District of Montana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich announces DOJ grant for Montana’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task ForceRead the Press Release
HELENA – U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich today announced a grant award of $346,984 from the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP) to a Montana task force that investigates internet crimes against children and the exploitation of children.
The grant for the Montana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force from OJP’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) will allow the task force to maintain, expand and improve its effectiveness in preventing, interdicting, investigating and prosecuting internet crimes against children and technology-related child exploitation.
The grant is among nearly $105 million in Justice Department OJP awards announced earlier this month to protect children from exploitation, trauma and abuse, and to fund improvements in the judicial system’s handling of child abuse and neglect cases.
“Children should be allowed to live, grow, learn and thrive in environments that are supportive and nurturing, but many are deprived of that opportunity by threats to their health and safety,” said Administrator Liz Ryan of OJP’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP). “By delivering these resources to the professionals who devote their careers and lives to protecting children, we are making good on our commitment to the well-being of America’s young people.”
“I am pleased to announce this grant for the Montana ICAC Task Force. This program was created to assist state and local law enforcement agencies by enhancing investigations of those who use technology, like the internet and social media, to sexually exploit and harm children through child pornography, coercion and trafficking activities. We remain committed to keeping our children safe and to aggressively pursuing predators,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
Grants from OJP’s OJJDP are distributing millions of dollars to local, state and Tribal jurisdictions throughout the United States, the U.S. territories and the District of Columbia to support child protection efforts.
The OJJDP grant for the Montana ICAC Task Force was awarded to the Montana Department of Justice, which administers the funding. The ICAC Task Force’s primary goal is expand the quantity and quality of detection, investigation, apprehension, and prosecution of electronic technology-facilitated crimes against children. The task force also will provide education programs for law enforcement officers, teachers, parents, and children; serve as a resource to law enforcement agencies for both investigations and forensic examination; assist as needed with the prosecution of cases; and participate in nationally coordinated investigations.
This award is being made as part of the regular end-of-fiscal year cycle. More information about ODJJP and other OJP awards can be found on the OJP Grant Awards Page.
The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, advance racial equity in the administration of justice, assist victims and strengthen the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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Livingston man admits illegal possession of firearmRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Livingston man today admitted to illegally possessing a firearm while using drugs after law enforcement seized firearms, ammunition and drug paraphernalia that tested positive for methamphetamine in his residence, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Daniel Joseph Colvin, 35, pleaded guilty to prohibited person in possession of firearm. Colvin faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Judge Watters set sentencing for March 30, 2023. Colvin was released pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in the spring of 2022, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives received information that Colvin was in possession of firearms and was heavily using meth and fentanyl. Agents executed a search warrant on Colvin’s residence and seized firearms and ammunition belonging to Colvin and also located numerous items of drug paraphernalia that tested positive for meth. Witnesses told law enforcement that Colvin would buy and use fentanyl and was using meth.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas K. Godfrey is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the ATF and Park County Sheriff’s 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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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 on a criminal complaint for an initial appearance on Nov. 9 was:
Daniel August Meyer, 28, of Post Falls, Idaho, on charges of stalking, prohibited person in possession of a firearm and possession of illegal firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Meyer faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Meyer was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force and Missoula Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-83.
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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Aggravated Identity Theft Initiative addresses fraud, property crime in Billings communityRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — An initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Billings Police Department to catch those who steal personal information and use it to commit fraud in the community has resulted in dozens of federal prosecutions and mandatory federal prison sentences, federal and local law enforcement officials announced today.
Since September 2020, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has indicted 33 defendants, the majority of whom are Billings-area residents, on fraud and aggravated identity theft charges. Of those, 20 defendants have been convicted and sentenced to a total of more than 54 years in prison, with prison terms ranging from 18 months to 65 months. Six defendants are pending sentencing and seven defendants are awaiting trial. The total loss amount for all sentenced cases is approximately $272,061, while a total of approximately $217,942 in restitution to victims has been ordered.
U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich and Billings Police Chief Rich St. John, joined by Homeland Security Investigations, discussed efforts to combat fraud and aggravated identity theft, along with related property and violent crime, at a news conference today at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Billings.
“Combatting violent crimes in Billings continues to be a top priority for our office, particularly when, as with these property and violent crime cases, they are driven by methamphetamine and fentanyl addictions,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said. “Many of these offenders have significant state criminal records but rarely received jail time in an overburdened state system. By prosecuting fraud and aggravated identity theft crimes federally, defendants face mandatory minimum federal prison sentences and are subject to federal supervision after serving their time. This initiative’s success reflects the effective and collaborative work of Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin M. Rubich and Billings Police Det. Mike Robinson, along with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations, to investigate and prosecute these cases. We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to hold offenders accountable and to help keep Billings safe.”
“This Initiative demonstrates the commitment to hold people accountable for widespread fraud that has affected so many victims. Our offices will continue to work tirelessly to protect individuals and businesses from financial loss due to identity theft, and I thank our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations for their work in this area. Like the Billings Police Department, they are dedicated to protecting citizens of Montana though public outreach and aggressive prosecution from identity thieves,” Billings Police Chief St. John said.
The Aggravated Identity Theft Initiative was started to address an increase in property crime, including burglary, theft and fraud offenses, in the community, officials said. Drug addicts often commit property crimes to feed their addictions. Perpetrators seek anything of value to sell, especially high-value items, like stolen credit cards, checks and personal information. Offenders then use stolen personal information, checks and credit cards to defraud banks and businesses, while causing financial havoc for the victims whose identity was stolen.
Offenders commonly steal personal information by canvassing neighborhoods for unlocked vehicles or break into vehicles and search them for wallets, checkbooks and purses; stealing mail from mailboxes looking for credit cards, gift cards or checks; and by rifling through unlocked gym lockers in search of wallets. Unless a perpetrator is caught in the act, property crimes are difficult to solve and prosecute, and most are treated as misdemeanors with jail time rarely imposed. Offenders engaged in actual fraud, however, are more likely to get caught.
Law enforcement officials said they are fighting back by prosecuting offenders under federal fraud and aggravated identity theft statutes, where defendants face felony convictions and mandatory federal prison sentences. Aggravated identity theft, which is wrongfully using another person’s personal information in furtherance of fraud or deception, usually for financial gain, carries a punishment of a mandatory two years in prison, consecutive to any other sentence.
The initiative, officials said, not only holds offenders accountable for fraudulent schemes, but it also helps to relieve a strained state and local system by taking offenders off the streets and placing them in federal prison, where there is no parole. After prison, offenders are monitored though supervised release.
Some of the notable cases prosecuted in this initiative include:
- Carl Mark Madden, of Billings, was sentenced to five years and five months in prison for wire fraud, aggravated identity theft and felon in possession of a firearm and ordered to pay restitution of $7,536, which was the loss amount. Madden defrauded local businesses by passing stolen and forged checks by using identification stolen from multiple victims. Surveillance video at a business caught Madden forging the signature of a victim on a check. When stopped for questioning by Billings police, Madden was in possession of a loaded and stolen pistol, which he was prohibited from having because of previous felony convictions.
- Stacy Lee Milch, of Billings, was sentenced to five years in prison for wire fraud and aggravated identity theft and ordered to pay $5,987 restitution. Milch defrauded a series of businesses, including a Red Lodge business, by passing stolen, forged and fraudulent checks to get money and goods. The loss amount was approximately $18,697.
- Cassie Ann Rathie, of Billings, was sentenced to 44 months in prison for wire fraud and aggravated identity theft and ordered to pay $13,274 restitution. Rathie recruited local drug addicts to steal from homes, vehicles and mailboxes to get checks and other personal information. Rathie used the stolen information to create and cash fraudulent checks and gave individuals who stole the materials a cut of the proceeds. The loss amount was approximately $17,609.
Law enforcement officials encourage individuals to reduce the risk of property crime and to protect their personal information by not leaving valuables or personal information in vehicles, locking or securing vehicles or other storage areas, and reporting property crime to local law enforcement. In addition, officials urge identity theft victims to call the companies where the fraud occurred, place fraud alerts on accounts with one of the three credit bureaus, Experian.com/fraudalert, 1-888-397-3742; TransUnion.com/fraud, 1-800-680-7289 or Equifax.com/CreditReportAssistance, 1-888-766-0008; obtain credit reports from the credit bureaus; and report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission at: IdentityTheft.gov or call 1-877-438-4338.
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Ronan man admits trafficking fentanyl, illegal possession of firearmRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Ronan man accused of trafficking fentanyl and illegally possessing a firearm after law enforcement found fentanyl and a gun in a vehicle during a stop pleaded guilty to charges today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Douglas Leo Wynne, 30, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition by a drug addict. Wynne faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Sentencing was set for Feb. 22, 2023 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. Wynne was released pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that in December 2021, the Northwest Drug Task Force obtained fentanyl from Wynne in Lake County. On Dec. 1, 2021, the Flathead Tribal Police conducted a traffic stop of Wynne, who was arrested on a warrant. The officer located a large sum of cash in Wynne’s back pocket and a small amount of a crystalline substance in his front pocket. The owner of the vehicle Wynne was driving consented to a search, and officers found 1,468 fentanyl pills and a .45-caliber handgun. Wynne admitted to distributing fentanyl and that cocaine in the vehicle was for personal use.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer S. Clark is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the Northwest Drug Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations and Flathead Tribal Police.
