District of Montana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Former Judith Gap teacher sentenced to 78 months in prison for possessing child pornographyRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A former Judith Gap School teacher who admitted to possessing child pornography after Facebook submitted a tip to authorities was sentenced today to 78 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Jayson Gayo, 28, of Harlowton, pleaded guilty in August 2022 to possession of child pornography as charged in an indictment.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. Judge Watters also ordered $3,000 restitution.
The government alleged in court documents and in statements in court that in August 2020, Facebook submitted a number of Cybertips indicating that child pornography was likely being transmitted from an account associated with Gayo. Gayo was a teacher at Judith Gap School at the time. There was no indication that the images or Gayo’s conduct involved students at the school.
An investigation led to the execution of a search warrant of Gayo’s residence, where law enforcement collected multiple electronic media items. A separate warrant was served on Facebook concerning Gayo’s account. In total, law enforcement determined that Gayo’s media contained 209 images and 146 videos of child pornography. The videos showed children as young as that of a toddler being sexually abused by adults. The government further alleged that Gayo not only possessed child pornography but also was an administrator of a group involving those with an interest in pornography.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno B. Baucus prosecuted the case, which was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation.
This case was initiated under the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, which was launched in 2006 to combat the proliferation of technology-facilitated crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children. Through a network of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and advocacy organizations, Project Safe Childhood attempts to protect children by investigating and prosecuting offenders involved in child sexual exploitation. It is implemented through partnerships including the Montana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The ICAC Task Force Program was created to assist state and local law enforcement agencies by enhancing their investigative response to technology facilitated crimes against children.
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Missoula pair sentenced to prison on drug trafficking, firearms crimes after law enforcement seize more than seven pounds of meth, fentanyl and multiple gunsRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Missoula pair convicted of drug trafficking and firearm crimes each were sentenced to prison terms today after law enforcement seized more than seven pounds of meth, fentanyl and firearms during the investigation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Carlos Guatimea Augirre, 36, was sentenced to 15 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. Aguirre pleaded guilty in May 2022 to possession with intent to distribute meth and fentanyl and to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Co-defendant Savannah Shoshana Smith, 38, was sentenced to five years and six months in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release. Smith pleaded guilty in May 2022 to possession with intent to distribute meth and fentanyl and to addict in possession of firearms and ammunition.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that law enforcement served a search warrant on the residence of Smith and Aguirre on Oct. 6, 2021. Officers also conducted a traffic stop of Aguirre to execute a search warrant on the car and found a quarter pound of meth packaged for sale and a 9mm handgun that Aguirre had removed from his body when he was stopped. Inside the residence, officers found approximately 6.9 pounds of meth and fentanyl pills. Seven pounds of meth is the equivalent of about 25,368 doses. Law enforcement also found 21 firearms throughout the residence. Records showed that Smith purchased 22 firearms between February 2020 and August 2021. Smith told officers that Aguirre would give her meth and she would trade the meth for opiate pills. The investigation showed that Aguirre made numerous wire transfers totaling about $22,000 from August 2019 to September 2021 to addresses in Billings; Fresno, California; Las Vegas, Nevada; and Albuquerque, New Mexico. In addition, Aguirre traveled multiple times to Fresno, where he also maintained a residence and had active links to gangs, and Sacramento, California, and to Spokane, Washington. Three of the firearms, all 9mm pistols, that Smith purchased in Montana were recovered in Fresno in three separate criminal investigations that had gang associations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer S. Clark prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations and the Missoula Police Department.
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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Washington man admits trafficking fentanyl in Great FallsRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Spokane, Washington, man admitted to trafficking charges today after law enforcement found hundreds of fentanyl pills in a vehicle in which he was a passenger in Great Falls, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Yevgeniy Rudnitskiy, 34, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Rudnitskiy faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and at least 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 May 25. Rudnitskiy was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in October 2022, Russell Country Drug Task Force agents were surveilling a motel room in Great Falls as part of an ongoing drug investigation. Two men, including Rudnitskiy, left the room, entered a vehicle, drove a short distance and parked. Co-defendant Kelly Sterling Wait, of Williston, North Dakota, was the driver. Rudnitskiy got out of the vehicle and appeared to steal several items from trucks in the lot. The investigation led to the Montana Highway Patrol stopping the vehicle. Wait was removed from the driver’s seat and a loaded pistol was removed from his waistband, along with a fanny pack he had. Rudnitskiy also was removed from the passenger seat and a bundle of cash and a bag were observed where he had been sitting. The vehicle was searched on a state warrant. Approximately 186 fentanyl pills were found in the fanny pack, and six bags, each containing 100 fentanyl pills, were found in the trunk. Another 60 fentanyl pills were found in the passenger seat area. Cash seized from Rudnitskiy and from where he had been sitting totaled $3,734. Wait recently pleaded guilty in the case and is pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the Russell Country Drug Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Montana Highway Patrol and Great Falls Police Department.
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Great Falls woman sentenced to prison for fraud, identity theft schemeRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Great Falls woman who admitted to participating in a scheme to use fraudulent checks to buy retail merchandise was sentenced today to seven months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,652 restitution, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Crystal Lynn Jackson, aka Crystal Lynn Barber, 38, pleaded guilty in September 2022 to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that between September 2019 and May 2020, Jackson participated in a scheme with co-defendants, Rachel Abbott and John Dailey, in which she used stolen and altered checks to help pay for retail merchandise and other goods at businesses in the Great Falls area. Abbott and Dailey used fake identification cards, stolen checks and check printing software to create new checks with valid account numbers. Dailey would make the fake identification cards for Abbott that contained a real identity with Abbott’s picture. Jackson accompanied Abbott to businesses where the duo shopped for items and used the forged checks as payment. Dailey was sentenced to 51 months in prison and Abbott was sentenced to 26 months in prison for their convictions in the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica A. Betley prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Great Falls Police Department.
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Big Timber felon sentenced to 46 months in prison for illegal possession of firearmsRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Big Timber man with a felony record was sentenced today to 46 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, after he admitted to illegally possessing three loaded firearms, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
James Edward Dempster, 43, pleaded guilty in May 2022 to prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that in 2014, Dempster was convicted in U.S. District Court of a felony drug crime and prohibited from possessing firearms. In November 2021, a Sweet Grass County Sheriff’s deputy made a traffic stop in Big Timber of a truck that was pulling a trailer without taillights. Dempster was the driver. The deputy noticed the muzzle of a hunting rifle sticking out near the floorboard, ran Dempster’s information and confirmed that Dempster was on federal probation. During search of the truck, law enforcement recovered three loaded firearms—two rifles and a semi-automatic pistol. Law enforcement further learned that the pistol and one of the rifles were owned by Dempster’s father and that Dempster took them with out permission.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin D. Hargrove prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Sweet Grass County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Probation Office.
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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Mexican national admits role in transporting 29 pounds of meth to Bozeman, BillingsRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Mexican national today admitted her role in a methamphetamine trafficking scheme in which she transported 25 pounds of the drug to Billings and four pounds of meth to Bozeman from Denver, Colorado, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Risela Anahid Heredia Soberanes, 32, pleaded guilty to a superseding information charging her with possession with intent to distribute meth. Soberanes faces a mandatory minimum of five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four 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. Soberanes was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in mid-July 2022, law enforcement made a controlled purchase of cocaine in Bozeman from a person later identified as co-defendant Isidro Vega Carmona. Another co-defendant, identified at Victor Ocampo, was with Carmona during the purchase. About a month later, Carmona and another person, known as “Guero,” agreed to sell an undercover individual four pounds of meth for $18,000. In late August, the undercover went to Carmona’s residence to purchase the four pounds of meth. Prior to the purchase, law enforcement observed a white Honda Accord with a Colorado license plate arrive at Carmona’s residence. Soberanes got out of the Honda and retrieved items from the trunk. Later investigation confirmed that Soberanes had delivered the meth to Carmona on behalf of “Guero.”
