DES MOINES, IA – Tyson James Ruth, 36, of Jefferson, Iowa, is facing serious federal charges after being indicted on weapons offenses and illegal firearm possession while using controlled substances. Ruth appeared in federal court on May 12, 2017, to answer to the indictment brought forth by United States Attorney Kevin E. VanderSchel.
The indictment alleges that in December of 2016, Ruth illegally possessed not one, but two sawed-off shotguns. The arsenal didn’t stop there. Authorities also discovered a revolver, a pistol, and a Mini-14 semi-automatic rifle in his possession, all while he was an unlawful user of controlled substances – a dangerous combination that put the public at risk.
During his initial appearance before United States Chief Magistrate Judge Helen C. Adams, Ruth was immediately ordered detained, meaning he’ll be cooling his heels behind bars until his trial. The government clearly views him as a flight risk and a potential danger to the community.
Ruth’s trial is currently scheduled for July 3, 2017, and will be presided over by United States Judge John A. Jarvey at the Des Moines Federal Courthouse. If convicted on any of the three counts of being an unlawful user of controlled substances in possession of a firearm, or either of the two counts of possessing a sawed-off shotgun, Ruth could face a maximum sentence of ten years in federal prison and a hefty $250,000 fine per count. That’s a potential 50-year stretch and $1.25 million in fines.
Investigators from the Carroll Police Department, Jefferson Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) worked together to build this case. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa is prosecuting the matter, leaving no stone unturned in pursuing justice.
It’s crucial to remember that an indictment is simply an accusation. Tyson James Ruth is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. However, the evidence presented suggests a serious disregard for the law and public safety. For more information on this case, contact Rachel J. Scherle at 515-473-9300 or Rachel.Scherle@usdoj.gov.
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