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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Great Falls man admits trafficking meth, fentanyl and illegal firearm possessionRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Great Falls man suspected of dealing methamphetamine and fentanyl in the Great Falls community and of illegally possessing a firearm admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Joseph Drayton Cook, 32, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and to prohibited person in possession of a firearm. Cook faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million 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. Chief Judge Morris set sentencing for March 23, 2023 and continued Cook’s detention pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that in 2017 and in 2020, Cook had been convicted in Montana state courts of felonies and was on probation for those offenses in March 2022, when Russell Country Drug Task Force agents identified Cook as a drug dealer. Agents and probation officers located Cook and approached him as he was placing items in a vehicle. During that interaction, Cook acknowledged there were drugs and a gun in the vehicles. He admitted to dealing meth and fentanyl and to having dealt heroin in the past. He also told law enforcement he knew he was a felon and not supposed to have firearms. In a search of the vehicle, law enforcement found two safes containing heroin, cocaine, fentanyl pills and meth along with a large sum of cash. Law enforcement also found a 9mm pistol in the vehicle.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Great Falls Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration and Russell Country 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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Colorado man who defrauded Montana family of nearly $400,000 in African gold investment scheme sentenced to 27 months in prisonRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — An investment scheme in which a Colorado man admitted to defrauding a Montana family of $391,280 by purporting to invest the money in gold in Africa was sentenced today to 27 months in prison and fined $5,000, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Geoffrey Wescott James, 59, of Denver, Colorado, pleaded guilty in July to wire fraud.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris also ordered $391,280 restitution and allowed James to self-report to custody.
In court documents, the government alleged that from May 2019 until September 2020, Wescott falsely claimed he would receive payments from victims, which he would then transfer to Africa on behalf of victims for investments in overseas gold. The investment appeared enticing to victims because, among other reasons, it offered high rates of return in a short period of time. Because victims had difficulties in sending money overseas and to Africa, they were introduced to James. Instead of transferring the money overseas and to Africa for the intended purpose, James spent the money on items for himself and for other unauthorized purposes. When victims questioned where their money was located and demanded that their money be returned, James repeatedly claimed the money would be repaid soon, none of which was true. Wescott defrauded a family in Hill County of $391,280 in the scheme.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI.
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Man admits illegally possessing firearms used in Billings casino robberyRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A man today admitted to illegally possessing firearms after two guns used in a casino robbery were recovered from an elementary school playground, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Darwin Dalton Sutherland, 29, a transient, pleaded guilty to prohibited person in possession of a firearm. Sutherland faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Judge Watters set sentencing for March 16, 2023. Sutherland was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that on March 20, Makayla Fetter and Taliah Ramirez robbed the Magic Diamond Casino in the Billings Heights at gunpoint, attempted to flee law enforcement and crashed their car into a fence at Ponderosa Elementary School. Fetter was arrested while Ramirez initially got away. Both of the firearms used in the robbery had been ditched before officers arrived. Officers recovered one of the firearms that night on the school’s playground. The next day, an elementary school student found the second firearm and took it to a teacher.
The government further alleged that officers eventually questioned Fetter and Ramirez, who stated that they had received the firearms from Sutherland. An investigation found that both firearms had been reported stolen as part of 12 firearms stolen in a residential burglary in Billings on March 17. When questioned by law enforcement, Sutherland admitted to possessing all 12 stolen firearms and to knowing they were stolen but claimed that he didn’t burglarize the residence. He also admitted to giving the guns to Fetter and Ramirez. Sutherland is prohibited from possessing firearms because of a felony conviction for burglary in Cascade County. Fetter and Ramirez are pending sentencing after pleading guilty to robbery affecting commerce and firearms crimes.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin M. Rubich prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI.
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. 3 was:
Jamesey Maria Jefferson, 32, of Busby, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute meth and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. If convicted of the most serious crime, Jefferson faces 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. Jefferson was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-89.
Appearing on Nov. 2 was:
Jordan Joseph Backer, 26, of Lame Deer, on charges of aggravated sexual abuse and abusive sexual contact. If convicted of the most serious crime, Backer faces a mandatory minimum 30 years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and at least five years to life of supervised release. Backer was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-115.
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on Nov. 3 was:
Chance Allen Chambers, 24, of Butte, on charges of prohibited person on possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm by an unlawful user of a controlled substance. If convicted of the most serious crime, Chambers faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Chambers was released pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Butte Police Department and Montana Probation and Parole investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-33.
James Allyn Batterton, 24, of Missoula, 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 trafficking crime. If convicted of the most serious crime, Batterton faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release on the conspiracy 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. Batterton was released pending further proceedings. The Missoula High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-51.
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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Poplar woman admits involuntary manslaughter charge in fatal crash on Fort Peck Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Poplar woman today admitted to a charge stemming from the death of a passenger when the vehicle she was driving crashed on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Rachel Aileen Goodbird, 29, pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter. Goodbird faces a maximum of eight 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. Chief Judge Morris set sentencing for March 9, 2023. Goodbird was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court records that on July 24, 2021, Goodbird was driving the vehicle of the victim, Jane Doe, who was a passenger, in a reckless manner. Goodbird and Jane Doe had been drinking alcohol that evening prior to Goodbird driving the vehicle. An investigation determined that seconds before the accident, Goodbird was driving at approximately 80 mph in a 35-mph speed zone in the Poplar area. The vehicle was unable to make a turn, entered a ditch and hit an embankment. Jane Doe was found unresponsive in the front passenger seat and transported to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead. The victim was not wearing a seatbelt and the cause of her death was determined to be blunt force injuries.
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 Montana Highway Patrol.
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Box Elder man sentenced to two years in prison for assaulting woman with car jack handleRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Box Elder man who admitted to hitting a woman with a car jack handle on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation was sentenced today to two years in prison, to be followed by two years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Brian Lee Big Bow, 45, pleaded guilty in July to assault with a dangerous weapon.
Chief U.S. District Court Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in January 2021, law enforcement responded to a domestic disturbance at a residence on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation. An investigation determined that earlier in the evening Big Bow began assaulting the victim, identified as Jane Doe. During the assault, Big Bow tried to hit Jane Doe on the head with a car jack handle but struck her in the arm as she blocked the blow.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Wendy A. Johnson prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and the Rocky Boy’s Police Department.
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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 Oct. 28 was:
Isidro Vega Carmona, 27, of Bozeman and Mexican national; Victor Daniel Mejia Ocampo, 21, a Mexican national; Riesela Anahid Heredia Soberanes, 32, a Mexican national; and Jose Maria Jurado, 52, of Billings and Mexican national, 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, the defendants face a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. All defendants were detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-126.
Jeffrey Wayne Follet, 34, of Billings, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition. If convicted of the most serious crime, Follet faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Follet was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Billings Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-120.
Lyzette Vargas, 40, 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, Vargas faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Vargas was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-125.
Appearing on Oct. 27 was:
Calico Patrice Allard, 40, a transient, on charges of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. If convicted of the most serious crime, Allard faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release on the wire fraud crime 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 crime. Allard was detained pending further proceedings. The Billings Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-118.
Timothy James Lucas, 40, of Billings, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession of firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. If convicted of the most serious crime, Lucas faces a mandatory minimum10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release on the drug crime 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 crime. Lucas was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-124.
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on Oct. 27 was:
Christopher Todd Boudreau, 41, of Anaconda, on charges of attempted coercion and enticement and possession of child pornography. If convicted of the most serious crime, Boudreau faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. Boudreau was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force and Missoula County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-46.
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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Bozeman man sentenced to prison for stealing Social Security benefits while acting as a fiduciaryRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Bozeman man who admitted to stealing more than $57,000 in government benefits from an elderly relative for whom he was the fiduciary was sentenced today to six months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $57,329 restitution, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Ira Kyrk Westbrook, 47, pleaded guilty in July Social Security fraud.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. Westbrook was allowed to self-report to the custody of the Bureau of Prisons.
The government alleged in court documents that for approximately 16 months, from December 2019 to March 2021, Westbrook misappropriated $57,329 of an elderly relative’s Social Security Administration and Veterans Administration benefits. The victim, identified as John Doe, suffered a stroke in 2018, became disabled and was transferred to a rehabilitation and care facility, where nearly all of his expenses were covered. John Doe was declared incompetent in February 2020. Westbrook was appointed as Doe’s Representative Payee and agreed to use the Social Security funds only for Doe’s needs. Westbrook acknowledged he could face imprisonment if he misused the money.
An investigation determined that Westbrook misappropriated his relative’s benefits by spending the money on a travel trailer, a 2019 Jeep Wrangler, groceries, restaurants, internet service and Amazon purchases, and that he incurred several $30 overdraft fees. Social media posts showed a photograph in August 2020 of Westbrook and his wife with a Jeep Wrangler and a caption that said, “Did a thing today.” After transitioning to a rehabilitation center, the VA covered all of Doe’s expenses except his clothing. Westbrook received more than $4,000 a month to be used solely for Doe’s benefit, and yet did not provide Doe with adequate clothing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the SSA, VA, Bozeman Police Department and Montana Adult Protective Services.
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Jury convicts Browning man of sexually abusing childrenRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A federal jury today convicted a Browning man of sexually abusing two children approximately 20 years ago on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Following a two-day trial that began on Oct. 25, a jury found Michael James Burke, 43, guilty of two counts of aggravated sexual abuse of a child and abusive sexual contact as indicted. Burke 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. Chief Judge Morris set sentencing for March 9, 2023. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Burke was detained pending further proceedings.
