District of Montana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Informational: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared recently before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on Sept. 20 was:
Rafe Aaron Camp, 38, of Miles City, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute meth and distribution of meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Camp faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. Camp was detained pending further proceedings. The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-96.
Elmer Richard Petersen, 44, of Gillette, Wyoming, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession of firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and prohibited person in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Petersen faces a mandatory minimum 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, consecutive to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release on the charge of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Petersen was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-91.
Appearing on Sept. 15 was:
Ethan Andrew Schilling, 25, of Billings, on charges of distribution of child pornography. If convicted of the most serious crime, Schilling faces a mandatory minimum of five years to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. Schilling was released pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-92.
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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Lame Deer man sentenced to 46 months in prison for strangling woman on Northern Cheyenne Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Lame Deer man who admitted to strangling a woman on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation was sentenced today to 46 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Isaiah Benjamin Antelope, 26, pleaded guilty in April to strangulation.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that in July 2020 the victim went to Antelope’s house in the Lame Deer area, on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, for Antelope’s help in fixing a flat tire on a car. After trying to fix the tire, Antelope and the victim went inside the house. The victim was scared because the two had argued the day before. The two exchanged words and then Antelope strangled the victim with his hands. Antelope had strangled the victim on other occasions and made her pass out or feel like she was going to pass out.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI.
XXXTwo men accused in an assault of Bureau of Indian Affairs officer on Crow Indian Reservation admit chargesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — Two men admitted to charges this week for their roles in an assault on a Bureau of Indian Affairs officer, who was pursuing one of the men for operating a stolen vehicle in Lodge Grass, on the Crow Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
Earl Landon Old Chief, Jr., 36, pleaded guilty on Thursday, Sept. 15, to assault on a federal officer. Old Chief faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. A sentencing date will be set before U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters.
Co-defendant Darnell Lee Not Afraid, 38, of Pryor, pleaded guilty on Wednesday, Sept. 14, to possession of a firearm in furtherance of assault on a federal officer, a crime of violence. Not Afraid faces a mandatory minimum of five years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided and set sentencing for Jan. 26, 2023.
The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other sentencing factors. Old Chief and Not Afraid were detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that on March 14, 2021, BIA officers, while in the course of their official duties, were pursuing Not Afraid, who was driving a stolen truck at high speeds through residential neighborhoods in Lodge Grass. Not Afraid eventually stopped, got out of the truck and ran away. The officer pursued on foot into a residential yard and drew his Taser. As the officer neared Not Afraid, Not Afraid turned toward the officer, pulled up his shirt and grabbed a silver revolver from his waistband. The officer dropped his Taser, drew his service pistol and fired multiple times at Not Afraid, striking him at least once in the arm. An angry crowd of people, who had been watching the chase, accosted the officer, yelling and cursing at him. The crowd was angry at the officer for shooting Not Afraid and prevented the officer from attending to him. Old Chief became agitated at the scene and threw a bottle at the officer, nearly striking him in the shoulder and head. Old Chief pointed the officer’s Taser at the officer’s face and then threw the Taser at him. Officers recovered the revolver and determined that it was loaded.
A third co-defendant, Darwyna Caylynn Catherine Bullshows, pleaded guilty to charges and is pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Harper Suek 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 Sept. 13 was:
Robert John Terry, 37, of Great Falls, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute meth and distribution of meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Terry faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Terry was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, Great Falls Police Department and Cascade County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-71.
Joseph Drayton Cook, 32, of Great Falls, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession of firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense and prohibited person in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Cook 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 of five years to life in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release on possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration and Great Falls Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-66.
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on Sept. 15 was:
Jordan Cody Washee, 30, of Ashland, on charges of aggravated sexual abuse and abusive sexual contact. If convicted of the most serious crime, Washee faces a maximum of life in prison, a $250,000 fine and a mandatory minimum five years to life of supervised release. Washee was released pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-94.
Jonathan Cleve Brien, 42, of Billings, on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud. If convicted of the most serious crime, Brien faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Brien was released pending further proceedings. The Department of Interior Office of Inspector General investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-85.
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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Box Elder woman admits shooting woman in the face over drug dealRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Box Elder woman suspected of shooting a woman in the face over a drug deal on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation admitted to an assault charge on Sept. 15, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
Tricia Friede Gardipee, 50, pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Gardipee faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other sentencing factors. Sentencing was set for Feb. 2, 2023. Gardipee was released pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court document that on Aug. 13, 2021, Gardipee shot the victim, identified as Jane Doe, in the face with a .22-caliber firearm over a drug deal on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation. Gardipee confronted Doe and some of her friends earlier that day in Havre. Doe picked up a brick and said she didn’t want any problems. The confrontation was because another woman ripped off Gardipee by selling her anxiety medication instead of fentanyl and Gardipee was trying to get her money back. The government further alleged that Doe later drove with friends to a Box Elder residence. As Doe pulled into the driveway, Gardipee, along with others, pulled in behind them, blocking the car. Gardipee and her son, both armed, walked up to Doe’s car. Gardipee then shot Doe in the face. Doe was treated for injuries.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Rocky Boy’s Police Department.
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Washington man admits trafficking meth, fentanyl to Rocky Boy’s Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Washington man suspected of bringing methamphetamine and fentanyl pills to the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation for distribution admitted to a trafficking crime today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Hugo Gutierrez Rodriguez, aka Victor aka Juice, 42, of Yakima, Washington, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Rodriguez 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 Jan. 26, 2023. Rodriguez was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in May 2021, a Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation resident was found to possess fentanyl pills. An investigation determined that a group of men in Yakima, Washington, were selling meth and fentanyl on the reservation and that Rodriguez was identified as one of these men. In February, investigators conducted a controlled buy of fentanyl pills and meth from Rodriguez in Yakima. Drugs from the controlled buy included approximately 73 grams of meth and 400 fentanyl pills. Investigators further learned that Rodriguez was bringing more drugs to Montana. Idaho State Police located and stopped Rodriguez, who was driving with one passenger. The passenger said he and Rodriguez were bringing drugs to someone in Box Elder, located on Rocky Boy’s. Officers found approximately 149 grams of meth and more than 300 fentanyl pills in a search of the vehicle.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, Tri-Agency Task Force, Rocky Boy’s Police Department and Idaho State 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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U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich meets with North Macedonia judges visiting MontanaRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich met today in Great Falls with a group of North Macedonia judges who are visiting Montana to study the U.S. judicial system and ethics.
