District of Montana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Informational: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt:
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on April 22 was:
Donnell Deriky White, 29, of Billings, on charges of attempted possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. If convicted of the most serious crime, White faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and three years of supervised release. White was detained pending further proceedings. The Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 23-152.
Charles Jesse Sanchez, Jr., 58, of Lame Deer, on charges of conspiracy with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute meth and distribution of meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Sanchez faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Sanchez was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Indian Affairs conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-30.
Sergio Rene Tagaban, 54, of Calexico, California, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth and possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Tagaban faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Tagaban was detained pending further proceedings. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-34.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Federal jury convicts two Montanans, one Californian of meth, fentanyl trafficking in Butte, Helena areasRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A federal jury on Thursday convicted two Montana residents and a California man of drug trafficking crimes for bringing pounds of methamphetamine and thousands of fentanyl pills to the Butte and Helena communities for distribution, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
After a four-day trial that began on April 22, the jury found Juan Felipe Vidrio Fuentes, 36, of Anaheim, California; James Andrew Stringari, 51, of Whitehall; and Janet Dean White, 57, of Butte, guilty of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. The defendants face a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The court set sentencing for Sept. 3 for all three defendants. The defendants remained detained pending further proceedings.
“These three defendants are the last of eight Montanans and Californians indicted and now convicted for bringing at least 13 pounds of methamphetamine and thousands of fentanyl pills to the Butte and Helena areas. The harm and misery they inflicted on people so they could make money cannot be overstated. Their convictions show that our office and our law enforcement partners are relentless in rooting out and ridding these drug trafficking rings from our cities and towns. I am grateful to Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian C. Lowney, our support staff, and the 11 law enforcement agencies who investigated and prosecuted this case,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
At trial and in court documents, the government alleged that from June 2022 until about January 2023 in Butte and Helena, Fuentes, Stringari, White and five other co-defendants conspired to traffic meth and fentanyl. In June 2022, the Utah Highway Patrol stopped an individual traveling in a vehicle carrying 3.5 pounds of meth and 6,000 pills containing fentanyl and learned that the individual was transporting the drugs to Butte for distribution by “Esco,” who was Fuentes. Law enforcement further learned that Fuentes was staying at a house in Whitehall along with at least one co-defendant, Stringari, and that Fuentes was supplying both fentanyl and meth throughout the Butte area from the Whitehall residence. In addition, law enforcement inspected a source’s cell phone and corroborated information about meth and fentanyl trafficking that implicated Fuentes, Stringari, White and another co-defendant.
The government further alleged that in October 2022, law enforcement stopped a vehicle leaving the Whitehall residence. White was a passenger in the vehicle, and law enforcement found one pound of meth in her purse. In November 2022, law enforcement again stopped White in a vehicle and located three quarters of a pound of meth and more than 100 pills containing fentanyl. White also possessed several cell phones, which contained messages indicative of White’s drug distribution.
In addition, investigators in November 2022 intercepted packages containing approximately 9,000 pills containing fentanyl that were mailed by a co-defendant from California to the address in Whitehall and learned of a package the co-defendant had mailed to an address of another co-defendant in Butte. In January 2023, investigators intercepted another package containing 3,000 pills containing fentanyl that was sent from California to the address in Butte. Law enforcement also learned that Fuentes was now staying at a house in Helena.
Law enforcement conducted coordinated stops and raids of the Helena and Butte addresses. In the Butte residence, law enforcement located approximately six pounds of meth, 208 grams of fentanyl, $15,000 cash and seven firearms. In the Helena residence, law enforcement located approximately seven pounds of meth and 68 grams of fentanyl.
Co-defendants Martin Topete Garcia, 32, his brother, Johnathan Topete, 28, both of Mira Loma, California, Trevor Allen Handy, 27, of Butte, Anthony Wayne Johnson II, 51, of Santa Ana, California, and Agatha Noriz Carranza, 34, of Whitehall, pleaded guilty earlier to charges in the case and are pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian C. Lowney is prosecuting the case. The Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, Southwest Montana Drug Task Force, Montana Highway Patrol, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Missouri River Drug Task Force, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, Utah Highway Patrol and Utah State Bureau of Investigations conducted the investigation.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
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Brockton woman admits stealing gun, vehicle in burglary on Fort Peck Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Brockton woman on April 24 admitted to stealing a firearm and a vehicle in a residential burglary on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
The defendant, Avis Big Track, 32, pleaded guilty to burglary. Big Track faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Aug. 28. Big Track was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged that on Sept. 26, 2022, two homeowners reported a burglary of their home in Brockton, which is on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. During the burglary, Big Track took a .45-caliber pistol and keys to a 2014 Chrysler, which she used to steal the Chrysler. Big Track was seen driving the stolen Chrysler, and she eventually admitted that she took the vehicle and had given the firearm to another individual, who put it in a safe with drugs. Law enforcement searched the safe and found the pistol and methamphetamine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda L. Myers is prosecuting the case. Fort Peck Tribal Law Enforcement conducted the investigation.
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Heart Butte woman admits assaulting woman with vehicle on Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Heart Butte woman accused of hitting another woman with her vehicle, pinning her between another vehicle, on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, admitted to an assault charge today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Julia Lee Bigback, 40, pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Bigback faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Aug. 29. Bigback was released pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that on May 18, 2022, Bigback was drinking with others and driving a suburban around Browning. The group stopped at a residence where one of Bigback’s companions got into a physical altercation with the victim, identified as Jane Doe. Bigback remained in the suburban, parked behind two vehicles. After the fight, Bigback pulled forward in the suburban, hitting the car in front, which then struck Doe, who had been walking between two stationary cars. Doe was sandwiched between the two cars. Bigback then reversed out of the driveway and drove away. Doe suffered two broken legs and required extensive surgery.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kalah A. Paisley is prosecuting the case. The FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.
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DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day set for April 27, 2024Read the Press Release
BILLINGS — The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana joins the Drug Enforcement Administration in support of the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 27. The biannual event will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at sites across Montana. The event is an effort to rid homes of potentially dangerous, expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs.
This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in homes are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses from these drugs.
“All Montanans can help stop the epidemic of drug overdoses and those that lead to death, especially from opioids, by safely disposing of unused or expired prescription drugs in their homes. Participating in DEA’s Drug Take Back Day is an easy way to clean out the medicine cabinet and prevent these drugs from being abused. I urge everyone to help make their communities safer,” U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
“Prevention of drug misuse starts at home. For over a decade DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day has provided our community a safe and easy way to get rid of unnecessary medications,” said DEA Montana Resident Agent in Charge Cesar Avila. “This past fall we collected more than 1,100 pounds of unneeded medications throughout Montana, and, with your help, we hope to collect even more this Saturday.”
Numerous sheriff’s offices, police departments and federal agencies across Montana are participating in Take Back Day. Information about collection sites and more information about event is available here: https://takebackday.dea.gov/
During the last Take Back Day held on Oct. 28, 2023, 4,383 law enforcement participants at 4,675 collection sites across the country brought in a total weight of 599,897 pounds, or 300 tons, of drugs. This brings the total weight collected to 17.9 million pounds, or more than 8,950 tons, of prescription drugs collected in the history of the program. Collection results may include materials other than prescription drugs.
During the October 2023 event, Montanans turned in 1,109 pounds of prescription drugs at 21 collection sites. Nineteen law enforcement agencies participated. Total all time weight collected in Montana is 54,554 pounds.
In addition to DEA’s National Drug Take Back Day on April 27, prescription drugs can be disposed of any day throughout the year at any of the 11,000 authorized collectors. For more information on collection sites, visit: https://apps2.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubdispsearch/spring/main?execution=e1s1
For more information about the disposal of prescription drugs or about the April 27 Take Back Day event, go to www.DEATakeBack.com.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office joins in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana joins the Department of Justice and communities nationwide in commemorating National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) from April 21 to 27. This year’s theme is: “How would you help? Options, services and hope for survivors.”
Each April, the Justice Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), leads communities in observing NCVRW to honor victims, uphold their rights and recognize victim advocates. OVC’s 2024 theme is focused on creating safe environments for crime victims to share what happened to them, and in doing so, offer support, options for life-saving services and, most importantly, hope.
“Each year, it is appropriate and necessary to recognize crime victims who suffer pain, trauma, and loss due to those who harm or prey on them. We reaffirm our commitment to upholding victims’ rights and supporting victims in their time of need. The courage of victims who come forward to report crimes is inspiring, as their bravery helps us hold offenders accountable and ensure they can’t harm others again. I also want to commend our office’s victim specialists, who work diligently every day to support victims and seek justice on their behalf,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana has a dedicated team of prosecutors and victim assistance professionals who work together to ensure victims of crime receive the services and support they need.
During NCVRW, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local and tribal agencies host gatherings, candlelight vigils and other events to raise awareness about victims’ rights and services.
