MARSHALLTOWN – This Iowa criminal, who committed violent strangulation, dealt drugs and ran from cops, will spend a long stretch in a federal prison perfecting his mean-mugging skills.
Matthew Allen Sumpter 39, of Marshalltown, was sentenced on September 12, 2025, to 17 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
Sumpter (pictured at top), in October 2024, was found in possession of nearly a pound of methamphetamine, a scale, cash, and a loaded handgun. Based on the investigation, Sumpter was responsible for distributing multiple pounds of methamphetamine in the Marshalltown area. Sumpter has multiple prior felony convictions, including prohibited person in possession of a firearm, harassment, domestic abuse assault by strangulation, and multiple eluding convictions.
This case was investigated by the Mid-Iowa Drug Task Force; they were assisted by the Marshalltown Police Department and the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Sumpter will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.