Southern District of Iowa
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Nine Quad Cities Men Sentenced to Federal Prison in Violent RICO ConspiracyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Nine Quad Cities men, Don Christopher White, Jr., Raheem Jacques Houston, Deaguise Ramont Hall, Michael Linn Cross, Devell Carl Lewis, Lashawn D James Hensley, Simmeon Terrell Hall, Devante Atwell French, and Cortez Deangelo Cooper, Jr., were sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a racketeering conspiracy, which engaged in a years-long pattern of violence, including murder, attempted murder, and drug trafficking.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at trials and sentencings, these Fifth Street gang members, also known as the “Arsenal Courts Posse,” “Zone Fifth,” “Fifth Street Mafia,” “Rock Town Money Getters (RTMG),” and “Money Team,” were members and associates of a coordinated violent criminal enterprise based out of Rock Island, Illinois, but engaged in racketeering activity in Davenport and Rock Island, whose purpose was to distribute controlled substances, obtain money and shoot at rival gang members, specifically the 12th Street, Savage Life, and Boom Gang street gangs. Evidence at trial demonstrated the criminal enterprise was connected to dozens of shooting investigations and at least seven homicides over the course of two decades. Some of the activity connected to this enterprise included the following incidents:
- On August 6, 2006, Andrell Hearn was shot and killed in Rock Island.
- On August 19, 2006, White and other Fifth Street associates drove by an outdoor family gathering in Davenport where 12th Street members were present and discharged firearms into the group resulting in the death of Vincelina Howard.
- On August 6, 2011, a shooting outside the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds involving Fifth Street members and members of a rival Davenport group.
- On September 5, 2012, French and another Fifth Street associate fired shots at a rival gang member in Davenport.
- On March 31, 2013, several members of a rival Davenport gang were standing in front of the Chorus Line when Fifth Street member Demarko Williams walked into the parking lot and fired multiple shots at the group. In January 2014, Demarko Williams was sentenced to a 100-month federal prison sentence for possessing a firearm as a felon.
- On September 2, 2015, Fifth Street associate Juwan Johnson shot and killed Lewis Woodson, a rival gang member, in Davenport.
- On January 3, 2020, officers responded to a shots-fired incident in or near the Davenport parking lot of the Quad City Times building and seized a large number of casings that were later matched to firearms used by Fifth Street members.
- On May 23, 2020, a dispute over a dice game at a family gathering in Rock Island led to a shootout between Fifth Street associates and others, resulting in the death of Timon Mayfield.
- Between May 24 and 31, 2020, multiple shootings in the same Rock Island neighborhood where Mayfield was killed left seized casings that were later matched to firearms used by Fifth Street associates.
- On June 1, 2020, while the City of Davenport was experiencing civil unrest, this criminal enterprise participated in two shootings in Davenport in which they fired in excess of 60 shots and seriously injured two men.
- Specifically, on June 1, 2020, White, Lewis, Deaguise Hall, Cross, Hensley, and Cooper were present at Necker’s Jewelers to commit a burglary. While there, the group saw a man they had mistaken for a rival gang member. Cooper and others fired 33 rounds from four guns seriously injuring the victim.
- Just a few hours later, White, Houston, Deaguise Hall, Cross, Hensley, Lewis, and others were in a Davenport alley when a truck occupied by three Davenport police officers entered the alley. Immediately, four Fifth Street associates fired more than 30 rounds at the truck occupied by the officers. Evidence at trial showed Fifth Street members thought the truck was occupied by a rival group. One police officer was struck and injured by the gunfire. One of the officers returned fire. As a result of this exchange, Marquis Tousant died. White, Houston, Deaguise Hall, Cross, Hensley, and Lewis fled the alley shooting in a high-speed car chase through Davenport. They were eventually apprehended. Officers located seven firearms, a large amount of ammunition, large-capacity magazines, including a 50-round drum magazine, face masks, and gloves inside the vehicle. Three of these firearms were later matched to fired casings in the Davenport alley.
- On December 4, 2021, White and another Fifth Street associate shot at a victim in a vehicle on Middle Road in Davenport.
- On December 8, 2021, White and another Fifth Street associate were involved in a shooting near the Centennial Bride and River Drive in Davenport. They mistook two men in a vehicle for rivals.
- On February 25, 2022, White shot a man during a dispute in Moline, Illinois.
- On March 27, 2022, French shot a victim near the rear door of his residence on Locust Street in Davenport.
- On April 19, 2022, French shot a victim in the yard of a residence in retaliation for a prior shooting of a Fifth Street associate.
SENTENCES
On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, the following defendants were sentenced:
- Don Christopher White, Jr., 39, was sentenced to 40 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy, and two charges for felon in possession of a firearm, followed by a three-year term of supervised release. White was also ordered to pay $22,784.20 in restitution.
- Raheem Jacques Houston, 32, was sentenced to 30 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy and felon in possession of a firearm, followed by a three -year term of supervised release. Houston was also ordered to pay $16,012.52 in restitution.
- Deaguise Ramont Hall, 35, was sentenced to 33 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy and for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Hall was also ordered to pay $16,012.52 in restitution.
- Michael Linn Cross, 32, was sentenced to 18 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy, followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Cross was also ordered to pay $16,012.52 in restitution.
- LaShawn D. James Hensley, 32, was sentenced to 12 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy, followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Hensley was also ordered to pay $16,012.52 in restitution.
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The following defendants were sentenced on December 19, 2024:
- Devante Atwell French, 31, was sentenced to 30 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy and felon in possession of ammunition, followed by a three-year term of supervised release.
- Simmeon Terrell Hall, 36, was sentenced to 30 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, followed by a three-year term of supervised release.
- Devell Carl Lewis, 37, was sentenced to 18 1/2 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy, followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Lewis was also ordered to pay $16,012.52 in restitution.
