A Cedar Rapids man has been sentenced to over seven years in federal prison for unlawfully possessing five stolen firearms. Chase Mead, 31, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 18, 2014, guilty plea to one count of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition.
Mead admitted that, on June 14, 2013, he possessed two rifles and three handguns, all of which had previously been reported stolen. He also admitted to possessing ammunition for each of the firearms. Mead had previously been convicted of two felony offenses, including forgery in 2003 and manufacturing methamphetamine in 2008.
The sentencing took place in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. Mead was sentenced to ninety-four months’ imprisonment. A special assessment of $100 was imposed, and Mead must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Mead is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Morfitt and investigated by the Linn County Sheriff’s Office.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov. The case file number is 14-CR-00019. This case highlights the severity of punishments for those who unlawfully possess firearms, particularly for individuals with prior felony convictions.
The sentence handed down to Mead serves as a warning to others who may be considering similar crimes. The federal system takes firearm offenses seriously, and those found guilty can expect significant prison time. Mead’s case is just one example of the many instances of firearm-related crimes that are prosecuted in federal court each year.
In a statement, the United States Attorney’s Office emphasized the importance of enforcing federal firearm laws to keep communities safe. The office commended the work of the Linn County Sheriff’s Office and other law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation and prosecution of Mead’s case.
Related Federal Cases
Key Facts
- State: Iowa
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
WeaponsWeaponsWeaponsWeapons