Southern District of Iowa

DES MOINES, IA - On May 12, 2017, Tyson James Ruth, 36, of Jefferson, Iowa, appeared in federal court on an indictment charging Ruth with three counts of being an unlawful user of controlled substances in possession of a firearm and two counts of possession of a sawed-off shotgun, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. According to the indictment, in December of 2016, he illegally possessed two sawed-off shotguns and three additional guns including a revolver, pistol, and a Mini-14 semi-automatic rifle. Ruth made his initial appearance before United States Chief Magistrate Judge Helen C. Adams, who ordered that Ruth remain detained pending trial of this matter.

Ruth’s trial is presently set for July 3, 2017, before United States Judge John A. Jarvey, at the Des Moines Federal Courthouse. Each count is subject to a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years and a maximum $250,000 fine.

The public is reminded that an indictment is merely an accusation, and that Ruth is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The Carroll Police Department, Jefferson Police Department, and the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted this investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On May 10, 2017, Rodney Lee Koehrsenheather Jean Reekr, a 33 year-old resident of Council Bluffs, Iowa, was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner to 73 months in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, for his conviction on one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. On January 4, 2017, the defendant pleaded guilty to this charge. The case was the result of a traffic stop that occurred on June 9, 2016, in Harlan, Iowa, which led to the recovery of methamphetamine and other contraband items.

The Harlan, Iowa, Police Department and the Iowa Department of Public Safety’s Division of Narcotics Enforcement conducted the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On May 10, 2017, Brandon David Kinnear, a 25 year-old resident of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced by bySenior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner to 120 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for a felon in possession of a firearm charge, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.

Kinnear pleaded guilty on January 19, 2017, to the charge. On August 30, 2016, Kinnear was walking in Carter Lake, Iowa, with the grip of a handgun visible just above his waistband. Carter Lake Police Officers stopped Kinnear and found him in possession of a .22 caliber semi-automatic handgun. Kinnear was prohibited from possession a firearm as the result of a 2013 felony drug conviction in South Dakota.

The Carter Lake Police Department, the Council Bluffs Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On May 10, 2017heather Jean Reekr, Rodney Lee Crosby, Jr., a 35 year-old resident of Pisgah, Iowa, was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner to 27 months in prison following his conviction on one count of wire fraud, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Crosby was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment and pay $45,084 in restitution to the victims of his fraud scheme.

On January 30, 2017, Crosby pleaded guilty to the charge. This case was the result of a law enforcement investigation of Crosby’s scheme to defraud classic vehicle buyers through his business, Hot Rod Classics, in Pisgah, Iowa. The scheme involved Crosby accepting monetary down payments from classic car purchasers and then failing to deliver the vehicles to the buyers. The estimated loss to the victims was approximately $45,084, based on Crosby’s fraudulent conduct.

The Harrison County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

DAVENPORT, IA – On May 1, 2017, Daniel James Lusk, age 26, from Batavia, Iowa, pleaded guilty to a charge of felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. This charge carries a maximum penalty of not more than ten years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, a term of supervised release of up to three years, and a $100 assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund. Sentencing is scheduled for September 21, 2017, before Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey.

On October 24, 2016, Lusk was found hiding under a pool table in a Des Moines County residence; he was in possession of a .380 caliber pistol and a .44 magnum revolver. Law enforcement officers placed Lusk into custody. Lusk had a prior 2010 state felony conviction for burglary.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Burlington Police Department, and the Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

DES MOINES, IA - On April 27, 2017, Alexander Hamilton, age 26, heather Jean Reekrof Des Moines, Iowa, appeared before Chief United States Magistrate Judge Helen C. Adams and entered pleas to interference with commerce by robbery and conspiracy to distribute hydromorphone, an opioid. Hamilton admitted to committing the following robberies, charged in the November 21, 2016, indictment against him:

Date

Count

Business

Location

3/21/16

3

Git-N-Go

4224 NW 2nd Avenue, Des Moines, IA

3/22/16

4

Git-N-Go

100 Watrous, Des Moines, IA

3/23/16

6

Kum & Go

4506 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA

3/23/16

7

Git-N-Go

816 E Euclid Avenue, Des Moines, IA

3/24/16

8

Git-N-Go

2601 SW 9th Street, Des Moines, IA

3/29/16

10

Kum & Go

4506 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA

3/30/16

11

Kum & Go

5830 SE 14th Street, Des Moines, IA

3/30/16

12

Git-N-Go

890 County Line Road, Des Moines, IA

3/31/16

13

Git-N-Go

2601 SW 9th Street, Des Moines, IA

4/03/16

14

Git-N-Go

4224 NW 2nd Avenue, Des Moines, IA

4/05/16

15

Git-N-Go

2911 Douglas Avenue, Des Moines, IA

4/06/16

16

Hy-Vee

2540 E Euclid Avenue, Des Moines, IA

4/08/16

17

Hy-Vee

2540 E Euclid Avenue, Des Moines, IA

4/11/16

18

Git-N-Go

865 42nd Street, Des Moines, IA

4/12/16

19

Git-N-Go

2911 Douglas Avenue, Des Moines, IA

4/13/16

20

U.S. Bank

2500 E Euclid Avenue, Des Moines, IA

4/17/16

23

Hy-Vee

1107 E Army Post Road, Des Moines, IA

Hamilton admitted he obtained hydromorphone (Dilaudid) from co-defendant Luke Martin, Jr., and distributed it to others, including co-defendants Sarah Coe, Shelly Avery, and Christ Avery. Hamilton admitted these robberies helped fund the hydromorphone distribution conspiracy.

Co-defendant Luke Martin, Jr., previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute hydromorphone. Co-defendants Chris Avery and Shelly Avery each previously pleaded guilty to interference with commerce by robbery. Co-defendant Sarah Coe previously pleaded guilty to bank robbery.

Defendants face potential maximum penalties under the statute of up to 20 years in prison on each of the plea counts.

Sentencings are presently scheduled as follows before Chief United States District Judge John A. Jarvey:

Luke Martin, Jr. June 8, 2017, 10:30 a.m.

Chris Avery July 6, 2017, 10:30 a.m.

