Arizona Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine Trafficking

An Arizona man has been sentenced to over 10 years in federal prison for possessing and transporting a large quantity of methamphetamine in Iowa.

John Trinidad Qualls, 43, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to 121 months in prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. He was also sentenced to a five-year term of supervised release after his prison term.

The crime took place on December 31, 2022, in Floyd County, Iowa, when Qualls was stopped by deputies for speeding. He was traveling 33 miles per hour over the speed limit. During the traffic stop, deputies discovered a pouch containing his license, insurance, and registration, which also had marijuana residue inside and smelled of marijuana. Qualls admitted to using marijuana earlier that day.

Deputies searched the vehicle and found 1,200 grams of methamphetamine, which prompted Qualls’ arrest and subsequent charge. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Devra T. Hake and investigated by the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office.

Qualls is currently being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison. There is no parole in the federal system.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat the trafficking of illicit substances in the country.

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