For more information on how to create your own public campaigns to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights online and at events throughout the year, please visit: https://ovc.ojp.gov/ncvrw2024/overview. Also, visit www.ovc.gov for more information.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911. If you believe you’ve been the target or victim of a crime, please contact your local law enforcement agency or your nearest FBI field office immediately. The FBI Salt Lake City Field Office, which covers Montana, may be reached at (801) 579-1400 or by submitting tips online at tips.fbi.gov.
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Informational: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared recently before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt:
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on April 16 was:
Leon Boyd Messerly, 63 of Fort Belknap, on charges of assault with intent to commit murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, assault resulting in serious bodily injury and domestic assault by habitual offender. If convicted of the most serious crime, Messerly faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Messerly was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Rocky Boy’s Law Enforcement and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement conducted the investigation. PACER Case No. 24-20.
Colten Small, 21, of Box Elder, on charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. If convicted of the most serious crime, Small faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Small was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Rocky Boy’s Law Enforcement conducted the investigation. PACER Case No. 24-17.
Edmund Taylor Madarassy IV, 27, of Ennis, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition. If convicted of the most serious crime, Madarassy faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Madarassy was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Helena Police Department and Montana Probation & Parole conducted the investigation. PACER Case No. 24-10.
Appearing on a criminal complaint was:
Levi Eric Newton, 29, of Bainville, on charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted of the most serious crime, Newton faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $20 million fine and five years of supervised release. Newton was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Valley County Sheriff’s Office, Phillips County Sheriff’s Office, Fort Peck Police Department and Williston (North Dakota) Police Department conducted the investigation. PACER Case No. 24-34.
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on April 17 was:
Kyle James Jonas, 32, of Park City, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition and possession of a stolen firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Jonas faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Jonas was released pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Billings Police Department conducted the investigation. PACER Case No. 24-41.
Appearing on April 15 was:
Alexander Mikhail Lyles, 37, of Billings, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition. If convicted of the most serious crime, Lyles faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Lyles was detained pending further proceedings. The Billings Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. PACER Case No. 23-122.
Angelena Emma Lafave, 58, of Billings, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth and possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Lafave faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Lafave was detained pending further proceedings. The Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, Billings Police Department and U.S. Postal Service conducted the investigation. PACER Case No. 24-34.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Crow Agency man sentenced to more than five years in prison for sexually abusing two girls on the Crow Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Crow Agency man convicted by a federal jury of sexually abusing two girls on the Crow Indian Reservation was sentenced today to five years and three months in prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
After a two-day trial, the jury on Dec. 12, 2023, found Edwin Ivan Don’tMix, 60, guilty of abusive sexual contact of a child and abusive sexual contact of a minor.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
In court documents and at trial, the government alleged that in January 2015, Jane Doe 2 disclosed to the FBI that Don’tMix touched her vaginal area over her clothes while she was sledding. Jane Doe 2 was 13 years old at the time. Jane Doe 2 also disclosed in the same interview, that in 2012 or 2013, she was asleep and awoke to Don’tMix touching her vaginal area over her clothes. The touching occurred at a Crow Agency residence. In October 2021, another child, Jane Doe 1, disclosed to a school counselor that Don’tMix touched her vaginal area over her clothes when she was either 6, 7 or 8 years old and that the touching happened three or four times at a Crow Agency residence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Harper Suek prosecuted the case. The FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs conducted the investigation.
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Wyoming man sentenced, fined $7,500 for role in Billings commercial sex investigation, lying to investigatorsRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Wyoming man convicted for his role in arranging for commercial sex in Billings and then lying to federal investigators was sentenced today to one year of probation and fined $7,500, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
On Feb. 20, U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters found the defendant, Mark Jay Albrecht, 66, of Gillette, Wyoming, guilty of use of facility in interstate commerce in aid of racketeering and making a false statement following a one-day bench trial. Judge Watters presided at sentencing.
In court documents and at trial, the government alleged that on April 21, 2021, law enforcement responded to a report of possible commercial sex activity at a Billings motel. Billings police officers knocked on the door of the suspect room and announced themselves. A woman, identified as Ashley Stella, of Reno, Nevada, Jane Doe 1, who was a minor at the time, and Albrecht emerged. Albrecht was seen buttoning up his shirt as he exited the room. Albrecht initially denied to police and FBI officers that he was in the room for a sexual encounter and offered various stories about why he was there. Ultimately, Albrecht acknowledged going to the room to engage in commercial sex and using a social media website and his cell phone to arrange for commercial sex. Stella acknowledged in interviews that Albrecht was in the room for commercial sex, and that Jane Doe 1 traveled with her for the purpose of commercial sex. Following the events of April 21, 2021, law enforcement began a federal sex trafficking investigation.
As part of the federal investigation, Albrecht arrived for an interview with law enforcement in May 2021 and repeatedly stated that he did not go to the motel for the purpose of commercial sex. Rather, Albrecht offered another story about why he was communicating with Stella. Albrecht never admitted he was soliciting commercial sex during his May 2021 interview, contrary to facts known by law enforcement. Stella was sentenced to eight years in federal prison for conviction of transportation of a minor to engage in prostitution.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI, IRS and Billings Police Department conducted the investigation.
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Crow Agency man admits assaulting woman on Crow Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Crow Agency man accused of punching a woman in the face admitted to an assault charge today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Darek Paul Birdinground, 33, pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury as charged in an indictment. Birdinground faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Aug. 14. Birdinground was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that while investigating a separate, unrelated assault, the FBI learned in June 2023 of an assault that occurred on Jan. 21, 2023 in Crow Agency, on the Crow Indian Reservation. Agents with the FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs learned that the victim, identified as Jane Doe, was driving a truck in Crow Agency when she saw an SUV coming up fast behind her, so she pulled over. Doe’s driver window was rolled down. Birdinground, the driver of the SUV, got out carrying a baseball bat and approached Doe. He was angry and asked Doe a question. Confused, Doe looked at a passenger and when she turned back toward Birdinground, he punched her in the left eye. Birdinground then used the baseball bat to break the windows of the truck. Doe suffered loss of vision in her eye.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Harper Suek is prosecuting the case. The FBI and BIA conducted the investigation.
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Billings man admits to illegal possession of silencerRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man today admitted to a firearms crime after law enforcement located a silencer along with 14 firearms in his residence while conducting an investigation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, William Henry Alberts, 66, pleaded guilty to possession of an unregistered firearm. Alberts faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Aug. 14. Alberts was released pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that on April 25, 2023, Alberts and another man were on a motorcycle when they were pulled over for a traffic stop. The other person had abandoned a stolen four-wheeler and was taken into custody. Alberts was allowed to walk back to his property. In the meantime, law enforcement secured Alberts’ property, believing that federal fugitive was living on the property. When Alberts arrived home, he gave law enforcement permission to search his home for the fugitive. During the search, law enforcement saw a shotgun in plain view. Alberts admitted that he was convicted of a drug felony in 1992 and admitted that there were at least 10 firearms in the house. Officers executed a search warrant and found 14 firearms, methamphetamine and assorted ammunition. Officers also located a black suppressor/silencer. The silencer was not registered as required by law, and so the possession violated federal firearms laws.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Billings Police Department conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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California man admits trafficking more than 12 pounds of meth to Silver Bow CountyRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A California man indicted as part of large drug conspiracy that had ties to the Sinaloa Cartel and brought methamphetamine and other drugs to Butte for redistribution admitted to a trafficking crime on Monday after law enforcement seized more than 12 pounds of meth from his vehicle, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Raymond Perez Ramos, 31, of Long Beach, California, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth. Ramos faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Sentencing was set for Aug. 14 before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen. Ramos was released pending further proceedings. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The government alleged in court documents that from about October 2019 to November 2020 in Butte, Ramos and co-defendant, Travis Bridger Soderberg, possessed meth with intent to distribute the drug. Soderberg was previously sentenced to eight years in prison for his conviction in the case. In August 2020, Ramos asked if others had “work” for him and that others told Ramos “work” was indeed available but that he needed to keep quiet about “whatever we got going on.” Agents interpreted “work” to mean transporting meth. In November 2020, Ramos transported 12.5 pounds of meth, which is approximately 5,600 doses, to Montana for re-distribution. When Ramos arrived in Montana, law enforcement seized his vehicle and recovered meth that was hidden inside the door.