Shelly Avery July 25, 2017, 9:00 a.m.

Sarah Coe July 25, 2017, 9:30 a.m.

Alexander Hamilton September 12, 2017, 1:30 p.m.

The investigation was conducted by the Des Moines Police Department, Polk County Sheriff's Office, Ames Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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 Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

DES MOINES, IA – On Saturday, April 29, 2017, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Des Moines Resident Office of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and other participating law enforcement agencies will give the public its 13th opportunity in 7 years to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. The DEA cannot accept liquids, needles or sharps, only pills or patches. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

Last October, Americans turned in 366 tons (over 730,000 pounds) of prescription drugs at almost 5,200 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,000 of its state and local law enforcement partners. Overall, in its 12 previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in over 7.1 million pounds—more than 3,500 tons—of pills.

This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs.

Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, Americans are now advised that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines—flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash—both pose potential safety and health hazards.

For more information about the April 29 Take Back Day event and the disposal of prescription drugs, including the addresses for the numerous drop-off locations, go to the DEA Diversion website.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

Williams shot victim at drug deal in Ames, Iowa

DES MOINES, IA – On April 20, 2017, Kevin Darnell Williams, also known as “Splash,” 23, was convicted by a federal jury of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana, robbery, discharge of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime and a crime of violence, and felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Williams’ sentencing is scheduled for September 12, 2017, at 11:00 a.m., at the United States Courthouse in Des Moines before United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey.

According to evidence presented at trial, Williams set up a marijuana deal with the victim in Ames. Once the two met, on August 9, 2016, the drug deal turned into a robbery, and Williams shot the victim four times. Williams was apprehended by law enforcement in Chicago several days after the shooting.

This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Central Iowa Gang Task Force, the Ames Police Department, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

DES MOINES, IA – On April 18, 2017, Elizabeth Ann Thayer, age 61, of Runnells, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Judge Stephanie M. Rose for concealing assets belonging to her bankruptcy estate, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. She was sentenced to 32 months of probation, ordered to complete community service, and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.

On December 14, 2016, Judge Rose sentenced Elizabeth’s husband, George Bradley Thayer, age 66, for the same offense. He was ordered to serve 36 months of probation, to include one year in home confinement, and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.

On January 27, 2011, George and Elizabeth Thayer filed a joint individual Chapter 7 bankruptcy with the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Iowa. On December 10, 2010, the Thayers conveyed 20 acres of farm property to a relative. In their bankruptcy filings, they knowingly failed to disclose their continuing interest in the land and knowingly failed to disclose the transfer of the property to a relative, despite their obligations to make both disclosures in the filings. On March 21, 2011, each falsely asserted to the bankruptcy trustee under oath that there had been no transfers of property to a relative within the last two years.

This case was investigated by the Office of the United States Trustee. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

DAVENPORT, IA - On April 18, 2017, William John Boom, age 65, from Davenport, Iowa, pleaded guilty to making false statements to a federal grand jury, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. This charge carries a maximum potential penalty of not more than five years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, a term of supervised release of not more than three years, and a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims' Fund. Sentencing is scheduled for August 24, 2017, at 2:30 p.m. at the United States Courthouse in Davenport.  Boom was released pending sentencing pursuant to standard release conditions.

In July 2016, Boom was placed under oath and testified in front of a federal grand jury.  He was advised by an Assistant United States Attorney of his oath to testify truthfully and the potential criminal penalties for providing false testimony. During his testimony, Boom made the following declarations in response to questions from the Assistant United States Attorney:

(i) Q:  Prior to April 6th of 2016, were you aware that G.W. used methamphetamine?

A:  I wasn't aware that he used methamphetamines. There was a time when I found a syringe in his room, but he told me that that was from one of his frineds that had diabetes. But every time that I suspected something, I would give him holy hell.

Q:  So prior to April 6th of 2016, were you aware that G.W. used ice methamphetamine?

A:  No.

Q:  Have you ever given the person depicted in Exhibit I any money?

A:  No. The only person I ever gave money to was G.W., or his relatives, but never to this gentleman.

The person depicted in Grand Jury Exhibit I was Joseph Allen Terry, also known as Lump and/or Lumpy. At the time Boom made these declarations, he knew his answers were false. Prior to April 6, 2016, Boom knew G.W. used methamphetamine and Boom had given money to Terry, who has since pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and is pending sentencing on May 25, 2017. These questions and answers were material to an investigation into the distribution of methamphetamine in Southeastern Iowa.

This case was investigated by the Scott County Sheriff's Office. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Iowa. 

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

DAVENPORT, IA - On April 13, 2017, Agron Mitchell Simpsonheather Jean Reekr, age 40, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 88 months in prison for conspiracy to misuse stolen credit cards, transportation of stolen credit cards, and for violation of his supervised release term from an earlier drug conviction, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Simpson was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment and pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.

On October 17, 2016, Simpson pleaded guilty to these charges and admitted that he transported and used credit and debit cards that he stole when he burglarized a residence in Bettendorf, Iowa. Between December 26, 2015, and March 3, 2016, Simpson provided the cards to others and they, including Simpson, used those stolen credit and debit cards at various businesses in both Illinois and Iowa to obtain money, goods, services, and other things of value.

This investigation was conducted by the Bettendorf Police Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

DAVENPORT, IA - On April 13, 2017, Cody Lee Motzheather Jean Reekr, age 26, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 70 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Motz also will be required to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment.

On November 14, 2016, Motz pleaded guilty to this charge and admitted that he possessed a Lorcin Model L22 handgun while in Davenport, Iowa. The firearm, along with controlled substances, were discovered during a drug investigation that led to the execution of a search warrant at a residence on the 1200 block of Stark Street in Davenport, Iowa.

This investigation was conducted by the Scott County Sheriff’s Department and the Davenport Police Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

DAVENPORT, IA - On April 13, 2017, Damarcis Latrell March, Jr.heather Jean Reekr, age 20, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 45 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. This term of imprisonment will run consecutively to the sentence imposed in Rock Island County for armed robbery. March also will be required to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment.

On October 7, 2016, March pleaded guilty to this charge and admitted that he possessed a loaded Haskell, Hi-Point JHP .45 caliber handgun while in Davenport, Iowa.