- Cortez Deangelo Cooper, Jr., 31, was sentenced to 13 1/2 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy and felon in possession of ammunition, followed by a three-year term of supervised release.
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Previously, on July 11, 2024, Brandon Deshane Branigan, 34, was sentenced to 18 years of imprisonment for the same racketeering conspiracy, followed by a three-year term of supervised release.
There is no parole in the federal system.
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“Violent crime against our community and attacks on law enforcement will not be tolerated,” said Davenport Police Chief Jeffery Bladel. “These individuals demonstrated a blatant disregard for the safety of our Quad City community; especially in the case of the 2020 ambush and attempted murder of three of our officers. I’m proud of our department’s unwavering dedication to holding criminals accountable and protecting those who serve. My sincere thanks to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their steadfast commitment to justice.”
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Two defendants have pled guilty and are awaiting sentencing:
Ricky Lee Childs, Jr., 40, is scheduled to be sentenced on January 23, 2025, for racketeering conspiracy. As part of this investigation, he was also charged with felon in possession of a firearm and sentenced to 110 months of imprisonment in case number 3:22-cr-021. Childs faces a maximum sentence of 20 years of imprisonment.
Timothy Justin Beaver, 30, is scheduled to be sentenced on February 13, 2025, for racketeering conspiracy and for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Beaver faces a maximum sentence of 40 years of imprisonment.
A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the United States sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
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Two defendants are awaiting trial. Kylea Dapri Cartwright, Jr., 28, is charged with racketeering conspiracy and felon in possession of ammunition. One of the racketeering acts alleges that on July 5, 2020, Cartwright shot a victim. Rasheem Damonte Bogan, 33, is charged with racketeering conspiracy and felon in possession of a firearm. One of the racketeering acts alleges that on June 1, 2020, Bogan shot a victim. Both are scheduled for a jury trial beginning Monday, February 10, 2025. They each face a maximum of 30 years of imprisonment.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the Rock Island Police Department, with assistance from the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa Department of Public Safety-Division of Criminal Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Drug Enforcement Administration.
Marshalltown Man Sentenced to 17 Years in Federal Prison for Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Marshalltown man was sentenced on December 12, 2024 to 204 months in federal prison for possessing a distribution quantity of methamphetamine and carrying a firearm in relation to his drug trafficking.
According to public court documents, Anthony James Shearer, 39, was found in possession of more than 40 grams of methamphetamine during a traffic stop in February 2024. At the time, he has absconded from his parole for a 2020 state drug trafficking conviction. In a backpack inside the car, Shearer had two loaded firearms.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Shearer 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 Mid-Iowa Drug Task Force.
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 Individuals Charged in Joint State and Federal Investigation of Fentanyl Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A federal grand jury in Des Moines returned a three-count indictment charging five Des Moines individuals with offenses related to fentanyl trafficking.
The following individuals are charged in the Indictment:
· Devonte Darnell Hassell, also known as “Domo”, “Dom”, and “Rose”, 28, is charged with conspiracy to distribute and distribution of fentanyl. He faces a mandatory minimum 10-year prison sentence and a maximum sentence of life in prison.
· Ryan Redmond, also known as “Chiefy”, 31, is charged with conspiracy to distribute and distribution of fentanyl. He faces a mandatory minimum 5‑year prison sentence and a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison.
· Kevin Stanley Harris, Jr., also known as “Rylo” and “Big Hands”, 42, is charged with conspiracy to distribute and distribution of fentanyl. He faces a mandatory minimum 10-year prison sentence and a maximum sentence of life in prison, as he is alleged to have a prior serious drug felony conviction.
· Adonis Angel Devora, 43, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. She faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
· Ricky Jamall Ellis, 30, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. He faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison.
These individuals were all arrested on December 18, 2024: four in Des Moines, and one in Houston, Texas. 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.
The charges stem from a months’ long investigation into fentanyl distribution within the Des Moines area.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Des Moines Police Department, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and FBI Des Moines Central Iowa Gang Task Force (CIGTF) are investigating the case, with assistance from the Iowa Department of Public Safety-Division of Narcotics Enforcement (DNE), Iowa Department of Public Safety-Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center, Iowa State Patrol, Iowa State Patrol SWAT, United States Marshals Service, Ames Police Department, West Des Moines Police Department, Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force (MINE), Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Story County Sheriff’s Office, Mid-Iowa Drug Task Force (MIDTF), Central Iowa Drug Task Force (CIDTF), Suburban Emergency Response Team (SERT), Metro Special Tactics and Response (STAR), the Chicago, Illinois Police Department, and the Houston, Texas Police Department.
This investigation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Des Moines Individuals Charged in Joint State and Federal Investigation of Fentanyl Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A federal grand jury in Des Moines returned a three-count indictment charging five Des Moines individuals with offenses related to fentanyl trafficking.
The following individuals are charged in the Indictment:
- Devonte Darnell Hassell, also known as “Domo”, “Dom”, and “Rose”, 28, is charged with conspiracy to distribute and distribution of fentanyl. He faces a mandatory minimum 10-year prison sentence and a maximum sentence of life in prison.
- Ryan Redmond, also known as “Chiefy”, 31, is charged with conspiracy to distribute and distribution of fentanyl. He faces a mandatory minimum 5‑year prison sentence and a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison.
- Kevin Stanley Harris, Jr., also known as “Rylo” and “Big Hands”, 42, is charged with conspiracy to distribute and distribution of fentanyl. He faces a mandatory minimum 10-year prison sentence and a maximum sentence of life in prison, as he is alleged to have a prior serious drug felony conviction.
- Adonis Angel Devora, 43, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. She faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
- Ricky Jamall Ellis, 30, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. He faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison.
These individuals were all arrested on December 18, 2024: four in Des Moines, and one in Houston, Texas. 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.