U.S. Attorney Laslovich participated in a panel discussion about the federal judicial system and explained how U.S. Attorneys are appointed, the role they have in the judicial system and their responsibilities in overseeing the prosecution and management of all cases, including fraud and public corruption cases. Additionally, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy J. Racicot, Ryan G. Weldon, and Benjamin D. Hargrove met with the visiting judges to talk about prosecution strategies, investigative tools and resources and ethical obligations.
The North Macedonia judges are visiting Montana to learn about the judicial system and ethics. North Macedonia has applied to join the European Union, and one of the requirements is to review their country’s ability to address high crimes and public corruption. The visiting judges are early career judges who will be shaping their country’s judicial policies.
“I am honored to share with these visiting judges my role as the chief federal law enforcement officer in the District of Montana and how we work with our federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners to seek justice, improve public safety, and uphold civil rights. Meeting with this North Macedonia delegation also is an excellent opportunity to build friendships, exchange cultures, and strengthen democratic societies around the world,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
“Great Falls, Montana is a city and state that is known all over Eurasia and the post-Soviet region because of the incredible welcome and hospitality shown to these delegates by the residents of this city and this state,” said Dr. Sandra Erickson, local program coordinator for the Advisory Commission (ACIR) for International Relations for the City of Great Falls. “It makes me proud to call Montana and Great Falls home. ACIR has hosted over a dozen such delegations over the past decade. This September 9-17, 2022 delegates are young professionals. They are eager to share and to learn information regarding our judicial system. The public presentation at Great Falls College is a good opportunity for local people to experience global interactions and citizen diplomacy.”
The Macedonian judges will give a presentation to the public at 10 a.m., Sept. 16, at Great Falls College MSU in Room B101. The public is invited to attend. The judges will be addressing their experiences in Montana, their culture and the future of their country. The Advisory Commission on International Relations for the City of Great Falls is hosting the group.
The North Macedonia delegation of five judges is in Montana from Sept. 9 to 17 as part of the Open World program, which is administered by Congressional Office for International Leadership (COIL), an arm of the U.S. Congress. The purpose of COIL programs is to introduce rising leaders of emerging countries to the importance of legislative functions in creating and sustaining democracies.
While in Montana, the delegation will be meeting with federal judges, federal prosecutors, district judges and local attorneys. The group also will be visiting with professors at the Alexander Blewett III School of Law at the University of Montana in Missoula, the Montana Supreme Court justices in Helena and Gov. Greg Gianforte. In addition, the judges will be meeting with representatives of Senators Jon Tester and Steve Daines.
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Browning man admits assaulting another man, causing serious injuryRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Browning man suspected of beating another man in the head on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation admitted to an assault charge today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Dale Ray Racine, 30, pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Racine faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other sentencing factors. Sentencing was set for Jan. 26, 2023. Racine was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that on Nov. 19, 2021, Racine and another individual assaulted the victim, identified as John Doe, in a Browning residence, on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. Doe was asleep when he woke to banging on the door and heard people talking. Doe sat up and saw Racine and the other individual rushing toward him. Doe was struck multiple times in the head and once to the hand and leg. Doe was treated for injuries to his head and hand.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services.
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Wolf Point woman who assaulted child sentenced to prisonRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Wolf Point woman who admitted to assaulting a toddler on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation was sentenced on Thursday to 34 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
Shelby Loves Him, 23, pleaded guilty in May to an indictment charging her with assault resulting in serious bodily injury and felony child abuse.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that Loves Him had been caring for the victim, a toddler, identified as John Doe, when on Dec. 8, 2021, law enforcement officers were contacted about John Doe being unresponsive at the Poplar Community Hospital. The officers observed bruising and scratches on John Doe’s head, arms and legs. When questioned about events prior to John Doe arriving at the hospital, Loves Him told officers that she had struck John Doe multiple times in the week leading up to an incident on Dec. 8, 2021, when she assaulted him. John Doe was flown to Salt Lake City, Utah, for emergency life-saving surgery and continues to suffer significant impairment.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Wendy A. Johnson prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Montana Highway Patrol and Fort Peck Tribes 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. 7 was:
Bruce William Ferguson, 65, of Fort Peck, on charges of mail fraud. If convicted of the most serious crime, Ferguson faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Ferguson was released pending further proceeding. The Bureau of Land Management investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-78.
Appearing on Sept. 6 was:
Tyrel Edward Olson, 29, of Miles City, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Olson faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Olson was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-73.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto on Sept.6 for an initial appearance on a criminal complaint was:
Evirso Ampude, 47, of Box Elder, on charges of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. If convicted of the most serious crime, 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. 22-70.
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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Butte nurse sentenced for diverting drugsRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Butte woman who admitted to diverting drugs while working as a nurse at a Butte hospital was sentenced today to five years of probation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Nichole Lynn Zinda, 37, pleaded guilty in May to unlawfully obtaining a controlled substance as charged in an indictment.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that a hospital in Butte notified the Drug Enforcement Administration that Zinda, a registered nurse working on the post-operation floor, was discovered diverting hydromorphone cartridges in September 2020. A hospital review of Zinda’s records showed an abnormally high number of transactions by Zinda regarding oxycodone and hydromorphone as compared with other nurses working on the same floor. Zinda was pretending to “waste” or dispose of the hydromorphone or was giving it to patients but then cancelling the orders in the system. The hospital terminated Zinda after she tested positive for hydromorphone as well as oxycodone/oxymorphone. Zinda told investigators that she took hydromorphone from the hospital to prevent her from getting sick when she didn’t have any pills.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the DEA, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation and St. James Hospital.