This investigation was conducted by the Davenport Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

DES MOINES, IA - On April 12, 2017, James Perin, age 66, and Mardeen Perin, age 63, heather Jean Reekrof West Des Moines, Iowa, appeared before Chief United States Judge James A. Jarvey and were sentenced to tax fraud charges arising out of their operation of Sully's Pub in 2013, announced Kevin E. VanderSchel. The Perins admitted to failing to report cash earned through the business that was then deposited into personal bank accounts without being reported on either business or personal tax returns.

The conduct involved tax years from 2008 to 2013, and resulted in a tax loss of $108,375. Mardeen Perin was sentenced on her guilty plea to aiding and assisting the preparation of a false return. James Perin was sentenced on his guilty plea to making and subscribing a false return. Both defendants were sentenced to a three years of probation and required to pay all due and owing taxes, penalties, and interest.

The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) - Criminal Investigation. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

DAVENPORT, IA - On April 10, 2017, Keethan Re’shaun Roland, age 24, of Iowa City, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 51 months in prison for felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Roland was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.

On December 5, 2016, Roland pleaded guilty to the offense and admitted he sold a Remington .22 caliber rifle to someone for $250. Roland was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to multiple felony convictions from Johnson County, Iowa.

This investigation was conducted by the Davenport Police Department and the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

DAVENPORT, IA - On April 11, 2017, Sultan Tippu Bismillah, heather Jean Reekr38, of Coralville, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 160 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute a mixture or substance containing cocaine base, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Bismillah was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.

Between December 2013 and December 4, 2015, Bismillah was a member of a conspiracy that distributed crack cocaine throughout Iowa City and Coralville. During that time period, law enforcement conducted several controlled transactions with these conspiracy members, and the members identified Bismillah as a crack cocaine supplier. On October 17, 2016, Bismillah pled guilty and admitted that he knowingly entered into an agreement to distribute cocaine base in Iowa City and Coralville, and in furtherance of the conspiracy, he obtained, purchased, and distributed cocaine base.

This investigation was conducted by the Johnson County Inter Agency Drug Task Force and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

DAVENPORT, IA - On April 11, 2017, Gary Eric Arnold, age 50, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 140 months in prison on the charge of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and to 120 months for the charge of felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. The two sentences will run concurrently. Arnold was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release following his imprisonment and to pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.

On October 11, 2016, Arnold pleaded guilty to both offenses, admitting he had distributed over 500 grams of methamphetamine and possessed a firearm on January 22, 2016. The charges resulted from a drug trafficking investigation that occurred in Davenport, Iowa.

This investigation was conducted by the Quad City Metropolitan Enforcement Group and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

DAVENPORT, IA - On April 10, 2017, Derrick Christopher Johnson, age 50, of Lakeview Terrace, California, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 300 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Johnson was also ordered to serve seven years of supervised release following his imprisonment and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.

The charge resulted from an investigation showing Johnson regularly drove quantities of methamphetamine from California to Iowa. At the sentencing hearing, the District Court found Johnson distributed over 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine.

This investigation was conducted by the Quad City Metropolitan Enforcement Group and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On April 11, 2017heather Jean Reekr, Matthew E. Gross, a 40 year-old resident of Westphalia, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 60 months in prison, and five years of supervised release to follow his imprisonment, for receipt and possession of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.

On November 3, 2016, the defendant pled guilty to a two-count indictment, charging him with possession and receipt of child pornography. The defendant received child pornography images from at least as early as February of 2014 and up to August of 2014. In addition, the defendant was found in possession of child pornography images on or about September 25, 2014, in his Westphalia residence.

This investigation was conducted by the Iowa Department of Public Safety, Division of Criminal Investigation, the Iowa Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

DAVENPORT, IA - On April 10, 2017, Jennifer Wierson, age 43, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 21 months in prison for theft from a government agency receiving federal program funds, announced United States Attorney Kevin VanderSchel.

Wierson, a former Scott County Jail Senior Account Clerk, admitted stealing from different jail programs from as early as 2011 until April of 2015. The Scott County Sheriff’s office receives federal assistance in currency over $10,000 every calendar year and did so from 2011 through 2015, which makes Wierson’s thefts a federal offense. Wierson was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following her imprisonment and to pay $100 towards the Crime Victims’ Fund.

In April of 2015, Scott County Jail employees discovered irregularities in the financial handling of various jail programs managed by Wierson. McGladrey LLP conducted a forensic audit to investigate these irregularities. That investigation revealed Wierson had stolen or misappropriated more than $160,000. On September 16, 2016, the United States Attorney filed a felony information, charging Wierson with theft from a government agency receiving federal program funds.

On September 29, 2016, Wierson pled guilty to a charge admitting she stole or misappropriated at least $169,000 from the Scott County Sheriff’s Office. After pleading guilty, Wierson was released and will report to the designated facility within the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

This investigation was conducted by the Davenport Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

DAVENPORT, IA - On April 10, 2017, Shawn Eugene Lee, age 39, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 130 months in prison for each of two separate bank robberies, announced United States Attorney Kevin VanderSchel. The sentences were ordered to run at the same time. Lee was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment and to pay $200 towards the Crime Victims’ Fund. Lee was ordered to pay restitution to both banks. In addition, $733 found on Lee when arrested was ordered forfeited to the United States.

On June 22, 2016, the grand jury returned a two-count indictment. Lee was charged with taking money by intimidation from the Northwest Bank and Trust on West Locust Street in Davenport on April 25, 2016, and with taking money by intimidation from the US Bank on North Division Street in Davenport on April 27, 2016. Both banks were then insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. On November 10, 2016, Lee entered guilty pleas to both bank robberies.

This investigation was conducted by the Davenport Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On April 6, 2017, Gerald N. Holden, age 42, of Bellevue, Nebraska, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 160 months in prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Holden will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release following his release from prison.

On November 29, 2016, Holden pleaded guilty to the charge and admitted he participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in the Southern District of Iowa during the month of August 2016. Holden’s charge was the result of a law enforcement investigation of drug trafficking that occurred in both Omaha, Nebraska, and Council Bluffs, Iowa.

This investigation was conducted by the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, the Omaha Police Department, the Council Bluffs Police Department, and the Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On April 6, 2017, Ramon Cisneros Aguilera, a 33-year-old Mexican citizen living in Council Bluffs, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 135 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Aguilera will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release following his release from prison.

On November 29, 2016, Aguilera pleaded guilty to the distribution charge and admitted he possessed over one kilogram of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute in the Southern District of Iowa in August of 2016. The charge was the result of a law enforcement investigation of drug trafficking that occurred in both Sioux City and Council Bluffs, Iowa.

This investigation was conducted by the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, the Sioux City Police Department, the Council Bluffs Police Department, the Omaha Police Department, the Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.

COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On March 31, 2017, Bradley R. Cornelsen, age 40, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose to 48 months’ imprisonment following his convictions on five counts of wire fraud. Additionally, he was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow the term of imprisonment, and was ordered to pay $1,400,320 in restitution to the victim of his scheme to defraud, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.

A jury convicted Cornelsen at trial on November 1, 2016, finding him guilty of five counts of wire fraud. This case was the result of an investigation by law enforcement of Cornelsen’s scheme to defraud his former employer, MV Transportation, where he was employed as Chief Financial Officer. The scheme involved paying himself large monetary bonuses that were unauthorized, totaling $297,985. Additionally, in furtherance of the scheme, Cornelsen used his company credit card and company manual checks for multiple personal expenses, including Rolex watches, collector baseball cards, Louis Vuitton luggage, and furniture for his personal residences in Council Bluffs and Okoboji, Iowa. The estimated loss to MV Transportation arising from this fraudulent conduct was determined to be approximately $1.4 million dollars.

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by either calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov 

DAVENPORT, IA - On March 21, 2017, Dennis A. Bjorklund, age 52, from Coralville, Iowa, pled guilty to 11 counts of mail fraud, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Each count carries a maximum potential penalty of not more than 20 years’ imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, a term of supervised release of not more than three years, and a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims' Fund. Bjorklund also agreed to pay $8,300 in restitution to the victims of these offenses. By June 9, 2017, the parties will advise the court if this matter is ready for sentencing. Bjorklund was indicted in July of 2010, arrested in Colorado on April 16, 2015, and has remained in custody since the date of his arrest.

During the time period of this mail fraud scheme, Bjorklund was an attorney practicing law in Johnson County, Iowa. As part of this scheme, potential criminal clients would contact Bjorklund for legal representation on Iowa state charges of Operating While Intoxicated (OWI).

From August 3, 2005, to January 9, 2006, 11 separate individuals entered into an agreement with Bjorklund to represent them in relation to Iowa OWI charges. As part of this representation, each individual met and was directed by Bjorklund to make a voluntary donation of $100 to $500 to "Re-Adapt" under the false pretense this contribution would result in a more favorable resolution of the criminal charges. Bjorklund caused a post office box to be opened in Coralville under the name of Re-Adapt. Additionally, Bjorklund caused a bank account to be opened in Wisconsin in which multiple checks issued to Re-Adapt were subsequently deposited. In 2006, Bjorklund caused checks to be written and drawn on this Wisconsin Re-Adapt bank account payable to entities personally owned and controlled by him.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, and was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by either calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov 

DAVENPORT, IA - On March 16, 2017, Dajuan Parnell, 22, of Rock Island, Illinois, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 130 months in prison for possession of crack cocaine with intent to distribute and possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Parnell was ordered to serve four years of supervised release following his prison term and to pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.

On October 17, 2016, Parnell pleaded guilty to the drug distribution charges and admitted on June 12, 2016, he was in possession of both crack cocaine and cocaine with the intent to distribute each controlled substance. The charges were the result of an investigation that began when a marked Iowa State Patrol (ISP) vehicle pulled behind Parnell’s vehicle at a red light in downtown Davenport at approximately 3:20 a.m. Parnell immediately ran the red light and eluded the ISP vehicle. Following a pursuit, which lasted approximately eight miles and involved speeds of approximately 90 miles per hour, Parnell’s vehicle became disabled and Parnell and two passengers fled the vehicle on foot. Parnell dropped a quantity of crack cocaine on the ground as he ran. In the vehicle, law enforcement recovered additional an additional quantity of crack cocaine, a quantity of cocaine, and a loaded, .40 caliber handgun. In total, law enforcement recovered 67.44 grams of crack cocaine and 10.51 grams of cocaine.

This matter was investigated by the Iowa State Patrol, with assistance from the Davenport Police Department and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by either calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

DAVENPORT, IA - On March 17, 2017, Corey Anthony Jones, heather Jean Reekr28, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 188 months in prison for possession with the intent to distribute 28 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing cocaine base, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Jones was ordered to serve a four-year term of supervised release following his imprisonment and to pay $100 towards the Crime Victims’ Fund.

Between May 2, 2016, and May 9, 2016, Jones distributed crack cocaine on three separate occasions. On May 9, 2016, law enforcement officers found and seized approximately 66 grams of crack cocaine from a vehicle driven by Jones. That same day, officers obtained a search warrant for Jones’ Davenport residence and seized approximately 38 grams of powder cocaine and items consistent with the manufacture of crack cocaine. On October 19, 2016, Jones pleaded guilty and admitted he knowingly possessed the crack cocaine found on May 9, 2016, in the vehicle and intended to distribute some or all of the crack cocaine to others.

This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department’s Tactical Operations Bureau, the Davenport Police Department, and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by either calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov 

DAVENPORT, IA - On March 16, 2017, Robert W. Webster, heather Jean Reekr66, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 12 months and one day in prison for conspiracy to bribe a public official, 12 months and one day on each of two counts of bribery of a public official, the sentences to run concurrently, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Webster was fined $50,000 and will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release following his imprisonment. Chief Judge Jarvey ordered Webster to pay $300 in assessments.

On July 22, 2016, Webster pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bribery from as early as 2004 until July of 2010 concerning programs receiving federal funds, and two additional counts charging bribery on March 27, 2009, and September 18, 2009, concerning programs receiving federal funds.