The multi-agency undercover investigation into a large-scale, Butte-based drug trafficking organization that had ties to the Sinaloa Cartel has resulted in the federal convictions of 22 other persons.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon is prosecuting the case.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Montana Department of Justice’s Division of Criminal Investigation led the investigation, with assistance from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Montana Highway Patrol, the Southwest Montana Drug Task Force, Butte Silver Bow Law Enforcement and Butte Silver Bow County Attorney’s Office.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
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Informational: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt:
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on April 10 was:
Kyle Barclay Wallace, 36, of Kalispell, on charges of false statement in acquisition of a firearm and receipt of a firearm by person under indictment. If convicted of the most serious crime, Wallace faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Wallace was released pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Flathead County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 22-29.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on April 9 was:
Taneal Raschae Sutherland, 30, of Deer Lodge, on charges of kidnapping and assault with intent to commit a felony. If convicted of the most serious crime, Sutherland faces a maximum of life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release. Sutherland was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Rocky Boy’s Police Department conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-21.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Two Butte men sentenced for crimes stemming from illegal importation of pill presses from ChinaRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — Two Butte men who admitted to charges stemming from the illegal importation of two pill presses from China were sentenced this week, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
David Jesus Tapia-Padron, 34, was sentenced today to two years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. Tapia-Padron pleaded guilty in November 2023 to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
Co-defendant Austin Perry King-Terrell, 30, was sentenced on April 9 to three years of probation and fined $4,000. King-Terrell pleaded guilty in November 2023 to illegal importation of pill press.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that in September 2022, two industrial tablet presses were illegally imported from China to the United States and addressed to a warehouse in Anaconda. The Drug Enforcement Administration intercepted the presses and then had them delivered. The DEA determined that King-Terrell had ordered the presses for Tapia-Padron and provided them to him. Each press was priced at $3,499 and could produce 4,500 to 6,000 pills an hour. Agents later searched Tapia-Padron’s residence and found large quantities of marijuana, psilocybin mushrooms and a vacuum sealed package containing one kilogram of cocaine. Agents also located distribution paraphernalia, a money counter, money bands, several handguns and rifles, a mannequin wearing body armor and other items. Five days before agents searched his house, Tapia-Padron, using his mother’s name, ordered 50 kilograms of baby blue tabling mix to be shipped to him from California. In addition, the investigation determined that Tapia-Padron paid King-Terrell to buy what King-Terrell referred to as a “kief press.” Kief is a concentrated form of marijuana. Tapia-Padron regularly sold King-Terrell marijuana and offered him psilocybin mushrooms.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter prosecuted the case. The DEA, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation.
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Missoula woman sentenced to more than two years in prison for stealing two U.S. Forest Service pickup trucksRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Missoula woman who admitted to stealing property from the U.S. Forest Service was sentenced today to two years and two months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Kasey Nichol Hugs, 39, pleaded guilty in December 2023 to theft of government property.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. The judge also ordered $11,836 restitution for the damage caused to the property Hugs stole.
The government alleged in court documents that on Dec. 26, 2020, a white Dodge Ram 2500 crew cab pickup truck, valued at approximately $40,000, and two government cell phones were stolen from the U.S. Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station in Missoula. Five days later, Hugs stole a second truck, a 2017 Ford crew cab, valued at more than $28,000, from the same facility. In the weeks that followed, Hugs drove the trucks to various businesses in Missoula. In January 2021, the Ford was located on the Flathead Indian Reservation and the Dodge was recovered from the side of Highway 200 in Lincoln. Both vehicles sustained property damage and were missing their truck bed toppers. Hugs was identified through surveillance videos and other evidence as having stolen the property.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter prosecuted the case. The U.S. Forest Service and Missoula Police Department conducted the investigation.
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Missoula meth trafficker sentenced to 10 years in prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Missoula man who admitted to a drug trafficking crime after he accepted a controlled delivery of a package that had contained more than two pounds of methamphetamine was sentenced today to 10 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Marcus Lejon Williams, 45, pleaded guilty in December 2023 to attempted possession with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that law enforcement received information that Williams was distributing large amounts of meth, was receiving it through the mail and had firearms at his residence. In January 2022, a U.S. Postal Service inspector searched a package containing suspected meth and was addressed to a person at Williams’ address. The package contained approximately 1,000 grams of meth, which is 2.2 pounds. Postal records showed two other similar packages were shipped from California to Williams’ address in May 2021 and September 2021. Law enforcement made a controlled delivery of the package, with the meth removed. Williams and the person to whom the package was addressed came out to accept the package in a parking lot. A search warrant was executed on the residence and officers located a 9 mm handgun. Williams admitted that the package was for him and that he had been getting meth from his source in California once every two months for the past six or seven years. Williams also stated that he had been “in the game” for 25 or 26 years, was tired of doing it for a living and estimated that he made $120,000 to $130,000. Williams also admitted that the gun was his and that he used it for protection.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer S. Clark prosecuted the case. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Missoula Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Former Lame Deer pastor sentenced to 30 years in prison for sexually abusing children on Northern Cheyenne Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A former Lame Deer pastor, who was convicted in a jury trial of sexually abusing children on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, was sentenced today to 30 years in prison, to be followed by a lifetime of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
A federal jury on Dec. 11, 2023 found the defendant, Dean Alan Smith, 67, guilty of aggravated sexual abuse, abusive sexual contact by force and two counts of abusive sexual contact by force and of a child. The jury acquitted Smith of one count of abusive sexual contact of a child.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
“Pastor Smith’s prison sentence, while significant, does not come close to the lifetime of trauma his victims will have to endure. But I hope knowing that Smith will likely spend the rest of his life in federal prison gives them some peace of mind that he won’t be able to abuse others. Far too often, and unacceptably so, we are unable to obtain justice for children sexually abused in Indian Country. But justice was achieved here, and it would not have occurred without the bravery of our victims or the tenacity of our federal partners and prosecutors, for which I am grateful,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
The government alleged in court documents and at trial that Smith was the pastor of a local church in Lame Deer, on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, and that during his time on the reservation, he and his wife housed several foster children and temporarily hosted other children from the community. In approximately 2021 and 2022, four girls, identified as Jane Does 1, 2, 3 and 4, disclosed being sexually abused by Smith between 2017 and 2020 when they were staying or living at Smith’s home. The government alleged that Smith abused each of them, separately and in private, on multiple occasions. All of the victims were under the age of 12 at the time.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI conducted the investigation.
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Libby woman admits stealing mail while working as a contract carrierRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Libby woman accused of stealing items from packages while working as a mail carrier subcontractor admitted to a theft charge today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Haley Rushel Hickman, 24, pleaded guilty to theft of mail as charged in an indictment. Hickman faces a maximum of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Sentencing was set for Aug. 14 before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Hickman was released pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that Hickman worked as a subcontracted mail carrier for the U.S. Post Office in Troy. In late August 2023, the Troy postmaster received complaints regarding several packages—including items with Veterans Affairs (VA) medication, collectors’ coins and children’s cloths—that were received without their contents. Hickman was responsible for delivering each package. In September 2023, Hickman took a VA medication parcel bearing a fake address and containing a tracking device from the post office. While on her delivery route, Hickman opened the test package and, upon discovering the tracker, resealed the package and threw it out the window of her vehicle. Agents with the U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General later searched for the tracking device near a mountain side. They eventually found the device near more than 20 discarded mail items and delivery notes in what appeared to be Hickman’s writing. A special agent reviewed the tracking information for several of the letters and parcels and determined they were all handled or delivered by Hickman.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter is prosecuting the case. The U.S. Postal Service, OIG conducted the investigation.
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Illegal export of firearms to Mexico sends Bozeman man to prison for three yearsRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Bozeman man who admitted to illegally exporting firearms he bought in Montana and sold to individuals in Mexico was sentenced today to three years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Cristyan Jose Gonzalez-Carrillo, 37, pleaded guilty to illegal export in October 2023.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
“Today’s prison sentence puts this defendant out of the illegal business of buying guns in Montana and taking them to Mexico to sell. Firearms trafficking fuels violence on both sides of the border, and we remain committed here in Montana to investigating and prosecuting those who violate federal firearms laws,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
"Illegal firearms trafficking fuels the cartels' capacity to carry out violent crimes domestically and internationally," said ATF Special Agent in Charge Brent Beavers. "We will continue to aggressively target traffickers alongside our partners while leveraging all of our available resources."
The government alleged in court documents that in July 2020, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) received information that Gonzalez-Carrillo was involved in illegally trafficking firearms from Montana to Mexico. An investigation determined that from February 2020 to May 2020, Gonzalez-Carrillo purchased approximately 31 handguns. Law enforcement executed a search warrant at Gonzalez-Carrillo’s residence in July 2020 and recovered firearms and ammunition, including semi-automatic handguns and AR style rifles, including a firearm with an illegal foregrip. In addition, agents recovered receipts from multiple stores in Montana for the purchase of firearms from February 2020 to June 2020. Investigators also reviewed Gonzalez-Carrillo’s vehicle plate records, which showed multiple border crossings at San Ysidro, California, from April 2020 to June 2020. Investigators further learned that Gonzalez-Carrillo purchased and advertised firearms for sale on the platform WhatsApp and sold firearms to individuals in Mexico.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara J. Elliott prosecuted the case. The ATF conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich announces settlement with University of Montana over access to Adams Center’s arena for persons with disabilitiesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich today announced a settlement agreement between the United States and the University of Montana over access to the Adams Center’s Dahlberg Arena for persons with disabilities. The settlement agreement will result in more wheelchair spaces and improve wheelchair seating for events at the arena, which hosts athletic events, concerts, graduation ceremonies and various other activities.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office investigated the Adams Center after it received a complaint alleging the complainant was unable to use an accessible seating area during a graduation ceremony in June 2019. Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination in “the services, programs, or activities of a public entity” based on disability.