The government further alleged that in October 2022, Carmona offered to sell the undercover 25 pounds of meth for $100,000 and that he would deliver it to Billings. On Oct. 12, 2022, Carmona contacted the undercover and confirmed that Soberanes was again driving the 25 pounds of meth to Billings from Denver and that he would meet the undercover in Billings. Law enforcement observed the Honda Accord at a residence on the 200 block of Broadwater Avenue, where Soberanes parked the vehicle and entered the residence. Carmona then contacted the undercover and ultimately gave instructions to meet him at the Northern Hotel in downtown Billings. Law enforcement observed Carmona and Ocampo get out of a truck and remove a large rolling suitcase from the trunk of the Honda. Carmona began walking with the suitcase in the direction of the Northern Hotel, while Ocampo drove the Honda toward the hotel. Law enforcement arrested Carmona on the street, while he was still in possession of the suitcase, and Ocampo as he was walking away from the Honda near a downtown intersection. Law enforcement arrested Soberanes at the Broadwater Avenue residence while she was sitting in Carmona’s pickup truck. Officers served a federal search warrant on the suitcase and found 25 pounds of meth in numerous plastic bags and several items of female clothing. Twenty-nine pounds of meth is the equivalent of approximately 105,000 doses. Soberanes admitted in an interview that she received the suitcase from “Guero,” who instructed her to deliver it to Billings.
Carmona and Ocampo have pleaded not guilty to charges and are pending trial in the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin M. Rubich is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and the Missouri River Drug Task Force.
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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Nevada man admits role in Billings commercial sex investigationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Nevada man accused in an investigation into commercial sex activity in Billings admitted today to transporting a person with the intent to engage in prostitution, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Cecil Jerome Hatchett, 32, of Las Vegas, Nevada, pleaded guilty to a superseding information charging him with transportation of a person with intent to engage in prostitution. Hatchett faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,00 fine and three years of supervised release. If accepted by the court, a plea agreement reached by the parties calls for Hatchett to serve a sentence of not less than five years of imprisonment.
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 May 4. Hatchett was detained pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that on April 21, 2021, law enforcement responded to a call concerning possible commercial sex activity at the Quality Inn in Billings. Officers knocked on the door of the suspect room and announced themselves. Co-defendant Ashley Stella, another female identified as Jane Doe 1, a minor, and co-defendant Mark Jay Albrecht emerged. In interviews with law enforcement, Jane Doe 1 indicated she had met Stella in December 2020 and that Stella informed her that she worked in commercial sex. Jane Doe 1 told law enforcement that the two traveled from Nevada and elsewhere to Montana in April 2021. Once in Montana, both Stella and Jane Doe 1 engaged in commercial sex. Stella told law enforcement that she had met Jane Doe 1 in the fall of 2020 and learned of her true age later that year. Stella said the two had traveled from Nevada to Montana for the purpose of commercial sex and had asked Jane Doe 1 if she wanted to go on this trip with her. Investigators searched electronic media belonging to Stella and Jane Doe 1 and found numerous messages between Hackett and Stella. The communications included discussions about the upcoming commercial sex appointments of Stella and Jane Doe 1. In addition, law enforcement discovered a rental car from Reno, Nevada, from April 2021 in Hackett’s name and determined it was the same car that Stella and Jane Doe 1 drove to Montana for commercial sex. In April 2021, prostitution was illegal in Montana.
Stella, of Reno, Nevada, was sentenced to eight years in prison for conviction of transportation of a minor to engage in prostitution. Albrecht, of Gillette, Wyoming, pleaded guilty on Jan. 4 to prostitution near military and navy establishments, a misdemeanor, and is pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zeno B. Baucus and Bryan T. Dake are prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, Billings Police Department, the Reno, Nevada, Police Department and IRS.
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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:
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on Jan. 5 was:
Christopher Glenn Lakey, 35, of Kalispell and Columbia Falls, on charges of prohibited person in possession of firearm, armed career criminal. If convicted of the most serious crime, Lakey faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release. Lakey was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, FBI Lab, Flathead County Sheriff’s Office, Whitefish Police Department, Montana Probation and Parole and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-43.
Appearing on Jan. 4 was:
Jared Glenn Barth, 33, of Missoula, on charges of depredation of government property. If convicted of the most serious crime, Barth faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Barth was released pending further proceedings. The Department of Homeland Security Federal Protective Services and U.S. Marshals Service Court Security staff investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-61.
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on Jan. 5 was:
Nicole Marie Schwalbach, 40, of Billings, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Schwalbach faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Schwalbach was detained pending further proceedings. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Billings Police Department and Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-150.
Cody Lawrence Big Hair, 31, of Billings, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Big Hair faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Big Hair was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case.
PACER case reference. 22-119.
Crystal Angela Nicole Gutierrez, 33, of Aurora, Colorado, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. If convicted of the most serious charge, Gutierrez faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Gutierrez was released pending further proceedings. The Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, Montana Highway Patrol, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Laurel Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-144.
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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Armed meth dealer from Livingston sentenced to 10 years in prisonRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Livingston man who admitted to distributing methamphetamine in Park and Gallatin counties while possessing a firearm was sentenced today to 10 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Ryan King Steady, 41, pleaded guilty in June 2022 to distribution of meth 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 January 2021, Livingston Police Department officers were dispatched to Steady’s residence after receiving a call that a woman was being held against her will and engaging in sex trafficking. When officers arrived, they found a 9mm semi-automatic pistol with two magazines, ammunition and a holster in Steady’s bedroom. Law enforcement further learned that Steady had several people moving meth for him. Law enforcement also learned that Steady would leave his residence to sell meth and that he sold meth from his home. In April 2021, an officer with the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop of Steady. Steady was on felony probation, and his supervising officer requested a search of his vehicle. Officers located gram quantities of meth, a digital scale, 55 unused clear plastic baggies, and a 12-gauge sawed-off shotgun.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Park County Sheriff’s Office, Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office and Montana Probation and Parole.
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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Wolf Point man sentenced to 27 months in prison for attempted fentanyl traffickingRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Wolf Point man today was sentenced to 27 months in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, after he admitted to attempting to possess fentanyl for distribution on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Andre Jean Reum, 44, pleaded guilty in September 2022 to attempted possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that Reum was responsible for bringing large quantities of fentanyl pills from Washington the Fort Peck Indian Reservation for distribution. Reum was ordering fentanyl pills through the mail from a Washington supplier and distributing them for profit. Reum was arrested when the last package he ordered was intercepted in May 2022 and found to contain 586 fentanyl pills. After his arrest, Reum described to a fellow inmate that he had received multiple prior shipments from the same supplier.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs.
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Superior man sentenced for setting fires on Forest Service landsRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Superior man who admitted to setting fires on Forest Service lands was sentenced today to a term of imprisonment of eight months, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $3,323 restitution, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Jeremy Johannes Hennick, 52, pleaded guilty in September 2022 to timber set afire.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that between 2013 and 2021, more than 40 suspected arson fires were set on state and federal land in Mineral County. In 2021 alone, 22 fires were documented and investigated. Law enforcement identified Hennick as a suspect after a vehicle he drove was spotted in the area of some of the fires. The government further alleged that a fire was reported on National Forest System lands on Aug. 1, 2021, at about 5 a.m., near the junction of Mullan Road East and Riverbend Road in Mineral County. Wildland fire investigators responded and documented the main fire and three additional burned items located more than 30 feet away. Investigators concluded each burned area represented a separate fire, that the fires were human-caused and had been set using homemade devices, such as cigarette packages stuffed with paper and, occasionally, covered with an accelerant.
Based on evidence, the Forest Service intensified its investigation of Hennick. Agents interviewed Hennick, who admitted he had been setting fires for four to five years, primarily by lighting trash on fire and throwing it out the window of whatever vehicle he was driving. Damage was minimal, based in large part on the diligence and resourcefulness of the Forest Service law enforcement officers who investigated the case and the firefighters who responded to the flames.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Racicot prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the U.S. Forest Service.