As part of a written plea agreement, Webster admitted he was the Bettendorf City Electrician and for several years he received payments from Brown Traffic Products (BTP), Inc., and its subsidiary Traffic Systems Solution Company. Payments included travel, meals, drinks, entertainment and other expenses – such as tickets to NASCAR events in Las Vegas and Chicago and trips to business conferences, to reward and influence him to conduct business with BTP. Webster admitted on March 27, 2009, his wife received a check for $2,700 for a trip funded by BTP. Webster also admitted on September 18, 2009, he received golfing fees in Gilbert, Arizona, from an employee of BTP to reward and influence him.

During the sentencing hearing, Chief District Judge Jarvey found Webster had obstructed the due administration of justice and had not accepted responsibility for his crimes.

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the complete cooperation of the City of Bettendorf. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by either calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

DES MOINES, IA – On March 14, 2017, Shawn Michael Kerby, 38, of Des Moines, Iowa, appeared in U.S. District Court in connection with multiple charges related to the distribution and dispensing of hydrocodone and possession of firearms, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.

Specifically, on February 23, 2017, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Kerby with the following:

• Eight counts of distributing and dispensing hydrocodone outside the usual course of professional practice and not for any legitimate medical purpose on multiple occasions between May 10, 2012, and November 18, 2015;

• One count of obtaining hydrocodone by misrepresentation, fraud, deception, and subterfuge, alleged to have occurred on November 18, 2015;

• One count of using a communication facility, specifically, a cellular telephone, in connection with the distribution and dispensing of hydrocodone outside the usual course of professional practice and not for any legitimate medical purpose on October 6, 2015; and

• One count of possession of firearms while being an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance.

The indictment also seeks forfeiture of the subject firearms and a 2013 Ford F-150 Raptor Truck. The indictment was unsealed upon Kerby’s initial court appearance.

Kerby pleaded not guilty to the charges and his case was set for trial on May 1, 2017. The public is reminded that an indictment is merely an accusation and that Kerby is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

This case was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

DES MOINES, IA – On February 28, 2017, Richard Lee Hauser, M.D., 67, formerly of the Grinnell, Iowa, area was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge Robert W. Pratt to two months in federal prison for two counts of health care fraud, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. The two-month sentences were ordered to be served at the same time. Hauser was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term, pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund, and pay a total of $30,879 in restitution to the State of Iowa Medicaid program (Iowa Medicaid) and Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Iowa (Wellmark).

Hauser pleaded guilty to these charges on October 19, 2016. According to the plea agreement, from about October 2008 until about August 2013, Dr. Hauser, a psychiatrist licensed to practice in Iowa, oversaw and personally provided services at a clinic in Grinnell, Iowa. The clinic operated under the name Prevention Systems, Inc., and did business as The Hauser Clinic. Beginning by at least November 8, 2011, and continuing to at least on or about December 31, 2012, Dr. Hauser devised a scheme and artifice to obtain, by means of materially false and fraudulent representations, money from the Iowa Medicaid program and Wellmark, in connection with the delivery of and payment for health care benefits and services. As part of this scheme, Dr. Hauser “upcoded” claims, meaning he submitted claims to Iowa Medicaid and Wellmark, misrepresenting the service Hauser provided to certain patients by “coding” for a more expensive service, which was not, in fact, performed. The purpose of “coding” for a more expensive service was to increase the amount of reimbursement The Hauser Clinic would receive from Iowa Medicaid and Wellmark.

This matter was investigated by the State of Iowa Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and the United States Postal Inspection Service. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

DAVENPORT, IA - On February 27, 2017, Curtis Lee Dale, 44, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 300 months in prison for conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of cocaine, 28 grams and more of cocaine base, and 100 grams and more of heroin; and, for possession with intent to distribute 500 grams of cocaine, at least 28 grams of cocaine base, and 100 grams of heroin, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. A concurrent sentence of 120 months in prison was also imposed for a felon in possession of a firearm charge. Dale committed these offenses while on federal supervised release for drug and gun convictions from 1997. At the conclusion of the sentencing hearing, Chief Judge Jarvey imposed a concurrent sentence of 60 months for violating supervised release in the 1997 case. Dale was also ordered to serve eight years of supervised release following the period of imprisonment, and pay $300 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.

On June 2, 2016, Dale was arrested after U. S. Drug Enforcement Administration agents and members of the Rock Island Police Department searched a storage unit accessed by Dale. The agents discovered more than a kilogram of cocaine, 5 ounces of cocaine base, and more than 100 grams of heroin in the unit along with a Ruger, 9mm pistol and ammunition. That same day, Dale was located and found with individually wrapped baggies of heroin in his pocket and approximately two ounces of cocaine in his residence.

On October 3, 3016, trial commenced in the U.S. Courthouse in Davenport, Iowa. On October 5, 2016, the jury returned a verdict of guilty conspiracy involving 28 grams and more of cocaine base, 500 grams and more of cocaine, and 100 grams and more of heroin, and guilty of the drug possession charge and the gun offense.

This matter was investigated by the U. S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Rock Island Police Department, the Bettendorf Police Department, and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by calling Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On February 24, 2017, Daniel Logan Walden, 69, formerly of Glenwood, Iowa, was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge Robert W. Pratt to 87 months in prison for possession of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.  Walden was also ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release.

On October 7, 2016, Walden entered a guilty plea to a federal indictment charging him with possession of child pornography on or about May 9, 2014.  The charge was the result of an investigation by the Glenwood Iowa Police Department for an allegation that Walden sexually assaulted a minor female.  Law enforcement obtained a search warrant; during the May 9, 2014, search of Walden's residence, numerous images of child pornography were recovered, both in printed form and on computer-storage devices.

This investigation was conducted by the Glenwood Iowa Police Department, the Ralston Nebraska Police Department, the Mills County Attorney's Office, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, Cyber Crimes Unit.  The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

-END-

Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

DAVENPORT, IA - On February 22, 2017, Anthony Maurice Walls, 41, of Burlington, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 120 months in prison on the charge of felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Walls was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund. Walls was found guilty of this charge by a Davenport jury on October 4, 2016.