“I am pleased the jury held Burke accountable for repeatedly sexually abusing two young girls over an extended period of time. Our office is determined to protect children from sexual predators and will aggressively prosecute those who harm them. I thank our prosecution team, the FBI, and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services for their diligent work on this case,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
The government alleged in court documents and at trial that Burke committed numerous sexual acts against victims Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2 over an extended period of time in Browning on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. Burke sexually abused Jane Doe 1 between 2000 and 2003 and Jane Doe 2 between 1999 and 2002. Both victims were under the age of 12 at the time. The victims ultimately disclosed the sexual abuse to officials in 2017.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services.
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Helena man sentenced to five years in prison for trafficking meth in BozemanRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Helena man who admitted to trafficking methamphetamine in the Bozeman community was sentenced today to five years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Asa Sembe Goudiaby, 34, pleaded guilty in July to possession with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in March 2021, investigators with the Missouri River Drug Task Force obtained meth from Goudiaby and co-defendant, Tajiyah Spano, in several controlled purchases in Bozeman. Officers executed a search warrant on a bedroom rented by Goudiaby and located about 2.3 pounds of meth along with a pistol in a safe in the room. One pound of meth is the equivalent of about 3,624 doses. Goudiaby told officers his most recent purchase was for three pounds of meth and that he was expected to receive five pounds of meth in the next couple of days. Spano was sentenced to 37 months in prison for conviction in the case.
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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Billings man sentenced to life in prison for kidnapping minors, transporting a person for illegal sexual activity, drug trafficking and firearms crimesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man convicted of multiple crimes stemming from an investigation into kidnapping minors, transportation of persons for illegal sexual activity, drug trafficking and firearms offenses was sentenced today to life in prison, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters found Angelo Corey Stackhouse, 52, guilty on June 16, following a bench trial, of all seven counts charged in superseding indictment, including transportation of a person with intent to engage in illegal sexual activity, distribution of cocaine to a person under the age of 21, distribution of cocaine and methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense and two counts of kidnapping.
District Judge Watters presided at sentencing. There is no parole in the federal system.
“This significant sentence will protect the public and community, especially vulnerable girls and women, from Stackhouse for a long time. Stackhouse is a violent predator who used threats and drugs to assault and exploit women and children for his own sexual interest while also distributing cocaine and methamphetamine in the community. I hope that with this sentence, the victims can begin to heal from the trauma and abuse Stackhouse inflicted,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
In court documents and in evidence presented at trial, the government alleged that in early 2020, Stackhouse trafficked illegal narcotics, primarily cocaine. Stackhouse went to Denver, Colorado to obtain cocaine for redistribution in the Billings community through the summer of 2020. During this time, Stackhouse transported a 20-year-old female to Colorado and sexually assaulted her on multiple occasions while providing her cocaine. While brandishing a firearm, he also threatened and feigned a sexual assault against a homeless adult female to whom he provided drugs and told the drugs were not free. On separate occasions, one in September 2020 and another in April 2021, Stackhouse kidnapped two minor girls for the purposes of sexually assaulting them in hotel rooms in Billings. One of the minor victims was from the Crow Indian Reservation and the second minor victim was from Billings. Multiple other adult females testified at trial that Stackhouse sexually assaulted them.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zeno B. Baucus and Bryan T. Dake prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Montana Department of Justice’s Division of Criminal Investigation, with assistance from the FBI, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Billings Police Department and Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office.
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Belgrade man sentenced to six years in prison for meth, heroin trafficking, firearms crimesRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Belgrade man who admitted drug trafficking and firearm crimes after law enforcement found him slumped over the steering wheel of an idling vehicle, with drugs and a short-barreled shotgun inside, was sentenced today to six years in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Jeramiah Kayson Gohde, 24, pleaded guilty in June to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. The court allowed Gohde to self-report to the custody of the Bureau of Prisons.
The government alleged in court documents that in December 2021, Gohde, after absconding from probation, was found by the Bozeman Police Department officers slumped over the steering wheel of an idling vehicle on the street. Officers observed a partially open backpack on the front passenger seat, and Gohde’s probation officer requested a search of the vehicle. As officers removed the bag, Gohde stated, “there are multiple felonies in there.” The bag was found to contain heroin and meth. Also in the vehicle was a short-barreled modified shotgun with an obliterated serial number. Gohde was prohibited from possessing firearms because of previous felony convictions. The investigation determined that Gohde purchased pound quantities of meth from suppliers in Seattle, Washington, and Denver, Colorado, and was selling drugs to as many as 18 individuals.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Missouri River Drug Task Force, Bozeman Police Department 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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Ashland man admits sexually abusing minor girl on Northern Cheyenne Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — An Ashland man admitted today to sexually abusing a minor girl on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Jordan Cody Washee, 30, pleaded guilty to abusive sexual contact. Washee faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and not less than five years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for March 15, 2023. Judge Watters continued Washee’s release pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that the victim, identified as Jane Doe, reported that starting in 2011 and continuing through 2012, Washee sexually assaulted her on multiple occasions at her house on the Northern Cheyenne Reservation. Doe was between the ages of 11 and 13 at the time. Doe estimated the sexual abuse happened 15 to 20 times. The government further alleged that when interviewed by law enforcement in March 2022, Washee initially denied the allegations, then said it happened only once. He later admitted that Doe was telling the truth about the multiple incidents of abuse. At the hearing, Washee disputed the number of times the abuse occurred.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI and the Big Horn County Sheriff’s Office.
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California man admits trafficking meth into Butte communityRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A California man suspected of shipping methamphetamine into the Butte community for redistribution admitted to a trafficking charge today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Heriberto Tavares, 29, of Anaheim, California, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth. Tavares faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. Tavares was detained pending further proceedings.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. A sentencing date was set for February 21, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other sentencing factors.
In court documents, the government alleged Tavares was trafficking meth from about November 2018 to November 2019. Law enforcement learned that Tavares was shipping drugs, which originated in Mexico, into Montana from California. During an undercover operation, an agent ordered meth from Humberto Villareal, of Sinaloa, Mexico, who was sentenced in 2021 to 17 years in federal prison for conviction of meth trafficking in the Butte area. In July 2019, law enforcement received a package, sent from Tavares, that contained 474 grams, or a little more than one pound, of meth and 37 grams of heroin. Agents paid for the drugs Tavares sent by wiring money to Ricardo Ramos Medina, in Sinaloa, Mexico. Medina was sentenced in 2020 to eight years in federal prison for conviction on trafficking pounds of meth and other drugs to the Butte area.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Postal Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation and Butte-Silver Bow Police.
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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DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day set for Oct. 29, 2022Read the Press Release
BILLINGS – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana joins the Drug Enforcement Administration in support of the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, Oct. 29. The biannual event will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at sites across Montana, including two DEA sites in Billings. The event is an effort to rid homes of potentially dangerous, expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs.
This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in homes are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses from these drugs.
“As we face an epidemic of opioid deaths, overdoses, and addictions, I urge Montanans to help protect their loved ones, friends, and community by disposing of unused or expired prescription drugs at collection sites across the state. The DEA’s Take Back Day is an important, safe, and convenient way to clean out your medicine cabinet,” U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
“Opiate overdoses are occurring throughout the United States, and Montana is no different. But we can all pitch in to help stop this epidemic,” said DEA Montana Resident Agent in Charge Stacy Zinn-Brittain. “I encourage everyone to clean out their medicine cabinets and nightstands of expired or unneeded prescription medicine, especially opioids, and to bring them to DEA’s designated Take Back locations. Together, we can make a difference.”
The DEA will have two drop off locations in Billings. The locations are the Elks Lodge, 934 Lewis Ave., and the U.S. Navy Operational Support Center, 2917 Gabel Road.
More than 27 sheriff’s offices, police departments and federal agencies across Montana are participating in Take Back Day. Information about collection sites and more information about event is available here: https://takebackday.dea.gov/
During the last Take Back Day held on April 30, 2022, 4,427 law enforcement participants at 5,144 collection sites brought in a total weight of 721,093 pounds, or 360 tons, of drugs. This brings the total weight collected to 15.9 million pounds, or more than 7,995 tons, of prescription drugs collected in the history of the program. Collection results may include materials other than prescription drugs.
During the April 30, 2022 event, Montanans turned in 1,513 pounds of prescription drugs at 33 collection sites. Thirty-two law enforcement agencies participated.
In addition to DEA’s National Drug Take Back Day on Oct. 29, prescription drugs can be disposed of any day throughout the year at any of the 11,000 authorized collectors. For more information on collection sites, visit: https://apps2.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubdispsearch/spring/main?execution=e1s1
For more information about the disposal of prescription drugs or about the Oct. 29 Take Back Day event, go to www.DEATakeBack.com.
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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 Oct. 17 was:
Lavanchie Patricia Goodbird, aka Lavanchie Gourneau, 30, of Wolf Point, on charges of kidnapping of individual under 18, assault resulting in serious bodily injury and assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to minor. If convicted of the most serious crime, Goodbird faces a mandatory minimum 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. Goodbird was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Fort Peck Law Enforcement, Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office and Wolf Point Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-77.
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on Oct. 19 was:
Brian Kole Hofferber, 34, of Billings, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute meth and fentanyl and possession of firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. If convicted of the most serious crime, Hofferber 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 crime 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 crime. Hofferber was detained pending further proceedings. The Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and FBI’s Western Transnational Organized Crime Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-77.
Shaylene Jo Suchy, 35, of Seattle, Washington, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Suchy faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. Suchy was detained pending further proceedings. The Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-114.
Appearing on Oct. 18 was:
Travis Alan-Cody Pair, 38, a transient, on charges of felon in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Pair faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Pair was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-110.