The charges stem from a months’ long investigation into fentanyl distribution within the Des Moines area.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Des Moines Police Department, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and FBI Des Moines Central Iowa Gang Task Force (CIGTF) are investigating the case, with assistance from the Iowa Department of Public Safety-Division of Narcotics Enforcement (DNE), Iowa Department of Public Safety-Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center, Iowa State Patrol, Iowa State Patrol SWAT, United States Marshals Service, Ames Police Department, West Des Moines Police Department, Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force (MINE), Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Story County Sheriff’s Office, Mid-Iowa Drug Task Force (MIDTF), Central Iowa Drug Task Force (CIDTF), Suburban Emergency Response Team (SERT), Metro Special Tactics and Response (STAR), the Chicago, Illinois Police Department, and the Houston, Texas Police Department.
This investigation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Sioux City Man Sentenced to 106 Months in Federal Prison for Meth and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Sioux City man was sentenced yesterday to 106 months in federal prison for possessing a distribution quantity of methamphetamine and a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking.
According to public court documents, Rodney Lamard Hall, II, 31, was found in possession of a distribution quantity of pills containing approximately 37 grams of methamphetamine, marijuana, and a loaded nine-millimeter pistol with an extended magazine. At the time he committed this offense, he was on probation for possessing a firearm and marijuana in April 2023, with the Iowa District Court for Woodbury County.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Hall 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 Harrison County Sheriff’s Office and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement.
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.
Harlan Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Federal Prison for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Harlan man was sentenced on December 12, 2024, to 84 months in federal prison for receiving child pornography.
According to public court documents, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received a CyberTip that an account, later determined to be associated with Jesse Daniel Blaine, 42, received files containing child sexual abuse material. Law enforcement seized electronic devices during a search of Blaine’s Harlan residence. A forensic examination of the seized electronic devices showed that Blaine used his electronic devices to receive, view, and possess images and videos of child sexual abuse material, and to search for child sex stories.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Blaine will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Blaine was also ordered to pay $21,000 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 Criminal Investigation-Cybercrime Bureau, Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation-Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, and 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.
Federal Search Warrants ExecutedRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, federal search warrants were executed at the following locations in the Des Moines metropolitan area:
- 700 block of SE 6th Street, Des Moines;
- 4700 block of 64th Street, Urbandale;
- 5800 block of Urbandale Avenue, Des Moines;
- 600 block of Kenyon Avenue, Des Moines;
- 7300 block of SE 19th Street, Des Moines;
- 3000 block of East University Avenue, Des Moines;
- 200 East Edison Avenue, Des Moines;
- 7200 block of SE 5th Street, Des Moines;
- 800 block of Knob Hill Drive, Des Moines;
- 14000 block of Lakeview Drive, Clive;
- 1200 block of East 34 Street, Des Moines;
- 5200 block of Douglas Avenue, Des Moines;
- 3700 block of East Sheridan Avenue, Des Moines.
The searches at these locations were an official law enforcement action involving officers, agents, and investigators from Des Moines Police Department, United States Postal Inspection Service – Denver, San Francisco, Chicago, and Houston Divisions, FBI Omaha Field Office, FBI Des Moines Resident Agency, FBI Des Moines Central Iowa Gang Task Force (CIGTF), Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement (DNE), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Iowa State Patrol, Iowa Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center, Iowa State Patrol SWAT, United States Marshals Service, West Des Moines Police Department, Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Story County Sheriff’s Office, Pleasant Hill Police Department, Johnston Police Department, Altoona Police Department, Indianola Police Department, Ankeny Police Department, Clive Police Department, Dallas County Sheriff’s Office, Norwalk Police Department, Urbandale Police Department, Waukee Police Department, Mid-Iowa Drug Task Force, Central Iowa Drug Task Force, Suburban Emergency Response Team (SERT), and Metro Special Tactics and Response (STAR), with assistance from the Chicago, Illinois Police Department and Houston, Texas Police Department.
Sioux City Man Sentenced to 106 Months in Federal Prison for Meth and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Sioux City man was sentenced today to 106 months in federal prison for possessing a distribution quantity of methamphetamine and a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking.
According to public court documents, Rodney Lamard Hall, II, 31, was found in possession of a distribution quantity of pills containing approximately 37 grams of methamphetamine, marijuana, and a loaded nine-millimeter pistol with an extended magazine. At the time he committed this offense, he was on probation for possessing a firearm and marijuana in April 2023, with the Iowa District Court for Woodbury County.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Hall 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 Harrison County Sheriff’s Office and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement.
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.
Davenport Man Sentenced to 200 Months in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced to 200 months in federal prison today for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
According to public court documents, between June 2022 and February 2023, Eric Eugene Muhammad, 38, distributed methamphetamine in Davenport and Moline, including more than 100 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant. Muhammad has three prior drug convictions in Illinois Circuit Court for Knox County and was also on probation in Knox County for an aggravated battery charge at the time of his involvement in this drug distribution offense.
After his term of imprisonment, Muhammad 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Division of the Quad Cities SAFE Streets Task Force, Moline Police Department, and Davenport Police Department.
Davenport Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced today to 240 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
According to public court documents, between at least January 2024 and May 2024, Rosston Tate, 40, distributed more than ten pounds of methamphetamine in the Quad Cities area with Kyle Ogden Antle, 23, of Davenport, and Jason Douglas Ringold, 26, of Davenport. Tate used three-way jail phone calls to continue trafficking methamphetamine after Antle and Ringold were arrested. Tate actively recruited members to the conspiracy and directed others to deliver drugs. Tate also illegally possessed firearms, including during his drug trafficking. Tate committed this offense while he was on supervised release related to his most recent felony drug conviction for manufacture/delivery of heroin in the Wisconsin District Court for Milwaukee County. After completing his term of imprisonment, Tate will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
In November, Antle pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and carrying a firearm during and in relation to his drug trafficking. Antle’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for March 16, 2025. Yesterday, Ringold pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Ringold’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 15, 2025. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the United States sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Davenport Police Department, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Rock Island 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.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Council Bluffs man was sentenced today to 180 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to public court documents, in December 2023, law enforcement identified Dennis Earl Page, Jr., 56, as the driver of a truck that struck a parked vehicle in Council Bluffs. A search of Page’s person and truck resulted in the seizure of approximately 14 grams of methamphetamine, 32 grams of marijuana, a loaded pistol, ammunition, and cash. Page was convicted of methamphetamine delivery charges in January 2018 and again March 2018 in the Iowa District Court for Pottawattamie County, and was discharged from state parole in August 2022.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Page 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 Council Bluffs Police Department and Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force.
