Matthew C. Banfield, Gun Charge, Iowa 2021

A Nebraska man was sentenced to 37 months in prison for knowingly possessing a firearm as a prohibited person. Matthew C. Banfield, a 36-year-old resident of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger to 37 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for knowingly possessing a firearm as a prohibited person.

According to court documents, on May 17, 2020, Banfield was in possession of a Springfield 45 caliber handgun. Banfield fired the weapon at various stationary targets in a rural location located in Pottawattamie County. Prior to this date, Banfield had been convicted of a felony. During his possession of the firearm, Banfield knew he was a prohibited person based on his prior felony convictions.

Banfield pleaded guilty to the gun charge on January 8, 2021. Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement in connection with the case.

The investigation into the case was a collaborative effort between the Council Bluffs Police Department, Omaha Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Marshals Southern Iowa Fugitive Task Force.

Banfield’s possession of a firearm as a prohibited person is a serious offense, and his 37-month prison sentence reflects the severity of the crime. The Southern District of Iowa will continue to work with law enforcement agencies to ensure that those who commit violent crimes are held accountable.

The case highlights the importance of gun safety and the need for individuals to be aware of their rights and responsibilities when it comes to firearms. Banfield’s conviction serves as a reminder that possessing a firearm as a prohibited person is a serious offense that can result in severe consequences.

Defendant: Matthew C. Banfield

Criminal Charge: Knowingly possessing a firearm as a prohibited person

City and State: Omaha, Nebraska

Exact Date: May 17, 2020

Sentence or Outcome: 37 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release

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