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Victor man sentenced to 10 years in prison for meth traffickingRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Victor man who admitted to trafficking methamphetamine after law enforcement found the drug along with a sawed-off shotgun and other firearms at his residence was sentenced on Tuesday to 10 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
Terrill Dwayne Martin, 53, pleaded guilty in May to possession with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that in November 2021, the Ravalli County Sheriff’s Office law enforcement officers conducted a search of Martin’s resident pursuant to a state warrant. Law enforcement recovered meth, a sawed-off shotgun, several firearms and drug paraphernalia. Martin admitted that he had meth in the safe in his residence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara J. Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force and the Ravalli 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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Kalispell woman admits running money mule business, sending money overseasRead the Press Release
MISSOULA —A Kalispell woman accused of operating a money mule business in which she collected money from various wire fraud schemes around the United States and then sent the funds overseas for a fee admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Theresa Anne Chabot, 57, pleaded guilty to unlicensed money transmitting businesses. Chabot faces a maximum of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. A sentencing date was set for Jan. 5, 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. Chabot was released pending further proceedings.
A plea agreement filed in the case recommends that 29 other counts charged in an indictment be dismissed at sentencing, that Chabot be responsible for complete restitution estimated by the government at approximately $5.2 million and that Chabot forfeit a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe.
The government alleged in court documents that from about May 2017 until February 2021, Chabot, through her business, Avalanche Creek, LLC, collected money from various wire fraud schemes around the United States into her bank accounts. When doing so, Chabot operated as a money transmitting business and was required to register Avalanche Creek with the Department of Treasury. The government further alleged that Chabot opened more than 50 bank accounts. Banks closed numerous accounts after reviewing the activity, and at least 15 banks directly informed Chabot the accounts were being closed due to fraud, violation of bank policies and other misuse. Despite the repeated bank account closures, Chabot would open new bank accounts that enabled her to receive proceeds. Chabot received a fee, which in some instances totaled approximately 10 percent of the proceeds deposited into her bank accounts. Chabot would then forward the remaining funds overseas, including to Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation.
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Kalispell couple sentenced to more than 30 months in prison in scheme to steal mail and use stolen credit cards to defraud businessesRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Kalispell couple convicted in a scheme to steal hundreds of pieces of mail from rural mailboxes in Lincoln and Flathead counties and use credit cards found in the stolen mail to defraud businesses were sentenced to prison terms today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Michael Thomas Kullberg, 34, was sentenced to 31 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. Kullberg pleaded guilty in May to theft of mail, wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.
Kullberg’s wife, Jennifer Don Smith, 38, was sentenced to 32 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. Smith pleaded guilty in May to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.
Both Kullberg and Smith were ordered to pay $2,302 restitution, which consisted of the fraudulent charges and reimbursement for stolen mail.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that on at least two occasions in March and April 2020, Kullberg, while wearing a GPS unit for a previous felony conviction, stole mail and packages from rural mailboxes of at least 300 residents in the Eureka, Libby, Kila and Marion areas. Kullberg also stole at least two credit cards from the incoming mail, and used them, while wearing his GPS unit, to make fraudulent charges at various businesses Eureka and Kalispell. Smith conspired with her husband to use stolen credit cards taken from the victims’ mail and personally tendered the cards. The investigation found that the stolen mail was dumped along roadways, ditches and other public areas. Dozens of residents reported the loss of packages, letters, bills, outgoing checks and personal identifying information. Kullberg later denied that he stole mail or used anyone else’s credit card without permission. When asked why his GPS unit placed him at the scene of the thefts, Kullberg explained he was driving around fighting with Smith in the car.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Eureka Police Department and Montana Probation and Parole.
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Clinton man sentenced to more than six years in prison for trafficking meth in Missoula, Flathead countiesRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Clinton man who admitted to trafficking methamphetamine in Missoula and Flathead counties was sentenced today to six years and four months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Michael Scott Naron, 34, pleaded guilty in April to conspiracy to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
The government alleged in court documents that Naron was a meth dealer in Missoula and Flathead counties from January 2020 through October 2020. In May 2020, a burglary investigation led to a search of Naron’s home in which law enforcement recovered heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, U.S. currency, two stolen firearms and other stolen items. During a traffic stop of Naron on Interstate 90 in Montana in October 2020, law enforcement later searched his vehicle and recovered meth, heroin, firearms and drug paraphernalia. Additionally, law enforcement learned from an informant that the individual provided Naron large quantities of meth and received two stolen firearms from him.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara J. Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force, Missoula County Sheriff’s Office, Missoula Police Department and Montana Highway Patrol.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Wolf Point man admits fentanyl trafficking crimeRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Wolf Point man suspected of going to the post office and picking up a package he thought contained fentanyl pills admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Andre Jean Reum, 24, pleaded guilty to attempted possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Reum faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris set sentencing for Jan. 5, 2023. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Reum was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that the U.S. Postal Service inspector identified a suspicious package mailed from Tacoma, Washington, to a post office box in Wolf Point, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. On May 23, the inspector served a search warrant on the package and found toys and plastic bags that contained suspected fentanyl. The inspector removed the suspected fentanyl and repackaged the parcel, which was delivered to the Wolf Point post office the next day. Reum went to the post office later in the day, after having checked on the package earlier in the day and on the previous day. Reum retrieved the package, spoke to a bystander and was arrested. The bystander reported that Reum had slapped the parcel and stated he had to take care of business. An analysis determined that 586 pills contained fentanyl.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Postal Service, Fort Peck Tribes Department of Law and Justice and the Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office.
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Philipsburg woman sentenced to prison for Social Security, SNAP, and Medicaid fraud totaling more than $140,000Read the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Philipsburg woman who admitted to lying for more than 10 years about her income and resources to receive more Social Security Administration (SSA) benefits and other federal aid than she was qualified to receive was sentenced today to one year and one day in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay full restitution of $142,542, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Virginia Kathleen Pearson, 56, pleaded guilty in April to false statements to a government agency.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided. Judge Molloy remanded Pearson into custody.
“Pearson knew she was obligated to truthfully report her income and resources but instead lied for more than a decade to boost her benefits. Supplemental Security Income and Medicaid are federal programs intended to help those truly in need and to ensure they get adequate care when they cannot afford it. Pearson’s conduct took assistance from others who were without options. We will continue to safeguard federal benefits and will investigate and prosecute those who try to exploit these programs. I want to thank Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter, the Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General and the Montana Department of Health and Human Services for their work on this case,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
“This sentence holds Ms. Pearson accountable for defrauding government programs. As part of her scheme, she abused the Supplemental Security Income program, the needs-based safety net for the most vulnerable among us by falsifying her true circumstances and causing SSA to improperly pay her over $101,000,” said Gail S. Ennis, Inspector General for the Social Security Administration. “My office will continue to pursue those who exploit SSA programs for personal gain. I thank our law enforcement partners for their support in this investigation and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecuting this case.”
The government alleged in court documents that in 2006, Pearson applied for Social Security Income (SSI) from the SSA and was approved for benefits in 2008. Pearson was informed of her obligation to report any change to her household income, resources and household composition. Pearson had advised she lived in a home with her husband, Doyle Pearson, and, as such, his income and resources were considered in determining the amount of SSI for which Pearson was eligible. One month after receiving her first SSA payment, Pearson reported to SSA that her husband had moved out of the home. Pearson’s SSI benefits increased significantly after SSA removed Doyle Pearson’s contributions and re-calculated Pearson’s benefits. Further, between November 2008 and December 2019, Pearson received nine cost of living adjustments and two change in payment letters detailing her obligation to report changes to her income, resources and household composition.
In August 2019, Doyle Pearson applied for Social Security retirement benefits, reported he was married and provided the same address where Pearson stated she had lived alone since September 2008.
In response, SSA conducted a redetermination and Pearson again represented she lived alone, rented a home, had one savings account and co-owned one vehicle. Pearson attested that Doyle Pearson lived at another address and that they had been separated for 15 years.
An investigation determined that Pearson’s statements were false and that the couple lived together and co-owned the house. Pearson also had unreported bank accounts and additional vehicles that were titled in her name or jointly with her husband.
Pearson made similar misrepresentations to Montana Public Assistance. In total, Pearson fraudulently obtained $101,136 from SSA, $23,116 from the Montana Department of Health and Human Services, which distributes Supplement Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, and $18,203 from Medicaid.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the SSA Office of Inspector General and Montana Department of Health and Human Services.
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Billings felon sentenced to prison for illegal possession of firearmsRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Billings man who admitted to illegally possessing firearms after having been convicted of a felony was sentenced today to two years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Michael Russell Torres, 30, pleaded guilty in April to two counts of prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
The government alleged in court documents that Torres was convicted of a felony drug crime in New York in 2013 and did not regain his right to possess firearms. In March 2021, Missoula Police officers responded to a citizen’s complaint and found Torres outside of a vehicle. Torres told officers he had a firearm on him. When officers placed Torres in handcuffs, a loaded, 9mm caliber pistol that had been under his shoulder fell to the ground. About a year later, law enforcement officers served an arrest warrant on Torres in Billings and found a .40 caliber pistol in his front waistband during a search.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Missoula Police Department and Billings Police Department.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Billings man sentenced to more than 15 years in prison for trafficking meth in Montana, Idaho and OregonRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man who admitted to trafficking methamphetamine in Montana, Idaho and Oregon and was arrested after leading law enforcement on high-speed chase before crashing near Laurel was sentenced today to 15 years and three months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Robert Allen Williams, 58, pleaded guilty in April to possession with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
“Williams was a regional drug dealer who not only trafficked this poison in Montana communities but also in Idaho and Oregon. Investigating and prosecuting drug traffickers who work across multiple states is a priority for this office, and this significant sentence holds Williams accountable for his conduct,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
In court documents, the government alleged that in April 2021, Billings Drug Enforcement Administration agents received information from DEA agents in Oregon about Williams and co-defendant Yvonne Schlichting, who were suspected of trafficking methamphetamine in Oregon, Idaho and Montana and were traveling in a rental vehicle in Montana. Billings DEA agents, along with the Montana Highway Patrol, located the rental vehicle outside of Laurel. A MHP trooper attempted to stop the vehicle, but Williams, the driver, refused to stop and led troopers on a high-speed chase toward Red Lodge. The vehicle then made a U-turn in the median and headed back to Laurel. The vehicle ran over spike strips deployed by law enforcement and continued into Laurel where it went through a red light and struck another vehicle. Officers executed a search warrant on the vehicle and found $26,976 in cash and approximately 267 grams, which is about a half pound, of pure meth. Schlichting was convicted in the case and is pending sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie R. Patten prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the DEA, Montana Highway Patrol and Laurel Police Department.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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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 Aug. 26 was:
Alexis Rae Walker, 27, of Billings, on charges of possession of unregistered firearm, prohibited person in possession of firearm and ammunition and receipt of firearm by person under indictment. If convicted of the most serious crime, Walker faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Walker was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-86.
Appearing on Aug. 25 was:
Chad Leroy Stone, 45, of Emigrant, on charges of prohibited person in possession of firearm and ammunition. If convicted of the most serious crime, Stone faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Stone was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Park County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-93.
Appearing on Aug. 24 was:
Gregory Richard Boyd, 39, of Billings, on charges of prohibited person in possession of firearm and ammunition. If convicted of the most serious crime, Boyd faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Boyd was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 20-121.
Appearing on Aug. 22 was:
Armando Luis Gonzalez, Jr., 29, a transient, on charges of bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. If convicted of the most serious crime, Gonzalez faces a maximum of 30 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release and a mandatory minimum two years in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, on aggravated identity theft. Gonzalez was detained pending further proceedings. Homeland Security Investigations and the Billings Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-87.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on Aug. 25 was:
Garrick Allen Robinson, Jr., 20, of Wolf Point, on charges of sexual abuse. If convicted of the most serious crime, Robinson faces a maximum of life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. Robinson was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Fort Peck Law Enforcement Services investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-62.
Appearing on Aug. 23 was:
Jorge Perez, 41, 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, Perez faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Perez was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, Great Falls Police Department and Cascade County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-60.
Thomas Jeff Richardson, 49, of Great Falls, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Richardson faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Richardson was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Cascade County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-61.