The parties voluntarily agreed to the terms of the settlement agreement, under which the University of Montana will disperse additional courtside ADA-compliant accessible seating when the Dahlberg Arena is configured for basketball, beginning with the 2024/25 season. The university will also continue to provide ADA-compliant accessible seating when the Dahlberg Arena is configured for other events, including concerts and graduations. The University of Montana cooperated with the government throughout the investigation.
“This agreement brings the seating plans for the Adams Center into compliance with the ADA by addressing issues with wheelchair spaces and seating. I appreciate the University of Montana’s cooperation with our investigation and its commitment to upholding the rights of persons with disabilities to ensure they can participate in a concert or graduation or cheer on the Grizzlies in Dahlberg Arena,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
“The Adams Center welcomes tens-of-thousands of visitors annually for some of Montana’s most celebrated events. These changes are in line with UM’s efforts to be a campus that is accessible and open to all. We thank U.S. Attorney Laslovich and his staff for their hard work and partnership on this agreement,” said Dave Kuntz, UM spokesperson.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Vestal handled the case in coordination with the Disability Rights Section of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division.
For more information on the ADA, please call the department’s toll-free Information Line at 800-514-0301 (TDD 800-514-0383) or visit www.ada.gov. ADA complaints may be filed online at www.ada.gov/complaint. For complaints of civil rights violations occurring in the District of Montana, please visit justice.gov/usao-mt/civil-rights.
See settlement agreement here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mt/media/1347036/dl?inline
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Informational: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt:
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on April 4 was:
Shacheen Leigh Russell, 35, of Billings, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Russell faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Russell was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Billings Police Department conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-44.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on April 2 was:
Kyle Allen Mostad, 39, of Townsend, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition. If convicted of the most serious crime, Mostad faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Mostad was released pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Montana Probation and Parole conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-6.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Hardin man admits charge in fatal shooting on Crow Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Hardin man today admitted that he assisted in hindering an investigation into the 2023 shooting death of another man on the Crow Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Garrell Robert Snell, 33, pleaded guilty to accessory after the fact as charged in a superseding information. Snell faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Aug. 8. Snell’s detention was continued pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that on Jan. 18, 2023 at Crow Agency, on the Crow Indian Reservation, a gunshot victim was driven to the emergency room at the IHS Crow/Northern Cheyenne Hospital, where the victim, a man, was pronounced dead upon arrival. The driver initially lied to law enforcement about where the driver had found the victim. Some days later, law enforcement learned that the victim was shot outside of a residence on Crow River Road.
Law enforcement obtained a federal search warrant and analyzed an SD card from exterior security cameras on the residence. Initially, nothing of any evidentiary value was recovered from the SD card. But in February 2024, the SD card was again analyzed, and video was recovered. The video does not show the shooting but contains footage before and after the shooting. The government further alleged that the video shows the victim lying on snow-covered ground in the yard of the residence before he was picked up and put into the vehicle used to take him to the hospital. After the vehicle leaves, the video shows Snell and another individual cleaning the snow-covered area where the victim had been lying by moving snow with a shovel, broom, hands and feet. The footage also appears to show Snell and the other individual picking up items from the snow-covered area. Two bullets retrieved from the victim’s body and shell casings recovered from the area that was cleaned by Snell and the other individual were determined to have been fired from the same gun. The gun has not been recovered.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Harper Suek is prosecuting the case. The FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs conducted the investigation.
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Lodge Grass man admits meth trafficking charges in large-scale investigation centered on Crow Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Lodge Grass man today admitted to a methamphetamine trafficking crime for his role in a large-scale, multi-state narcotics investigation that was centered on the Crow Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Morgan Luke Hugs, 33, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth. Hug faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. A sentencing date will be set before U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Hugs was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that federal law enforcement, in collaborative effort with local and tribal law enforcement, engaged in a large-scale, multiple-state narcotics trafficking investigation centered on multiple properties on the Crow Indian Reservation. The properties, including one referred to as Spear Siding, were a source of supply of meth for both the Crow and Northern Cheyenne reservations. Hugs is one of the individuals affiliated with the investigation.
The government further alleged that from about January 2022 until March 2023, Hugs was receiving meth from Spear Siding and distributing it to others on the Crow Reservation. Hugs received meth from two main co-conspirators involved with the investigation. Hugs was fronted some drugs for sale and a source noted that Hugs was indebted to one of the conspirators. In addition, law enforcement obtained meth from Hugs in a controlled purchase in Hardin in November 2022.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The Bureau of Indian Affairs, Drug Enforcement Administration and FBI conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Helena felon admits illegal possession of loaded AR-15 rifle in vehicle on state capitol groundsRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A felon who was on listed as an absconder on a state of Montana webpage admitted today to illegally possessing a firearm after law enforcement found a loaded AR-15 style rifle in his vehicle on state capitol grounds, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Joshua Nzeyimana, 23, of Helena, pleaded guilty to an indictment charging him with prohibited person in possession of a firearm. Nzeyimana faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The court set sentencing for Aug. 1 and continued Nzeyimana’s detention pending further proceedings.
The government alleged that on Dec. 3, 2023, Nzeyimana, a convicted felon on state supervision, possessed a loaded AR-15 style rifle in his vehicle on the state capitol grounds in Helena. The rifle was found during a probation search of his vehicle. Nzeyimana was listed as an absconder in Montana Conweb. Nzeyimana admitted during an interview to possessing the rifle and had previously shot one round in open field near a park. Nzeyimana knew he could not legally possess the rifle, so he used another person to purchase it. Nzeyimana was convicted in state district court of felony criminal endangerment and felony assault with a weapon and was prohibited from possessing firearms.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Montana Highway Patrol and Montana Probation and Parole conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Billings man sentenced to more than 16 years in prison for armed meth, fentanyl trafficking in Billings communityRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man who admitted to drug trafficking and firearms crimes after law enforcement more than a pound of methamphetamine, fentanyl pills and a loaded gun in his motel room was sentenced today to 16 years and three months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Robert Earl Biggs, 49, of Billings, pleaded guilty in November 2023 to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in 2022, the Billings Police Department Street Crimes Unit learned through an investigation that Biggs was staying in a local motel and using others to distribute drugs for him. One of his distributors told officers that she had seen four to five pounds of meth and approximately 4,000 fentanyl pills in Biggs’ room a few days prior. The investigation ultimately led to officers detaining Biggs and searching his motel room. Law enforcement located fentanyl pills, more than a pound of meth, a black bag containing $5,860 and a loaded firearm in the room. Co-defendant Brandi Davitt was sentenced in January to four years in prison for her conviction in the case, while co-defendant Leota Beartusk-Martinez pleaded guilty to a trafficking crime and is awaiting sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin M. Rubich prosecuted the case. The Billings Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Bozeman construction company owner admits failing to pay payroll, withholding taxes of more than $800,000 to IRSRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — The owner of a Bozeman construction company accused of not paying to the IRS employee-related taxes of more than $800,000 admitted to tax crimes today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Joseph Glen Dickey, 38, pleaded guilty to failure to truthfully account for and pay over withholding and FICA taxes, a felony, and failure to file employer’s quarterly return and pay tax, a misdemeanor. Dickey faces a maximum of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Sentencing was set for Aug. 14 before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Dickey was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that Dickey is the owner of Alpine Customs, Inc., a commercial construction company that has employed 60 or more individuals. Dickey acted as Alpine’s general manager and exercised control over every aspect of the business, including approving company payments and overseeing company bank accounts. Alpine withheld payroll taxes from employees’ paychecks, including federal income taxes and Social Security and Medicare taxes. Alpine also was required to make quarterly deposits of those payroll taxes and additional employer payroll contributions to the IRS.
Dickey did not timely deposit several employee or employer payroll taxes from 2018 to 2021. Dickey knew of the requirements and his bookkeepers and IRS officers repeatedly advised Dickey of these legal obligations. In total, Dickey failed to timely pay $803,374 in employer and employee payroll taxes.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter is prosecuting the case. The IRS Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation.
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Three Montanans each sentenced to more than five years in federal prison for trafficking fentanyl in Missoula, Helena communitiesRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — Three Montanans who admitted trafficking fentanyl in the Missoula and Helena communities were sentenced to more than five years in federal prison this week, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
Defendant Nikolas Loren Pellant, 34, of Missoula, was sentenced today to five years and three months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. On March 28, co-defendants Lynsi Noel Barnes, 33, of Missoula, and Beau James Breneman, 44, of Helena, were each sentenced to five years and three months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. Each defendant pleaded guilty in November 2023 to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in October 2022, federal agents intercepted a package that contained more than 300 fentanyl pills and was addressed to Pellant. Officers arrested Pellant when he accepted the package in a controlled delivery. The investigation determined that Pellant and his girlfriend, Barnes, had been selling fentanyl in the Missoula are for several months and that they acquired the drug through the mail and by making weekly trips to Spokane, Washington. The government further alleged that in January, the Montana Highway Patrol stopped Barnes as she was returning from one such trip and seized more than 450 fentanyl pills and other evidence of drug distribution from her vehicle.
