Shaninth Michael Ray, a 38-year-old from Chicago, Illinois, pled guilty on Mar. 31 in federal court in Sioux City to the charge of cyberstalking.
According to a plea agreement, Ray admitted that from April 2023 through October 2023 he repeatedly threatened to kill an Iowa resident and members of their family. The threats continued after a no contact order was issued against him. Authorities said Ray used telephone calls, text messages, and video messages sent over multiple platforms to communicate his threats. In some instances, he stated he would “end” the victim’s life and “bash [the victim’s] face in with a rock,” along with other threats. One video included an explicit threat as well as Ray displaying a firearm.
Ray was arrested in Minnesota in October 2023 for possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. Despite being taken into custody first in Minnesota and later transferred to Iowa, officials said he continued contacting the victim while detained. His criminal history includes several domestic abuse convictions, violations of protection orders, interference with emergency communications, assault causing bodily harm, possession of controlled substances, harassment, and obstruction.
Sentencing will be scheduled before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand after completion of a presentence report. Ray remains held by the United States Marshal pending sentencing proceedings. He faces at least one year and up to ten years imprisonment if convicted on this charge; additional penalties could include up to $250,000 in fines and three years supervised release following any prison term.
The Mason City Police Department is investigating the case while Assistant United States Attorneys Ron Timmons and Ashley Corkery are prosecuting.
