Felony Firearm Possession Lands Iowa City Man 120 Months in Prison

Davenort Man Sentenced for Firearm Charges

A Davenort federal court just handed down a harsh sentence to a local man for violating federal firearm laws. O’Sean Dentale Horton, 29, of Iowa City, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a felon.

Horton’s troubles began in December 2020, when he was caught with two loaded pistols, a distribution quantity of marijuana, and drug paraphernalia in two backpacks found at his sister’s residence. This is not Horton’s first brush with the law, as he was on probation in the Iowa District Court for Johnson County for failure to affix a drug tax stamp at the time of the offense.

But Horton’s luck ran out when he was witnessed on surveillance video shooting at another person multiple times in an apartment complex parking lot in Coralville in May 2023. The incident left behind .40 caliber shell casings, which investigators used as evidence against Horton.

United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal announced the sentence, citing the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in the investigation, including the Iowa City Police Department, University of Iowa Police Department, Johnson County Drug Task Force, Johnson County Special Emergency Response Team, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by bringing together law enforcement and community organizations. The initiative focuses on fostering trust and legitimacy in communities, supporting community-based organizations, setting enforcement priorities, and measuring results.

Horton will serve his 120-month sentence followed by a three-year term of supervised release. The federal system does not offer parole. With this sentence, Horton’s future looks bleak, and local law enforcement is breathing a sigh of relief.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of violating federal firearm laws. As the nation grapples with rising crime rates, it is essential for law enforcement to work together to keep our communities safe.

For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, visit Justice.gov/PSN.

The investigation and prosecution of this case are a testament to the dedication of law enforcement agencies and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions.