Davenport, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced to federal prison after allegedly possessing a firearm despite prior felony convictions.
According to public court documents and the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Cedrick Dequn Willingham, 39, was sentenced Thursday, March 12, 2026, to 90 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a felon.
Authorities said the case began when Willingham allegedly fled from officers in Bettendorf after police attempted to stop his vehicle. The incident prompted further investigation.
During an August 2024 search of Willingham’s residence, officers reportedly discovered a firearm, a drum magazine, and multiple rounds of ammunition, according to court records.
Investigators say Willingham was legally prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition due to previous felony convictions. Those convictions include a 2025 conviction in Iowa District Court for Scott County for possession of a controlled substance, third or subsequent offense, officials said.
Federal prosecutors pursued the case in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Iowa, where U.S. Attorney David C. Waterman announced the sentencing.
After completing his prison term, Willingham will be required to serve three years of supervised release, authorities said. Federal sentences do not include parole.
The Scott County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a federal initiative focused on reducing violent crime and gun violence through coordinated law enforcement and community partnerships.
Officials say PSN efforts focus on building community trust, supporting prevention programs, and prioritizing enforcement strategies targeting violent crime.
Cases involving illegal firearm possession remain a key focus of federal prosecutors and local law enforcement agencies across eastern Iowa.
For younger residents and students in the Quad Cities area, the case highlights how prior felony convictions can permanently restrict firearm possession under federal law.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
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