⏱ 2 min read
Floyd Clifford Coates and Dennis Lawson, two men linked to the death and disappearance of Sunny Sramek, were sentenced in federal court in the Northern District of Iowa. The sentencing, which took place on July 20, 2026, was the culmination of a lengthy investigation and trial that began with Coates’ conviction in November 2025. Coates was found guilty of various offenses related to drug trafficking, firearms, and obstruction of justice, while Lawson was convicted of threatening a witness. The case was a joint effort between the United States Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and other agencies.
The investigation and prosecution were led by United States Attorney Leif Olson, who will be holding a press conference on July 20, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at the Ho-Chunk Building in Sioux City, Iowa. Representatives from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Hitchcock County, Nebraska, Sheriff’s Office, and the Goodland, Kansas, Police Department will also be in attendance to discuss the case and provide further details.
The sentencing of Coates and Lawson brings closure to the family of Sunny Sramek, who was a victim of the defendants’ crimes. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat drug trafficking and related crimes in the Northern District of Iowa.
The United States Attorney’s Office and its partner agencies will continue to work tirelessly to bring those who engage in such criminal activity to justice. The press conference and subsequent press release will provide more information on the sentencing and the outcome of the case.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Drug Trafficking
- Defendant: Iowa
- Location: IA
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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