Marshall Daniel Dammann, 19, of a transient, on charges of robbery affecting commerce and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. If convicted of the most serious crime, Dammann faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release on the robbery crime and a mandatory minimum seven years to life in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, on the firearm crime if found to have brandished a gun. Dammann was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Billings Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-116.
Ben Michael Williamson, 38, of Billings, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and felon in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Williamson faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least four years of supervised release on the drug crime and a mandatory minimum five years to life in prison, consecutive to any other crime, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release on the crime of possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Williamson was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI’s Western Transnational Organized Crime Task Force and Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-100.
Markel Dean Brown, 60, of Sidney, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute meth and distribution of meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Brown faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Brown was detained pending further proceedings. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-103.
Jesse Lee Hopkins, 38, a transient, on charges of bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. 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 crime 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 crime. Hopkins was detained pending further proceedings. Homeland Security Investigations and the Billings Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-108.
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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Washington man sentenced for interfering with flight crew on cross-county flight diverted to BillingsRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Washington man who admitted to interfering with an airline crew by jumping on a beverage cart and pushing a flight attendant into a seat, screaming and trying to remove his clothes on a flight that was diverted to Billings for his removal was sentenced today to three years of probation and ordered to pay $14,500 restitution to the airline, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Adam Alexander Williams, 33, of Auburn, Washington, pleaded guilty in June to an indictment charging him with interference with flight members and attendants.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on Jan. 9, Williams boarded an American Airlines cross-country flight from Seattle, Washington, to Charlotte, North Carolina. Once in the air, Williams’ behavior turned erratic and escalated. Williams yelled profanities and asked to no one in particular, “Where is Jasmine Sanders?” Williams jumped from his window seat, over two passengers in his row, and onto a beverage cart. As he came off of the cart, Williams pushed a flight attendant into a seat and began to run down the aisle of the aircraft.
Another flight attendant calmed Williams down and escorted him to his seat. About 10 minutes later, Williams again began yelling profanities. Flight attendants then seated Williams around a group of U.S. Marines, who happened to be on the flight. Undeterred, Williams began screaming about 10 minutes later while taking off his clothes. At that point, to ensure the safety of passengers, the aircraft’s captain diverted the plane to Billings so that Williams could be removed.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno B. Baucus prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Billings Airport Police.
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Miles City meth trafficker sentenced to six years in prisonRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Miles City man who admitted to trafficking methamphetamine in the community was sentenced today to six years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Robert George Medina, 39, pleaded guilty in June to possession with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that law enforcement investigating a drug trafficking organization in Miles City arranged for controlled purchases of methamphetamine and a firearm from Medina in November and December 2019. When arrested on Dec. 9, 2019 for a probation violation, Medina was found with 38.4 grams of pure meth.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie R. Patten prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich announces election officer for November 2022 General ElectionRead the Press Release
HELENA – United States Attorney Jesse Laslovich announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) John Newman will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 8, 2022, general election. AUSA Newman has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the District of Montana and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
U. S. Attorney Laslovich said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
U. S. Attorney Laslovich said, “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO John Newman will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: 406-829-3336.”
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 801-579-1400.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ .
U. S. Attorney Laslovich said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American people. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud contact the Department of Justice.”
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
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Billings man admits attempted coercion, enticement of boy for sex in undercover investigationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man who was arrested in an undercover investigation when he went to a location expecting to meet a boy for sex admitted to a coercion crime today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Kyle Ray Schwindt, 21, pleaded guilty to attempted coercion and enticement. Schwindt faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and at least five years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. A sentencing date will be set before U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Schwindt was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that on July 14, law enforcement conducted an undercover operation in Billings in which law enforcement assumed the identity of a fictitious 13-year-old male online. On that day, Schwindt contacted the fictitious profile. During those communications, law enforcement claimed to be a 13-year-old boy and told Schwindt of being 13 years old. The communications became increasing sexual in nature and led to plans to meet at a location in Billings. On July 15, Schwindt was arrested when he arrived at the meeting location and later admitted he traveled to the location to meet a 13-year-old boy for a sexual encounter.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zeno B. Baucus and Bryan T. Dake are prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office.
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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Billings man caught with 10 pounds of meth in vehicle sentenced to five years in prisonRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man who admitted to trafficking drugs after he broke into the Drug Enforcement Administration’s building to see if agents had found the 10 pounds of meth hidden in his truck was sentenced today to five years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Anthony Jacob Johnson, 43, pleaded guilty in April to possession with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that in January 2021, an investigation into methamphetamine distributing led to Johnson as a source of supply. Agents determined that Johnson traveled to Colorado in March and again in April 2021. Upon Johnson’s return to Montana, a Montana Highway Patrol trooper conducted a traffic stop of Johnson’s vehicle. Agents executed a search warrant on the vehicle and located 10 vacuumed sealed bricks of meth. The bricks totaled approximately 10.39 pounds of meth, which is the equivalent of about 37,653 doses. In the early morning, the DEA discovered a large hole in a garage door at its facility. Evidence showed that Johnson had gone to the facility the night before, cut a large hole in the garage and entered his seized vehicle while it was in DEA’s custody, hoping agents had not located the meth. Johnson admitted he distributed approximately 80 pounds to 100 pounds of meth in the community over five months.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie R. Patten prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the DEA and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Lame Deer woman admits strangling victimRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Lame Deer woman on Oct. 14 admitted to strangling another woman in 2021 on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
Shaydel Alissa Spang, 25, pleaded guilty to strangulation. Spang faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Feb. 15, 2023. Spang was released pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that Spang and the victim, identified as Jane Doe, had lived together. On Oct. 22, 2021, Doe was driving in Lame Deer, saw Spang walking and offered to give Spang a ride. Spang got in the car, but when Spang asked to be taken to a certain location, Doe refused. Spang began assaulting Doe and strangled her. Spang eventually let go. Doe drove them to the police station because she wanted to get a restraining order against Spang. Spang told a Bureau of Indian Affairs officer that Doe needed to learn to respect and listen to her.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting 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 Oct. 13 was:
Buddy Gene Walkingeagle, 38, of Poplar, on charges of felon in possession of firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Walkingeagle faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Walkingeagle was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office and Fort Peck Law Enforcement investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-82.
Feather Lynn Stillsmoking, 32, of Cut Bank, on charges of involuntary manslaughter and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. If convicted of the most serious crime, Stillsmoking faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Stillsmoking was released pending further proceedings. The FBI, Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services, Glacier County Sheriff’s Office and Montana Highway Patrol investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-70.
Shane Daniel Freemont, 32, of Poplar, on charges of aggravated sexual abuse and sexual abuse. If convicted of the most serious crime, Freemont faces a maximum of life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. Freemont was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Fort Peck Law Enforcement and Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-75.
Connor Louis Gourneau, 34, of Poplar, on charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. If convicted of the most serious crime, Gourneau faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. Gourneau was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Bureau of Indian Affairs and Fort Peck Law Enforcement investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-76.
Patti Jo Annunciata Mail, aka Patti Jo Ironcloud, 23 of Wolf Point, on charges of kidnapping of individual under 18, assault resulting in serious bodily injury and assault resulting in substantial injury of a minor. If convicted of the most serious crime, Mail faces a mandatory minimum 20 years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. Mail was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Fort Peck Law Enforcement, Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office and Wolf Point Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-77.
Kaylee Jade Jackson, 21, of Wolf Point, on charges of kidnapping of individual under 18. If convicted of the most serious crime, Jackson faces a mandatory minimum 20 years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. 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. PACER case reference. 22-77.
Elmarie Amelia Weeks, aka Elmarie Adams, 21, of Wolf Point, on charges of kidnapping of individual under 18, assault resulting in serious bodily injury and assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to minor. If convicted of the most serious crime, Weeks faces a mandatory minimum 20 years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. Weeks was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Fort Peck Law Enforcement, Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office and Wolf Point Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-77.
Cheri Cruz Granbois (male), 20, of Wolf Point, on charges of kidnapping of individual under 18, assault resulting in serious bodily injury and assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to minor. If convicted of the most serious crime, Granbois faces a mandatory minimum 20 years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. Granbois was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Fort Peck Law Enforcement, Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office and Wolf Point Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-77.
Thomas Ivan Reese Larson, 23, of Poplar, on charges of assault resulting in serious bodily injury, assault resulting in substantial bodily injury and strangulation. If convicted of the most serious crime, Larson faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Larson was released pending further proceedings. The FBI, Fort Peck Law Enforcement, Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office and Wolf Point Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-79.
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on Oct. 13 was:
Mark Samuel Baker, 56, of Gore, Virginia, on charges of attempted sex trafficking of minor. If convicted of the most serious crime, Baker faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. Baker was released pending further proceedings. The FBI and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-102.
Appearing on Oct. 12 was:
Shane Edward Johnson, 53, of Billings, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute meth and prohibited person in possession of firearm and ammunition. If convicted of the most serious crime, Johnson faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Johnson was detained pending further proceedings. The U.S. Postal Service and FBI’s Western Transnational Organized Crime Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-94.
Joel David Lund, 39, of Seattle, Washington, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute meth and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. If convicted of the most serious crime, Lund faces 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 crimes and a mandatory minimum five years to life in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, on the firearm crime. Lund was detained pending further proceedings. The Eastern High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-114.
Gunnar Rutledge Johnson, 20, of Billings, 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, Johnson faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. Johnson was detained pending further proceedings. The Eastern High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-114.