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.
Nebraska and Iowa Men Sentenced for Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – Two Nebraska men and two Iowa men were sentenced for conspiracy to provide false statements during the purchase of firearms.
According to public court documents, in late October 2022 through May 2023, Alfredo Rios, Jr., 28, a Nebraska resident, Christian Javier Rios Magana, 23, a Nebraska resident, Martin Velazquez Trujillo, 49, an Iowa resident, and Victor Alfonso Magana-Ahumada, 38, an Iowa resident, conspired to make false statements to federally licensed firearm dealers to fraudulently obtain firearms. As part of the conspiracy, the firearms purchasers falsely stated they were the actual transferee or buyer of the firearm. The fraudulently acquired firearms were illegally shipped to Mexico.
On Thursday, December 12, 2024, Magana-Ahumada was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison. After completing his term of imprisonment, Magana-Ahumada will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release.
On June 5, 2024, co-conspirators Alfredo Rios, Jr., Rios Magana, and Velazquez Trujillo each received five months’ terms of probation.
“The purchase of a firearm intended for someone else, is straw purchasing and it is illegal,” said Bernard G. Hansen, ATF Special Agent in Charge, Kansas City Field Division. “Doing so circumvents background checks and record keeping requirements that are intended to keep the public safe and impede access to firearms by prohibited and often violent criminals. Firearms trafficking is not a victimless crime; it is illegal and puts firearms in the hands of said prohibited and violent criminals. These investigations are a priority for ATF in our mission of reducing violent gun crime.”
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
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.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to 120 Months in Federal Prison for Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Council Bluffs man was sentenced yesterday to 120 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to public court documents, Kyle Robert Smith, 31, was found in possession of a distribution quantity of methamphetamine in April 2024. After his arrest, Smith directed a co-conspirator to retrieve two pounds of methamphetamine and sell it. In March 2024, Smith was found in possession a loaded handgun. Smith is prohibited from possessing firearms because of a prior domestic violence conviction.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Smith 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 Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Council Bluffs 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.
Adair Man Sentenced to 24 Months in Federal Prison for Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – An Adair man was sentenced today to 24 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Act.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, in December 2022, Randy Scott Shuey, 43, was found in possession of a silencer attached to a rifle, which also had a high-capacity magazine. In January 2023, law enforcement located a second silencer at Shuey’s residence. Shuey did not register the silencers with the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record as required by federal law.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Shuey 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 Adair Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
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 12 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Des Moines woman was sentenced on November 15, 2024 to 12 years in federal prison for distribution of a pill containing fentanyl that resulted in a victim’s death.
According to public court documents, Nevaeh Simone Botts, 21, sold pills containing fentanyl to a 16-year-old victim who subsequently overdosed and died. Botts also sold fentanyl pills to an undercover police officer three times. In July 2023, during the execution of a search warrant at Botts’s apartment, law enforcement found hundreds of fentanyl pills and two firearms.
After completing her term of imprisonment, Botts will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Botts was also ordered to pay $5,574.09 in restitution.
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.
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.
Des Moines Man Sentenced to 144 Months in Federal Prison for Fentanyl DistributionRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Des Moines man was sentenced on November 8, 2024 to 12 years in federal prison for distribution of fentanyl.
According to public court documents, Luca Joseph Roberts, 25, provided pills containing fentanyl to a victim on October 20, 2022. The victim used the pills, overdosed, and died. Law enforcement identified Roberts as the source of supply for those pills and purchased from Roberts additional pills containing fentanyl.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Roberts will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Roberts was also ordered to pay $5,796.00 in restitution.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa. This case was investigated by the Des Moines Police Department.
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.
Fort Madison Man Pleads Guilty to Failing to File Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Fort Madison man pleaded guilty today to four counts of failure to file income tax returns.
According to public court documents, Marty Feinberg, 58, owned and operated a scrap metal business in Fort Madison. Feinberg willfully failed to file federal income tax returns for the calendar years 2018-2021 at the times required by law, despite having received gross income substantially in excess of the IRS’s filing requirements.
Feinberg is scheduled to be sentenced on March 10, 2025, and faces a potential sentence of up to one year in prison on each count. A federal judge will determine any sentence after considering the United States sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Internal Revenue Service—Criminal Investigation investigated this case
South Dakota Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Firearm and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Sioux Falls, South Dakota man and Guatemalan national was sentenced on November 26, 2024 to 15 years in federal prison for possessing a distribution quantity of methamphetamine and possessing a firearm as a felon and in relation to his drug trafficking.
According to public court documents, Johny Fernando Diaz-Mendez, 47, was arrested in March 2024 and found in possession of a firearm in his waistband and a large quantity of methamphetamine.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Diaz-Mendez 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 Iowa 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.
Council Bluffs Individuals Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – Two Council Bluffs individuals were sentenced to federal prison for possessing firearms as felons.
According to public court documents, in December 2022, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for the joint Council Bluffs residence of Anthony Michael Huff, 37, and Bobbie Jo Adkins, 37. Inside the residence, a loaded 12-gauge shotgun was in a bedroom, where a marijuana grow lab was also located, as well as ammunition found in the living room. On Adkins’s cell phone, law enforcement later located photos of the shotgun where Huff told Adkins “we got the gun.”