Jordan Joseph Morgan, 30, of Browning, on charges of involuntary manslaughter. If convicted of the most serious crime, Morgan faces a maximum of eight years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Morgan was released pending further proceedings. The FBI 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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Possession of child pornography sends Billings man to prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Billings man who admitted to possessing images and videos of child pornography was sentenced today to three years in prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Robert Christopher Baenziger, 42, pleaded guilty in November 2021 to possession of child pornography.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. Judge Christensen ordered $3,000 restitution. Baenziger was allowed to self-report to the Bureau of Prisons.
The government alleged in court documents that in February 2019, law enforcement was reviewing peer-to-peer platforms on the internet and observed a certain IP address, designed, in part, to provide for anonymous file sharing, requesting parts of files associated with child pornography. The system, by design, is complex and requires significant technical skill to operate. Law enforcement determined that Baenziger had requested the files of child pornography using this system. Officers served a search warrant on Baenziger’s residence and seized electronic media belonging to him. An examination of the electronic media located almost 500 images and four videos depicting child pornography on Baenziger’s computer hardware.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno B. Baucus prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI.
This case was initiated under the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, which was launched in 2006 to combat the proliferation of technology-facilitated crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children. Through a network of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and advocacy organizations, Project Safe Childhood attempts to protect children by investigating and prosecuting offenders involved in child sexual exploitation. It is implemented through partnerships including the Montana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The ICAC Task Force Program was created to assist state and local law enforcement agencies by enhancing their investigative response to technology facilitated crimes against children.
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Butte man sentenced to more than six years in prison for distributing meth, fentanylRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Butte man who admitted to distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl in the community was sentenced today to six years and five months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Cody Scott Shuler, 29, pleaded guilty in May to distribution of controlled substances.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that law enforcement learned from various sources of Shuler’s drug distribution activities around Butte. In January, law enforcement conducted a controlled buy from Shuler in which he sold meth and 23 counterfeit Oxycodone pills that contained fentanyl. Shuler admitted to law enforcement to making trips to Spokane to purchase drugs. The government also alleged that Shuler threatened others with a pistol and “pistol whipped” an individual.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon 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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Washington residents convicted of transporting Mexican nationals who crossed illegally into United States from CanadaRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — Two Washington residents suspected of picking up six Mexican nationals who crossed illegally into the United States from Canada through a remote area in Lincoln County were convicted of charges, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
A federal jury convicted Miguel Angel Medina, 62, of Seattle, Washington, on Aug. 23 of transportation of illegal aliens following a two-day trial that began on Aug. 22. Co-defendant Leslie Patricia Rivera, 51, of Seattle, Washington, pleaded guilty on Aug. 22, before the trial began, to transportation of illegal aliens.
Rivera and Medina face a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. Judge Christensen set sentencing for Dec. 14 for both defendants. Rivera was released pending further proceedings, while Medina was detained.
“Rivera and Medina, motivated by money, transported six illegal Mexican nationals who walked across the border in the middle of winter to be picked up in the middle of nowhere. We will continue working with law enforcement to secure our border with Canada and will prosecute those who engage in this dangerous smuggling activity that exploits vulnerable people. I want to thank our assistant U.S. attorneys and the U.S. Border Patrol for their work on this case,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
In court documents and at trial, the government alleged that Rivera and Medina picked up six illegal aliens who had just crossed the international border from Canada in the Green Basin area of the West Kootenai near Rexford, in Lincoln County, a place that was not a port of entry. Rivera and Medina had left Seattle in a rented car the prior day and drove straight through. A friend of Rivera’s had offered her $3,500 to pick up four people and drive them back to Seattle. At the time of Rivera’s arrest, she had received partial payment. Rivera paid Medina $1,000 to accompany her. At approximately 5 a.m. on Jan. 19, a U.S. Border Patrol agent was notified of persons potentially attempting to illegally enter the United States. The agent ultimately stopped a SUV with a Washington license plate on a Forest Service road. Rivera was the driver, Medina was the front passenger and six other occupants, who acknowledged being from Mexico and in the country illegally, were in the rear two seats. All eight suspects were transported to the Eureka Border Patrol Station for processing. The six illegal aliens claimed to have paid from $180 to $7,324 to be smuggled into the United States.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the U.S. Border Patrol.
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Lodge Grass man admits burglary in sexual abuse investigationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Lodge Grass man suspected of breaking into a woman’s house on the Crow Indian Reservation and sexually abusing her in 2020 admitted to a burglary charge today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Joe Claren Tate Reed, 32, pleaded guilty to burglary. Reed faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $50,000 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 Dec. 8. Reed was detained pending further proceedings.
A plea agreement filed in the case calls for a second count of sexual abuse to be dismissed at sentencing if the court accepts the agreement.
In court documents, the government alleged that on July 18, 2020, Reed was drinking with the victim, identified as Jane Doe, and others. In the early morning, Doe was taken home and put to bed because of alcohol intoxication. Doe awoke naked in her bed. Doe realized that while she was passed out, her bedroom window had been removed and her front door was unlocked. Doe suspected Reed had broken into her home and had sexually abused her. Doe made an immediate report to the Bureau of Indian Affairs law enforcement and got a sexual assault medical exam. Reed consented to giving a buccal swab. The results found Reed’s DNA on swabs taken from Doe’s exam. Reed initially denied having sex with Doe. When confronted with the DNA results, Reed changed his story and claimed he attempted to have consensual sex with Doe, but she passed out, so he stopped.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lori Harper Suek and Thomas K. Godfrey are prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI.
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Michigan man admits trafficking fentanyl on Rocky Boy’s Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS—A Michigan man admitted on Aug. 22 to bringing fentanyl pills to the Rocky Boy’s Indian reservation for distribution, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
Romeiro Mased Williams, aka Rico, 30, of Detroit, Michigan, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Williams faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and three years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris set sentencing for Dec. 8. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Williams was released pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in December 2020, the FBI was investigating a number of individuals from the Detroit area who were suspected to be distributing fentanyl on and around the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation. The FBI learned in mid-December that one of the individuals from this group, identified as Williams, was picked up at the Great Falls airport and taken to a home on Rocky Boy’s. Williams and John Doe, the resident of the home, were seen with pills and cash. The FBI executed a search warrant at the residence. Williams, John Doe and others were present. Officers seized about $920 in cash from Williams’ pocket and a bag of fentanyl was found on the floor. Williams claimed to have traveled from Michigan to Rocky Boy’s looking for a better place to live and denied ever seeing pills and knowing anything about drug trafficking. John Doe and others at the residence stated that Williams, had in fact, brought the pills that were seized. John Doe also admitted to helping Williams connect with local drug purchasers. Approximately 179 pills were submitted for DEA testing, and all tested pills contained fentanyl.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Tri Agency Task Force, Russell Country High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
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Informational: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on Aug. 19 was:
Jacob Israel Strong, aka Jacob Israel Guill, 36, of Heron, on charges of conspiracy and international parental kidnapping. If convicted of the most serious crime, Strong faces a maximum of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Strong was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-28.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on Aug. 18 was:
Damon Joel Castillo, 46, of Hays, on charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and distribution of meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Castillo faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and four years of supervised release. Castillo was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-56.