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North Dakota man admits fentanyl trafficking in Great FallsRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A North Dakota man admitted to trafficking charges today after law enforcement found hundreds of fentanyl pills and a loaded firearm in a vehicle he was driving in Great Falls, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Kelly Sterling Wait, 45, of Williston, North Dakota, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Wait faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and at least 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 May 18. Wait was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in October 2022, Russell Country Drug Task Force agents were surveilling a motel room in Great Falls as part of an ongoing drug investigation. Two men, including Wait, left the room, entered a vehicle, drove a short distance and park. Wait was the driver. His male passenger got out of the vehicle and appeared to steal several items from trucks in the lot. The investigation led to the Montana Highway Patrol stopping the vehicle. Wait was removed from the driver’s seat and a loaded pistol was removed from his waistband, along with a fanny pack he had. The vehicle was searched on a state warrant. Approximately 186 fentanyl pills were found in the fanny pack, and six bags, each containing 100 fentanyl pills, were found in the trunk. Another 60 fentanyl pills were found in the passenger seat area.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the Russell Country Drug Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Montana Highway Patrol and Great Falls Police Department.
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Heart Butte admits strangling woman on Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Heart Butte man accused strangling a woman in the Browning area on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Brandon Thomas Weatherwax, 31, pleaded guilty to strangulation. Weatherwax 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 May 18. Weatherwax was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in October 2022, Weatherwax was at home with the victim, Jane Doe. Weatherwax assaulted Jane Doe for hours, including strangling her until she could no longer breathe. Photographs of Jane Doe after the assault showed bruising on her neck from being strangled.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services.
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Ex-Signal Peak Mine safety official admits conspiring to make false statement about mine injuryRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — The former mine safety director at the Signal Peak Energy LLC coal mine near Roundup today admitted to charges that he conspired to not report as required an incident in which a mine employee injured his fingers, resulting in partial amputation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Curtis Floyd, 47, of Billings, pleaded guilty to an information charging him with conspiracy to submit false statements in mine records. Floyd faces a maximum of five 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. Floyd was released pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in 2018, Floyd was the Director of Mine Safety at the Signal Peak Energy coal mine and was responsible for overseeing safety related accidents and injuries, ensuring that all safety-related incidents at the mine were properly reported in accordance with federal law. In early 2018, John Doe 1, an employee under Floyd’s area of responsibility, had his fingers crushed while loading mining materials. The injury eventually required partial amputation. As Floyd was taking John Doe 1 to the hospital, John Doe 1 received a phone call from Dale Musgrave, the former vice president of underground operations. Musgrave directed John Doe 1 to falsely claim that the injury was unrelated to his work at the mine. Musgrave also said he would make it worth John Doe’s while. Floyd told John Doe 1 he would support whatever decision was made. John Doe 1 eventually agreed to not report the incident. Both Floyd and John Doe 1 subsequently admitted to investigators that this occurred. Floyd and Musgrave were required to complete a U.S. Department of Labor Mine Safety and Health Administration Mine Accident, Injury and Illness report. They never completed or submitted the form for this incident. They also failed to report John Doe 1 as an “MSHA reportable injury or illness” on another MSHA quarterly mine employment and coal production report.
This prosecution was part of a broad corruption investigation into Signal Peak Energy’s management and operations that resulted in not only misdemeanor convictions of the company for willful violation of health and safety standards, but also in individual convictions and charges for some former mine officials and associates for embezzlement, tax evasion, bank fraud, money laundering, drugs and firearms violations. Musgrave was sentenced to probation and fined $20,000 for his conviction in the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Colin M. Rubich, Zeno B. Baucus and Timothy Tatarka are prosecuting the case, which was investigated by IRS, FBI and Environmental Protection Agency.
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Cut Bank man admits meth trafficking on Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Cut Bank man accused of trafficking methamphetamine on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation after law enforcement found approximately two pounds of the drug in a Jaguar vehicle parked at his residence admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Osvaldo Aguilar, aka Aldo Chavez, aka Creeper, 47, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Aguilar faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five 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 May 17. Aguilar was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in October 2021, law enforcement interviewed two individuals suspected being involved in drug trafficking on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. The individual reported buying meth from Aguilar, known as “Creeper.” The investigation led to Aguliar’s residence in Cut Bank and to a search warrant to search the property. Officers found a Jaguar sedan that appeared not to have been driven for some time but also appeared to have been entered recently. Officers located approximately two pounds of meth in the vehicle.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, Glacier County Sheriff’s Office and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services.
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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Wyoming man charged in commercial sex investigation in Billings admits prostitution crimeRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Wyoming man accused of soliciting sex in a Billings motel room during an investigation into commercial sex activity in 2021 today admitted to a prostitution crime, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Mark Jay Albrecht, 65, of Gillette, Wyoming, pleaded guilty to a superseding information charging him with prostitution near military and navy establishments, a misdemeanor. Albrecht faces a maximum of one year in prison, a $100,000 fine and one year 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 May 4. The court continued Albrecht’s release pending further proceedings. If accepted by the court at sentencing, a plea agreement reached by the parties recommends that Albrecht serve a sentence of no less than six months imprisonment.
The government alleged in court documents that Albrecht knowingly solicited a person for prostitution. On April 21, 2021, law enforcement responded to a call concerning possible commercial sex activity at the Quality Inn in Billings. Officers knocked on the door of the suspect room and announced themselves. Co-defendant Ashley Stella, another female identified as Jane Doe 1, a minor, and Albrecht emerged. Albrecht was witnessed buttoning up his shirt as he exited the room. Law enforcement interviewed Stella and Jane Doe 1 multiple times. Stella acknowledged that Albrecht was in the room for the purpose of commercial sex. Electronic communications recovered by law enforcement reflected discussions between Albrecht and Stella from earlier that day involving a possible commercial sex meeting. The Quality Inn is located approximately two miles from a military recruitment center, and, at the time, prostitution was illegal in the State of Montana.
Stella, of Reno, Nevada, was sentenced to eight years in prison for conviction of transportation of a minor to engage in prostitution. A third co-defendant charged in the case, Cecil Jerome Hatchett, of Las Vegas, Nevada, is scheduled for a change of plea hearing on Jan. 6.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zeno B. Baucus and Bryan T. Dake are prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, Billings Police Department, the Reno, Nevada, Police Department and IRS.
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Gallatin County meth trafficker sentenced to four years in prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Bozeman man who admitted to selling methamphetamine and cocaine to approximately 10 people in the Gallatin Valley for about a year was sentenced today to four years in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Gerardo Gutierrez, 21, pleaded guilty in November 2021 to possession with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that in July 2020, Gutierrez sold meth twice to a confidential informant. When interviewed, Gutierrez told law enforcement he had been dealing meth for another person for approximately one year and estimated he dealt an average of one ounce a week of both meth and cocaine, which is about 3.25 pounds of each drug, and sold to 10 different people.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer S. Clark prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Missouri River Drug Task Force.
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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Butte man sentenced to seven years in prison for drug trafficking, firearms crimesRead the Press Release
MISSOULA —A Butte man who admitted to trafficking methamphetamine and fentanyl pills and to firearms crimes was sentenced today to seven years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Charles Warren Campbell, 52, pleaded guilty in August 2022 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, prohibited person in possession of a firearm, possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number and possession of an unregistered firearm.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in August 2021, the Butte Silver-Bow Police Department officers assisted in evicting a man from a Butte residence and when they arrived, another man fled before officers could identify the person. Officers located a firearm, five ounces of meth, a digital scale, heroin and two cell phones in a guest room. The individual being evicted advised law enforcement that Campbell had moved in about a month prior, was the man who fled the residence and that the drugs and gun were Campbell’s. A few weeks later, officers located Campbell, who had an active felony arrest warrant, driving a vehicle that had been reported stolen. In a search of the car, officers found three additional firearms, including a modified shotgun with a pistol grip and an obliterated serial number, a .25-caliber handgun and a 9mm pistol. Officers also located ammunition, meth, heroin and a fentanyl pill. Campbell told officers he was a ranking member of the Aryan Brotherhood in Arizona and had been receiving and distributing large quantities of meth and heroin over the past month. Campbell had a prior felony conviction and was prohibited from possessing firearms.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Butte Silver-Bow Law Enforcement and Montana Probation and Parole.