Huff and Adkins are both felons and prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition. In 2012, Huff was convicted of two felony counts of terroristic threats in the Nebraska District Court for Dodge County. In 2015, Adkins was convicted of possessing a firearm as a felon, in the Iowa District Court for Page County.
Huff received a 37-month sentence, followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Adkins received a 48-month sentence, followed by 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Council Bluffs Police Department, and the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement (SWINE) Task Force.
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.
Ames Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking Fourteen VictimsRead the Press Release
Des Moines – IA An Ames man pleaded guilty yesterday to fifteen counts of sex trafficking by fraud and coercion.
Pursuant to a plea agreement, Carl Dale Markley, a former licensed nurse practitioner and Ames business owner, admitted to using fraud and coercion to cause fourteen victims to engage in commercial sex acts. From 2004 to 2023, Markley lied to dozens of young men to convince them to allow Markley to perform sex acts on them and observe the young men engage in sex acts. Markley’s lies included telling the young men he needed to perform sex acts on them or observe them engaging in sex acts in order to obtain medical or massage certifications, complete classwork, conduct third-party research, and for product development. Markley paid the young men for the sex acts, falsely claiming he had received grants or funding from a third party.
According to the plea agreement, Markley deceived dozens of young men by fabricating consent forms and contracts requiring victims to participate in a certain number and type of paid sex acts, acting as if he was recording data or information during so-called “research sessions”, and falsely claiming to be submitting data to legitimate research companies or institutions. Markley lied to dozens of young men that he was working with, and at the direction of, these research companies and institutions. Markley appealed to the benevolence of the young men, telling them that the research was helping others.
Pursuant to the plea agreement, Markley sometimes used hidden cameras to capture videos and images depicting young men or minor male children naked.
Sentencing is scheduled for March 24, 2025, before Chief U.S. District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose. For each of the 15 sex trafficking counts, Markley faces a fifteen-year mandatory minimum term of imprisonment and a maximum term of life imprisonment.
The Ames Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Iowa Department of Public Safety’s Division of Criminal Investigation investigated the case, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa is prosecuting the case.
Human trafficking is a crime involving the exploitation of youth under the age of 18 for commercial sex; the exploitation of adults for commercial sex through the use of force, fraud, or coercion; and the exploitation of any individual for compelled labor. Human trafficking does not require the transportation of individuals across state lines, or that someone is physically restrained. Signs that a person is being trafficked can include working excessively long hours, unexplained gifts, physical injury, substance abuse issues, running away from home, isolation from others, or having a person in their life controlling them or monitoring them closely. Victims particularly susceptible to being trafficked include those with criminal histories, a history of physical or sexual abuse, uncertain legal status, and dependency on controlled substances.
Anyone who suspects human trafficking is occurring, be it a minor engaging in paid sex acts, or anyone being coerced into prostitution or labor, is urged to call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
Creston Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Creston man was sentenced today to 20 years in federal prison for receipt of child pornography.
According to public court documents, between approximately September and November 2023, Bryan Michael Vannausdle, 34, communicated with a minor victim. Vannausdle used his cell phone to send, receive, and store images and videos of child sexual abuse material, including material of the minor victim.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Vannausdle 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 Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Creston Police Department, Fremont County Sheriff’s Office, and Federal Bureau of Investigations.
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 information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the resources tab.
Illinois Man Sentenced to 115 Months in Federal Prison for Firearm and Ammunition ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Silvis, Illinois man was sentenced yesterday to 115 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a felon.
According to public court documents, in July 2022, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for a vehicle and residence belonging to Quivadas Quadell-Lee Gaines, 34. At Gaines’ residence, officers seized at least 40 rounds of ammunition. The vehicle search warrant resulted in the seizure of a loaded pistol, found along with Gaines’ driver’s license and social security card. Gaines is a felon and prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.
In 2019, Gaines was convicted of one felony count of second-degree theft, in the Iowa District Court for Muscatine County.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Gaines 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 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.
Iowa City Man Sentenced to 80 Months in Federal Prison for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – An Iowa City man was sentenced yesterday to 80 months in federal prison for receiving child pornography.
According to public court documents, law enforcement received a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that Ivan Galvan, 31, had uploaded a video containing child sexual abuse material in April 2021. Law enforcement searched Galvan’s social media account and found an additional eight videos and one image containing child sexual abuse material. In November 2021, law enforcement searched Galvan’s Iowa City residence and found electronic devices, some of which contained additional videos and images of child sexual abuse material.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Galvan will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Galvan 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 Joint Forensic Analysis Cyber Team (JFACT).
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 192 Months in Federal Prison for Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced today to 192 months in federal prison for distribution and receipt of child pornography.
According to public court documents, in 2023, law enforcement received multiple CyberTips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that child sexual abuse material was uploaded and shared from an account on a digital storage platform. Law enforcement determined that Bob Arthur Phillips, 37, uploaded the child sexual abuse material to the digital storage account. Following multiple residential search warrants at Phillips’ residence, law enforcement seized numerous electronic devices belonging to Phillips, found to contain evidence of distributing and receiving child sexual assault material.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Phillips will be required to serve an eight-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Phillips was also ordered to pay $38,000. In addition, Phillips will be required to register as a sex offender.
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. For information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the resources tab.
Clinton Man Sentenced to 97 Months in Federal Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Clinton man was sentenced today to 97 months in federal prison for receipt of child pornography.
According to public court documents, Brent Michael Fisher, 48, possessed fifteen devices that contained child sexual abuse material, including cell phones and memory cards. Fisher came to the attention of law enforcement after his then-wife found two memory cards with child sexual abuse material of minor victims and reported it to law enforcement. The Clinton Police Department obtained search warrants for the two memory cards, as well as Fisher’s house, car, and work trailer the same day they received the report. In total, Fisher possessed more than 36,000 images and nearly 10,000 videos containing child sexual abuse material.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Fisher will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Fisher was also ordered to pay $93,000 in restitution. Fisher is required to register as a sex offender.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Clinton Police Department and the Federal Bureau of 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.