Osvaldo Aguilar, aka Aldo Chavez, aka Creeper, 47, of Cut Bank, 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, Aguilar faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and five years of supervised release. Aguilar was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, Glacier County Sheriff’s Office and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-54.
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on Aug. 16 was:
Gene John Klamert, 70, of Billings, on charges of mail fraud. If convicted of the most serious crime, Klamert faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Klamert was released pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Land Management investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-78.
Nathiel Bartell Plainbull, 33, unknown address, on charges of sexual abuse of a minor. If convicted of the most serious crime, Plainbull faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. Plainbull was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-81.
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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Heart Butte man sentenced to prison for meth trafficking on Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Heart Butte man who admitted to trafficking methamphetamine on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation was sentenced today to 38 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Gary Allen Jimenez, 27, pleaded guilty in May to possession with intent to distribute meth.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that Jimenez, while on federal supervised released for a previous drug conviction, was involved with using and dealing meth on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. Based on information from law enforcement, Jimenez’s federal probation officer called Jimenez into the office in Browning in January for a drug screen, which was positive for meth and amphetamine. In a search of Jimenez’s truck, the probation officer found 246 grams of meth, which is about a half pound, in his backpack.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica A. Betley prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, U.S. Probation Office and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Billings felon sentenced to prison for illegal possession of firearmRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Billings felon who admitted to illegal possession of a firearm after his arrest in Poplar while absconding from Billings, was sentenced today to 38 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Curtis Jeffrey Montclair, 38, of Poplar and Billings, pleaded guilty in May to prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that in June 2020, Montclair, a convicted felon on state absconder status from Billings, possessed a 9mm pistol in Poplar. On June 29, 2020, Fort Peck tribal police responded to a report of a man who had discharged a firearm. Officers located Montclair, who was walking with three females. Officers asked to talk to Montclair, who then fled on foot. During the foot chase, Montclair took out a firearm and a bag and dropped them. The officer caught up to Montclair and used his taser to stop him. The officer recovered the handgun. Montclair admitted he knew he was prohibited from possessing firearms and that he had absconded from state supervision. In 2018, Montclair was convicted and sentenced on three separate felony drug possession cases in Yellowstone County.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Fort Peck 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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Jury convicts Washington man of trafficking meth, fentanyl in Great Falls and Rocky Boy’s Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A federal jury today convicted a Washington man of drug trafficking charges after he was accused of bringing methamphetamine and fentanyl to Great Falls and the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation for distribution, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
After a two-day trial that began on Aug. 16, the jury found Aaron Ramirez Espinoza, 37, of Yakima, Washington, guilty of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances as charged in a superseding indictment. Espinoza faces a mandatory minimum 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. Chief Judge Morris set sentencing for Dec. 1. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Espinoza remains detained pending further proceedings.
“Removing from our streets drug traffickers like Espinoza who poison our communities with these highly addictive and dangerous drugs continues to be a top priority for our office and our law enforcement partners. I want to thank Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut, along with the FBI, Russell Country Drug Task Force and Great Falls Police Department for their diligent work on this case,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
In court documents and at trial, the government alleged that in May 2021, law enforcement seized fentanyl pills from a witness, who identified his suppliers as a group of men from Yakima. The investigation led to Espinoza being identified as a member of this group. Law enforcement further learned that Espinoza was bringing drugs to Montana for distribution. On May 12, 2022, officers arrested Espinoza at a Great Falls business’ gas station, searched him and found in his jacket pocket a pouch containing a bag of meth and two bags of fentanyl pills. Officers also located a scale, a number of credit cards and a Washington identification card. Espinoza told law enforcement he was in a gang in Washington and that the drugs recovered were for personal use. However, Espinoza later said he had been going to meet someone at the business but that they never showed up and that he was “trying to make a living.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Russell Country Drug Task Force and Great Falls Police Department.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Billings woman admits trafficking fentanyl on Rocky Boy’s Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Billings woman suspected of trafficking methamphetamine and fentanyl on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Chantel Marie Azure, 33, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. Azure faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris set sentencing for Dec. 1. The court will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Azure was detained pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that from about December 2020 through January 2021, at Havre and on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation, Azure conspired with others to distribute meth and fentanyl. In January 2021, an informant working with law enforcement made a controlled purchase of 10 suspected fentanyl pills for $800 from Azure. The transaction involved Azure driving, with two male passengers, to a location and doing the drug deal in the informant’s car. Law enforcement continued surveillance of Azure and watched her engage in what appeared to be another transaction with a known local drug user. Law enforcement then stopped Azure’s vehicle, and identified the two other passengers, who ultimately were arrested. Cash from the controlled buy was found on the passengers. One of the passengers had meth and fentanyl pills the other passenger had a smaller bag of meth. A search warrant for Azure’s Facebook accounts recovered evidence of Azure trafficking both meth and pills.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the Tri Agency Task Force, Drug Enforcement Administration and Havre Police Department.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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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 Aug. 8 was:
Reginald Steven Williams, 31, of Billings, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute meth, possession of a firearm in furtherance drug trafficking and prohibited person in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Williams 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, consecutive to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release on the crime of possession a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Williams was detained pending further proceedings. The Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-84.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on Aug. 8 was:
Benjamin Richard Skinner, 32, of Great Falls, and Keith Alan Laverdure, 35, of Great Falls, on charges of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crime. If convicted of the most serious crime, Skinner and Laverdure face a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and three years of supervised release on the drug crime and a mandatory minimum five years to life in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, on the crime of possession of firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Both defendants were released pending further proceedings. The Great Falls Police Department, FBI and Montana Highway Patrol investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-58.