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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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:
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on Dec. 29 was:
Jesse Lee Hopkins, 38, a transient, on charges of bank fraud, aggravated identity theft and felon in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Hopkins faces a maximum of 30 years in prison, a $1 million fine and five years of supervised release on the bank fraud charge and a mandatory minimum two years in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine and one year of supervised release on the aggravated identity theft charge. Hopkins was detained pending further proceedings. Homeland Security Investigations and the Billings Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-108.
Joseph Lee Doney, 41, of Billings, on charges of prohibited person in possession of firearm and ammunition—armed career criminal, possession of a stolen firearm and possession of body armor by a violent felon. If convicted of the most serious crime, Doney faces a mandatory minimum 15 years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release. Doney was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-146.
Appearing on Dec. 28 was:
Geofredo James Littlebird, Jr., 38, of Lame Deer, on charges of prohibited person in possession of firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Littlebird faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Littlebird was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-149.
Appearing on Dec. 27 was:
Michael Joseph Owens, 42, of Aurora, Colorado, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. If convicted of the most serious crime, Owens faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release on the drug counts and a mandatory minimum five years to life in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release on the firearm count. Owens was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, Montana Highway Patrol and Laurel Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-144.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on Dec. 28 was:
Alex George Deserly, 43, of Box Elder, on charges of strangulation and assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to intimate partner. If convicted of the most serious crime, Deserly faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Deserly was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Rocky Boy’s Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-101.
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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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:
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on Dec. 20 was:
Aaron Clifford Olson, 50, of Billings, on charges of prohibited person in possession of firearm and ammunition. If convicted of the most serious crime, Olson faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Olson was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Billings Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-134.
Appearing on Dec. 16 was:
Travis Ridenour, aka Travis Lamere, 34, of Billings, on charges of aggravated sexual abuse and abusive sexual contact. If convicted of the most serious crime, Ridenour faces a maximum of life in prison, a $250,000 fine and a mandatory minimum five years of supervised release. Ridenour was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-111.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on Dec. 19 was:
Brian George Funk, 53, of Spokane, Washington, on charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted of the most serious crime, Funk faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Funk was detained pending further proceedings. The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-121.
Ian Ray Stewart, 24, of Great Falls, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. If convicted of the most serious crime, Stewart faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. Stewart was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Great Falls Police Department, Cascade County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-89.
Appearing on Dec. 15 was:
Danyell Rose Black Dog, 22, of Poplar, on charges of possession with intent to distribute meth and distribution of meth resulting in death. If convicted of the most serious crime, Black Dog faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and three years of supervised release. Black Dog was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Fort Peck Tribes investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-98.
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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Wolf Point woman admits role in kidnapping, assault of minor girl on Fort Peck Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Wolf Point woman charged in the assault and kidnapping of a minor girl in Wolf Point, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, admitted to her role in the kidnapping, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Elmarie Amelia Weeks, 22, pleaded guilty on Dec. 14 to a superseding information charging her with kidnapping of an individual under 18. Weeks faces a mandatory minimum of 20 years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and not less than five years to life 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 April 27. Weeks was detained pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that Weeks aided and abetted in the Sept. 15, 2021 kidnapping of a 15-year-old minor girl from her house by a group of individuals. That evening, after drinking alcohol, Weeks accompanied the group of individuals to the victim’s house. Co-defendant Cheri Cruz Granbois offered to pay another co-defendant, Kaylee Jade Jackson, money to “beat up” the victim. As a result, the victim was lured out of the house and the situation escalated. Some individuals in the group assaulted the victim. When eyewitnesses yelled that they were going to call the police, some of the group kidnapped the victim, forcing her into a vehicle and driving away to continue the assault. Weeks helped to seize, confine or abduct the victim. The vehicle took the victim to a vacant field in Wolf Point, where some in the group beat the victim again.
Co-defendant Lavanchie Patricia Goodbird has pleaded guilty in the case and is pending sentencing. Four other co-defendants have pleaded not guilty and are pending trial, including Granbois, Jackson, Dylan Troy Jackson and Patti Jo Annunciata Mail.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Wendy A. Johnson is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Fort Peck Law Enforcement, Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office and Wolf Point Police Department.
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Lame Deer pastor arraigned on sexual abuse chargesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Lame Deer pastor appeared on a summons for arraignment today on sexual abuse charges alleged to have occurred on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Dean Alan Smith, 66, a pastor, pleaded not guilty to an indictment charging him with one count of aggravated sexual abuse, one count of abusive sexual contact and three counts of abusive sexual contact by force and of a child. If convicted of the most serious crime, Smith faces a maximum of life in prison, a $250,000 fine and not less than five years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. Judge Cavan continued Smith’s release with conditions pending further proceedings.
An indictment, filed on Dec. 9, alleges that between 2017 and 2019 near Lame Deer, on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, Smith knowingly caused a person, identified as Jane Doe 1, to engage in a sexual act by using force and that Smith knowing caused Jane Doe 1 to engage in sexual contact by using force. The indictment further alleges that between 2017 and 2019, Smith knowingly caused a person, identified as Jane Doe 2, who had not attained the age of 12, to engage in sexual contact by force. In addition, the indictment alleges that between 2019 and 2020, Smith knowingly caused persons, identified as Jane Doe 3 and Jane Doe 4, both who had not attained the age of 12, to engage in sexual contact by force.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
If people have additional information or know of persons who may have encountered similar conduct alleged against the defendant, please contact the FBI Billings Office at 406-248-8487.
PACER case reference. 22-140.
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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Great Falls man sentenced to 51 months in prison for fraudulent check, stolen identity schemeRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Great Falls man who admitted using stolen personal identifying information to make fraudulent checks in a scheme to spend almost $40,000 at area businesses was sentenced on Dec. 19 to 51 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
John Brendan Dailey, 52, pleaded guilty in August to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris also ordered $28,359 restitution.
The government alleged that in 2019 and 2020, Dailey participated in a fraudulent check scheme where he used fake identification cards, stolen checks and check printing software and materials to create new checks with valid account numbers. Dailey then used the fake identification cards and altered checks to spend almost $40,000 at businesses in the Great Falls and surrounding area. Dailey’s conduct affected dozens of victims and impersonated numerous real individuals, who suffered financial loss and now face a lifetime of monitoring whether someone is using their personal information.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica A. Betley prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Great Falls Police Department.
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East Glacier man admits murder charge in shooting death on Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — An East Glacier man accused of shooting to death another man in a Bearpaw residence, on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, in 2020 admitted to a murder charge on Dec. 19, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
Dillon James Wippert, 27, pleaded guilty to second degree murder. Wippert faces a maximum of life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five 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 May 11, 2023. Wippert was detained pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that on May 19, 2020, Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services notified the FBI that there was a death of an individual, identified as John Doe, in a residence in Bearpaw. John Doe lived in the residence at the time. On May 17, 2020, Wippert, John Doe, and three other individuals were at the residence celebrating Wippert’s birthday. At some point, John Doe and others became upset at Wippert and confronted him. After the confrontation, most of the individuals thought Wippert had left the residence. While there are discrepancies in descriptions of events leading to John Doe’s death, at some point only John Doe and Wippert were at the residence. John Doe was in his bedroom when Wippert shot him. An autopsy confirmed that Wippert first shot John Doe in the arm and then shot him in the back of the head. Family members found John Doe’s body on May 19, 2020 in his bedroom.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lori Harper Suek, Wendy A. Johnson and Kalah Paisley are prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services, with assistance from the Cut Bank Police Department, Glacier County Sheriff's Office, Mineral County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Marshals Service.
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Cut Bank woman admits involuntary manslaughter, assault charges in vehicle crash on Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Cut Bank woman today admitted to charges stemming from the death of a passenger and the injury of another individual when the vehicle she was driving crashed head on into another vehicle in East Glacier, on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Feather Lynn Stillsmoking, 32, pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Stillsmoking 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 May 11, 2023. Stillsmoking was detained pending sentencing.