Burlington Man Sentenced to 230 Months in Federal Prison for Distributing MethRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Burlington man was sentenced yesterday to 230 months in federal prison for distributing methamphetamine.
According to public court documents, David Lee Davis, Jr., 38, distributed approximately two pounds of methamphetamine to an undercover law enforcement officer in October 2022. At the time, Davis was under a term of federal supervised release for a 2012 conviction for conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Davis’s term of supervised release was revoked, and he was sentenced to 51-months consecutive to his 230-months sentence.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Davis 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 Quad Cities Metropolitan Enforcement Group, Southeast Iowa Narcotics Task Force, Davenport Police Department, Scott County Special Operations Unit, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Omaha Man Sentenced to 24 Months in Federal Prison for Ammunition ChargesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – An Omaha man was sentenced to two years in federal prison for possessing ammunition as a felon.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, in April 2024, law enforcement responded to a report and identified that Lual Lul Nguot, 32, struck a woman and threatened to shoot bystanders who confronted him. Law enforcement later found Nguot and he was in possession of ammunition and two fake handguns. Nguot is prohibited from possessing ammunition because he is a felon.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Nguot 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.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to 84 Months for Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Council Bluffs man was sentenced today to 84 months in federal prison for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
According to public court documents, in 2023, Carlos Garcia Garcia, 41, distributed large quantities of methamphetamine in the Council Bluffs area. Drug proceeds seized during the investigation totaled $58,700, which was forfeited by the investigating agency.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Garcia Garcia 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 Drug Enforcement Administration.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Iowa City Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal Prison for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – An Iowa City man was sentenced today to 12 years in federal prison for receiving child pornography.
According to public court documents, law enforcement received multiple CyberTips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that Cody Andrew Long, 23, had uploaded files containing child sexual abuse material. Law enforcement searched Long’s cell phone and a computer located at Long’s Iowa City residence which revealed approximately 100 images and 25 videos of child sexual abuse material.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Long will be required to serve an eight-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Long was also ordered to pay $10,000 in restitution. In addition, Long will be required to register as a sex offender.
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 and the 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.
Davenport Man Sentenced to 17 Years in Federal Prison for Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced today to 17 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon and in furtherance of his drug trafficking.
According to public court documents, in July 2023, Deandre Julian Hensley, 30, possessed a loaded nine-millimeter pistol in his waistband and approximately 7.5 grams of crack cocaine in his pocket when he was arrested for outstanding warrants. The firearm recovered from Hensley was the same firearm that he shot near a downtown Davenport bar earlier in July 2023. Two bystanders were injured in that shooting.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Hensley 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 Davenport 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.
November 2024 General ElectionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal, Southern District of Iowa, announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Amy Licht will lead the efforts of her Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. AUSA Licht has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Southern District of Iowa, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
United States Attorney Westphal said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
United States Attorney Westphal stated that: “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Licht will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. She can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: 515-473-9300.”
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 515-223-4278.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
Davenport Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Federal Prison for Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced yesterday to eight years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon and in furtherance of his drug trafficking.
According to public court documents, in November 2023, Marcell Alexander Kirk, 23, ran from police. During the foot chase, Kirk discarded a loaded handgun. When apprehended, Kirk was found in possession of approximately 140 grams of marijuana.
As a felon, Kirk is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition. In 2020, Kirk was convicted of criminal gang participation, in the Iowa District Court for Scott County.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Kirk 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 Davenport 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.
Fort Dodge Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Fort Dodge man was sentenced today to 20 years in federal prison for attempted enticement of a minor.
According to public court documents, Mitchell Keith Russell, 38, initiated a Facebook chat with a person that Russell believed was a 13-year-old Altoona female. For over three weeks in March 2024, Russell engaged the minor in sexually explicit discussion. Russell repeatedly requested the minor create and send him sexually explicit photos of herself and sent the minor sexually obscene videos. Ultimately, Russell arranged to meet the minor at an Altoona motel to engage in sex acts on March 26. When Russell arrived at the motel, he was arrested by the Altoona detective who had been posing as the 13-year-old Facebook user.
Russell committed this crime while he was a registered sex offender and on state parole. Russell was convicted in 2015 of sexual abuse in the Iowa District Court for Humboldt County, for engaging in a sex act with a 15-year-old minor; Russell was in his late 20s when he abused that minor. Russell was required to register as a sex offender as a result of that conviction.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Russell 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 Altoona 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.
Burlington Man Sentenced to 151 Months in Federal Prison for Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Burlington man was sentenced today to 151 months in federal prison for receiving and distributing child pornography.
According to public court documents, law enforcement received a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that Edward Allen Billheimer, 64, had uploaded files containing child sexual abuse material. Law enforcement located electronic devices at Billheimer’s Burlington residence and a search of those devices revealed approximately 100 videos and 400 images of child sexual abuse material, including content of toddlers and infants.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Billheimer will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Billheimer was also ordered to pay $3,000 in restitution. In addition, Billheimer will be required to register as a sex offender.
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 Burlington 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.
Michigan Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing a Distribution Quantity of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Saginaw, Michigan man was sentenced today to 10 years in federal prison for possessing a distribution quantity of methamphetamine.
According to public court documents, on three occasions in 2023 and 2024, Xavier Juwaun Williams, 24, sold or attempted to sell a total of more than 800 grams of methamphetamine. Williams transported the methamphetamine from Michigan to Burlington for distribution.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Williams 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 and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement.
