Child Pornography.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Eric Gene Rundle, 44, communicated with an undercover law enforcement officer who was posing as a fifteen-year-old girl. Rundle made plans to meet with the fifteen-year-old to engage in sex acts and was arrested at the meeting location. Rundle had a cell phone with him which was searched. Rundle used the device to receive, view, and possess images and videos containing child sexual abuse material.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Rundle will be required to serve a seven-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Iowa City Police Department.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Polk County Man Sentenced to 48 Months in Federal Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Polk County man was sentenced on June 11, 2025, to 48 months in federal prison for the possession of child pornography.
According to public court documents, law enforcement seized electronic devices belonging to Andrew Charles Nygaard, 45, when law enforcement searched his Granger residence in September 2022. A forensic examination of Nygaard’s devices showed that Nygaard knowingly and intentionally downloaded files containing child sexual abuse material from the internet from at least September 2018 through June 2022.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Nygaard will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Nygaard was also ordered to pay $25,000 in restitution.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Iowa Department of Public Safety-Division of Criminal Investigation-Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation-Child Exploitation Task Force and Granger Police Department.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Burlington Man Sentenced to 17 Years in Federal Prison for Meth ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Burlington man was sentenced yesterday to 17 years in federal prison for distribution of methamphetamine.
According to public court documents, Larry Leroy Knotts, Jr., 61, sold approximately 125 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential source between November and December 2023. At the time of the controlled purchases, Knotts was on federal supervised release for a conviction from the Central District of Illinois for conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Knotts will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Southeast Iowa Narcotics Task Force (SEINT) and the Burlington Police Department.
Illinois Woman Sentenced for Prescription Drug DiversionRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Colona, Illinois woman was sentenced today for diverting prescription drugs from nursing and senior living facilities where she was employed as an administrator.
According to public court documents, Cassandra Marie Strube, 40, obtained prescription pills from at least five healthcare facilities between at least September 2021 and November 2022. Strube obtained fentanyl patches, hydrocodone, morphine, and oxycodone by stealing them from the facility’s narcotics emergency kits and locked medication carts and rooms.
Strube received a three-year term of probation. Strube was also ordered to pay $1,975.61 in restitution, a fine of $5000, and a $200 special assessment.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing – Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (DIAL/MFCU) investigated this case.
Davenport Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Meth Conspiracy ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced yesterday to 20 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
According to public court documents, Jason Douglas Ringold, 26, while on parole through the State of Iowa, was responsible for the distribution of more than ten pounds of methamphetamine and illegally possessing and selling firearms. Ringold conspired to distribute methamphetamine in the Quad Cities with co-conspirators, Rosston Tate, 40, and Kyle Ogden Antle, 23, both Quad Cities residents.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Ringold will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
In December 2024, Tate received a 20-year sentence, followed by a five-year term of supervised release. In March 2025, Antle also received a 20-year prison sentence and a five-year term of supervised release.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Davenport Police Department, Iowa Department of Public Safety—Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Rock Island Police Department, Scott County Sheriff’s Office, and Bettendorf Police Department.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
United States Attorney’s Office Recognizes Police Week 2025Read the Press Release
National Police Week Honors the Service and Sacrifice of Law Enforcement
“Honoring Our Fallen, Supporting Our Survivors”In honor of National Police Week 2025 scheduled for May 11 to May 17, United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal for the Southern District of Iowa recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and local law enforcement. U.S. Attorney Westphal said “This week we take time to pause and express our gratitude and thanks to the unwavering commitment, courage and sacrifice of law enforcement officers in protecting and serving our communities in Iowa. Not only for those who have given the ultimate sacrifice, but those who bravely set out to public serve each day. Every hour of every day, federal, state and local law enforcement officers place the safety of our communities above their own, and their dedication to this duty is one of the main reasons Iowa is such a safe place to live. We stand together in honoring the brave men and women who have died in the line of duty, and supporting the survivors, their families, and fellow officers here in Iowa and across the nation.”
According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, 147 federal, state, tribal and local law enforcement officers died in the line of duty in 2024.
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Iowa City Man Sentenced to 200 Months in Federal Prison for Receipt and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – An Iowa City man was sentenced yesterday to 200 months in federal prison for receiving child pornography and distribution of child pornography.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Evan Robert Steinberg, 26, received and distributed files containing child sexual abuse material. In December 2021, local law enforcement seized electronic devices during a search of Steinberg’s Iowa City residence. A forensic examination of the seized electronic devices showed that Steinberg used the devices to solicit, receive, and distribute images and videos containing child sexual abuse material. Defendant’s five devices contained hundreds of images and videos of child pornography, including prepubescent males, as young as under 1 year old, engaging in sex acts with adults.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Steinberg will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Steinberg was also ordered to pay $8,000 in assessments.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the University of Iowa Police Department and the Joint Forensic Analysis Cyber Team.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Illinois Woman Sentenced to Six Years in Federal Prison for Murder-for-HireRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Coal Valley, Illinois woman was sentenced today to 72 months in federal prison for using interstate facilities in a murder-for-hire.