In addition, the government alleged that in January 2022, law enforcement received reports of a rash of fentanyl overdoses in Lewis and Clark County. An investigation determined that Breneman was distributing heroin laced with fentanyl and that he had warned at least one customer to use small and diluted quantities of the drug because it was dangerous. Breneman admitted to distributing heroin laced with fentanyl. On May 31, 2023, Breneman and Barnes were passengers in a vehicle that was stopped in Shoshone County, Idaho. Law enforcement searched the car and found more than 300 fentanyl pills. Officers also found a plastic bag containing more fentanyl pills concealed on Breneman’s person.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter prosecuted the case. The Missouri River Drug Task Force, Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Postal Service, Montana Highway Patrol, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, Missoula County Sheriff’s Office and Shoshone County (Idaho) Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation.
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Informational: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared recently before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt:
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on March 26 was:
Brian Todd Olson, 37, of Helena, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Olson faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Olson was detained pending further proceedings. The Helena Police Department and Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-04.
Appearing on March 22 was:
Terrence Derrell Milton, 34, of Spokane, Washington, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl. If convicted of the most serious crime, Milton faces a mandatory minimum of five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. Milton was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Tri-Agency Task Force conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-01.
Khalif Ali-Daquane Jackson, 36, of Decatur, Georgia, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition. If convicted of the most serious crime, Jackson faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Jackson was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Helena Police Department and Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-04.
Brandon Lee Romero, 29, of Poplar, on charges of robbery, carjacking, transportation of stolen vehicle and assault with a dangerous weapon. If convicted of the most serious crime, Romero faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Romero was detained pending further proceedings. The Fort Peck Law Enforcement Services, Williston Police Department and Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-10.
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on March 28 was:
Joseph Patrick Mullaney, 46, of Butte, on charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted of the most serious charge, Mullaney faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. The FBI, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, Montana Highway Patrol, U.S. Probation Office and Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-08.
Scott Gilbert Apgar, 41, of Libby, on charges of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and distribution of controlled substances. If convicted of the most serious crime, Apgar faces a mandatory minimum of five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. Apgar was detained pending further proceedings. Homeland Security Investigations, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Montana Highway Patrol and Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-19.
Gerry Alen Albus, 64, of Elmo, on charges of theft of government money and Social Security fraud. If convicted of the most serious crime, Albus faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Albus was released pending further proceedings. The Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-18.
Teri Anne Bell, 57, of Columbia Falls, on charges of wire fraud. If convicted of the most serious crime, Bell faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Bell was released pending further proceedings. The FBI conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-17
Appearing on March 25 was:
Jerry Leon Kamps, 63, of Dillon, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Kamps faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Kamps was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Beaverhead County Sheriff’s Office, Dillon Police Department and Montana Probation and Parole conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-04.
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on March 21 was:
Jordale Thomas Redwolf, 36, a transient, on charges of assault with a dangerous weapon. If convicted of the most serious crime, Redwolf faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Redwolf was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-29.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Billings man admits payroll check scheme to defraud Crow TribeRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man on Thursday admitted to a scheme in which he defrauded the Crow Tribe by receiving checks from the tribe’s payroll account, forging the payees and having the payees cash the checks, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
The defendant, Jonathan Cleve Brien, 43, pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud. Brien faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. A sentencing date will be set before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Brien was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in May 2019, Brien received checks from the Crow Tribe payroll account. Brien forged the payees on the checks and had those people cash the checks at various entities. A cooperator involved in methamphetamine in Billings admitted to law enforcement to being involved a check fraud scheme and that Brien informed the cooperator that he had access to a Crow Tribe account, which allegedly contained millions of dollars. On two occasions, the Brien brought the cooperator a signed Crow Tribe payroll check made payable to them in the amount of approximately $900. The cooperator deposited one of the checks into a personal bank account but withdrew most of the money as cash and split the money with Brien. The cooperator subsequently cashed the second check at a bank and again gave most of the cash to Brien. When interviewed, Brien initially denied knowledge of the checks, then admitted to receiving the Crow Tribe payroll checks and giving them to various people who were involved with him in using meth. He made the checks for about $900 because he thought tribe’s payroll account would have $900 in it and that it would be less suspicious if he kept the amount under $1,000.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The Department of Interior, Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation.
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Lame Deer man admits attempting to coerce and pay for sex with minors on Northern Cheyenne Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Lame Deer man today admitted to attempting to have sex with two minor girls on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Travis Dean Two Two, Sr., 35, pleaded guilty to attempted coercion and enticement and to attempted sex trafficking of a minor as charged in an indictment. Two Two faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine, and five years to a lifetime of supervised release on each charge.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Aug. 1 and Two Two was detained pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that from about May 2023 to August 2023, in Lame Deer and Ashland, on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, Two Two communicated with a 14-year-old girl, identified as Jane Doe 1, through social media. Responding to a tip about the communications, law enforcement obtained messages in which Two Two confirms Doe 1 is 14 and indicates the two of them will have some fun together. Law enforcement obtained permission to take over Doe 1’s account and communicate with Two Two. The communications became increasingly sexual and Two Two requested naked pictures of Doe 1 and made plans to meet with her for sex. Ultimately, Two Two discussed meeting Doe 1 at the Montana Fair in Billings, indicated he wanted to take nude pictures of her and “maybe make a video” of sex acts with her. He noted that he “like[s] them young.” Law enforcement arrested Two Two on Aug. 19 as he was leaving the MontanaFair.
The government further alleged that from about June 2023 until September 2023, at Lame Deer, Two Two attempted to engage a minor girl in commercial sex. In August 2023, law enforcement interviewed a 16-year-old girl, identified as Jane Doe 2, who indicated she had met Two Two in 2021 and that they had communicated though text messages in the summer of 2023. Doe 2 told law enforcement Two Two provided her with marijuana and that in exchange, Two Two began asking for sexual contact, to include a kiss and to grab her butt, which she allowed on a couple of occasions. Two Two later asked for sex in exchange for the marijuana, and Doe 2 rejected this offer.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno B. Baucus is prosecuting the case. The FBI, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, and Northern Cheyenne Investigative Services conducted the investigation.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Billings man sentenced to more than nine years in prison for fentanyl trafficking, firearm possessionRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man convicted of armed trafficking of fentanyl in the community was sentenced today to nine years and nine months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Cameron Dimich-Laster, 27, pleaded guilty in December 2023 to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that in September 2023, law enforcement received information that a male person named “Cam” was selling large amounts of fentanyl. Law enforcement believed the person could be Dimich-Laster, who was on state felony probation and had an active arrest warrant for being a probation absconder. Agents observed Dimich-Laster coming and going from a Billings residence over an extended period and driving a BMW. Officers made a traffic stop on Dimich-Laster, who was detained and handcuffed. In a probation search of his vehicle, officers located a .380-caliber handgun, a loaded magazine, a single live round of .380 ammunition, fentanyl pills and $755 in U.S. currency. Law enforcement also searched the residence and located cocaine, a digital scale, ammunition, $1,075 in U.S. currency in the bedroom where Dimich-Laster had been staying. In a search of a small secondary residence Dimich-Laster had been using on the same lot, officers located fentanyl pills, $440 in U.S. currency and a digital scale.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin M. Rubich prosecuted the case. The Billings Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations and Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Billings felon sentenced to more than two years in prison for illegal possession of firearmRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings felon was sentenced today to two years and three months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, after he admitted to illegally possessing a firearm found in a vehicle he was driving when he fled law enforcement and crashed, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Christopher Samuel Fear, 38, pleaded guilty in November 2023 to prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on Jan. 11, 2023 after 2 a.m., a Montana Highway Patrol officer attempted a traffic stop of a vehicle for traveling 85 mph in a 65-mph speed zone. The trooper activated his emergency lights, but the vehicle fled and eventually crashed into a fence in Billings. Officers approached the vehicle and saw that it was empty. Officers noticed a pistol on the floorboard and found Fear hiding under the front end of the vehicle. Fear was on state probation at the time for a drug conviction and had an outstanding probation violation arrest warrant. Law enforcement later searched the vehicle and found 216 fentanyl pills, 20 grams of methamphetamine, baggies and a loaded .357-caliber semi-automatic pistol.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Harper Suek prosecuted the case. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, Montana Highway Patrol and Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Billings man accused of armed patrols on sidewalk in an elementary school zone admits firearms crimeRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man accused of conducting armed patrols on the sidewalk in front of his residence, which is across the street from a public elementary school, admitted to a firearms crime today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Gabriel Cowan Metcalf, 49, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm in a school zone, as charged in an indictment. Metcalf faces a maximum of five years in prison, a $100,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Aug. 2. Metcalf’s release on conditions was continued pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that from Aug. 2, 2023 to Aug. 17, 2023, Metcalf possessed a 20-gauge shotgun within 1,000 feet of Broadwater Elementary School, which is located along Broadwater Avenue, from Fourth Street West to Fifth Street West. Metcalf lives on Broadwater Avenue, directly across from the public school. On Aug. 2, 2023, the Billings Police Department received a call regarding Metcalf pacing around with a firearm in front of his residence. A police detective saw Metcalf walk onto the property of a business that is located next door to Metcalf’s residence. The same day, a woman stepped outside of a nearby residence and saw Metcalf walking up the driveway and coming toward her with firearm slung over his shoulder.