In court documents, the government alleged that on March 12, Stillsmoking was driving a 2003 Oldsmobile west on US 2 into East Glacier at a high rate of speed when the vehicle crossed the centerline and collided head on with an eastbound Nissan. A passenger, identified as John Doe, who was in the Oldsmobile, died at the scene of blunt force injuries. Another individual, identified as Jane Doe, who was the driver of the Nissan, suffered serious injuries. An analysis of Stillsmoking’s blood found alcohol, amphetamine and methamphetamine. Stillsmoking told investigators that she drank a fifth of vodka prior to the crash. Investigators determined that the Oldsmobile was traveling at 102 mph five seconds before impact. The speed limit at the crash location is a 25-mph restricted speed zone.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services, Glacier County Sheriff’s Office and Montana Highway Patrol.
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Two women sentenced to prison for armed robbery of Billings casinoRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — Two women who admitted to stealing liquor at gunpoint from a Billings casino, firing a warning shot while fleeing and discarding two loaded firearms on elementary school property were sentenced this week to prison terms, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Makyla Shayd Fetter, 28, of Harlem, was sentenced on Dec. 14 to 10 years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $745 restitution. Fetter pleaded guilty in August to robbery affecting commerce, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and possession of a firearm in a school zone.
Co-defendant Taliah Jeneane Ramirez, 22, of Billings, was sentenced today to seven years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $745 restitution. Ramirez pleaded guilty in August to robbery affecting commerce, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and possession of a firearm in a school zone.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
“As we continue to combat gun violence in Billings, everyone should take notice that if you use a gun while committing a crime, you will be aggressively prosecuted by the United States Department of Justice. Not only did one of these defendants discharge a gun during this robbery, but the defendants unconscionably used a playground to ditch the guns while trying to evade law enforcement. As shown by these sentences to prison, they did not succeed,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
The government alleged in court documents that on March 20, Fetter and Ramirez entered the Magic Diamond Casino in the Billings Heights, and Fetter removed five bottles of Southern Comfort liquor from a shelf. When an employee asked to see Fetter’s identification, Fetter pulled out a loaded pistol, pointed it at the clerk and said, “here’s your (obscenity) ID.” As the defendants escaped in a vehicle, Ramirez took out a pistol and fired a round into the air. A high-speed pursuit with law enforcement ensued before officers stopped to avoid risks to civilians. The defendants’ vehicle crashed after going through a fence at Ponderosa Elementary School, and both women discarded their loaded guns on the school grounds. Officers found one of the firearms. The next day, a student found the second firearm and notified a faculty member. Both firearms were determined to have been stolen.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin M. Rubich prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Billings Police Department and Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.
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Investigation dismantles Butte drug trafficking organization with ties to the Sinaloa CartelRead the Press Release
BUTTE — A multi-agency undercover investigation into a large-scale drug trafficking organization that had ties to the Sinaloa Cartel and brought massive quantities of methamphetamine, counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl and heroin to Butte for redistribution has resulted in the federal convictions of 22 persons, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich announced today.
U.S. Attorney Laslovich, along with federal, state and local law enforcement partners, discussed the dismantling of the Butte drug trafficking network at a news conference at the Montana Highway Patrol office in Butte. Led by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Montana Department of Justice’s Division of Criminal Investigation, with assistance from numerous federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, the investigation was one of the largest federal drug trafficking probes in Montana in recent years.
According to court documents and statements in court, the investigation, which began in 2019 with a tip about a suspicious package containing money being sent to California, led to federal convictions in Montana of 22 individuals from Montana, California and Mexico. Three of the drug traffickers, Humberto Villareal and Ricardo Ramos Medina, both of Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico, and Heriberto Tavares, of Anaheim, California, had ties to the Cartel.
Today in Missoula, U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen sentenced Helena resident Michael Robert Lee, 25, to 46 months in prison for his conviction on possession with intent to distribute meth in relation to the investigation. Lee is one of two remaining defendants indicted in the overall investigation to be sentenced. Defendant Tavares, an associate of Villareal and Medina, is pending sentencing in February for his guilty plea in October to possession with intent to distribute meth.
“Far too often, we believe that cartel-related activity in America is limited to southern border states, but as these cases show, we have significant issues facing us in Montana, including in an area where I grew up,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said. “These cases also show that our office will pursue cartel-related activity without fear or hesitation. Individuals associated with this network brought staggering amounts of methamphetamine, fake oxycontin pills laced with fentanyl, and heroin from Mexico and into Montana for distribution. This years-long investigation and prosecution shut down the flow of these dangerous drugs, held suppliers and local dealers accountable, and saved lives in Montana communities. The success of this collaborative enforcement action would not have been possible without the dedication, cooperation, and hard work of all of our law enforcement partners to hold offenders accountable and to keep Montanans safe. Our work does not end with the conclusion of these cases, but rather is just beginning.”
“The Sinaloa Cartel is one of two primary cartels responsible for flooding the United States with fentanyl and methamphetamine,” said Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Rocky Mountain Division Brian Besser. “This investigation has revealed the extent to which the Sinaloa Cartel has extended its reach into Montana; however, the law enforcement agencies, at the local, state and federal level, have demonstrated via the results of this case that we will continue to attack these networks at every level to save lives and protect our communities from the scourge of illicit drugs.”
“The shipment of illegal and dangerous narcotics remains a plague on our streets. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service remains steadfast in our commitment to work with our partners in law enforcement to do everything we can to bring these drug dealers to justice and protect communities across Montana and the country,” said Assistant Inspector in Charge (AIC) Jarrod Resendez, of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
“There’s no question that Mexico is the source of illegal drugs pouring into our state. These cases – which are the culmination of years of investigative and prosecutorial work – put that to rest,” Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen said. “Our DCI narcotics agents and Highway Patrol troopers work closely with federal and local partners every day, and I’ll continue our work to strengthen those partnerships to keep drugs out of Montana and put traffickers behind bars.”
“I am very grateful for the multi-jurisdictional approach and the cooperation between local, state and federal law enforcement. These are lengthy, labor-intensive and detailed operations,” Butte Silver Bow Sheriff Ed Lester said. “This investigation was very successful in that a significant number of defendants were indicted. It puts drug traffickers on notice that Southwest Montana is a very dangerous place to do business.”
In court statements, the government estimated that the overall drug trafficking network was responsible for bringing 2,043 pounds of meth and 722,000 fentanyl-laced pills from Mexico to Butte for redistribution, with approximately $2.98 million laundered in drug proceeds. During the investigation, law enforcement seized 65 pounds of methamphetamine, which is the equivalent of 235,560 doses, more than 2,000 counterfeit oxycontin pills containing fentanyl and three pounds of heroin. Law enforcement also seized $32,875 in cash and 19 firearms.
The government said Mexico suppliers brought drugs on rail and by individuals across the border at ports of entry to stash houses in Southern California. The traffickers then transported multi-pound quantities by vehicle and through the mail to Butte. From Butte, local dealers trafficked the drugs to Missoula, Helena, Great Falls, Bozeman, Billings and Wolf Point for street-level distribution. The dealers then laundered drug proceeds through the mail, cash shipments and wire transactions back to the Mexico suppliers.
Montana defendants convicted:
Charles Clement, 36, of Butte – Conspiracy– 54 months in prison
Steve Shipe, 52, of Butte – Conspiracy – 60 months in prison
Jeremy Rivers, 45, of Butte – Possession with the Intent to Distribute – 60 months in prison
Dale Johnson, 27, of Butte – Possession with the Intent to Distribute – 46 months in prison
Michael Robert Lee, 25, of Helena – 46 months in prison
James Starcevich, 25, of Butte – Conspiracy – 5 years of supervision, 1 day in prison
Charles Petty, 34, of Butte – Possession with the Intent to Distribute – 120 months in prison
MaryJane Galloway, 37, of Butte – Deceased prior to sentencing
Shawn Miller, 33, of Butte – Possession with the Intent to Distribute – 60 months in prison
Josh Schroeder, 40, of Butte – Conspiracy – 188 months in prison
David Shaver, 34, of Butte – Conspiracy – 54 months in prison
David Viers, 59, of Butte – Possession with the Intent to Distribute – 12 months in prison
Opal Cox, 40, of Great Falls – Conspiracy – 144 months in prison
Travis Soderberg, 47, of Butte – Possession with the Intent to Distribute – 96 months in prison
Deric Sherman, 55, of Butte – Possession with the Intent to Distribute – 78 months in prison
Anthony Lamere, 33, of Butte – Possession with the Intent to Distribute – 84 months in prison
Gloria Lucero, 54, of Great Falls – Possession with the Intent to Distribute – 64 months in prison
Clayton Cleland, 40, of Butte – Conspiracy – 54 months in prison
California defendants convicted:
Oscar Luna, 32, Bakersfield – Conspiracy – 72 months in prison
Heriberto Tavares, 29, Anaheim – Possession with Intent to Distribute, sentencing set for February 21, 2023
Mexico defendants convicted:
Humberto Villareal, 34, Culiacan, Sinaloa – Possession with the Intent to Distribute – 204 months in prison
Ricardo Ramos Medina, 34, Culiacan, Sinaloa – Conspiracy – 96 months in prison
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon prosecuted the cases.