Evidence presented at trial showed that just before midnight on October 23, 2015, Walls was involved in a dispute with two other people in Burlington. After the dispute, Walls entered a Burlington residence, and stole a shotgun and ammunition. Walls loaded the shotgun and attempted to leave the residence to return to the scene of the dispute. When occupants of the residence attempted to stop him, Walls, in an effort to appease them, tossed a small amount of crack cocaine at them. A concerned citizen saw Walls and called 911 while he was walking with the shotgun back to the scene of the dispute. Burlington police officers responded, and placed Walls into custody. Officers recovered the shotgun and additional crack cocaine nearby. Walls had multiple prior felony convictions from Des Moines and Henry Counties in Iowa.

This matter was investigated by the Burlington Police Department and the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the Project Safe Neighborhood initiative.

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Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

DES MOINES, IA – On February 22, 2017, a jury in the Southern District of Iowa convicted Jonathan Leroy Homedew, 43, of Hemet, California, on a charge of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Sentencing has been scheduled for July 6, 2017, before Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey.

From about May 2016 through September 9, 2016, Homedew conspired with other persons to distribute methamphetamine in the Des Moines, Iowa, area. Over the course of this conspiracy, Homedew purchased multi-pound quantities of methamphetamine from sources in Southern California, and then shipped it, including through the United States Mail, to the Des Moines area. On September 7 and 9, 2016, the United States Postal Inspection Service, in concert with the Des Moines Police Department, seized nine parcels shipped from Southern California. The combined parcels contained over 25 pounds of methamphetamine sent by Homedew for redistribution by others in Iowa.

"The cooperation among the law enforcement agencies necessary to achieve this successful prosecution is commended," stated United States Attorney VanderSchel. "Together we are making a difference in keeping our community and mail service safe."

Craig Goldberg, Inspector in Charge of the Denver Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service, which includes Iowa, said, "This conviction reflects the successful teamwork among federal, state, and local law enforcement. We want the public to know that Postal Inspectors will aggressively pursue anyone who attempts to use the Postal Service to facilitate drug trafficking. We do not want the U.S. Mail to be used to commit crimes, and we aim to keep illegal drugs out of the mail for the safety of our employees and customers."

This investigation was conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, Des Moines Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

Davenport, IA - On February 16, 2017, Gregory Wayne Wieskampheather Jean Reekr, age 43, of Muscatine, Iowa, was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner to 130 months in prison for felon in possession of ammunition, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Wieskamp was ordered to serve a three-year term of supervised release following his release.

On February 23, 2015, officers were notified of a burglary in Bennett, Iowa, Cedar County; a large gun safe containing approximately 15 firearms and ammunition were reported stolen, among other items. It was discovered that Wieskamp and a co-defendant drove a vehicle with the stolen gun safe to a residence in Moscow, Iowa, where the gun safe was cut open and the guns were divided among the participants, including Wieskamp. On March 3, 2015, officers conducted a search warrant at Wieskamp’s residence and seized a gun clip containing ammunition and a large television that were taken from the Bennett burglary. Wieskamp has a prior felony conviction for burglary third degree in 1995. 

This matter was investigated by the Muscatine Police Department, Muscatine County Sheriff’s Department, Muscatine Drug Task Force, Wilton Police Department, Cedar County Sheriff’s Department, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Scott County Sheriff’s Department, Whiteside County Sheriff’s Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the Project Safe Neighborhood initiative. 

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 Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

Davenport, IA - On February 17, 2017, DeAries Napoleon Jonesheather Jean Reekr, age 28, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner to 33 months in prison for two counts of felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Jones was ordered to serve a three-year term of supervised release following his release.

On March 7, 2016, Davenport Police Department (DPD) received a shots-fired call. Upon investigation, they found a vehicle, belonging to Jones, that was possibly involved. Officers obtained a search warrant for Jones’ vehicle. Three spent-shell casings were found in the vehicle. Upon search of Jones’ residence, a Ruger P95 9mm handgun was recovered, along with 48 rounds of ammunition and marijuana.

On July 11, 2016, DPD initiated an unrelated investigation. Jones was located and a loaded Smith and Wesson M&P 9 mm handgun was found in Jones’ waistband.

This matter was investigated by the DPD and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the Project Safe Neighborhood initiative.   

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 Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

DES MOINES, IA – On February 3, 2017, federal search warrants were executed at the following locations in Des Moines, Iowa:

• Franklin Avenue

• Douglas Avenue

• East 16th Street

• 16th Street

• Jefferson Avenue

• Hickman Road

• SE 19th Street

• 1st Street

The searches at these locations were an official law enforcement action led jointly by the Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The official law enforcement action also involved agents and investigators from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Marshals Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Warren County Sheriff’s Office, Indianola Police Department, Mid-Iowa Drug Task Force, and Central Iowa Drug Task Force. Assistance was also provided by members of the Iowa Department of Human Services, and the Metro STAR, SERT, and Jasper County tactical teams.

The following individuals were charged with distribution of heroin:

• Bruce Edward McGee, 26, of Des Moines.

• Charles Junior Sims, 26, of Des Moines.

• Earl Deangelo Smith, of Des Moines.

• Bernard Calvin Stigler, 28, of Des Moines.

• George Lamar Stigler, 26, of Johnston.

• Artellious Demond Young, 22, of Des Moines.

The following individuals, each of whom reside in Des Moines, were charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm:

• Peter Marcus Greene, 45.

• Clinton Ossie Taylor, 41.

• Artell Jamaryo Young, 25.

No other information or comments will be released until documents have been filed with the court as part of the public record.

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Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

DAVENPORT, IA - On January 26, 2017, Thomas D. Gretter, 66, formerly of Washington, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 13 months in federal prison for two counts of making a false statement to a financial institution, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. The 13-month sentences were ordered to be served at the same time. Gretter was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release following his prison term, pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund, and pay a total of $1,185,704.77 in restitution to Hills Bank & Trust Company (“Hills Bank”).

Gretter pleaded guilty to these charges on September 20, 2016. According to the plea agreement, on or about December 18, 2013, and October 6, 2014, Gretter obtained loans from Hills Bank. As security for each of these loans, Gretter pledged multiple items of collateral that he knew included false statements, and were unavailable to Hills Bank as security. Specifically, Gretter forged the signatures of multiple people on items of pledged collateral and provided those documents to Hills Bank in order to influence Hills Bank to make the loans.