Appearing on Oct. 11 was:
Gregory Nicholas Letz Jr., 28, a transient, on charges of bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. If convicted of the most serious crime, Letz faces a maximum of 30 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release on bank fraud and a mandatory minimum two years in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, on aggravated identity theft. Letz was detained pending further proceedings. The Billings Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-90.
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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U.s. Attorney Jesse Laslovich Announces $96,000 in Justice Department Grants to Support Project Safe NeighborhoodsRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich announced today that the Department of Justice has awarded $96,098 to support the Project Safe Neighborhoods Program in the District of Montana. Funding will support community efforts to address the epidemic of gun crime and serious violence in the district. The grant, to the Montana Department of Corrections, is one of a number of awards being made to state and local agencies across the country. Funds are administered by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, part of the Department’s Office of Justice Programs.
Launched two decades ago as an evidence-based and community-oriented response to serious gun crime, Project Safe Neighborhoods, known as PSN, is a key component of the Department’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime, outlined by Deputy Attorney General Monaco in May 2021. The PSN approach is guided by four key 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 of our efforts. The fundamental goal is to reduce violent crime, not simply to increase the number of arrests or prosecutions.
“This grant is vital to our shared goal of making communities safer in our two PSN program sites, Yellowstone County and Missoula County, where drug trafficking, firearms offenses, and armed robberies are the leading causes of violent crime,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said. “We will continue working with our local, state, federal, and tribal partners to take violent offenders off our streets.”
“Reducing violence and sustaining those reductions will require strong partnerships between criminal justice agencies and community stakeholders and a shared commitment to the safety and well-being of every community member,” said OJP Deputy Assistant Attorney General Maureen Henneberg. “The investments we are making through Project Safe Neighborhoods will enable every stakeholder to play a part in building safer and healthier communities.”
PSN programs are led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in collaboration with local public safety agencies and community organizations. The programs’ emphasis on community engagement, prevention and intervention measures, focused and strategic enforcement, and measurement and accountability has helped achieve overall reductions in violent crime, including gun homicides, in neighborhoods where PSN strategies have been implemented.
“Over its two-decade history, Project Safe Neighborhoods has evolved to meet the complex challenges of community violence by enlisting the insights and expertise of local partners and by relying on the latest evidence,” said BJA Director Karhlton F. Moore. “We are proud to support our U.S. Attorneys and their allies in their critical work to curb violent crime and build the mutual trust necessary to ensure lasting success.”
The awards announced above are being made as part of the regular end-of-fiscal year cycle. More information about awards under PSN and other OJP grants can be found on the OJP Grant Awards Page.
The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, advance racial equity in the administration of justice, assist victims and enhance the rule of law. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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Stevensville man admits drug trafficking, firearm, money laundering crimes after investigators seize thousands of fentanyl pills in traffic stop; find pill-making equipment, materials on propertyRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Stevensville man admitted to drug trafficking, firearm and money laundering crimes after law enforcement seized thousands of fentanyl and methamphetamine pills from his vehicle in a Minnesota traffic stop and found pill-making equipment and materials on his Montana property, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Andrew Kyle Whittecar, 37, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, prohibited person in possession of a firearm and money laundering. Whittecar faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least four years of supervised release on the most serious crime.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Feb. 2, 2023. Whittecar was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that on April 27, Whittecar was the driver and sole occupant of a red Cadillac when the Minnesota Highway Patrol stopped him near Alexandria, Minnesota. The trooper developed reasonable suspicion that Whittecar was trafficking drugs and searched the vehicle. During the search, the trooper located $3,000 in cash, three grams of cocaine and 75 blue pills labeled “M30,” which lab testing determined to be fentanyl, in the center console. In the trunk was a loaded Glock 17 semi-automatic handgun and an additional loaded magazine. And in the covered spare wheel well was an ammunition box containing vacuum-sealed packages of pills. In total, there were 5,096 blue “M30” pills, which contained fentanyl, and 1,000 orange pills, which contained meth.
In addition, the government alleged Whittecar advised that he had been working with several coconspirators to distribute the pills, which appeared to be Adderall and Percocet, but he knew contained meth and fentanyl, respectively.
The government further alleged that the Drug Enforcement Administration, after receiving a tip, searched a 40-acre parcel of property Whittecar owned near Stevensville. Agents found a backhoe abutting the entrance to a storage container. Inside the container were two pill presses, along with dyes, chemicals and other substances indicating the production of counterfeit pills consistent with those found in the Minnesota traffic stop. There also was a jar containing 240 grams of fentanyl and a plastic baggie containing another 161 grams of fentanyl.
While in custody, Whittecar called family members and directed them to items buried on the property he referred to as “hay.” DEA agents conducted an additional search and, approximately 10 feet underground below a pile of hay, they discovered a large plastic container and two plastic five-gallon buckets. The storage items contained additional chemicals, powders and liquids. Agents searched another storage unit used by Whittecar and found multiple boxes containing various lab equipment consistent with use in the synthesis of chemical materials. DEA forensic chemists determined that the items and equipment seized included precursors required for fentanyl production.
Additionally, a search of Whittecar’s three cell phones found what appeared to be coded language for drug production and distribution. Whittecar’s bank records reflected several large cash deposits and withdrawals. Whittecar was last employed in 2018 and did not have any apparent business accounts reflecting self-employment.
The government also alleged that Whittecar was convicted of three federal felonies in 2009 and was prohibited from possessing firearms.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Racicot and Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter are prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the DEA, Minnesota State Patrol, West Central Minnesota Drug and Violent Crime Task Force and Missoula County Sheriff’s 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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Glendive woman admits stealing more than $119,000 from man whose finances she managedRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Glendive woman today admitted to defrauding a man of more than $119,000 in a scheme in which she managed his finances and used his money for her personal expenses, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Gina Larae Mann, aka Gina Larae Neva, 53, pleaded guilty to wire fraud, aggravated identity theft and money laundering. Mann faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release on the wire fraud crime and a mandatory minimum two years in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, on the aggravated identity theft crime.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. Sentencing was set for Feb. 16, 2023 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. Mann was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that Mann met the victim, identified as John Doe, after Doe’s wife died. Doe’s wife had been responsible for the household’s finances, and Mann volunteered to fulfill that role for Doe. Mann convinced Doe, who preferred to write paper checks, to obtain a debit card and register for online banking at Glendive BN Federal Credit Union. Mann then, without Doe’s knowledge or permission, used Doe’s personal identifying information to open several new credit card accounts in his name. Mann proceeded to use those accounts for her own personal expenses. In addition, Mann made several transfers from the credit union account to pay down outstanding balances on the credit cards. Mann’s scheme began in early 2018 and continued until late 2019 when Doe discovered the fraud after receiving overdraft notices from the credit union. Mann misappropriated approximately $119,269 in Doe’s name.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation.
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Butte nurse sentenced to prison for stealing opiates from area medical centersRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Butte nurse who admitted to stealing opiates while working at area medical centers was sentenced today to one year and one day in prison, to be followed by one year of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Shantyl Marie Giacoletto, 30, pleaded guilty in June to unlawfully obtaining controlled substances.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. Giacoletto was remanded into custody.
The government alleged in court documents that Giacoletto diverted opiates in 2021 while working at medical centers in Anaconda, Butte and Deer Lodge. In June 2021, a Community Hospital of Anaconda manager discovered that Giacoletto, for at least the previous three months, routinely obtained oxycodone from the hospital’s pharmacy but did not administer that drug to the intended patients. A total of 392 oxycodone pills were unaccounted for. When confronted by management, Giacoletto denied diverting drugs, claimed she always administered them to patients and that “nobody scans things.” Other employees discredited Giacoletto’s assertion and indicated it would be “extremely rare” for someone to not record the administration of a drug to a patient. The hospital terminated Giacoletto’s employment.
The government further alleged that Giacoletto began working at Copper Ridge Health and Rehabilitation Center in Butte 11 days later. Copper Ridge subsequently discovered diversions of hydrocodone, and that Giacoletto had worked shifts at Copper Ridge within days of management discerning the diversions.
Another diversion occurred in October 2021 at Continental Care and Rehabilitation Center in Butte, where Giacoletto worked as a traveling nurse. Dozens of hydrocodone and oxycodone tables were unaccounted for and patient log sheets had been manipulated and destroyed in violation of record-keeping policies. Because of the diversion, a patient had to go without oxycodone for several days until a new supply arrived. Management then announced a drug screening, and most nurses provided urine samples, which were all negative for the diverted drugs. Giacoletto did not submit to the drug test and did not return to work at that facility.
A subsequent diversion occurred in November 2021 at The Ivy in Deer Lodge. The Ivy experienced a significant drug diversion while Giacoletto was working there as a nurse. The director then requested urine samples from the staff. All complied and tested negative except for Giacoletto, who refused and left the facility. Giacoletto’s employer then contacted her and instructed her to provide a sample. Giacoletto returned to the facility several hours later and requested a specific bathroom for the drug test. When she provided the sample, it was cold, which yielded an inconclusive result.
When interviewed by a DEA agent, Giacoletto denied diverting drugs and blamed the medication discrepancies on the poor record keeping practices at the facilities.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Anaconda Police Department, Powell County Sheriff’s Office and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation.
