Tennessee Man Sentenced for Attempted Enticement of Minor

Shawn Christopher Powell received 10 years in federal prison for seeking to meet and engage in sex acts with a 13-year-old.

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

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A 52-year-old man from Powell, Tennessee was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for attempted enticement of a minor. Shawn Christopher Powell communicated with someone he believed was a 13-year-old female between May and August 2025, sending messages about wanting to engage in sex acts. In August 2025, Powell traveled from Tennessee to Iowa with the intent to meet up with the minor.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing threat of online predators targeting minors and the importance of law enforcement vigilance and federal prosecution to protect vulnerable youth from exploitation.

The details

According to court documents, Powell communicated with someone he believed was a 13-year-old girl between May and August 2025, sending messages about wanting to engage in sex acts. In August 2025, Powell traveled from Tennessee to Iowa with the intent to meet up with the minor.

  • In May-August 2025, Powell communicated with someone he believed was a 13-year-old female.
  • In August 2025, Powell traveled from Tennessee to Iowa to meet the minor.

The players

Shawn Christopher Powell

A 52-year-old man from Powell, Tennessee who was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for attempted enticement of a minor.

United States Attorney David C. Waterman

The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa who announced the sentencing.

Cass County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that investigated the case along with the FBI.

Federal Bureau of Investigation-Child Exploitation Task Force

The federal task force that investigated the case along with the local sheriff's office.

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What’s next

After completing his 10-year prison sentence, Powell will be required to serve a 5-year term of supervised release.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing threat of online predators targeting minors and the importance of vigilant law enforcement and federal prosecution to protect vulnerable youth from exploitation.