Caleb Root, a 45-year-old from Concord, Michigan, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison following his conviction on multiple charges related to drug and firearm possession. The sentencing took place on May 2, 2025, after a jury found him guilty in October 2024 of several offenses including possession of a firearm by a felon and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances such as methamphetamine and marijuana.
The case stemmed from an incident on May 23, 2023, when Sioux City Police stopped Root's vehicle during routine patrol. Officers observed suspicious behavior as Root's truck attempted to evade them by using a parking lot as a thoroughfare and driving into a residential area. Upon stopping the vehicle, officers noted Root's reluctance to cooperate and provide identification. Eventually, he admitted his identity and status as a convicted felon. A search revealed approximately four pounds of marijuana, over 12 grams of pure methamphetamine, and a loaded shotgun inside the vehicle.
Root was released shortly after this arrest but was again apprehended on July 22, 2023, for speeding in Adair County, Iowa. During this stop, officers detected the smell of marijuana leading to another search that uncovered more than one pound of marijuana and one gram of methamphetamine.
Root's criminal history includes previous state convictions for various offenses such as operating under the influence of controlled substances and theft. He also has four prior federal convictions dating back to 2010 for crimes including possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possessing firearms as a felon.
United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand sentenced Root in Sioux City to serve 180 months in prison followed by an eight-year term of supervised release. There is no parole available in the federal system.
Commenting on the case, United States Attorney Timothy T. Duax stated: “Root is an example of an individual who has repeatedly made the choice to break the law. When caught, he chose to blame the police, the prosecutor, and even the court for his predicament. His conduct endangers the law-abiding members of our community who work hard, obey the law, and do nothing to harm their fellow citizens."
The investigation was conducted by the Sioux City Police Department with prosecution led by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Root remains in custody awaiting transfer to federal prison facilities.