In addition, multiple Billings residents saw Metcalf walking on the 400 block of Broadwater Avenue with a firearm. On Aug. 11, a resident saw Metcalf standing on the sidewalk and carrying a firearm while staring into traffic and looking directly at Broadwater School. On Aug. 13, another resident saw Metcalf walking westbound on the sidewalk while carrying a firearm, and that same day, another resident saw Metcalf sanding on the edge of the sidewalk in front of his residence with a firearm slung over his shoulder.
On Aug. 17, law enforcement officers spoke to Metcalf, who admitted to following cars while carrying a firearm, walking to the nearby business and escorting his mother down the street to her shop while carrying a firearm. Metcalf further told officers he patrolled daily and usually went around the block once or twice a week, but that lately he had done it several times a day. Law enforcement served a search warrant at Metcalf’s residence and seized a 20-gauge shotgun and six rounds of ammunition. The shotgun was the firearm Metcalf described as using to patrol. The sidewalks and streets in front of Metcalf’s residence are public property within 1,000 feet from the school and are a “school zone” as defined in federal law.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas A. Godfrey and Zeno B. Baucus are prosecuting the case. The Billings Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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New Jersey man admits sexual abuse of passenger while on flight from New Jersey to BozemanRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A New Jersey man on March 21 admitted to repeatedly touching a woman who was seated next to him on a commercial flight from New Jersey to Bozeman, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
Piyush Mathew, 31, of Robbinsville Township, New Jersey, pleaded guilty to abusive sexual contact in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States as charged in an indictment. Mathew faces a maximum of two years in prison, a $250,000 fine and at least five years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Sentencing was set for July 31 before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Mathew was released pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that Mathew and the victim, identified as Jane Doe, were seated next to each other on a commercial airlines flight from Newark, New Jersey, to Bozeman on Sept. 7, 2023. During the flight, Mathew, pretending to be asleep, touched Jane Doe multiple times on different parts of her body, including her thighs, fingers, arms, stomach, and breasts. Jane Doe, who was afraid of Mathew, leaned forward at one point, but Mathew then placed his hands on her side. Upon arrival in Bozeman, Jane Doe, still in fear of Mathew, hoped to alert the flight crew of Mathew’s behavior, however, Mathew stood immediately behind her for deboarding, and she felt she was unable to tell the flight crew. Jane Doe asked another male passenger, identified as C.B, whom she did not know, to pretend to be her husband’s friend and stay with her as they left the airplane. C.B. told investigators he observed Mathew lean toward Jane Doe during the flight and that Jane Doe “looked like she was about to cry” after they landed. When law enforcement approached Mathew in New Jersey and told him they were investigating an incident that occurred on the flight, Mathew responded, “Did she complain that I was touching her?”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno B. Baucus is prosecuting the case. The FBI, Gallatin Airport Authority, and Bozeman Airport Police conducted the investigation.
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Hays man admits distributing meth on Fort Belknap Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Hays man accused of selling methamphetamine from a yellow school bus he used as his residence on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation admitted to a trafficking charge today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Lyle Gilbert Snow, Sr., 64, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth. Snow faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and at least three years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for July 31. Snow was detained pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that in April 2022, the FBI received information that Snow was selling meth on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation and had been selling gram quantities since at least 2021 from the yellow school bus in which he lived. Law enforcement made a series of controlled purchases of meth from Snow. In June 2023, law enforcement served a federal search warrant on the yellow school bus and recovered a loaded .270-caliber rifle, ammunition and a flip phone. Messages on the phone indicated drug trafficking. While the search was under way, law enforcement saw Snow pull off the highway and begin to drive down his driveway. When he saw law enforcement, Snow pulled out of the driveway and began traveling away from his residence. Snow was pulled over a because he was driving with a suspended license. Snow possessed $1,537 in cash, including $20 bills identified as having been used in a controlled buy.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda L. Myers is prosecuting the case. The FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.
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Browning man admits strangling dating partner on Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Browning man accused of strangling his dating partner on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation admitted to an assault charge today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Alphonse Trevon Bird IV, 19, pleaded guilty to assault of a dating partner by strangulation and suffocation. Bird faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for July 31. Bird was detained pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that Bird and the victim, Jane Doe, were in a dating relationship. On Dec. 27, 2023, Bird, Doe and two others were in a vehicle when Bird and Doe got into an argument and pulled over to the side of the road. Doe got out of the vehicle and Bird tried to pull her back. Doe tried to run away, but Bird chased her down, got on top of her stomach and put her in a chokehold. Bird assaulted and strangled Doe. At the time of the assault, Bird had been ordered by a court to have no contact with Doe.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kalah A. Paisley is prosecuting the case. The FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services investigated the case.
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Washington man admits unlawfully killing eagles on Flathead Indian Reservation to sell on black marketRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Washington man today admitted to conspiring to hunt and kill bald and golden eagles on the Flathead Indian Reservation and then selling them on the black market across the United States and elsewhere, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Travis John Branson, 48, of Cusick, Washington, pleaded guilty to conspiracy, two counts of unlawful trafficking of bald and golden eagles and violation of the Lacey Act, which prohibits interstate trade in wildlife that has been taken, possessed, transported or sold in violation of federal or state law. The Lacey Act also prohibits any person from making or submitting any false record, account, label for or identification of wildlife that has been or was intended to be transported in interstate or foreign commerce.
In court documents, the government alleged that from about January 2015 until about March 2021, Branson and others hunted and killed eagles on the Flathead Indian Reservation. Branson then sold the eagles on the black market across the United States and elsewhere. Brandon traveled from Washington to the Flathead Reservation, where he met co-defendant, Simon Paul, and they would then shoot, transport and ship bald and golden eagles for future black-market sales. Co-defendant Paul remains a fugitive.
The government further alleged that on March 1, 2021, a purchaser asked if Branson had any eagle feathers for sale. Branson responded by sending two pictures of golden eagle tail feathers.
The purchaser sent Branson $650 via PayPal. Branson sent a package to the purchaser that contained the eagle feathers, and the purchaser confirmed receipt of the package by text message.
On March 13, 2021, Branson shot and killed a golden eagle near Polson. Law enforcement stopped Branson and recovered from Branson’s vehicle the feet and feathers of the golden eagle.
Later, law enforcement recovered the remainder of the golden eagle carcass in a field.
During the stop, law enforcement also seized multiple phones. After obtaining a federal search warrant for the phones, law enforcement recovered numerous photos and text messages identifying the shooting, killing and ultimate selling of bald and golden eagles throughout the United States. Branson knew killing and selling eagles was illegal and that he did not have a permit for any of the activities. When negotiating a purchase price for eagle feathers with a potential buyer, Branson said:
“I don’t get em for free though ..out hear committing felonies”
Branson told another potential buyer he would obtain other eagle tails by “[g]oing on a killing spree.”
Further, Branson acknowledged that international shipping was illegal:
“International is still illegal ..I just get em for 99 cents ..price of a bullet..lol”
Branson faces a maximum of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release on the conspiracy and Lacey Act charges. Branson also faces a maximum of one year in prison, a $5,000 fine and one year of supervised release for the first conviction of unlawful trafficking of bald and golden eagles, a misdemeanor. Branson faces an enhanced felony provision, which applies to the second or subsequent convictions of unlawful trafficking of bald and golden eagles, of a maximum of two years in prison, a $10,000 fine and one year of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. A sentencing date was set for July 31 before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Branson’s release was continued pending further proceedings.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan G. Weldon and Randy Tanner are prosecuting the case. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Flathead Tribal Law Enforcement conducted the investigation.
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Federal jury convicts Billings woman of trafficking methRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A federal jury on March 19 convicted a Billings woman who was accused of trafficking methamphetamine by walking the drug across the Mexican border using her U.S. passport and then mailing the drug from California to a Billings contact for distribution, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
After a two-day trial that began on March 18, the jury found Dawn Marie Guevara, 43, guilty of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth as charged in an indictment. Guevara faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The court set sentencing for July 18 and continued Guevara’s detention pending further proceedings.
