A Des Moines man has been sentenced to 35 years in federal prison for his involvement in an armed robbery and related charges. Sam Sando, aged 27, was convicted of attempted interference with commerce by robbery, attempted possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, and discharging a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.

Court documents and trial evidence revealed that Sando planned the armed robbery of a quarter pound of marijuana and enlisted Salifou Sahr as an accomplice. On January 9, 2022, they lured victims to an apartment complex under the pretense of a drug deal. Both men fired into the victims' car, resulting in the death of Trishay Thompson.

On August 7, 2024, following a two-day trial, a federal jury found Sando guilty on all charges. He will also serve a five-year term of supervised release after his imprisonment. The federal system does not allow parole.

Sahr was convicted in November 2023 in Iowa District Court for Polk County on charges including first-degree murder and was sentenced to life in prison.

United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal announced the sentencing. The Des Moines Police Department conducted the investigation.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), aiming to reduce violent crime and gun violence by fostering community trust and strategic law enforcement efforts. More information about PSN can be found at Justice.gov/PSN.