Jacob Shafer, 34, of Mason City, Iowa, was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison on September 12, 2025, after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and illegal possession of a firearm. The sentencing took place in federal court in Sioux City.
Shafer had prior convictions from March 2022 in Iowa for possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver and trafficking in stolen weapons. These previous offenses made it illegal for him to possess any firearms.
During the execution of a search warrant at Shafer’s residence in March 2024, law enforcement officers found four bags of methamphetamine, various drug paraphernalia such as pipes and baggies, a digital scale, and multiple firearms. The items seized included ninety-six .380 caliber Winchester rounds of ammunition; a Ruger LCP .380 pistol with six rounds (one in the chamber); a Smith & Wesson .40 caliber pistol with thirteen rounds; an Intratec AB-10 9mm pistol with twenty-two rounds; and a Rock Island Armory .45 caliber pistol. Shafer admitted he intended to distribute the methamphetamine found by officers.
The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which brings together law enforcement agencies and communities to address violent crime and gun violence. According to the Department of Justice, PSN aims to foster trust within communities, support organizations working to prevent violence, set focused enforcement priorities, and measure outcomes.
United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand presided over the sentencing. In addition to the prison term of 132 months, Shafer will serve four years of supervised release upon completion of his sentence. There is no parole in the federal system. Shafer remains in custody pending transport to federal prison.
