Cole Jacob Bergantzel, Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm, Iowa 2022

Council Bluffs, IA – In a shocking turn of events, Cole Jacob Bergantzel, 20, of Council Bluffs, was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm.

The Charges: A Look into the Crime

Bergantzel’s troubles began when he attempted to sell firearms on Snapchat in March 2021. However, his actions escalated when he was arrested in September 2021 after discharging a firearm in a residential area. This brazen act of recklessness led to a thorough investigation by the authorities.

A Look into the Investigation

The Council Bluffs Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives worked tirelessly to gather evidence and build a case against Bergantzel. The investigation revealed that Bergantzel was prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition due to his history of drug use and addiction to a controlled substance.

The Outcome: A Harsh Sentence

On Thursday, May 12, 2022, Bergantzel pleaded guilty to the charge of Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm. As a result, he was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. This harsh sentence serves as a warning to those who would recklessly disregard the law and put innocent lives at risk.

A Warning to the Community

This case highlights the importance of responsible gun ownership and the consequences of allowing individuals with a history of substance abuse to possess firearms. The community is safer now that Bergantzel is behind bars, and the authorities are to be commended for their tireless efforts in bringing him to justice.

A Message from the Authorities

United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement, stating that the authorities will continue to work tirelessly to keep the community safe from individuals who would recklessly disregard the law.

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