A Cherokee man has been sentenced in O’Brien County District Court following drug charges that stemmed from a traffic stop near Sanborn last fall.
Authorities say the case began Oct. 27, 2025, when deputies responded to a report of a vehicle parked with its flashers on at the intersection of Polk Avenue and Highway 18. Officers found 40‑year‑old John Bandomo asleep in the driver’s seat of a 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse, and his brother, 33‑year‑old Frank Bandomo, in the passenger seat.
Deputies discovered Frank Bandomo was wanted on a warrant for sex offender violations and took him into custody. During the arrest, officers say they found a glass meth pipe on him, along with psilocybin mushrooms inside the vehicle. Additional methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were later recovered after a search warrant was executed.
Both brothers were charged, but Frank Bandomo faced multiple counts, including possession of methamphetamine and psilocybin mushrooms, each a third or subsequent offense. He initially pleaded not guilty, but on Jan. 6 entered a plea agreement in O’Brien County District Court.
Judge Charles Borth sentenced Frank Bandomo to two five‑year prison terms, which were suspended. He was placed on probation for three years under the supervision of the Iowa Department of Corrections. As part of the sentence, he must undergo substance abuse and mental health evaluations, complete all recommended treatment, and reside at a Residential Treatment Facility at the discretion of his probation officer.
Frank Bandomo was also ordered to pay fines and court costs totaling more than $2,200. Charges of failure to affix a drug stamp and possession of drug paraphernalia were dismissed under the plea deal.
Meanwhile, John Bandomo has pleaded not guilty to his charges. His trial is scheduled for Feb. 3, with a pretrial conference set for Jan. 26 in Primghar.
