A Shelby County man has been sentenced to 270 months in federal prison for his involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy. The sentencing took place on January 14, 2025.

Court documents reveal that Sean Patrick Gifford, aged 41, was involved in two high-speed chases with law enforcement. The first incident occurred on January 2, 2024, through Harlan and Avoca, including Interstate 80. Later, on January 31, 2024, Gifford was again pursued by law enforcement and found in possession of over 190 grams of methamphetamine and $29,845. A forensic search of Gifford's cell phone provided evidence of his drug trafficking activities and connected him to the distribution of approximately 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine.

Upon completing his prison sentence, Gifford will be subject to a five-year term of supervised release. It is noted that there is no parole available in the federal system.

The announcement was made by United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal from the Southern District of Iowa. The investigation was conducted by the Council Bluffs Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, and Iowa State Patrol.