According to public court documents, in late 2023, Autumn Jeanine Carianna Markley, 30, attempted to facilitate a murder-for-hire by wiring money through a financial services application, specifically Western Union. Markley, from her residence in Colorado, contacted a confidential source who was located in the Southern District of Iowa. In the communication, Markley made numerous statements that she would pay for someone to murder one of her relatives. Markley went so far as to give the confidential source a target name, address, and downpayment for the murder-for-hire.
After completing her term of imprisonment, Markley will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Scott County Sheriff’s Office.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Honduran Man Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Honduran man was sentenced yesterday to 18 months in federal prison for illegally returning to the United States after being deported.
According to public court documents, Kristian Alexander Hernandez Aguilar, 29, had previously been deported from the United States five times. On July 18, 2024, law enforcement encountered Hernandez Aguilar. In September 2024, Hernandez Aguilar was convicted in the Iowa District Court for Scott County of operating while under the influence.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Hernandez Aguilar will be required to serve a one-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Davenport Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced yesterday to 15 years in federal prison for receipt and distribution of child pornography.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, law enforcement received a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in January 2023 that Benjamin Riley Blankenship, 22, had uploaded images and videos containing child sexual abuse material to a Snapchat account registered to Blankenship. A search warrant was executed on Blankenship’s residence. Law enforcement seized multiple electronic devices. The devices had all previously logged into the Snapchat account that uploaded child sexual abuse material.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Blankenship will be required to serve an eight-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Blankenship was also ordered to pay $3,000 in restitution.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Scott County Sheriff’s Office and the Davenport Police Department.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Muscatine Woman Sentenced to 45 Years in Federal Prison for Production and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa –A Muscatine woman was sentenced today to 45 years in federal prison for producing and possessing child pornography.
According to public court documents, Jessica Rochelle Peters, 37, produced seven videos and three photos containing child sexual abuse material in July 2021, including videos of Peters sexually abusing a minor victim. Peters sent the videos and photos to a man in Indiana, who sent Peters money. The Indiana man was charged with felony child endangerment and possession of child pornography. The charges were dismissed following the man’s death.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Peters will be required to serve a 10-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation-Child Exploitation Task Force.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Muscatine Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Federal Prison for Production and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Muscatine man was sentenced yesterday to 27 years in federal prison for production and possession of child pornography.
According to public court documents, law enforcement received CyberTips that an account, later determined to be associated with Calvin Shawn Carter, 29, contained files with child sexual abuse material. Law enforcement seized electronic devices during a search of Carter’s residence. The seized electronic devices had videos and images containing child sexual abuse material that Carter produced of a minor victim between 2021 and 2023. Carter’s phone also contained additional images and videos of child sexual abuse material of minor males.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Carter will be required to serve a ten-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Iowa Department of Public Safety-Division of Criminal Investigation-Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Fentanyl ConspiracyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Two men were sentenced to federal prison yesterday for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.
According to public court documents, between 2022 and 2023, Zachariah Terrell Ross, 27, of Davenport, and co-defendant, Cristian Inostros-Aquino, 29, of Los Angeles, California, conspired to distribute thousands of fentanyl pills in the Quad Cities area. In furtherance of their conspiracy, Inostros-Aquino shipped numerous packages containing controlled substances, including thousands of fentanyl pills, from California to Ross, in Iowa. Law enforcement searched Ross’s residence and located two loaded firearms. Text message evidence showed Ross discussed purchasing a firearm from Inostros-Aquino. Inostros-Aquino was also found in possession of a firearm in May 2022.
On May 6, 2025, Ross received a 108-month prison sentence, followed by a four-year term of supervised release. Inostros-Aquino was sentenced to 80 months in federal prison, followed by a four-year term of supervised release.
There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Bettendorf Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, and the Davenport Police Department.
Fentanyl is the leading cause of drug overdose deaths in the United States. Fentanyl deaths for youth ages 15 to 24 more than doubled between 2018 and 2022. Counterfeit, fentanyl-laced pills often resemble pharmaceutical pills, but contain potentially lethal doses of fentanyl. Visit the Drug Enforcement Administration’s website to learn more about the dangers of fentanyl and the One Pill Can Kill program.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore JusticeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.
“The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.”
“Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”
As part of this operation, the FBI Omaha Field Office, with the assistance of our local, state and federal law enforcement partners, arrested 3 people, served 4 federal search warrants, and identified 15 victims from approximately 1,000 images submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Yesterday, a federal grand jury in Davenport returned a two-count indictment charging Anthony Charles VanMeter, 55, of Davenport, with receipt and possession of child pornography. VanMeter is serving an eight-year term of supervised release for a 2016 possession of child pornography conviction. An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
“The harm child sexual predators inflict is vast. Locking them up is one of the most important actions the FBI and our law enforcement partners can take to protect children,” said FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel. “We are proud of the work of our Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force in Operation Restore Justice and will remain relentless in our pursuit of these criminals to ensure the safety of the most vulnerable members of our community.”
Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.
In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, New York.
This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education.
The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.
The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.
The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.
Other online resources:
- Violent Crimes Against Children
- How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids
Iowa Man Arrested on Federal Stalking ChargeRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Nevada, Iowa man made his initial appearance before a United States Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Iowa today.
According to allegations in the criminal complaint, between January and April 2025, Tanner Dean Bandy, 28, engaged in a pattern of threatening conduct against a former romantic partner through text messages and voicemails. Two days prior to his arrest, on April 17, 2025, Bandy left a voicemail message discussing his intention to conduct a mass shooting at an Iowa State University commencement ceremony. On April 17, 2025, law enforcement searched Bandy’s residence and vehicle and located two firearms and ammunition. Bandy will remain detained in federal custody pending further proceedings.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigations, Iowa State University Police Department, and Story County Sheriff’s Office are investigating this case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Las Vegas Woman Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Fentanyl DistributionRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Las Vegas, Nevada woman was sentenced today to five years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance containing fentanyl that led to an overdose death.
According to public court documents, in the fall of 2023, Alica Marie Hawkins, 34, was identified as a source of supply of fentanyl pills in the Southern District of Iowa. On September 11, 2023, Hawkins distributed a fentanyl mixture to the victim in Jefferson, Iowa. The victim died due to an overdose from the fentanyl mixture. Hawkins did not render aid to the victim, tried to conceal any involvement, and eventually returned to Nevada during the investigation.
After completing her term of imprisonment, Hawkins will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Jefferson Police Department and Des Moines Police Department.
Fentanyl has become the leading cause of drug overdose deaths in the United States. Counterfeit, fentanyl-laced pills often resemble pharmaceutical pills, but contain potentially lethal doses of fentanyl. In 2023, accidental overdose was the number one cause of death in 37 states for residents under 40 years old. https://stateline.org/2023/09/05/death-rates-for-people-under-40-have-skyrocketed-blame-fentanyl/. In Iowa, opioid-related deaths reached a record high 258 in 2021, up 64% compared with 2019, and decreased 8% in 2022. https://hhs.iowa.gov/media/11935/download.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison for Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Council Bluffs man was sentenced on April 15, 2025 to 46 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon.
According to public court documents, Rafael Partida, 47, attempted to elude law enforcement while armed with a loaded pistol. On May 19, 2024, an Iowa State Patrol Trooper attempted to stop Partida on his motorcycle. Partida eventually crashed the motorcycle, fled on foot, tossed his backpack, and was apprehended. In Partida’s backpack was a loaded handgun and 23 additional rounds of ammunition.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Partida will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Iowa Department of Public Safety—Division of Narcotics Enforcement and the Iowa State Patrol.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Three Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – Three men were sentenced to federal prison for their role in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.
According to public court documents, three men were involved in fentanyl distribution in the Des Moines metro throughout 2024: Chuol Peter Mai, 32, of Des Moines, Rickey Raymone Hayes, also known as “Dee,” of Des Moines, formerly of Detroit, and Keith Holliday, 35, of Detroit. In 2024, law enforcement purchased fentanyl pills from Mai using a confidential informant. Mai introduced the confidential informant to Hayes, Mai’s drug source of supply. Hayes directed Holliday to distribute the fentanyl pills to the confidential informant. In June 2024, Hayes’ vehicle and Des Moines residence were searched and law enforcement located more than $21,000 in cash in his vehicle, and a firearm and more than 200 grams of fentanyl at his residence.
Mai was sentenced on April 2, 2025 to 60 months in federal prison. After completing his term of imprisonment, Mai will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release.
Hayes was sentenced on March 28, 2025 to 150 months in federal prison, followed by a five-year term of supervised release.
Holliday was sentenced on April 17, 2025 to 60 months in federal prison, followed by a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Des Moines Police Department.
Omaha Man Sentenced to 37 Months in Federal Prison for Threating Multiple Federal Law Enforcement OfficersRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – An Omaha, Nebraska man was sentenced, March 11, 2025, to 37 months in federal prison for threatening a federal law enforcement officer.
According to public court documents, Larry Eugene Burns, 36, while on federal supervised release, left threatening voicemail message for his assigned United States Probation Officer. Once in custody, Burns threatened United States Marshal deputies, including using racial epithets.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Burns will be required to serve three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the United States Probation Office and United States Marshal’s Service.