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Box Elder man sentenced to prison for fentanyl trafficking on Rocky Boy’s Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Box Elder man who admitted trafficking fentanyl on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation after fleeing law enforcement in a vehicle in which officers found a firearm and fentanyl pills was sentenced today to one year and eight months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Paul Joseph The Boy, 33, pleaded guilty in July to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on Oct. 6, 2021, The Boy got into a high-speed chase with a Rocky Boy’s police officer. As The Boy fled while driving more than 100 mph, officers saw The Boy in possession of a firearm. The Boy then drove into an embankment and fled. Officers searched the abandoned vehicle and found 74 fentanyl pills, $1,171 in cash and a semi-automatic pistol. The Boy later acknowledged that he led law enforcement on a pursuit because he didn’t want to go to jail and that the pistol and fentanyl belonged to him.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica A. Betley prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Rocky Boy’s Police Department, Chippewa Cree Tribal Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Drug Enforcement Administration.
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Billings man sentenced to more than seven years in prison for trafficking meth, fentanyl on Fort Peck Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Billings man who admitted trafficking methamphetamine and fentanyl pills on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation after he tried to flee law enforcement on a dirt bike and discarded a backpack containing drugs and a loaded handgun was sentenced today to seven years and four months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Dominique Kendall Brown, 29, pleaded guilty in July to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that on Aug. 6, 2021, Fort Peck Law Enforcement officers tried to stop Brown for a traffic infraction on a dirt bike near Wolf Point. Brown sped away, initiating a 10-minute pursuit in which he drove at high speeds on a walking path near pedestrians. During the pursuit, Brown discarded a backpack with a loaded hand gun inside. Brown eventually crashed and his dirt bike started a fire, which law enforcement extinguished. The backpack also contained $1,131 cash, a scale, 109 grams of meth and 146 fentanyl pills.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Montana Highway Patrol, Fort Peck Police Department and Roosevelt County Sheriff’s 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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Nevada woman sentenced to eight years in prison for transporting minor to Montana for prostitutionRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Nevada woman who admitted to bringing a minor girl to Billings for prostitution was sentenced today to eight years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Ashley Michael Stella, 29, of Reno, Nevada, pleaded guilty in December 2021 to transportation of a minor to engage in prostitution.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. Judge Watters also ordered $2,500 restitution.
The government alleged in court documents that on April 21, 2021, law enforcement officers responded to a call of possible commercial sex activity at a Billings motel and knocked on the door of the suspect room. Stella, another individual and a 16-year-old girl, identified as Jane Doe 1, emerged. Jane Doe 1, from Nevada, indicated in interviews that she had met Stella in December 2020. Stella informed Jane Doe 1that she worked in commercial sex. Jane Doe 1 told law enforcement that she and Stella traveled to Montana in April from Nevada and that both had engaged in commercial sex. Stella told law enforcement she had met Jane Doe 1 in the fall of 2020 and learned her true age later that year. Stella also told investigators that the two had traveled from Nevada to Montana for the purpose of commercial sex and that she had asked Jane Doe 1 if she wanted to go on the trip.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zeno B. Baucus and Bryan T. Dake prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Montana Department of Justice’s Criminal Investigation Division, FBI and Billings Police Department.
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Missoula man admits trafficking fentanyl in community after overdose deathRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Missoula man admitted on Tuesday to fentanyl trafficking charges after law enforcement responded to a reported drug overdose death in Missoula County earlier this year, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Jacob Eugene Odman, 39, pleaded guilty on Oct. 11 to an indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl. Odman faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and at least three years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided. Sentencing was set for Feb. 2, 2023. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other sentencing factors. Odman was detained pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that on Feb. 18, law enforcement responded to a residence in Missoula County for a reported drug overdose death and found an individual, identified as John Doe, deceased. Doe’s father reported that Doe had left the previous evening about 7:30 p.m., returned at about 9 p.m. and then went to bed. Doe’s father found Doe unresponsive in bed that morning. Next to Doe was a small blue pill engraved with “M30.” Lab testing determined the pill contained fentanyl. A toxicology report confirmed that Doe had fentanyl and a fentanyl metabolite in his blood when he died. Doe’s cell phone had an incoming call from Odman at 7:24 p.m. on Feb. 17. Drug Enforcement Administration officers located Odman at his residence. Odman confirmed Doe and another individual, identified as John Doe 2, were there the previous night. Officers found four bottles containing 409 blue pills labeled “M30” in Odman’s residence. Lab tests determined the pills contained fentanyl.
The government further alleged Doe 2 confirmed he was at Odman’s residence with Doe the previous evening. Doe 2 advised that on Feb. 18, he spoke with Odman, who said that Doe was dead. On Feb. 21, Odman told Doe 2 that he gave Doe pills the night before he died.
In addition, on Feb. 14, Idaho State Police stopped an individual, searched his vehicle and found more than 300 fentanyl pills hidden in containers designed to look like soda cans. The individual admitted to buying fentanyl in Spokane, Washington, and traveling back to Montana several times. The investigation determined that Odman and the individual were texting regularly during the Feb. 14 trip and that Odman advised he would pay the individual for a product and requested updates on his travel. The individual told Odman, “Idaho is searching my car.” Odman responded, “Oh no.” The individual then said, “It’s in cans.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office.
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Billings man sentenced to five years in prison for sending nude picture of himself to fictitious girl in undercover operationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man who admitted to sending a nude picture of himself to a fictitious girl during an undercover sting operation was sentenced today to five years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Martin Leo Jimenez, 28, pleaded guilty in May to attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that in October 2021, law enforcement was conducting an undercover sting investigation to identify and arrest individuals who were attempting to have sex with children. Jimenez responded to an undercover post and began to correspond with a fictitious mother to arrange for a sexual encounter with the mother’s fictitious 11-year-old daughter. During electronic communications with the undercover officer, Jimenez offered that he had “no age limits,” sent a nude picture of himself and discussed the various sexual acts he wanted to perform on the fictitious girl. The parties made plans to meet, and law enforcement arrested Jimenez when he arrived at the location. Jimenez later acknowledged that he intended to have sex with the mother and daughter.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno B. Baucus prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Billings Police Department, Yellowstone County Attorney’s Office and Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office.
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Mexico citizen arrested in Kalispell on suspicion of trafficking fentanyl appears in courtRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Mexican citizen who was arrested in Kalispell on suspicion of trafficking fentanyl after law enforcement seized approximately 12,000 fentanyl pills, a firearm and more than $62,000 cash from a vehicle in which he was a passenger had an initial appearance on Oct. 6 on a criminal complaint, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
A criminal complaint filed in the case accuses Cuauhtemoc Cervantes Samaniego, 29, of Mexico, of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. If convicted of the most serious charge, Samaniego faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years to life of supervised release.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Samaniego was detained pending further proceedings.
Court documents allege that Samaniego was trafficking fentanyl in Flathead County from about May 2022 to October. During the first week of October, law enforcement learned of a possible sizable load of fentanyl that was going to be transported from San Diego, California, to Kalispell for distribution and that the source of the fentanyl was an individual known as “Johnny.” Investigators further learned that “Johnny” was having large quantities of fentanyl transported to Kalispell for distribution. On Oct. 4, law enforcement received information that “Johnny” would be arriving at a location in Kalispell in a black Honda Civic to conduct a drug transaction. Officers located the vehicle, in which “Johnny” was identified as the passenger and later identified as Samaniego. The driver, who owned the vehicle, consented to a search of the car. Law enforcement found approximately 12,000 blue pills known to be fentanyl under the center console. Additionally, law enforcement located a semi-automatic pistol and seized more than $62,000 cash from the vehicle.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer S. Clark is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations.
PACER case reference. 22-mj-73.
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 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 Oct. 4 was:
Evirso Real Ampude,47, of Box Elder, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and distribution of controlled substances. If convicted of the most serious charge, Ampude faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. Ampude was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-72.
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on Oct. 6 was:
James Cale Allen, 28, of Lame Deer, on charges of aggravated sexual abuse, strangulation and assault resulting in bodily injury to partner. If convicted of the most serious charge, Allen faces a maximum of life in prison, a $250,000 fine and a mandatory minimum five years of supervised release. Allen was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-101.
Appearing on Oct. 4 was:
Julianna Castro, 23, of Billings, on charges of possession with intent to distribute meth and distribution of meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Castro faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. Castro was released pending further proceedings. The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-14.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Billings man admits attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor in undercover investigationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man who was accused of having sexual conversations through social media with an undercover agent posing as a minor girl and was arrested when he showed up to meet the girl admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Kyle Jason Swindler, 41, pleaded guilty to attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor. Swindler faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and at least three 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. Swindler was released pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in October 2021, law enforcement, acting in an undercover capacity and posing as a 13-year-old girl, communicated through the Internet by social media with a user who turned out to be Swindler. Early in the conversation, the undercover persona identified herself as 13 years old, and Swindler responded, “Ouch you’re a young one.” The conversation became sexual in nature. Swindler and the undercover persona discussed plans to meet in person for a sexual encounter and arranged to meet in a Billings park. Swindler drove to the park, where he was arrested. Law enforcement searched Swindler’s vehicle and found sex-related items. Officers also searched Swindler’s cell phone and recovered the original social media conversation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin D. Hargrove is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, Billings Police Department, Yellowstone County Attorney’s Office and Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office.