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:
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on Dec. 8 was:
Johnathan Taylor Dugan, 37, a transient, on charges of bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. If convicted of the most serious crime, Dugan faces a maximum of 30 years in prison, a $1 million fine and five years of supervised release on bank fraud and a mandatory minimum two years in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine and one year of supervised release on aggravated identity theft. Dugan was detained pending further proceedings. The Billings Police Department, Bozeman Police Department and FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-132.
Appearing on Dec. 6 was:
Sergio Antonio Lopez, 32, of Hardin, on charges of assault by strangulation of a former spouse and assault resulting in substantial bodily injury of former spouse. If convicted of the most serious crime, Lopez faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Lopez was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-135.
Theo Summers Buffalo Bulltail, 39, of Billings, on charges of prohibited person in possession of firearm and ammunition and possession of unregistered firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Bulltail faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Bulltail was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-86.
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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Charlo man admits illegal killing of grizzly bearRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Charlo man who today admitted to illegally killing a grizzly bear in 2018 was ordered to pay $5,000 restitution and sentenced to two years of federal probation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Kevin Moll, 31, pleaded guilty to an information charging him with unlawful taking of a threatened species.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided.
The government alleged in court documents that an investigation began on Sept. 26, 2018, when a sow grizzly bear’s collar went to “zero,” indicting the grizzly bear was dead. Law enforcement located the dead grizzly bear on a bone pile at the Perry Dairy near Charlo and found that the bear’s collar and ear tag had been removed.
Moll admitted he shot the grizzly bear from his vehicle and knew it was a grizzly before taking the shot. Moll shot the bear a second time in the neck. After walking up to the bear, Moll saw it had a collar. Moll used a front-end loader to pick up the grizzly and drop it on the bone pile. Approximately two days later, Moll saw biologists searching for the grizzly bear from a helicopter. He admitted he returned to the grizzly bear he’d killed, cut off the collar and ear tag and threw the items into Crow Creek. Law enforcement recovered the bear’s collar. Moll acknowledged he knew grizzlies were protected before pulling the trigger, and that he did not have a permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to kill the grizzly bear.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the U.S. FWS.
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Washington man convicted of bringing meth, fentanyl to Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation sentenced to more than 10 years in prisonRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Washington man convicted by a federal jury of drug trafficking crimes for bringing methamphetamine and fentanyl to the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation for distribution was sentenced today to 10 years and eight months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
A jury on Aug. 17 found Aaron Ramirez Espinoza, 37, of Yakima, Washington, guilty of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances,
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
In court documents and at trial, the government alleged that in May 2021, law enforcement seized fentanyl pills from a witness, who identified his suppliers as a group of men from Yakima. The investigation led to Espinoza being identified as a member of this group. Law enforcement further learned that Espinoza was bringing drugs to Montana, and the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation in particular, for distribution, and that he had made repeated drug runs to Montana for more than a year. On May 12, 2022, officers arrested Espinoza at a Great Falls business’ gas station and found in his jacket pocket a pouch containing a bag of meth and two bags of fentanyl pills. Espinoza later said he had been going to meet someone at the business but that they never showed up and that he was “trying to make a living.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Russell Country Drug Task Force and Great Falls Police Department.
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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Missoula woman sentenced to four years in prison for trafficking methamphetamineRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Missoula woman who admitted to distributing methamphetamine was sentenced to four years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Deva Crystal Hartsoe, 42, pleaded guilty in August to distribution of meth.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in April 2021, law enforcement made a controlled purchase of meth from Hartsoe. Hartsoe was interviewed later and admitted that she had sold meth. Co-defendant Devin Neil Farley was sentenced in November to eight years in prison for his conviction in the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara J. Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force, Missoula County Sheriff’s Office, Missoula Police Department, Flathead Tribal Police and Northwest Drug Task Force.
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 man sentenced to five years in prison for burglaryRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Lodge Grass man who admitted to breaking into a woman’s house on the Crow Indian Reservation and sexually abusing her in 2020 was sentenced today to five years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Joe Claren Tate Reed, 32, pleaded guilty in August to burglary.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that on July 18, 2020, Reed was drinking with the victim, identified as Jane Doe, and others. In the early morning, Doe was taken home and put to bed because of alcohol intoxication. Reed then broke into Doe’s home and sexually assaulted her. Doe reported the assault to Bureau of Indian Affairs law enforcement and got a medical exam. Reed consented to giving a buccal swab. The results found Reed’s DNA on swabs taken from Doe’s exam. Reed initially denied having sex with Doe. When confronted with the DNA results, Reed claimed he attempted to have consensual sex with Doe, but she passed out, so he stopped.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lori Harper Suek and Thomas K. Godfrey prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI.
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Billings man sentenced to five years in prison for possessing child pornographyRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man who admitted to possessing hundreds of child pornography images was sentenced today to five years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. Bessman also was ordered to pay $18,000 restitution to his victims.
Miles Edward Bessman, 49, pleaded guilty in July to possession of child pornography as charged in an indictment.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that an investigation of Bessman began in 2019 after law enforcement received two Cybertips indicating that a certain IP address had uploaded child pornography to Google. Investigators determined that the IP address was located at Bessman’s residence and executed a search warrant for Bessman’s Google account. A review of material collected from Bessman’s account found more than 800 images of child pornography. The material included videos and images of children engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on Bessman’s residence in January 2020, collected electronic media and found files containing child pornography on his cell phone.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zeno B. Baucus and Benjamin D. Hargrove prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation and the Billings Police Department.
This case was initiated under the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, which was launched in 2006 to combat the proliferation of technology-facilitated crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children. Through a network of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and advocacy organizations, Project Safe Childhood attempts to protect children by investigating and prosecuting offenders involved in child sexual exploitation. It is implemented through partnerships including the Montana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The ICAC Task Force Program was created to assist state and local law enforcement agencies by enhancing their investigative response to technology facilitated crimes against children.
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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:
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on Nov. 29 was:
Damon Alexander Wahl, 46, of Clinton, on charges of wire fraud and money laundering. If convicted of the most serious crime, Wahl faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Wahl was released pending further proceedings. The FBI and IRS investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-58.
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on Dec. 1 was:
Christian Aaron Monroy, 24, of Pryor, on charges of domestic assault by a habitual offender. If convicted of the most serious crime, Monroy faces a maximum of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Monroy was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-109.
Appearing on Nov. 29 was:
Jaren Michael Stennerson, 37, of Billings, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm and receipt of a firearm by a person under indictment for a felony. If convicted of the most serious crime, Stennerson faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Stennerson was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-139.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on Nov. 28 was:
Kyle Lynn Brown, 48, of Browning, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Brown faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Brown was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services and Montana Highway Patrol investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-91.
Brittany Lynn Gervais, 25, of Browning, on charges of aggravated sexual abuse, sexual abuse of a minor and sexual abuse. If convicted of the most serious crime, Gervais faces life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release. Gervais was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-93.
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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Fort Kipp woman sentenced to prison for involuntary manslaughter in vehicle deathRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Fort Kipp woman who admitted to striking and killing a man with her vehicle on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation was sentenced today to 18 months in prison, to be followed by two years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Joanna Sayetsitty, 35, pleaded guilty in August to involuntary manslaughter.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged that on Aug. 22, 2019, Sayetsitty was driving around the Fort Kipp area with the victim, drinking alcohol and listening to music. At some point, Sayetsitty and the victim had a fight, and the victim got out of the vehicle. Sayetsitty drove away, running over the victim and leaving him in a field, where he died. The body was found three days later and was only identified after his clothing was described on social media. Sayetsitty admitted in a court hearing to driving the vehicle in a reckless manner, and striking the victim, causing his death.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Wendy A. Johnson prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Fort Peck Tribes Department of Law and Justice and the Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office.