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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Butte woman sentenced to prison for stealing more than $600,000 from elderly, blind victim under her guardianshipRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Butte woman who admitted to stealing more than $600,000 from an elderly and blind woman, now deceased, who was under her care, and spending the money instead on lake property, vehicles, a pontoon boat and other items for herself was sentenced on Aug. 10 to one year and a day in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
Debra Gean Roeber, 66, pleaded guilty in April to wire fraud and to money laundering.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. Judge Christensen also ordered $661,549.00 in restitution.
“Montanans are inherently trusting and the victim in this case trusted Roeber because she was the victim’s guardian. Roeber abused that trust when she defrauded her elderly, lonely, and blind victim, which is not just tragic and egregious, it’s reprehensible and unacceptable. Our office and our law enforcement partners will not tolerate elder abuse, and we will be steadfast in our commitment to protect our most vulnerable friends and neighbors,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
“Senior citizens and those that care about them must be vigilant to prevent future scams targeting elder Americans,” said Andy Tsui, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation Denver Field Office. “As a community, it is our responsibility to care for our elders. As a law enforcement community, it is our duty to hold individuals accountable who abuse their position of trust and steal from the people that are under their care.”
“Motivated purely by greed, Roeber defrauded the victim and betrayed her trust. This was a truly reprehensible crime aggravated by the fact that the victim was blind,” said Special Agent in Charge Dennis Rice of the Salt Lake City FBI. “Our elderly citizens should be valued, not victimized. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will hold accountable those who prey on society’s vulnerable populations.”
The government alleged in court documents that the state district court appointed Roeber as the guardian and conservator for the victim, identified as Jane Doe, who was unable to care for herself or her financial needs without assistance because she was blind. From about January 2017 until June 2020, Roeber stole $661,549 from Jane Doe and used the money for, among other things, construction projects on lake property at Canyon Ferry, vehicles, furniture, a pontoon boat and cash. None of the expenditures was authorized. Roeber admitted she took advantage of Jane Doe “a lot,” including lying to the victim about her finances. Jane Doe, who is now deceased, lived her final days believing this fraud left her destitute and unable to care for her simple needs.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation.
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Missoula meth trafficker sentenced to prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Missoula woman who admitted to distributing large amounts of methamphetamine in the community was sentenced today to 30 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Jessica Rachel Graff, 46, pleaded guilty in March to possession with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in September 2021, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Graff’s residence and recovered meth, drug paraphernalia and a large amount of U.S. currency. Investigators learned from a witness that from January 2021 to September 2021, Graff distributed one to two ounces of meth per day and was seen in possession of approximately a half-pound to one pound of meth. Another witness told investigators about buying large quantities of meth and heroin from Graff and purchased approximately one ounce of meth every day from Graff and one of Graff’s associates for more than a year.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara J. Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime 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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Belgrade construction company co-owner sentenced to prison for failing to pay $2.8 million in payroll taxesRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — The co-owner of H & H Earthworks, Inc., was sentenced today to 30 months in prison after she admitted to failing to pay the IRS more than $2.8 million in employee and employer taxes, and instead, spent some of the money on personal expenses, including home renovations and recreational vehicles, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Melissa Lynne Horner, 43, of Bozeman, pleaded guilty in April to failure to truthfully account for and pay over withholding and F.I.C.A. taxes, a felony, and to failure to file employer’s quarterly return and pay tax, a misdemeanor.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. Judge Christensen also ordered Horner to serve three years of supervised release following incarceration and to pay $2,878,522 restitution. Horner was allowed to self-report to the Bureau of Prisons.
“Those who evade our federal and state tax laws by cheating taxpaying Americans out of their hard-earned dollars, especially those who are entitled to their Medicare and Social Security payments, will be held accountable for their criminal conduct. Horner’s sentence shows that those who fraudulently refuse to pay taxes that every employer is required to pay will face criminal prosecution by our office. The people of our state and nation deserve nothing less,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
“Business owners have an obligation to their employees and the IRS to pay over payroll and employment taxes,” said Andy Tsui, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation Denver Field Office. “By withholding these taxes for her personal gain Ms. Horner not only defrauded the federal government, but also all honest taxpayers, and today’s sentencing is a direct reflection of the seriousness of her crime.”
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that H & H Earthworks, Inc., is a Belgrade-based, family owned, commercial site-development business, and that Horner managed the company’s finances. The company employed between 20 and 60 persons from 2014 through 2019.
For approximately five years, beginning in March 2014 through 2019, Horner had Earthworks pay hundreds of thousands of dollars of expenditures for her personal benefit instead of paying over to the IRS payroll tax required to be withheld from Earthworks’ employees’ paychecks. Horner used the money for personal expenses, including, more than $100,000 on motorsport vehicles, $90,000 to a real estate title company in Bozeman, at least $50,000 on home renovations and $20,000 for a motorhome.
The government further alleged that Horner withdrew Federal Insurance Contribution Act (FICA) taxes from the wages paid to Earthworks employees and failed to pay over the trust fund taxes to the IRS. Horner also failed to pay over Earthworks’ portion of the FICA taxes (Federal Income, Social Security and Medicare taxes). In addition, Horner failed to file quarterly Forms 941, Employer’s Quarterly Federal Tax Returns, prior to being notified of the criminal investigation. Horner knew she was required to pay over the employment taxes and file the quarterly Forms 941 and willfully chose to violate this obligation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation.
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Informational: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on Aug. 4 was:
James Kelly Chavez, 40, of Billings, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Chavez faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Chavez was detained pending further proceedings. The Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, Drug Enforcement Administration and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-75.
Appearing on Aug. 2 was:
Oscar Albert Nevarez, 38, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, 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, Nevarez 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 crimes 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 firearms crime. Nevarez was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Park County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-43.
James D. Murrieta, 36, of Utica, New York, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute meth, distribution of meth and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. If convicted of the most serious crime, Murrieta 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 crimes 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 firearms crime. Murrieta was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Park County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-43.