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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Washington man admits trafficking meth, heroin, cocaine and fentanyl to Cascade County, Rocky Boy’s Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Washington man admitted to a drug trafficking crime today after law enforcement seized more than five pounds of methamphetamine along with other drugs from his vehicle near Great Falls last year, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Jorge Perez, aka Chicago, 41, of Spokane, Washington, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Perez 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 Feb. 16, 2023. Perez was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in March 2022, witnesses in Great Falls reported to law enforcement that they had been working with Perez to bring large quantities of meth, heroin, cocaine and fentanyl from Spokane to the Great Falls area for distribution. The FBI’s investigation identified the vehicle Perez was driving and, with assistance from local law enforcement, stopped the vehicle outside of Great Falls on June 11, 2022. Perez was the driver and sole occupant and had more than $4,000 cash on his person. Perez admitted there were pounds of drugs in the vehicle. Law enforcement seized approximately five pounds of meth, which is the equivalent of 18,120 doses, along with cocaine and fentanyl pills. In a second traffic stop in which Perez was a passenger, law enforcement found meth, cocaine and heroin in the vehicle. In a third traffic stop, on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation, in which Perez was the driver and sole passenger, law enforcement found meth, cocaine and fentanyl.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, Great Falls Police Department, Cascade County Sheriff’s Office, Montana Highway Patrol and Chippewa Cree Law Enforcement.
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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District of Montana takes part in Justice Department’s efforts to protect older adultsRead the Press Release
HELENA – The Justice Department announced today the results of its efforts over the past year to protect older adults from fraud and exploitation. During the past year, the Department and its law enforcement partners tackled matters that ranged from mass-marketing scams that impacted thousands of victims to bad actors scamming their neighbors. Substantial efforts were also made over the last year to return money to fraud victims. Today, the Department also announced it is expanding its Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force to amplify efforts to combat scams originating overseas.
“We are intensifying our efforts nationwide to protect older adults, including by more than tripling the number of U.S. Attorneys’ offices participating in our Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force dedicated to disrupting, dismantling and prosecuting foreign-based fraud schemes that target American seniors,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “This expansion builds on the Justice Department’s existing work to hold accountable those who steal funds from older adults, including by returning those funds to the victims where possible.”
“We are pleased to be participating on this important task force and applaud the Attorney General for his commitment to protecting older adults. Scamming older adults, who often trust and depend on others for help and care, will not be tolerated by our office. We are committed to fully investigating and prosecuting those who try to exploit our older citizens,” U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
During the period from September 2021 to September 2022, Department personnel and its law enforcement partners pursued approximately 260 cases involving more than 600 defendants, both bringing new cases and advancing those previously charged.
This past year, the District of Montana prosecuted a number of cases in which older adults were victims of frauds or scams. The cases include:
- Ronald Lords, of Corvallis, an ex-lawyer who was sentenced to prison for defrauding investors in a real estate scheme.
- William Tempel, a Great Falls construction company official who was sentenced to prison for embezzling from a client.
- Kathy Hendrickson, of Washington, who was sentenced to prison for cyberstalking and harassing a Montana man.
- Ira Westbrook, of Bozeman, who pleaded guilty and is pending sentencing for stealing government benefits while acting as a fiduciary.
- Elizabeth Stephenson, of Billings, who was sentenced to prison in an identity theft case.
- Debra Roeber, of Butte, who was sentenced to prison for stealing more than $600,000 from a blind victim who was under her care.
- Theresa Chabot, of Kalispell, who pleaded guilty and is pending sentencing for running a money mule business for elder abuse.
The Department also highlighted three other efforts: expansion of the Transnational Elder Fraud Task Force, success in returning money to victims and efforts to combat grandparent scams.
The Department announced that as part of its continuing efforts to protect older adults and bring perpetrators of fraud schemes to justice it is expanding the Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force, adding 14 new U.S. Attorney’s Offices. Expansion of the Strike Force will help to coordinate the Department’s ongoing efforts to combat largest and most harmful fraud schemes that target or disproportionately impact older adults.
In the past year, the Department has notified over 550,000 people that they may be eligible for remission payments. Notifications were made to consumers whose information was sold by one of three data companies prosecuted by the Department and were later victims of “sweepstakes” or “astrology” solicitations that falsely promised prizes or individualized services in return for a fee. More than 150,000 of those victims cashed checks totaling $52 million, and thousands more are eligible to receive checks. Also notified were consumers who paid fraudsters perpetrating person-in-need scams and job scams via Western Union. In the past year, the Department has identified and contacted over 300,000 consumers who may be eligible for remission. Since March of 2020 more than 148,000 victims have received more than $366 million as a result of a 2017 criminal resolution with Western Union for the company’s willful failure to maintain an effective anti-money laundering program and its aiding and abetting of wire fraud.
Over the past year, the Department pursued cases against the perpetrators of “grandparent scams,” otherwise known as “person-in-need scams.” These scams typically begin when a fraudster, often based overseas, contacts an older adult and poses as either a grandchild, other family member or someone calling on behalf of a family member. Call recipients are told that their family member is in jeopardy and is urgently in need of money. When recently sentencing one of eight perpetrators of a grandparent scam indicted under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, a federal judge described such scams “heartbreakingly evil.” The Department is working with government partners and others to raise awareness about these schemes.
Reporting from consumers about fraud and fraud attempts is critical to law enforcements efforts to investigate and prosecute schemes targeting older adults. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is available the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 or 833-372-8311.
This Department of Justice Hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professional who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting or connect them with agencies, and provide resources and referrals on a case-by-case basis. The hotline is staffed seven days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.[ET]. English, Spanish and other languages are available. More information about the Department’s elder justice efforts can be found on the Department’s Elder Justice website, www.elderjustice.gov.
Some of the cases that comprise today’s announcement are charges, which are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Washington man sentenced to more than eight years in prison for armed meth, fentanyl trafficking in Great Falls area and Rocky Boy’s Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Washington man was sentenced today to eight years and four months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, after he admitted to illegally possessing a firearm and bringing methamphetamine and fentanyl pills to the Great Falls area and the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation for distribution, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Nathaniel Jameco Brown, 45, of Spokane, Washington, pleaded guilty in February to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and to felon in possession of a firearm.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in the fall of 2021, law enforcement in Great Falls learned that Brown was distributing drugs from Great Falls area hotels. In December 2021, law enforcement stopped Brown, who was traveling in a vehicle from Spokane to Great Falls, near Vaughn and found him in possession of 20 fentanyl pills, more than an ounce of meth and a loaded pistol and multiple magazines. Brown described making numerous prior trips to Great Falls and the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation to sell fentanyl pills and significant quantities of meth. Brown estimated bringing a total of 12 ounces of meth and 500 pills to Montana. Brown was prohibited from possessing firearms because of prior felony convictions, including a previous federal conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Great Falls Police Department, Cascade County Sheriff’s Office, Russell Country Drug Task Force, Montana Highway Patrol and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
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 stealing grizzly bear necklace, moccasins, eagle feathers from museum on Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Browning man today admitted to stealing culturally significant artifacts, including a grizzly bear necklace, moccasins and golden eagle feathers, from the Museum of the Plains Indian on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Preston Jay Spotted Eagle, 31, pleaded guilty to theft of government property. Spotted Eagle faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and at least five years to life of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other sentencing factors. Sentencing was set for Feb. 8, 2023. Spotted Eagle was released pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that the thefts occurred between May and August 2021 from the Museum of the Plains Indian, in Browning, where Spotted Eagle was employed as an aid. The Indian Arts and Crafts Board, with the U.S. Department of the Interior, run the museum. In August 2021, the curator noticed that a bear claw necklace was missing from the displays. An investigation conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service identified Spotted Eagle as the thief.
The government alleged that the first piece found to be missing was a grizzly bear necklace from one of the historic gallery displays. The curator assumed Spotted Eagle had removed it because she had given him an inventory assignment. When asked about the necklace, Spotted Eagle told the curator he had no idea who took it or what happened to it. A review of security system video ultimately led to Spotted Eagle. When confronted again about the necklace, Spotted Eagle said he thought he was the one who took it out of the display because the necklace had fallen. Spotted Eagle told the curator that nobody else needed to review the video and that he could guarantee the necklace was still in the museum. That afternoon, Spotted Eagle said he found the necklace under some papers in a collection room. The next day, the curator asked Spotted Eagle to show her the necklace and she noticed that was heavily damaged.
In addition, the government further alleged, the museum conducted an inventory to identify any other missing items. In addition to bear claws that were missing from the damaged necklace, four loose bear claws were taken from a collection room drawer. A pair of moccasins and 26 golden eagle feathers from a war bonnet also were taken. The investigation further determined that Spotted Eagle removed artifacts, photographed them with his cell phone and tried on historic clothing item, some of which were very old and delicate. Spotted Eagle also rummaged through many sacred bundles.
An appraisal of the damage to the grizzly bear necklace resulted in a $1,200 loss of value. The market value of the moccasins and four claws together was $1,150 and the replacement value was $2,150. The eagle feathers do not have a fair market value because the trade is illegal, but the valuation of the missing eagle feathers could be $7,800, based on a forfeiture collateral schedule. The damage to the war bonnet has not been calculated for the same reason as the eagle feathers. The government alleged that it was impossible to put a monetary amount on the items, which are unique and culturally significant to the Blackfeet Tribe.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
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Box Elder man admits domestic abuse of victim on Rocky Boy’s Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Box Elder man suspected of strangling and assaulting a woman on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation admitted today to domestic assault by habitual offender, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Clay Bad Hawk, 25, pleaded guilty to domestic abuse by habitual offender. Bad Hawk 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. Chief Judge Morris will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Feb. 9, 2023. Bad Hawk was detained pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that in December 2021, Bad Hawk punched, slapped, kicked and strangled the victim, identified as Jane Doe, who was in a relationship with him, in Box Elder. Officers responded to a call of an assault and found the victim hiding under a porch. The victim was transported to a hospital for treatment of injuries. The victim told law enforcement she thought she was going to die, and that Bad Hawk had assaulted her before. Bad Hawk has two prior domestic violence convictions from tribal court.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Chippewa Cree Law Enforcement and Rocky Boy’s Police Department.