This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov  

DAVENPORT, IA – On January 26, 2017, Gramann Richard Barnes, 44, formerly of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 84 months in prison after pleading guilty to arson, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Barnes was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term, and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.

On March 15, 2016, the Davenport Fire and Police Departments were dispatched to a duplex on Locust Street in Davenport. A victim reported earlier in the day, Barnes had assaulted the victim, injured a child, and caused the victim and child to flee the residence. The victim called 911 from a friend’s residence, and later returned to the residence to discover a strong gas odor and heat coming from the kitchen. When the victim entered the kitchen, the oven was glowing, the gas stove burners were on, and all the knobs were removed; inside the oven was a roll of burning paper towels.

The victim located the knobs and turned off the stove and oven. Additionally, the victim observed the inside of the apartment had been trashed with broken dishes, broken household items, and glass shattered throughout the residence. The victim also later discovered a number of jewelry items were missing. The victim left the residence and again called 911. The Davenport Fire and Police Departments arrived and cleared the apartment.

A fire department investigator found a makeshift wick consisting of a paper towel rolled tightly and placed down inside the oven, where the flame for the gas burner was located. Investigators concluded the knobs on the stove were removed and combustible materials consisting of paper towels were intentionally placed in the oven for the purpose of causing ignition, which would have likely resulted in a fire or explosion. The investigation also determined at the time the stove and oven were turned on, two upstairs neighbors were home, heard an argument, the sound of breaking dishes, and detected a gas odor.

When Barnes left the scene at the apartment, he stole a pick-up truck belonging to the victim’s father and fled to Texas. Barnes was arrested in Texas on April 5, 2016. After returning for a court appearance in Iowa, Barnes admitted he had rigged the apartment to explode.

This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Davenport Fire Department, and the Davenport Police Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

Council Bluffs, IA - On January 25, 2017, John F. Thomsenheather Jean Reekr, a 47-year-old resident of Missouri Valley, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 235 months in prison for coersion and enticement of a minor for sex and for transporting a minor with intent to engage in sexual activity, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Thomsen will be required to serve 15 years of supervised release after his prison term. Thomsen pleaded guilty to the two counts on September 1, 2016.

The guilty pleas and sentencing were the result of an investigation into the transportation of minor females from Arkansas to Missouri Valley, Iowa, so the minors could engage in sexual acts. The investigation showed Thomsen had met a 14-year-old female while working at a group home in Arkansas. After leaving his group home employment, Thomsen used social media to keep in contact with the minor female and convince her to live with him, and his wife, Trudy Thomsen, in Missouri Valley, Iowa.

The Thomsens traveled to Arkansas and drove the minor to Missouri Valley, Iowa, where the Thomsens engaged in various sexual acts with the girl. After the minor was returned to the group home, John Thomsen again contacted her via social media and arranged to have her, and a second minor female, transported back to Missouri Valley, Iowa, for sexual activities.

Co-defendant Trudy Thomsen is pending sentencing in the Southern District of Iowa.

This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Task Force, Arkansas State Police, Missouri Valley Police Department, Council Bluffs Police Department, Omaha Police Department, La Vista Police Department, and the Harrison County Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by contacing Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

DES MOINES, IA – On January 20, 2017, Donald Lynn Embree, 55, of Waukee, Iowa, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 15 months in prison for three counts of false statements for the overvaluation of securities, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Embree was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term, pay $300 to the Crime Victims’ Fund, and pay a total of $321,927.13 to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) as restitution.

Embree pleaded guilty to these charges on September 22, 2016. According to the plea agreement, Embree obtained three loans from the Commodity Credit Corporation in March of 2015 by falsely certifying the existence of collateral. The Commodity Credit Corporation is an agency within the USDA that makes agricultural loans, which are administered by the FSA. Embree’s grain, bushels of corn and soybeans, served as collateral for these loans.

Embree certified the bushels of grain were eligible to be pledged as collateral for the loans, that the quantity was in existence and stored in bins on his property, and that he retained control of the grain. However, Embree had sold much of the grain prior to March of 2015, and did not have the collateral to pledge to the Corporation.

This matter was investigated by the United States Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300 or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

DES MOINES, IA – On January 23, 2017, Robert Dwayne Humburd IIIheather Jean Reekr, age 38, formerly of Des Moines, Iowa, was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner to 96 months in prison for two counts of bank robbery, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Humburd is required to serve a three-year term of supervised release following his prison term, pay $200 to the Crime Victims’ Fund, and pay a total of $10,473 in restitution to the banks and a bank teller. The Court ordered the prison terms on each count are to be served at the same time.

On September 21, 2016, Humburd pleaded guilty to two counts of bank robbery. According to the plea agreement, Humburd entered a U.S. Bank branch in Des Moines on September 9, 2015, and gave a note to the teller demanding cash. Humburd fled the bank with a sum of cash. On November 6, 2015, Humburd entered a Bankers Trust Company branch in Des Moines and handed a note to the teller demanding cash. Again, Humburd fled the bank with a sum of cash.

This matter was investigated by the Des Moines Police Department and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

DAVENPORT, IA – On January 23, 2017, Jacob Scott Watters, 24, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 240 months in prison for receipt of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Watters was ordered to serve ten years of supervised release following his prison term and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.

Watters pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography on August 25, 2016. According to the plea agreement, on August 18, 2014, Davenport Police Department was notified of an investigation in Merced County, California, that concluded Watters was engaging in sexual chats and sending and receiving nude pictures with a 15-year-old female. A search warrant executed at Watters’ residence led to the recovery of multiple electronic devices.

During the examination of the recovered devices, it was determined Watters was communicating with six other minor females, many of whom with he was having sexual conversations and exchanging pornographic pictures. At the time of the communications, Watters was a registered sex offender and on state probation for lascivious acts with a minor.

This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the Project Safe Childhood Initiative.

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Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

DAVENPORT, IA - On January 23, 2017, Marcus Anthony Brown, age 27, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to five years in prison after pleading guilty to felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Brown was ordered to serve three years of supervised release and pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.

