Hunter
06/19/23
Allegedly driving a vehicle with a broken taillight and no rear license plate while carrying a weapon and marijuana has led to multiple charges against a Coralville man.
Police stopped 35-year-old Ken Nakato of Pine Ridge Road during the 9pm hour last Thursday in downtown Iowa City for the equipment violations. A check of his driving record showed his status as barred for being a habitual offender.
An odor of marijuana was reportedly detected coming from the vehicle, and Nakato was asked out of the vehicle so that a search could be conducted. During the initial pat-down, a loaded magazine was found. Nakato allegedly claimed that it belonged to his friend. During the subsequent search, two other loaded magazines and a gun light were found in the center console. A fully loaded and holstered Glock was reportedly discovered under the driver’s seat. Two vape pens and traces of marijuana were also allegedly found during the search.
A warrant was obtained on Nakato’s residence, and officers who executed the warrant later that evening reportedly found a Luger revolver and over 300 rounds of ammunition. Nakato is prohibited from possessing weapons due to a domestic abuse conviction and a felony conviction for previously being in possession of a firearm as a domestic abuser.
He was taken into custody and faces 3 counts of Dominion or Control of a Firearm as a Felon; 2nd offense Marijuana possession; and driving while barred as a habitual offender. If convicted on all charges, Nakato could be sentenced to up to 18 years in prison.