“Guevara’s convictions are yet another example of our office’s success in holding people accountable for trafficking drugs directly from Mexico to Montana, which is exactly what Guevara did here. Her convictions are due to the years of relentless work of our federal and state partners to bring Guevara and her co-defendants to justice, for which I am very grateful. I also thank Assistant U.S. Attorneys Colin M. Rubich and Jacob Yerger and our entire trial team for their diligent work in obtaining this result,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
In court documents and at trial, the government alleged that Guevara conspired with others to distribute meth in the Billings community from about July 2018 to December 2018. In July 2018, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation received information that Guevara, who was living in Mexico, was selling meth to an individual through social media orders and arranging to have another person in Billings receive the meth to complete the transaction. Law enforcement obtained meth sent by Guevara in a series of controlled purchases and for increasing amounts. and through an undercover. The investigation determined that Guevara would obtain meth in Mexico, then cross into the United States using her U.S. passport and mail the meth from a post office in San Ysidro. Money collected from sales was wired to Guevara in Mexico. Border crossing information determined that Guevara entered the United States through the San Ysidro Port of Entry approximately 20 times between July 7, 2018 and Oct. 18, 2018. Guevara was arrested in 2023 when she crossed the border from Mexico.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Colin M. Rubich and Jacob Yerger are prosecuting the case. The Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration and U.S. Postal Service conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich, Billings Police Department issue warning about pink fentanylRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich, for the District of Montana, and Billings Police Chief Rich St. John today issued a warning to the public about the appearance in the community of pink fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is more potent than morphine and heroin.
Law enforcement is beginning to see pink fentanyl pills in Billings. Noted for their pink color, the pills are more potent than the fentanyl that has been seen in the community. Many of these illicitly produced synthetic opioids can result in overdoses and death.
“It has become far too common for us to see illicit fentanyl as a blue pill, but synthetic opioids can come in all forms and colors. We are now seeing pink fentanyl pills and they’re even more potent and deadly than the fentanyl pills we’ve previously seen in Montana. All of us must remain vigilant in the fight against fentanyl, as one pill can kill you. Please don’t take any pill that is not prescribed to you by a medical professional. Our office stands shoulder to shoulder with the Billings Police Department in the battle to save lives and to stop the widespread trafficking of this poison in our community,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
“The emergence of pink fentanyl presents a new and serious challenge for the law enforcement community. The practice of mixing pink fentanyl with other street drugs has created a major public health concern. The increased potency has deadly results. Our officers, along with our law enforcement partners and supported by the USAO, are working tirelessly to reduce the amount of these dangerous drugs in our community and hold offenders accountable,” Chief St. John said.
Additional information about fentanyl can be found at https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/fentanyl
Persons with information about pink fentanyl and its distribution are asked to contact the Billings Police Department at 406-657-8200. Tips also may be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers at 406-245-6660.
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Colorado man admits criminal endangerment charge for vehicle crash on Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Colorado man accused of drinking alcohol and causing a one-vehicle crash on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in which a passenger suffered significant injuries admitted to a criminal endangerment charge today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Bryson Elijah Owens-Johnson, 29, of Denver, Colorado, pleaded guilty to a superseding information charging him with criminal endangerment. Owens-Johnson faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for July 17. Owens-Johnson was released pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that on July 29, 2021, near St. Mary, on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, Owens-Johnson was drinking with co-workers at a local bar. The group left the bar at closing time and six of them got into Owens-Johnson’s sedan. Owens-Johnson was traveling north on Highway 89 when he veered off the road, striking the guardrail almost head-on and damaging multiple steel and wood posts connected to it. Witnesses confirmed that everyone had been drinking alcohol at the local bar and that Owens-Johnson had been looking at his phone and veering on the roadway. Medical records from the Indian Health Service showed that Owens-Johnson had a blood alcohol concentration of .093 almost two hours after the crash was reported. One of the passengers, identified as John Doe, who is an enrolled member of the Blackfeet Indian Tribe, suffered significant injuries and continues to receive ongoing medical care.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kalah A. Paisley is prosecuting the case. The Montana Highway Patrol, Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services and FBI conducted the investigation.
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Whitefish interior designer sentenced to more than four years in prison, ordered to pay more than $900,000 restitution for fraud schemeRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Whitefish interior designer who admitted to defrauding customers of approximately $900,000 and using the money for personal expenses was sentenced on March 14 to four years and three months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $933,679 restitution, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
The defendant, Jennifer Michele Helm, aka Jennifer Michele, 45, pleaded guilty in November 2023 to wire fraud and to aggravated identity theft.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
In court documents and statements in court, the government alleged that beginning as early at 2016, Helm, while doing business as Sage Interior Design, LLC, Interior Design Service, and Jennifer Michele LLC, defrauded numerous customers. Her scheme ensnared more than 20 victims. A few of the victims came forward after Helm pleaded guilty, and Helm defrauded four more victims after her interview with the FBI in 2021, when she presumably knew she was a target of a federal criminal investigation.
To execute the scheme, Helm entered into agreements with customers to provide goods and services, usually by promising to order furnishings and fixtures as part of construction and remodeling projects. In some instances, Helm presented her clients with invoices for items she knew she had not ordered and that clients never received. In addition, Helm convinced two clients, a married couple, to give her their credit card number, which she was authorized to use to make purchases on the couple’s behalf. Rather than make those purchases, Helm used the credit card and directed the proceeds of the transactions into her bank account. When interviewed by the FBI, Helm said she was responsible for any misspent funds.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Racicot prosecuted the case. The FBI conducted the investigation.
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Informational: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt:
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on March 12 was:
Adriano Spark LeBeaux, 19, of Lame Deer, on charges of aggravated sexual abuse. If convicted of the most serious crime, LeBeaux faces a maximum of life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release LeBeaux was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 23-121.
Renee Esperanza Arambula, 26, of Billings, on charges of conspiracy to possess fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and money laundering. If convicted of the most serious crime, Arambula faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and five years of supervised release on the drug counts and a mandatory minimum of seven years to life in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release on the charge of possessing and brandishing a firearm in a drug trafficking crime. Arambula was released pending further proceedings. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Billings Police Department conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-02.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Former U.S. Air Force member in Great Falls sentenced to 10 years in prison for scheme to obtain, sell child sexual abuse materialRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A former member of the U.S. Air Force at the Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls was sentenced today to 10 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, for obtaining and selling child sexual abuse material, U.S Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Brandon Earl Bankston, 23, pleaded guilty in October 2023 to possession with intent to sell child pornography.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court also ordered $60,000 restitution to victims. To date, the investigation has identified more than 20 victims of Bankston’s scheme, but only 20 victims requested restitution.
In court documents, the government alleged that Bankston obtained child sexual abuse material (CSAM) from various places on the internet and stored the material in an off-shore, cloud-based storage account. Bankston then used mobile messaging applications and fake online profiles to advertise the sale of the material to strangers online. When he found someone interested in the CSAM he possessed, Bankston received payment through electronic wire transfers and would then link the buyer, allowing access to the material stored in his offshore storage account. The government further alleged that Bankston possessed and traded thousands of images and videos of child sexual abuse, some of which depicted the abuse of toddlers. In the summer of 2021, the Great Falls Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force was alerted that a suspect in Montana had uploaded videos containing known CSAM to an account on “X” and further learned that a Snapchat user with a Montana address had posted an image of CSAM. The investigation determined that the internet provider address belonged to Bankston, who was an active-duty member of the U.S. Air Force assigned to the 341st Missile Security Forces Squadron at Malmstrom Air Force Base. Bankston has since been discharged and is no longer affiliated with the U.S. Air Force. Bankston received approximately $6,750 for the sale of CSAM from 42 separate transactions.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey K. Starnes prosecuted the case. The Great Falls Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations conducted the investigation.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Dodson man sentenced to 18 months in prison for assault charge stemming from vehicle crash on Fort Belknap Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Dodson man who admitted to an assault charge stemming from a vehicle crash in which his truck hit another vehicle, seriously injuring the other driver, was sentenced today to 18 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Marvin James Cole, 28, pleaded guilty in October 2023 to assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged that on June 22, 2022, Cole crashed his GMC truck into a Dodge Avenger driven by the victim, identified as John Doe, on Highway 66 near Harlem, on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation. Doe suffered serious injuries and ultimately was treated at a hospital in Seattle. A toxicology report showed amphetamine and methamphetamine in Cole’s blood. Cole agreed that he likely drifted into the other lane when he looked at his phone.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI, Fort Belknap Law Enforcement, Montana Highway Patrol and Phillips County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation.
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Browning man admits shooting, wounding man on Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Browning man accused of shooting and wounding a man in the head on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Joseph Paul Vandenberg, 20, pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and using a firearm during a crime of violence as charged in an indictment. Vandenberg faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release on the assault charge and a mandatory minimum of five years to life in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release on the firearm charge.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The court set sentencing for July 11. Vandenberg was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in the early morning hours of March 11, 2022 in Browning, on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, Vandenberg was a backseat passenger in a vehicle that was cruising around when the driver pulled up and blocked the driveway of a home as the victim, identified as John Doe, and a friend, got into a SUV that was backed into the driveway. Doe tried to maneuver around the vehicle. Vandenberg opened the back door of the vehicle, pulled out a firearm and fired a round as Doe’s vehicle was driving away. The bullet grazed the side of Doe’s head and lodged in the dashboard at the base of the windshield. Doe was treated for a large laceration on his head. Vandenberg admitted to being the shooter and told law enforcement that the driver told him to shoot, and he did because he was scared.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kalah A. Paisley is prosecuting the case. The FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.