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Fentanyl trafficking sends Pablo man to prison for four yearsRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Pablo man who admitted to trafficking fentanyl pills in the community was sentenced today to four years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
Donald Ray McLeod, 38, pleaded guilty in July to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that on Dec. 20, 2021, McLeod fled from an attempted traffic stop in Lake County and was arrested following a crash. In a search of the vehicle, officer located a large amount of fentanyl pills, $6,070 in U.S. currency and a .380-caliber pistol. McLeod admitted to investigators that he sold pills to make money and estimated he traveled nearly two times a month for more than one year to Spokane, Washington, to pick up from 250 to 500 pills each trip. The investigation found that the pills seized contained 358 fentanyl pills.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer S. Clark prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Northwest Drug Task Force.
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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Butte man sentenced to 66 months in prison for trafficking meth in Lake CountyRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Butte man who admitted to trafficking methamphetamine in the Lake County community was sentenced today to 66 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Gary David Conan, 42, pleaded guilty in August to distribution of meth.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in April 2020, officers with the Northwest Drug Task Force stopped Conan’s vehicle after he distributed meth and recovered approximately 94 grams of additional pure meth. Conan was indicted for this conduct and was released on conditions. Conan did not report to U.S. Probation and was at large until he was arrested by the Butte Police Department in October 2021 on drug charges.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara J. Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Northwest Drug Task Force and Montana Highway Patrol.
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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Wolf Point woman admits role in kidnapping and assault of minor girl on Fort Peck Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Wolf Point woman suspected in the 2021 kidnapping and assault of a minor girl in Wolf Point, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, today admitted to her role in the kidnapping, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Lavanchie Patricia Goodbird, 30, pleaded guilty to kidnapping of an individual under 18. Goodbird faces a mandatory minimum of 20 years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and not less than five years to a lifetime 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. Chief Judge Morris set sentencing for April 6 and continued Goodbird’s detention.
The government alleged in court documents, that on Sept. 15, 2021 in Wolf Point, a group of individuals lured a 15-year-old girl out of her house and kidnapped her. That evening, after drinking alcohol, Goodbird drove the group to the victim’s house. Goodbird was under the impression that the group was going to the victim’s house so that one of the individuals in the group could fight the victim. The victim was lured out of the house and the situation escalated. Some of the individuals in the group assaulted the victim in her front yard. When eyewitnesses yelled that they were going to call the police, some of individuals kidnapped the victim because they wanted to continue assaulting her. Goodbird drove the vehicle and transported the victim to a vacant lot where some in group beat the victim again.
Five other codefendants have pleaded not guilty to charges and are pending trial. The codefendants are Cheri Cruz Granbois, Elmarie Amelia Weeks, Dylan Troy Jackson, Kaylee Jade Jackson and Patti Jo Annunciata Mail.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Wendy A. Johnson is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Fort Peck Law Enforcement, Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office and Wolf Point Police Department.
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Wolf Point man arraigned on kidnapping of a minor, assault chargesRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Wolf Point man suspected in the kidnapping and assault of a minor girl in Wolf Point, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, was arraigned today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Dylan Troy Jackson, 21, pleaded not guilty to an indictment charging him with kidnapping of an individual under 18, assault resulting in serious bodily injury and assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to a minor. The indictment alleges that on Sept. 15, 2021 in Wolf Point, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, Jackson, along with codefendants, kidnapped and assaulted an individual identified as Jane Doe, who was under the age of 18. If convicted of the most serious crime, Jackson faces a mandatory minimum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and not less than five years to a lifetime of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Jackson was detained pending further proceedings.
The FBI, Fort Peck Law Enforcement, Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office and Wolf Point Police Department investigated the case.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
PACER case reference. 22-77.
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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California meth trafficker sentenced to six years in prisonRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A California man who admitted to trafficking methamphetamine after law enforcement found about a pound of the drug in his vehicle in Livingston was sentenced today to six years in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Michael Romie Cervantes, 48, of Fresno, California, pleaded guilty in July to possession with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on March 25, 2021 in Livingston, a Montana Highway Patrol trooper conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle Cervantes was driving. The trooper developed reasonable suspicion that Cervantes and his passenger were involved in criminal activity. Upon execution of a search warrant, the officer found about one pound of meth in a backpack in the vehicle. One pound of meth is the equivalent of 3,624 doses,
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie R. Patten prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Montana Highway Patrol.
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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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:
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on Nov. 23 was:
John Randolph Bland, IV, 58, of Livingston, on charges of possession of a stolen firearm and prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition. If convicted of the most serious crime, Bland faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Bland was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Livingston Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-131.
Appearing for an initial appearance on a criminal complaint was:
Marshall Vincent Lucas, 41, of Roundup, on charges of sexual exploitation of children. If convicted of the most serious crime, Lucas faces a mandatory minimum 15 years to 30 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. Lucas was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation and Musselshell County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-160.
Michael Joseph Owens, 42, of Colorado, on charges of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. If convicted of the most serious crime, Owens faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and four years of supervised release. Owens was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-161.
Appearing on Nov. 22 and pleading not guilty was:
Jacob Parker Renouard, 33, of Spokane, Washington, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. If convicted of the most serious crime, Renouard faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Renouard was released pending further proceedings. The FBI and Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-125.
Tysawn Dantae Pine, 24, of Busby, on charges of strangulation. If convicted of the most serious crime, Pine faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Pine was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Indian Affairs and the FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-80.
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on Nov. 22 was:
David Loren Waldeck, 57, of Port Orchard, Washington, on charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine and fentanyl. If convicted of the most serious crime, Waldeck faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Waldeck was detained pending further proceedings. Homeland Security Investigations, the Flathead Tribal Police Department and Lake County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-59.
Derek Steven Trumbull, 35, of Missoula, on charges of felon in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Trumbull faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Trumbull was detained pending further proceedings. The Missoula Police Department, Montana Probation and Parole and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-52.
Donald Willard Stebbins, 30, of Missoula, on charges of felon in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Stebbins faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Stebbins was released pending further proceedings. The Missoula Police Department, Montana Probation and Parole and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-53.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on Nov. 22 was:
Kelly Sterling Wait, 45, of Williston, North Dakota, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. If convicted of the most serious crime, Wait faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $1 million fine and three years of supervised release on the drug charge and a mandatory minimum 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. Wait was detained pending further proceedings. Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Russell Country Drug Task Force and the Montana Highway Patrol investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-95.
Yevgeniy Rudnitskiy, 34, of Spokane, Washington, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. If convicted of the most serious crime, Rudnitskiy faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $1 million fine and three years of supervised release. Rudnitskiy was detained pending further proceedings. Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Russell Country Drug Task Force and the Montana Highway Patrol investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-95.
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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Missoula meth trafficker sentenced to eight years in prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Missoula man who admitted to selling methamphetamine in the community for more than a year was sentenced today to eight years in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Devin Neil Farley, 40, pleaded guilty in August to distribution of meth.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen resided.
In court documents, the government alleged that Farley was involved in distributing meth throughout 2021 and early 2022. Farley sold a total of three ounces in two separate transactions to a confidential informant in April 2021. In November 2021, Farley was stopped in a vehicle and was in possession of a handgun, fentanyl pills and meth. And in March 2022, Farley was found in a hotel room with another handgun, additional fentanyl pills and meth.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara J. Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force, Missoula County Sheriff’s Office, Missoula Police Department, Flathead Tribal Police and Northwest Drug Task Force.