Davenport Man Sentenced to 150 Months in Federal Prison for Distributing FentanylRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced today to 150 months in federal prison for distributing fentanyl.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Nathan Neil Tyson, 25, distributed fentanyl to another person. That person died because they ingested the fentanyl Tyson gave them. Officers located marijuana, cash, and an extended firearm magazine at Tyson’s residence. In addition, when he was arrested, Tyson had a loaded firearm near him.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Tyson 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 Davenport 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. Visit the Drug Enforcement Administration’s website to learn more about One Pill Can Kill.
Davenport Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced today to 15 years in federal prison for receiving child pornography.
According to public court documents, Devin Lee Ortiz, 32, received and searched for child sexual abuse material using his phone in July 2020. Ortiz’s phone had approximately 550 images of child sexual abuse material. Ortiz committed this offense while he resided at the residential reentry center in Davenport as the result of a 2013 conviction for lascivious acts with a child in the Iowa District Court for Scott County.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Ortiz will be required to serve a 10-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Ortiz was also ordered to pay $21,000 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 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.
Altoona Man Sentenced to 117 Months in Federal Prison for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – An Altoona man was sentenced on Friday, October 18, 2024, to 117 months in federal prison for receiving child pornography.
According to public court documents, Eduardo Ibarra Mora, 34, a Mexican national, possessed 45 images and more than 60 videos containing child sexual abuse material on his phone and a social media account. After completing his term of imprisonment, Ibarra Mora 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Altoona 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.
Des Moines Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Meth, Fentanyl, and a FirearmRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Des Moines man was sentenced yesterday to 25 years in federal prison for possessing methamphetamine, fentanyl, and a firearm.
In June 2024, a federal jury convicted Dylan Pettyjohn, 33, of possessing distribution quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl, and possessing a firearm as a felon and carrying it in relation to his drug trafficking.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at trial and sentencing, on May 5, 2023, Pettyjohn led Des Moines police on a vehicle chase. When his car was disabled, he continued running on foot with a loaded firearm and a fanny pack containing cash and drugs. As an officer pursued him, Pettyjohn reached into his waistband and grabbed his loaded firearm, which he threw over his head. When the officer caught up to him, Pettyjohn resisted arrest and grappled with the officer, putting his hand on the officer’s gun. In his fanny pack, Pettyjohn had over 85 grams of methamphetamine and 54 fentanyl pills.
At sentencing, the Court emphasized Pettyjohn’s long and aggravating criminal history. After completing his term of imprisonment, Pettyjohn 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 Des Moines 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 Indicted in Relation to Deadly Traffic StopRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A federal grand jury in Des Moines returned a three-count indictment yesterday charging Shawnna Marie Cunningham, 47, with offenses related to her possession of a firearm as a drug user and her aiding and abetting the possession and disposal of a firearm to a person she knew was a felon.
According to public court documents, on September 16, 2024, Cunningham was a passenger in a vehicle that refused to stop when law enforcement attempted to initiate a traffic stop. The driver, Joshua Dean Green, a convicted felon, produced a nine-millimeter pistol and fired at Des Moines Police officers. One officer was struck in the head and another officer was struck in the arm. Officers returned fire and Green ultimately died from his injuries. Cunningham was searched immediately following the traffic stop. A methamphetamine pipe was located on Cunningham’s person. In addition, Cunningham admitted to using methamphetamine. It is a crime under federal law to possess a firearm as a drug user.
In May 2020, Cunningham purchased the nine-millimeter pistol Green used to shoot the police officers. In September 2021, Green was arrested with the same pistol and later convicted of unlawfully possessing it as a felon. In March 2022, the gun was returned to Cunningham at her request. After Green was released from prison in January 2024, Cunningham again knowingly allowed Green to access, possess, and use her firearm.
If convicted, Cunningham faces a sentence of up to fifteen years in prison on each count.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case, with assistance from the Des Moines Police Department.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Davenport Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing a Distribution Quantity of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced today to 15 years in federal prison for possessing a distribution quantity of methamphetamine.
According to public court documents, Richard James Murphy, 42, sold an ounce of methamphetamine to a confidential source in August 2023. Four days later, law enforcement executed a state search warrant at Murphy’s Davenport residence and found approximately one-half pound of meth, which Murphy intended to distribute, and ten rounds of ammunition. Murphy is a felon and was on probation at the time he committed this offense.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Murphy 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 Bettendorf Police Department, Davenport Police Department, and the Scott County Sheriff’s Office.
Waukee Man Sentenced to Nine Years in Federal Prison for Wire Fraud and Money Laundering Investment SchemeRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Waukee man was sentenced on October 11, 2024, to nine years in federal prison for wire fraud and money laundering.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, William Jack Berg, 52, defrauded approximately 17 victims by purporting to be a financial advisor in central Iowa, St. Louis, Missouri, and elsewhere. Over an eight-year period, Berg deceived victims to invest in companies he created and controlled: W. Holdings of Iowa and Excel Performance Management. To further his fraud, Berg provided his victims with fictitious investment agreements, account statements, and created a website for one of the purported investment companies. Berg spent the victim’s money for his own personal expenses. Once alerted to his federal indictment, Berg attempted to destroy documents and left the state.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Berg will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Berg was also ordered to pay more than $1.6 million in restitution.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Iowa Insurance Division’s Fraud Bureau and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Adam Kerndt prosecuted the case.
This investigation was part of the Elder Justice Initiative, which supports the efforts of state and local prosecutors, law enforcement, and other elder justice professionals to combat elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation, with the development of training, resources, and information. Learn more about the Justice Department’s Elder Justice Initiative at http://www.justice.gov/elderjustice. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is available at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311).
This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, can provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish and other languages are available. The Department of Justice provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime, which can be reached at https://www.ovc.gov.
Audubon County Woman Sentenced to Federal Felony Charge after Straw Purchasing Firearm for Her Felon BoyfriendRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – An Exira, Iowa woman was sentenced on October 10, 2024 for a federal felony charge of straw purchasing a firearm.