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Bozeman man admits assaulting woman passenger on aircraftRead the Press Release
Note: This press release has been updated to correctly identify the flight as SkyWest Flight 3789 operating as Delta Connections.
MISSOULA — A Bozeman man accused of assaulting a woman passenger while on a flight from Salt Lake City, Utah, to Bozeman admitted charges today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Hunter Andrew Dietrich, 32, pleaded guilty to assault onboard an aircraft in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States, a misdemeanor, as charged in a superseding information. Dietrich faces a maximum of six months in prison, a $5,000 fine and one year of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. The court set sentencing for July 10. Dietrich was released pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that on Feb. 11, 2023, SkyWest Flight 3789 operating as Delta Connections traveled from Salt Lake City, Utah, to Bozeman. During the flight, Dietrich, a passenger, disobeyed repeated instructions from the flight crew to behave himself. In addition, Dietrich approached a woman passenger during the flight and touched her body in various places despite the woman passenger telling him to stop.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno B. Baucus is prosecuting the case. The FBI and Bozeman Airport Police conducted the investigation.
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Informational: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt:
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on March 7 was:
Dai Shawn Whitford, 33, of Box Elder, on charges of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl. If convicted of the most serious crime, Whitford faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and three years of supervised release. Whitford was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Tri-Agency Task Force conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-01.
Appearing on March 6 was:
Joseph Abe Racine, Jr., 53, of Browning, on assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to an intimate partner and assault with a dangerous weapon. If convicted of the most serious crime, Racine faces a maximum of 10 years prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Racine was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-09.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Billings felon sentenced to more than five years in prison for bank fraud, aggravated ID theft, illegal possession of firearmRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man with seven prior felony convictions was sentenced on March 7 to five years and five months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for using a stolen bank card to make unauthorized purchases and for illegally possessing firearms, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
James Kendall Wiles, 42, pleaded guilty in November 2023 to bank fraud, aggravated identity theft and prohibited person in possession of firearms and ammunition.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. The court also ordered Wiles to pay $4,439 restitution.
In court documents, the government alleged that in September 2022, a victim, identified as Jane Doe 2, notified the Billings Police Department that her bank card had been stolen from her vehicle and successfully used by someone to make purchases around Billings. An investigation found that Wiles used the stolen bank card at Walmart to purchase a pre-paid gift card for $504. Later, in December 2022, a Montana Highway Patrol trooper observed Wiles stealing property from a vehicle in Billings. The trooper attempted a traffic stop of Wiles’ vehicle but stopped his pursuit because of safety concerns. Police officers found Wiles a short time later outside of a friend’s apartment and learned that Wiles had asked to store a few things in the residence because he was being chased. Officers located two semi-automatic pistols and various rounds of ammunition. One of these pistols was reported stolen from the vehicle the trooper had seen Wiles breaking into. Wiles had seven prior felony convictions and was prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI and Billings Police Department conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Lodge Grass woman who ran multi-state drug trafficking ring that distributed meth across the state and to four Montana Indian reservations sentenced to 24 years in prisonRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Lodge Grass woman convicted in a large-scale, multi-state methamphetamine trafficking operation she ran from her home on the Crow Indian Reservation to supply drugs across the state and to four Montana Indian reservations was sentenced today to 24 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, Frederica Lefthand, 52, pleaded guilty in August 2023 to possession with intent to distribute meth and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
“As a top-level dealer in this broad conspiracy, Lefthand is responsible for spreading staggering quantities of poison not only in her own community on the Crow Indian Reservation, but across Montana, including on the Northern Cheyenne, Fort Belknap, and Rocky Boy’s reservations. Lefthand played a key role in obtaining meth from suppliers in Washington, recruited lower-level dealers, collected drug debts, and wired proceeds to an individual in Washington. She has earned this prison sentence and I am proud of our law enforcement partners and prosecutors who have brought her to justice,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
“The Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Drug Enforcement is devoted to removing dangerous drug dealers in Indian Country, including those that continually exploit and profit off the pain and tragic loss of their fellow community members, such as Lefthand. We value the partnerships with DEA, FBI, and other agencies that were involved in this case to fully realize the capabilities of cooperative law enforcement efforts that led to this sentence,” said Jerin Falcon, Deputy Associate Director of the BIA Division of Drug Enforcement.
“Montana, and specifically the Indian Reservation communities across the state, have not been immune from the impact of Mexican Cartels and their trafficking of methamphetamine and fentanyl. The sentencing today affirms that DEA and our partners will relentlessly pursue the cartels and their networks and hold them accountable for the harm they are causing our communities,” said Cesar Avila, Resident Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration.
“Lefthand essentially helped fuel a drug crisis among her own people and throughout the state,” said Shohini Sinha, Special Agent in Charge of the Salt Lake City FBI. “The FBI and our partners aim to target criminal enterprises and cut off the supply of illegal narcotics at the highest levels, so they don’t make it into our neighborhoods.”
In court documents and statements in court, the government alleged that federal law enforcement, in a collaborative effort with local and tribal law enforcement, investigated a large-scale, multi-state narcotics trafficking operation that ran from January 2022 until March 2023 and was based on two properties on the Crow Indian Reservation, including Lefthand’s residence, which was known as Spear Siding. Lefthand was near the top of the conspiracy, only below a Washington source of supply and identified as co-defendant 1. The investigation into Spear Siding activities began in June 2022 and has led to federal charges against 25 other defendants, 12 of whom have been convicted and sentenced.
Lefthand supplied a significant portion of the meth sold across the Crow, Northern Cheyenne, Fort Belknap and Rocky Boy’s Indian reservations and had operations in every reservation town as well as in Billings and Havre. Lefthand was the ringleader of the operation, which involved “pounds and pounds and pounds” of meth, the government said. Lefthand worked directly with co-defendant 1 and managed the operation in Montana, dispensing drugs to lower-level dealers, collecting debts, organizing deals and recruiting others to help her make money. Spear Siding was a hub of drug activity, and sources reported that Spear Siding would “never run out” of meth.
While traveling to Washington state with co-defendant 1, Lefthand attempted to recruit more “great distributors.” In an intercepted text message, Lefthand said:
“we will be back in business when we get back so start thinking about of few of your other peeps who might want to purchase or be great distributors. We will only be working with a few but will be considering other locations if you know what I mean jellybean!!! Maybe seven and ten if need be.”
Law enforcement conducted two controlled purchases of meth from Lefthand in September 2022. On April 1, 2023, law enforcement arrested Lefthand in a stolen vehicle following a pursuit and found her to be in possession of meth and a handgun. In addition, Lefthand made several wire transfers of money from drug transactions to an individual in Washington.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys prosecuted the case. The Bureau of Indian Affairs, Drug Enforcement Administration and FBI conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Federal jury convicts Washington man of meth and fentanyl trafficking in Hill County, Rocky Boy’s Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A federal jury on Feb. 29 convicted a Washington man accused of trafficking methamphetamine and fentanyl in communities in Hill County and on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
After a three-day trial that began on Feb. 27, a jury found the defendant, Antonio Ledesma Rodriguez, aka Uncle, 53, of Yakima, Washington, guilty of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute controlled substance and distribution of fentanyl as charged in an indictment. Rodriguez faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and at least three years of supervised release on each count.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for June 20. Rodriguez was detained pending further proceedings.
“Due to outstanding law enforcement work, we are, yet again, holding someone accountable for poisoning our communities. Here, Rodriguez brought meth and fentanyl pills to the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation and surrounding towns for local distribution. Together with our law enforcement partners, we remain relentless in our efforts to shut down drug traffickers. I thank Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie D. Robles and Amanda L. Myers, our office support staff and the FBI, Tri Agency Task Force and Rocky Boy’s Police Department for their work investigating and prosecuting this case,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
In court documents and at trial, the government alleged that Rodriguez was involved in drug trafficking from about January 2021 to December 2021 in the Hill County communities of Havre, Laredo and Box Elder, and on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation. In May 2021, law enforcement seized fentanyl pills from an individual at his residence. The individual admitted he was involved in distributing controlled substances and identified his suppliers as a group of men, including Rodriguez, from Yakima, Washington. The pills sized from the residence had been provided by Rodriguez. The individual also sold fentanyl and meth for Rodriguez. In a controlled purchase, law enforcement obtained 350 fentanyl pills from Rodriguez for $8,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie D. Robles and Amanda L. Myers are prosecuting the case. The FBI, Tri Agency Task Force and Rocky Boy’s Police Department conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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