Jamiah Burton, a 30-year-old from Sioux City, has been sentenced to five years in federal prison following his guilty plea on August 8, 2024, for possession of a firearm by a felon. The sentencing took place on March 21, 2025.
The case details an incident on January 19, 2024, when Burton entered a bar in Sioux City with a female companion. After an argument led to the woman leaving, Burton turned his attention to the bartender. Over the next hour and a half, he refused to leave the premises while consuming alcohol. He repeatedly came behind the bar, simulated inappropriate acts towards the bartender, brandished a loaded handgun threatening both himself and her, and stole a bottle of alcohol before being lured out by the bartender's promise to accompany him. Once outside, she locked him out and called for help.
Shortly after Burton left the bar, law enforcement in South Sioux City found his vehicle stranded in snow with open containers and stolen tequila inside.
Burton has a significant criminal record that includes violent home invasions and attempts to evade police while driving under the influence.
Judge Leonard T. Strand sentenced Burton in Sioux City to 60 months' imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release. In federal cases like this one, parole is not an option.
This prosecution was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which aims to reduce violent crime through collaborative efforts among various stakeholders focusing on serious offenders and supporting prevention programs.
Burton remains in custody under the United States Marshal until he is transferred to federal prison.
The investigation was conducted by police departments from South Sioux City and Sioux City. Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild handled the prosecution.