According to public court documents, Leslie Nicole Moton, also known as Leslie Caniglia, 24, purchased a firearm in August 2023 for her significant other, Rey Moton, 23, of Elk Horn. Leslie Moton knew Rey Moton was a felon at the time she purchased the handgun for him and falsely represented at the time of the purchase that she was acquiring the firearm for herself. Less than a week later, Rey Moton possessed the handgun in Atlantic, Iowa and used it during a burglary.
Rey Moton was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. In March 2024, Rey Moton was sentenced to a 63-month prison term, followed by a three-year term of supervised release.
Leslie Moton received a five-year term of probation.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Cass County Sheriff’s Office, and the Atlantic Police Department.
This case was prosecuted under the new criminal provisions of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which Congress enacted and the President signed in June 2022. The Act is the first federal statute specifically designed to target the unlawful trafficking and straw-purchasing of firearms.
Rock Island, Illinois Man Sentenced to 84 Months in Federal Prison for Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Rock Island man was sentenced September 24, 2024, to 84 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon.
According to public court documents, in July 2023, Daryel Deanthony Shears, 20, was a passenger in a vehicle stopped by officers with the Davenport Police Department. Shears was arrested on his outstanding state warrant for not returning to a residential facility in October 2021. In the vehicle, law enforcement located a loaded, stolen handgun. The Iowa Department of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Criminalistics Laboratory located Shears DNA profile on the handgun. Shears was convicted for previous felony state crimes in Iowa and was therefore prohibited from possessing firearms.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Shears 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 Davenport 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.
Coralville Man Sentenced to 78 Months in Federal Prison for Assault ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Coralville man was sentenced September 24, 2024, to 78 months in federal prison for assault on person assisting federal officer. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Jorey Daniel Karl Butterbaugh, 33, was convicted in November 2023 of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Iowa. Following his sentencing, and while awaiting transport to a Bureau of Prisons (BOP) facility, Butterbaugh was temporarily held at the Muscatine County (Iowa) Jail. On November 13, 2023, Butterbaugh assaulted a Muscatine County correctional officer, who was conducting an internal investigation of contraband within the jail.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the United States Marshal’s Service and Muscatine County Sheriff’s Office.
Two Council Bluffs Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – Two Council Bluffs men were sentenced for their roles in conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl in the Council Bluffs metropolitan area:
- Douglas Marqueis Louis, 45, was sentenced on August 28, 2024, to a 210-month prison term; and
- Nikolas Alan Koebel, 27, was sentenced on September 20, 2024, to a 100-month prison term.
According to public court documents, in December 2023 during a search warrant a Louis’s Council Bluffs residence, law enforcement located more than three pounds of methamphetamine, more than one pound of marijuana, more than an ounce and a half of cocaine, and more than $13,000 cash. Some of the cash at Louis’s residence came from a controlled purchase of fentanyl that law enforcement made from Koebel. In total, law enforcement arranged six controlled purchases of fentanyl from Koebel.
After completing their terms of imprisonment, Louis and Koebel will each 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 Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement, Council Bluffs Police Department, and Omaha Police Department.
Shenandoah Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Federal Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Shenandoah man was sentenced today to seven years in federal prison for receipt of child pornography.
According to public court documents, Evaristo Hernandez Flores Carnes, 34, uploaded images and videos containing child sex abuse material to a social media application. Law enforcement executed search warrant at Carnes’s residence and seized a cell phone that was later found to contain images and videos of child sex abuse material.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Carnes 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 Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI), DCI Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Shenandoah Police Department, and Federal Bureau of Investigations.
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.
Rock Island Man Sentenced to 210 Months in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Meth and MarijuanaRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Rock Island, Illinois man was sentenced on September 18, 2024, to 210 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana.
According to public court documents, in early 2021, Jesus Alfonso Ruiz, 37, along with co-conspirators, distributed meth and marijuana in the Quad Cities area. Surveillance footage showed Ruiz obtaining meth in Illinois. On May 28, 2021, Ruiz was stopped in Eldridge, on his way back from Illinois, and law enforcement officers found approximately one pound of meth in the trunk of the car. In November 2021, Ruiz was arrested at his residence due to an outstanding parole violation warrant in a state drug trafficking case. In Ruiz’s residence, law enforcement located distribution quantities of marijuana and cocaine, and a firearm.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Ruiz 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 Scott County Sheriff’s Office and Dubuque Drug Task Force.
Illinois Man Sentenced to 264 Months in Federal Prison for Meth Distribution ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Carol Stream, Illinois man was sentenced on September 17, 2024, to 264 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
According to public court documents, in early 2022, Milford Rogers, 33, conspired to distribute methamphetamine with co-conspirators in the Quad Cities area. Rogers received pound quantities of methamphetamine through the mail, including one package containing three pounds of methamphetamine. Rogers distributed multiple kilograms of methamphetamine throughout the Quad Cities.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Rogers 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 United States Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Federal Prison for Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Council Bluffs man was sentenced on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, to 8 years (96 months) in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon.
According to public court documents, Marshon Lamarr Johanson, 30, shot his dog after it reportedly bit him. In August 2024, Council Bluffs Animal Control went to Johanson’s house to check on the welfare of the dog. Johanson was uncooperative. The Council Bluffs Police Department returned a few days later with a search warrant. The dog was found dead in the basement. A Ruger handgun and loaded magazine were found in the bedroom of the residence. Johanson was convicted of animal torture in the Iowa District Court for Pottawattamie County and sentenced to a 75-day suspended prison term.
In 2015, Johanson was convicted of burglary and aggravated robbery in Texas, and, in 2022, Johanson was convicted of two felony assault charges in the Nebraska District Court for Douglas County. As a result, Johanson is prohibited from possessing firearms.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Johanson 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 Council Bluffs Animal Control, the Council Bluffs Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.