DES MOINES, IA – Shawn Michael Kerby, 38, of Des Moines, Iowa, is facing a slew of federal charges following an indictment unsealed March 14, 2017, in U.S. District Court. Kerby, who appears to have operated outside legitimate medical practice, is accused of running a hydrocodone distribution ring and illegally possessing firearms, according to United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.
The federal grand jury indictment details eight counts of distributing and dispensing hydrocodone in a manner that blatantly disregarded professional standards and lacked any legitimate medical justification. The alleged illegal activity spanned from May 10, 2012, to November 18, 2015. Kerby is further accused of obtaining the highly addictive opioid through deceitful means on November 18, 2015.
Federal investigators allege Kerby didn’t just deal in pills; he utilized a cellular telephone on October 6, 2015, to facilitate the illicit distribution of hydrocodone. The indictment also paints a troubling picture of Kerby as an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, while simultaneously possessing firearms – a dangerous combination, authorities say.
Beyond the drug and weapon charges, the government is seeking to seize assets believed to be connected to the alleged criminal enterprise. This includes the firearms themselves, and a high-end 2013 Ford F-150 Raptor Truck, suggesting a significant profit motive fueled by the illegal opioid distribution. The unsealing of the indictment followed Kerby’s initial court appearance.
Kerby entered a plea of not guilty to all charges. A trial date has been set for May 1, 2017, where the government will attempt to prove its case. It’s critical to remember that this indictment represents accusations, and Kerby is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being spearheaded by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa. Those with information related to this case are encouraged to contact Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300 or via email at Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any developments.
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Key Facts
- State: Iowa
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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