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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 Sept. 29 was:
Brandon James Cross, 33, of Billings, on charges of possession of a stolen firearm, receipt of firearm while under indictment, possession of unregistered silencer and possession of firearm with obliterated serial number. If convicted of the most serious crime, Cross faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Cross was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-105.
Josh Owen Cantrell, 32, of Billings, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition. If convicted of the most serious crime, Cantrell faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Cantrell was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-97.
Appearing on Sept. 27 was:
Tyler Dale Medicine Horse, 37, of Gillette, Wyoming, on charges of prohibited person in possession of firearm and possession of unregistered firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Medicine Horse faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Medicine Horse was released pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-69.
Kyle Ray Schwindt, 21, of Billings, and Jeffrey Mayes Wilkerson, 39, of Billings, on charges of attempted coercion and enticement and possession of child pornography. If convicted of the most serious crime, Schwindt and Wilkerson face a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. Schwindt and Wilkerson were detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-112.
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on Sept. 27 was:
Matthew Lucas Jones, 42, of Missoula, on charges of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession of unregistered firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Jones faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. Jones was detained pending further proceedings. The Missoula Police Department, Montana Probation and Parole, Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-42.
Appearing in Great Falls before Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris and pleading not guilty on Sept. 29 was:
Michael Peter Barton, 53, of Great Falls, 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, Barton faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Barton was released pending further proceedings. Homeland Security Investigations, the Great Falls Police Department and U.S. Postal Service investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-65.
Appearing on Sept. 28 before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston was:
Kyle J. Adcock, 36, of Helena, on charges of forging a security of an organization affecting interstate commerce, embezzlement and theft of labor union assets and falsification of annual financial report filed by labor union. If convicted of the most serious crime, Adcock faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Adcock was released pending further proceedings. The National Association of Letter Carriers and U.S. Department of Labor-Management Services investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-7.
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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Environmental Justice Coordinator appointed in District of MontanaRead the Press Release
HELENA – U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich today announced the appointment of Mark Steger Smith to serve as Environmental Justice Coordinator for the District of Montana.
Smith, who is the Civil Division chief for the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s and has been an assistant U.S. attorney with the office since 2002, will lead efforts to enforce both criminal and civil environmental laws, along with focusing on protecting the rights of residents who are disproportionally burdened by environmental and health hazards. These environmental and health hazards could involve water or air pollution, asbestos, illegal dumping, and housing conditions like lead paint, vermin, or lack of heat. In addition to litigating cases throughout the district, Smith also will coordinate trainings for prosecutors and investigators and attend community meetings to discuss environmental issues.
“Montana is fortunate to have Mark Smith leading our efforts to protect our state’s natural resources and public health. He is a distinguished litigator in our office and brings years of environmental enforcement experience to this coordinator position. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to being responsive to environmental concerns as we continue to ensure Montana has a clean and healthy environment,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
The Justice Department is advancing its environmental justice work through the creation of Environmental Justice coordinators in all 93 U.S. Attorney’s Offices. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to partner and coordinate with the Justice Department’s Environmental and Natural Resources Division as well as client agencies across the federal government.
The public can report suspected violations of environmental laws to the U.S. Attorney’s Office by calling 406-657-6101 or writing the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Montana, Attn: Environmental Justice Coordinator, 2601 2nd Ave. N., Suite 3200, Billings, MT 59101.
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Atlantic Richfield Company Agrees to Complete Multimillion-Dollar Cleanup of the Anaconda Smelter Superfund SiteRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — The Atlantic Richfield Company (AR) has agreed to complete its cleanup of the Anaconda Smelter Superfund Site (Site) in Deer Lodge County, Montana, the Department of Justice and the Environmental Protection Agency announced today. The state of Montana, on behalf of the Department of Environmental Quality, is also a signatory to the consent decree that was lodged today in the U.S. District Court in Butte, Montana.
Decades of copper smelting activity at the town of Anaconda polluted the soils in yards, commercial and industrial areas, pastures and open spaces throughout the 300-square-mile Anaconda Site. This pollution has in turn contributed to the contamination of creeks and other surface waters at the Site, as well as of alluvial and bedrock ground water. The closure of smelting operations in 1980 left large volumes of smelter slag, flue dust and hazardous rock tailings that have had to be secured through a variety of remediation methods.
Under the settlement, AR — a subsidiary of British Petroleum — will complete numerous remedial activities that it has undertaken at the Anaconda Site pursuant to EPA administrative orders since the 1990s. Among other actions, AR will finish remediating residential yards in the towns of Anaconda and Opportunity, clean up soils in upland areas above Anaconda and eventually effect the closure of remaining slag piles at the Site. The estimated cost of the remaining Site work, including operation and maintenance activities intended to protect remediated lands over the long term, is $83.1 million. AR will pay $48 million to reimburse the EPA Superfund Program for EPA and Department of Justice response costs, and will pay approximately $185,000 to the U.S. Forest Service for oversight of future remedial activities on Forest Service-administered lands at the Site.
“We are pleased that Atlantic Richfield has agreed to finalize its long-term cleanup of the Anaconda Site,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “Today’s consent decree follows other important settlements with Atlantic Richfield over the past two decades that have substantially improved the environment and restored valuable natural resources in the Upper Clark Fork basin. This settlement is also the product of a successful federal-state partnership to secure cleanup of a major hazardous waste site.”
“I was born in Anaconda the same year the smelter closed and while I never saw smoke coming out of the Smokestack that still stands over Anaconda, I know what it represents,” said U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich for the District of Montana. “It is a symbol representing the hard work of many Anacondans, including members of my family, that built our town. But it’s also a symbol of a Superfund site that has existed for far too long. If the Smokestack represents our past, this consent decree represents our future. Many people, some who are no longer with us, worked diligently to get us to this point and I’m grateful beyond words for all of their work. Our water will be cleaner, our soils will be purer, our slag will be covered, and our future will be brighter because of this historic agreement.”
“This settlement highlights the Agency’s vigorous enforcement to ensure the complete cleanup of the Anaconda Smelter Superfund site,” said EPA Acting Assistant Administrator for Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Larry Starfield. “The work performed under this settlement will further protect the environment and the health of the people who live, work, and play in this community.”
“I am very pleased to announce the release of the proposed 2022 Sitewide consent decree for the Anaconda Smelter NPL Site,” said EPA Regional Administrator KC Becker. “Over the last several decades, EPA and MDEQ have made great strides in ensuring the cleanup of open space, residential areas, creeks and groundwater by Atlantic Richfield throughout Anaconda-Deer Lodge County. This cleanup of contaminated soils that impact surface waters and remediation of the largest slag piles at Anaconda builds on that progress.”
“This is an important milestone for the people of Anaconda and Montana. A lot of great cleanup work has already been done, and this consent decree will ensure that remaining remediation needs are funded and completed,” said Amy Steinmetz, Montana Department of Environmental Quality Waste Management and Remediation Division administrator.
The consent decree filed today in U.S. District Court in Butte, Mont., is subject to a 30-day public comment period and approval by the federal court. A copy of the consent decree is available on the Department of Justice Web site at: https://www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.
Under Montana state law, the Department of Environmental Quality is separately required to put the Consent Decree out for public comment. The state’s public comment period will run concurrently with the federal public comment period.
The consent decree and other information related to the Anaconda Site are available on EPA’s Site page at: www.epa.gov/superfund/anaconda-co-smelter.
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Attempted coercion of minor for sex in undercover investigation sends Billings man to prison for eight yearsRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man who was convicted in an undercover investigation after he showed up at a residence believing he was going to meet a minor girl for sex was sentenced today to eight years in prison, to be followed by a lifetime of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Jason Robert Kroepelin, 33, pleaded guilty in April to attempted coercion and enticement.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that on Oct. 27, 2021, Kroepelin walked up to a residence in Billings where he believed he was going to meet a 13-year-old girl for sex. Kroepelin was previously talking online to a person he believed was the girl’s dad but who actually was an undercover FBI agent. Kroepelin had posted an ad titled “young naughty girl to use” on a website and the agent responded to it. Kroepelin described to the undercover agent graphic sexual activity he was planning to engage in with the girl and talked about recording the encounter. Law enforcement arrested Kroepelin when he arrived at an agreed upon location, where he thought he was meeting the girl for sex. After Kroepelin’s arrest, law enforcement searched his phone and found numerous photographs and two videos depicting child pornography.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, Billings Police Department, Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office and the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force.
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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Box Elder woman sentenced to 10 years in prison in fatal shooting on Rocky Boy’s Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Box Elder woman who admitted to a firearms crime after fatally shooting a man while she was in his car on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation, was sentenced today to 10 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Shaide Jo Demontiney, 19, pleaded guilty in June to use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris also ordered $3,474 restitution.
The government alleged in court documents that on Aug. 16, 2021, tribal police officers responded to a report of a shooting in Box Elder and found a deceased man. Officers learned that Demontiney had shot the man and driven away. Officers arrested Demontiney a short time later after the car she was driving broke down on the highway. Demontiney had a .380-caliber handgun and the victim’s cell phone. Demontiney told investigators that she had been in the car with the victim and had grabbed a handgun from her purse after he had offered her money and drugs for sex and touched her inappropriately. After the victim made another remark, Demontiney shot him in the chest.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica A. Betley prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Rocky Boy’s Police Department.
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