On September 9, 2016, an off-duty Davenport police officer observed a fight in a parking lot. A man, later identified as Brown, fired two shots into the air from what appeared to be a handgun. As the officer approached the scene, he observed Brown get in and out of a vehicle; the vehicle left before back-up officers arrived. Officers were unable to locate a firearm, but did find and seize several rounds of .380 caliber ammunition and Brown was arrested. Brown has two prior 2005 felony convictions.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Davenport Police Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA - On January 18, 2017, Broc Todd Waltermeyer, heather Jean Reekra 44-year-old resident of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced by Senior United States District Court Judge James E. Gritzner to 196 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.  Waltermeyer’s term of imprisonment will be followed by five years of supervised release.  Waltermeyer pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine on April 29, 2016.

The guilty plea and sentencing were the result of an investigation into methamphetamine distribution by the defendant between July of 2015 and November 11, 2015. During that time, the defendant distributed over two kilograms of methamphetamine, which was obtained in Omaha and transported to Pottawattamie County, where it was sold.

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Learn more about this release by contacting Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov 

DAVENPORT, IA - On January 18, 2017, Robert L. Budd, Jr., heather Jean Reekrage 73, of Bettendorf, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to four months in prison for conspiracy to bribe a public official and four months for bribery of a public official, the sentences to run concurrently, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel. Budd was fined $25,000, was ordered to serve a two-year term of supervised release following his imprisonment, and to pay $200 in special assessments to the Crime Victims’ Fund.

On May 20, 2016, Budd pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery and bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds. As part of a written plea agreement, Budd admitted he was a manager at Brown Traffic Products, Inc. (BTP) in Davenport, Iowa, and he approved and made payments to Robert Webster, the Bettendorf City Electrician, for travel, meals, drinks, entertainment, and other expenses, including tickets to NASCAR events and trips to business conferences.

Budd also admitted on March 27, 2009, he reimbursed Webster for a trip by writing a check to Webster’s wife for $2,700, which was deposited into the Websters’ credit union account.  Budd admitted this and other payments were made in an effort to influence Webster to continue doing business with BTP, and to reward him for conducting business with BTP.

In July of 2016, Robert Webster, former Bettendorf City Electrician, pleaded guilty to three felony counts. He is presently scheduled to be sentenced on March 16, 2017, in Davenport.

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the cooperation of the City of Bettendorf. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

Learn more about this release by contacing Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300, or by emailing her at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov 

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DAVENPORT, IA – On December 14, 2016, Audra Sue Rowson, 43, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 50 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.  Rowson was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following her prison term and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.

Rowson pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine on August 1, 2016.  According to the plea agreement, Rowson conspired to distribute methamphetamine in the Davenport, Iowa, area from around January of 2014 and continuing until around March of 2016.

During that time, Rowson sold approximately 11.5 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant during the course of three controlled transactions.  Law enforcement also executed a search warrant at Rowson’s Davenport residence where they located methamphetamine residue, drug ledgers, drug paraphernalia, and items consistent with the distribution of methamphetamine.     

This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Scott County Sheriff’s Department, the Bettendorf Police Department, and the Quad City Metropolitan Enforcement Group.  The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa. 

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Media Contact for this release is Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

DAVENPORT, IA – On December 14, 2016, Theodore Cooke, 48, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 60 months in prison for Felon in Possession of an Unregistered Firearm, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.  Cooke was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.

Cooke pleaded guilty to Felon in Possession of an Unregistered Firearm on August 17, 2016.  There was no plea agreement in the case.  According to statements made by all parties during the sentencing hearing, Cooke was in possession of a Molotov cocktail on November 2, 2015.  On that date, Cooke went to a Davenport residence to look for his girlfriend.  After several attempts to get her outside, Cooke lit the Molotov cocktail on fire and threw it at a parked vehicle, causing the vehicle to start on fire.  No one was injured during the incident.  A Molotov cocktail is a destructive device under federal law and must be registered as a firearm.  Cooke has two prior felony convictions in Scott County, Iowa; one for Burglary-First Degree, the other for Burglary-Second Degree.  Cooke also has prior convictions for Assault with Injury, Simple Assault, Cruelty to Animals, and Assault.

This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Davenport Police Department, and Davenport Fire Department.  The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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 Media Contact for this release is Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

DAVENPORT, IA – On December 14, 2016, Chad Allen Moens, 43, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to 90 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.  Moens was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term and to pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.

Moens pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine on April 26, 2016.  According to the plea agreement, Moens conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine in Davenport, Iowa, from June of 2014 to September of 2015.  During that time, law enforcement used a confidential informant to purchase or attempt to purchase methamphetamine from Moens on four separate occasions.

In total, Moens provided or attempted to provide the confidential informant with approximately 190 grams of methamphetamine.  Law enforcement also located approximately 55 grams of methamphetamine during a search warrant executed at Moens’ Silvis, Illinois, residence.  According to statements made at Moens’ sentencing hearing, Moens traveled to Chicago, Illinois, and Omaha, Nebraska, to obtain methamphetamine, and then returned to the Davenport area to sell methamphetamine.  Moens is responsible for conspiring to distribute nearly 900 grams of methamphetamine in the Davenport, Iowa, area.

This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Scott County Sheriff’s Department, the Bettendorf Police Department, and the Quad City Metropolitan Enforcement Group.  The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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 Media Contact for this release is Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov

DAVENPORT, IA - On December 14, 2016, Keith Nelson, age 28, of Davenport, Iowa, was sentenced by Chief United States District Court Judge John A. Jarvey to six months in prison for escape from federal custody, announced United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.  Nelson was ordered to serve a two-year term of supervised release following his imprisonment.

On September 9, 2016, Nelson pleaded guilty to this charge.  Nelson was serving a term of 120 months in federal prison when he was released in December 2015, to the residential re-entry center (RRC) in Davenport to complete that term.  In June 2016, Nelson left the RRC without permission and was arrested by the United States Marshal Service (USMS) approximately three days later.

This investigation was conducted by the USMS and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.

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 Media Contact for this release is Rachel Scherle at 515-473-9300, or Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov