Coralville Man Sentenced to 13 Years in Federal Prison

Convicted felon found guilty of weapons and drug charges

Mar. 26, 2026 at 9:54pm

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A 46-year-old Coralville man, Ricardo Wiley Steward, was sentenced to 13 years in federal prison for illegally possessing a loaded, stolen pistol and selling marijuana in the Iowa City area from 2024 to 2025. Steward, a convicted felon, was found guilty by a jury in October 2025 of felon in possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute marijuana.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenges of repeat offenders and the need for strict enforcement of federal laws prohibiting felons from possessing firearms, especially those with histories of violence. The sentencing also underscores the federal government's commitment to cracking down on illegal drug distribution in the region.

The details

According to court documents, in February 2025 Steward was found in possession of a loaded, stolen pistol at a residence in Coralville. Authorities also determined that Steward had been selling marijuana in the Iowa City area from 2024 to 2025. As a convicted felon, Steward was prohibited from possessing any firearms.

  • In February 2025, Steward illegally possessed a loaded, stolen pistol.
  • From 2024 to 2025, Steward sold marijuana in the Iowa City area.
  • On October 28, 2025, a jury found Steward guilty of felon in possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute marijuana.

The players

Ricardo Wiley Steward

A 46-year-old convicted felon from Coralville, Iowa who was found guilty of illegally possessing a firearm and distributing marijuana.

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What’s next

After completing his 13-year prison sentence, Steward will be required to serve a 4-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenge of repeat offenders and the need for strict enforcement of federal laws prohibiting felons from possessing firearms, especially those with histories of violence. The lengthy sentence also demonstrates the federal government's commitment to cracking down on illegal drug distribution in the region.