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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Birney man charged with murder of man on Northern Cheyenne Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Birney man suspected of killing another man near Lame Deer, on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, in June was arraigned today on murder and firearms charges, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Terence Arturo Limberhand, 31, pleaded not guilty to an indictment charging him with first degree murder, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and possession of a stolen firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Limberhand faces mandatory life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release on the murder charge and a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. Judge Cavan ordered Limberhand detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleges in the indictment that on June 21 near Lame Deer, Limberhand unlawfully killed the victim, identified as John Doe, with malice aforethought and premeditation and that Limberhand possessed a firearm in furtherance of first-degree murder. The indictment further alleges that on June 28, Limberhand possessed a stolen firearm.
The FBI investigated the case.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
PACER case reference. 22-129.
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 arraigned on child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man indicted on child pornography charges appeared for arraignment today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Jeffrey Eugene Herbert, 34, pleaded not guilty to an indictment filed on Nov. 18 charging him with production of child pornography, distribution of child pornography and possession of child pornography. If convicted of the most serious crime, Herbert faces a mandatory minimum 15 years to 30 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to a lifetime of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. Herbert was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in the indictment that in June in Billings, Herbert coerced a minor, identified as Jane Doe 1, to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the production of child pornography. The indictment further alleges that in April 2019, Herbert distributed child pornography and that in January 2008, he possessed child pornography.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The FBI investigated the case.
PACER case reference. 22-133.
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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Belgrade woman sentenced to 16 months in prison for embezzling more than $800,000 from employerRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Belgrade woman who admitted to stealing more than $800,000 from her employer while she worked as an accountant and controller was sentenced today to 16 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
Renae Swanson, 59, pleaded guilty in May to wire fraud.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. Judge Christensen also ordered Swanson to pay $804,413 restitution.
The government alleged in court documents that from 2012 until 2019, Swanson embezzled $804,413 while working as an accountant and controller for Williams Plumbing & Heating. Swanson fraudulently altered the payroll process, resulting in her increasing the amount of money she received from the business.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI.
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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:
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on Nov. 15 was:
Jordan Paige Day, 24, of Wolf Point, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. If convicted of the most serious crime, Day faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. Day was released pending further proceedings. The FBI, Idaho State Police, Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office and Fort Peck Department of Law and Justice investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-74.
Kevin Clarence Bell, 44, of Great Falls, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. If convicted of the most serious crime, Bell faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. Bell was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Great Falls Police Department, Cascade County Sheriff’s Office, US. Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-89.
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on Nov. 17 was:
Marcyanna Rose Dimond, 44, of Polson, on charges of possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Dimond faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Dimond was detained pending further proceedings. The Northwest Drug Task Force, Flathead Tribal Police Department and Montana Probation and Parole investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-48.
Appearing on Nov. 15 was:
Candy Lynn Coleman, aka Candy Lynn Anderson, 47, of Missoula, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and distribution of methamphetamine. If convicted of the most serious crime, Coleman faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. Coleman was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Great Falls Police Department and Missoula Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-90.
Aaron Lee Grossman, 50, of Washington, Utah, on charges of theft of government money, false claims to government agency and Social Security fraud. If convicted of the most serious crime, Grossman faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Grossman was released pending further proceedings. The Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-49.
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on Nov. 17 was:
Casey Wallace Leider, 31, of Hardin, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition. If convicted of the most serious crime, Leider faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Leider was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Indian Affairs Investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-105.
Appearing on Nov. 15 was:
James “JC” Luis Costilla, 34, of Lame Deer, and Ivan Eaglefeathers, 19, of Busby, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute meth and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug offense. If convicted of the most serious crime, Costilla and Eaglefeathers face a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release on the drug counts and a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release on the firearm count. Costilla and Eaglefeathers were detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-89.
Wendell Monroe Lefthand, 53, of Lodge Grass, on charges of assault of spouse resulting in substantial bodily injury and assault with a dangerous weapon. If convicted of the most serious crime, Lefthand faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Lefthand was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-123.
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 Missoula man sentenced to 15 years in prison for child pornography crimesRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A former Missoula resident convicted by a federal jury of transporting, distributing and receiving child pornography using the internet and social media was sentenced today to 15 years in prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
After a three-day trial in July, the jury found Taurean Jerome Weber, 40, formerly of Missoula and recently of Littleton, Colorado, guilty of all eight counts, including four counts of transportation of child pornography, three counts of distribution and one count of receipt of child pornography.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. Judge Christensen also ordered $27,000 restitution to nine victims who sought restitution.
In court documents and at trial, the government alleged that from about September 2016 to July 2020, Weber used Dropbox, Instagram, and electronic devices to obtain, store, and distribute child pornography. Overall, Weber distributed or possessed at least 715 video files and 3,567 images of sexually explicit conduct which, under the guidelines, equates to 57,192 images. The government presented evidence that Instagram repeatedly disabled Weber’s accounts for distributing the content, yet Weber quickly created new accounts and resumed sharing child pornography.
An investigation began in October 2019 when Instagram reported child pornography on its platform to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which sends those CyberTips to members of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force for investigation. Records obtained through subpoenas and search warrants found evidence that Weber was the creator and user of the social media and email accounts. Investigators served a search warrant on Weber’s residence, seized computers and storage devices and determined they contained video and image files depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The government further alleged Weber used multiple usernames on multiple platforms to purchase and trade child pornography and that his collection contained a who’s who of identified series of child pornography by NCMEC.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cyndee L. Peterson and Karla E. Painter prosecuted the case, which was investigated by Missoula Police Department Det. Katie Hall, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and FBI.
This case was initiated under the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, which was launched in 2006 to combat the proliferation of technology-facilitated crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children. Through a network of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and advocacy organizations, Project Safe Childhood attempts to protect children by investigating and prosecuting offenders involved in child sexual exploitation. It is implemented through partnerships including the Montana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The ICAC Task Force Program was created to assist state and local law enforcement agencies by enhancing their investigative response to technology facilitated crimes against children.
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Butte man sentenced to 13 years in prison for armed robberies in Missoula, Helena and ButteRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Butte man who robbed at gunpoint three business in three cities in five days was sentenced today to 13 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Thomas Scott Cockrill, 50, pleaded guilty in July 2021 to three counts of robbery affecting commerce and to brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on Feb. 9, 2021, Cockrill robbed Blackjack Pizza in Missoula and brandished a handgun at an employee. Later that same evening, Cockrill held up at gunpoint an employee of the La Quinta Inn in Helena. Four days later, on Feb. 13, 2021, Cockrill robbed the Elevated Dispensary in Butte and brandished a handgun at an employee. Each business lost several hundred dollars in the robberies. Cockrill admitted to law enforcement that he owned three firearms and robbed the three businesses.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara J. Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force, Helena Police Department, Missoula Police Department, Butte-Silver Bow Law Enforcement and Montana Probation and Parole.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.
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Kalispell meth trafficker sentenced to six years in prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Kalispell man who admitted to trafficking methamphetamine in Flathead County for about two years after law enforcement found more than a pound of the drug, firearms, and cash belonging to him during a search was sentenced today to six years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Timothy Leo Vleisides, 64, pleaded guilty in August to possession with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on Aug. 25, 2021, law enforcement in Flathead County searched a storage container and vehicle belonging to Vleisides and recovered 472 grams, or a little more than one pound, of meth, two handguns, and $35,360 in U.S. currency. When confronted, Vleisides admitted he had received meth in the mail every other month for the past two years and that he was cleaning out his storage container so law enforcement would not find anything.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara J. Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Northwest Drug Task Force.
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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Browning man admits assaulting man with claw hammer on Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Browning man accused of beating a man in the head with a claw hammer admitted to an assault charge on Nov.16, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
Calvin Lame Bull Juneau, 37, pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Juneau 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. Judge Morris set sentencing for April 6, 2023. Juneau was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that on Nov. 19, 2021, Juneau and co-defendant, Dale Ray Racine, entered a residence in Browning, on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, and assaulted the victim, identified as John Doe, who was sleeping in a bedroom. Doe awoke and saw Juneau and Racine rushing toward him. Juneau had a claw hammer in his hands. The victim received multiple strikes in the head, one to his hand and one to his leg. The victim was transported by ambulance to the Indian Health Service in Browning and treated for head injuries. Racine pleaded guilty earlier to assault resulting in serious bodily injury and is pending sentencing.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services.
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