Mason City teen given deferred judgment, probation on gang, terrorism charges

MASON CITY — A Mason City teen has been given a deferred judgment and probation after pleading guilty to gang and terrorism charges. 

17-year-old Justin Gilmore was arrested in March after an investigation that started in November 2018 where authorities believed there was a credible threat toward specific locations in Mason City. Court documents stated that Gilmore allegedly participated in or was a member of a criminal street gang and willfully aided and abetted any criminal act committed for the benefit of, at the direction of, or in association with any criminal street gang.

Gilmore pleaded guilty back in August to charges of providing support for terrorism, conspiracy to commit a non-forcible felony, criminal gang participation and gang recruitment. Prosecutors as part of a plea agreement recommended suspended prison sentences and probation on each count.

A district court judge on Monday sentenced Gilmore to five years probation, during which he must complete all recommended mental health counseling and treatment, and he must not possess or use firearms, ammunitions or any material used for explosives.

If Gilmore successfully completes his probation, the conviction will be wiped from his record.