Sound Shop Owner Nelson Caged for Marijuana Conspiracy

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – Nels Nolan Nelson, 34, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is trading sound systems for steel bars after receiving a 41-month federal prison sentence for conspiring to distribute marijuana. Nelson, formerly the owner of the now-defunct Sound Shop in Cedar Rapids, pleaded guilty on January 27, 2014, admitting to his role in a drug distribution network.

The sentence, handed down by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade, reflects the seriousness of the charge: one count of conspiring to distribute and possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Nelson’s involvement wasn’t a one-off; he actively conspired with others to push the drug, and possessed substantial quantities with the clear intent to profit.

Federal authorities haven’t been shy about cracking down on drug operations in the Hawkeye State, and Nelson’s case is another example. While the amount of marijuana involved hasn’t been publicly disclosed, the length of the sentence suggests a significant operation. Beyond the 41 months behind bars, Nelson will also be slapped with a 3-year term of supervised release upon completion of his prison sentence – and unlike state systems, there’s no parole in federal court.

Nelson is currently in the custody of the United States Marshals Service, awaiting transport to a designated federal prison facility. His fall from business owner to convicted felon is a stark reminder that even seemingly legitimate enterprises can be used as fronts for criminal activity. The DEA investigation, which ultimately led to Nelson’s conviction, was thorough and relentless.

Assistant United States Attorney Matthew J. Cole spearheaded the prosecution, building a case that clearly demonstrated Nelson’s guilt. The DEA agents assigned to the case spent months building evidence, and their work paid off. Those seeking further details on the case can access court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl, referencing case file number 14-CR-00006.

In addition to the prison sentence, Nelson was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment. This case serves as a warning: engaging in illegal drug activity carries severe consequences, and federal authorities are actively working to dismantle these operations and bring those responsible to justice. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on other federal crimes in Iowa and across the nation.