Willie James Powell, Jr., Felon in Possession of Firearms, Iowa 2021

DAVENPORT, IOWA – In a bold move to combat gun violence, a Davenport man has been sentenced to federal prison for a firearm charge. The case, which began in 2020, has finally come to a close.

Willie James Powell, Jr., age 22, was sentenced to 57 months in prison for the offense of Felon in Possession of Firearms. This sentence is a stark reminder that Iowa takes firearm charges seriously.

The investigation began on September 2, 2020, when Davenport Police responded to a report of suspicious and threatening activity in the area of West 8th Street. Shortly after, officers located a vehicle associated with the activity and attempted to initiate a traffic stop. The vehicle fled from officers along many residential streets, exceeded 80 miles per hour, and eventually crashed.

Powell, Jr. was the front seat passenger of the vehicle, which was discovered to have been stolen. A search of the vehicle produced two firearms—a Glock nine-millimeter pistol and a H&K nine-millimeter pistol.

On April 19, 2021, Powell, Jr. pleaded guilty to knowingly possessing both the firearms. As a convicted felon, Powell, Jr. knew he was prohibited from possessing firearms.

Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Davenport Police Department investigated the case.

Powell, Jr. was ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his imprisonment as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.

This case is a reminder that firearm charges can have severe consequences. If you or someone you know is facing a firearm charge, it is essential to seek the advice of a qualified attorney.

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