Appearing on Aug. 4 in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston for an initial appearance on a criminal complaint was:
Jorge Perez, 40, of Spokane, Washington, on charges of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. If convicted of the most serious crime, Perez faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Perez was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-59.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Former teacher admits possessing child pornographyRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A former Judith Gap School teacher today admitted to possessing child pornography after Facebook submitted tips about the possible transmission of the material on its system to authorities, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Jayson Gayo, 27, of Harlowton, pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography as charged in an indictment. Gayo faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. Judge Watters set sentencing for Dec. 15 and ordered Gayo remanded into custody pending further proceedings. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The government alleged in court documents and in court that in August 2020, Facebook submitted a series of Cybertips after flagging the possible transmission of child pornography on its system. The information indicated that the transmission of child pornography was from an account that was connected to the Judith Gap School and to Gayo’s residence in Judith Gap. Gayo was a teacher at Judith Gap School. There was no indication that the images or Gayo’s conduct involved students at the school. Investigators executed a search warrant of Gayo’s residence, collected multiple electronic media items and determined that the items contained more than 400 images and videos of child pornography. A search warrant issued to Facebook for Gayo’s account found additional evidence of uploads of child pornography from that account.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno B. Baucus is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation.
This case was initiated under the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, which was launched in 2006 to combat the proliferation of technology-facilitated crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children. Through a network of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and advocacy organizations, Project Safe Childhood attempts to protect children by investigating and prosecuting offenders involved in child sexual exploitation. It is implemented through partnerships including the Montana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The ICAC Task Force Program was created to assist state and local law enforcement agencies by enhancing their investigative response to technology facilitated crimes against children.
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Lewistown man admits bank fraud in obtaining loans for his cattle ranching businessRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Lewistown man today admitted to defrauding a bank and a credit union after obtaining more than $1 million in loans for his cattle ranching business, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Eric Edward Mack, 43, pleaded guilty to bank fraud. Mack faces a maximum of 30 years in prison, a $1 million fine and 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.
The government alleged in court documents that from November 2015 to January 2018, Mack applied for and received multiple operating loans from Garfield County Bank and from the Fergus Federal Credit Union for his cattle ranching business. At the Garfield bank, Mack had loans totaling approximately $885,000 from 2015 to 2017, and at the Fergus credit union, Mack had loans totaling approximately $250,000 from 2016 to 2018. Mack secured loans at both businesses, with items, including cattle belonging to him. The government further alleged that between April 18, 2018 and June 14, 2018, Mack sold cattle, totaling more than $50,000, that were securing the Garfield and Fergus loans. Mack did not pay any of the proceeds to either the bank or credit union. The money should have been paid to the bank and credit union because the cattle secured Mack’s loans.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI.
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Two women admit armed robbery of Billings Heights casino; discarding loaded firearms on elementary school propertyRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — Two women accused of stealing liquor at gunpoint from a Billings Heights casino, firing a warning shot while fleeing and ultimately discarding two loaded firearms on elementary school property admitted robbery and firearms charges, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Taliah Jeneane Ramirez, 22, of Billings, pleaded guilty today to a superseding information charging her with robbery affecting commerce, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and possession of a firearm in a school zone. Co-defendant Makyla Shayd Fetter, 28, of Harlem, pleaded guilty on July 28 to the same charges.
Ramirez and Fetter each face 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, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release on the crime of possessing a firearm in a crime of violence. In addition, the defendants face a maximum of five years in prison, not to be run concurrent to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release, on the crime of possession of a firearm in a school zone.
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.
The government alleged in court documents that on March 20, Fetter and Ramirez entered the Magic Diamond Casino in the Billings Heights, and Fetter removed five bottles of Southern Comfort liquor from a shelf. When an employee approached Fetter and asked to see her identification, Fetter pulled out a pistol, pointed it at the clerk and said, “here’s your (obscenity) ID.” Meanwhile, another employee had moved to block the doors. Fetter then pointed the firearm at the second employee, who moved away from the doors. The defendants got into a Buick, and before leaving, Ramirez took out another pistol and fired a round into the air. In a statement later, Ramirez said that Fetter told her to fire a round to prevent people from following them or identifying the vehicle.
The government further alleged that the Billings Police Department responded to the robbery and attempted a traffic stop of the Buick. The car fled at more than 80 mph, and the officer stopped a pursuit after a few blocks to avoid risks to civilians. The vehicle crashed a short time later after going through a fence at Ponderosa Elementary School. Law enforcement officers found the car abandoned with multiple bottles of Southern Comfort on the front passenger floorboard. During a search of the area, officers found Fetter, who was attempting to hide in grass next to a fence. Ramirez had fled. Officers searched Fetter but did not find a firearm. However, officers found a loaded gun that had been dropped in the middle of the playground. The next day, the school principal contacted the Billings Police Department about a second firearm that had been found on the school grounds by a student, who summoned a faculty member. A police officer determined that the second firearm also was loaded. Both firearms were determined to have been stolen.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin M. Rubich is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Billings Police Department, Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.
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Fort Kipp woman admits manslaughter charge in vehicle deathRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Fort Kipp woman today admitted to a manslaughter charge for striking and killing a man with her vehicle on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
JoAnna Sayetsitty, 35, pleaded guilty to a superseding information charging her with involuntary manslaughter. Sayetsitty faces a maximum of eight years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John Johnston presided. Sentencing will be set sometime later this fall before Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris. The court will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The government alleged in court documents that on Aug. 25, 2019, law enforcement responded to a call of a deceased individual who had been found in a wheat field south of Fort Kipp, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. The individual, identified as John Doe, was eventually identified after law enforcement posted a description of his clothing on social media. Officers interviewed Sayetsitty, who had been in a relationship with John Doe, at her residence. Officers discovered front-end damage to Sayetsitty’s Suburban SUV and found a piece of material matching John Doe’s clothing hanging from the vehicle.
The government further alleged that Sayetsitty told officers that on the evening she last saw John Doe, they had been driving around the area, drinking alcohol and listening to music. The two began arguing, John Doe got out of the car and Sayetsitty drove away from where he was standing in the field. Sayetsitty told officers multiple times that she was the only driver of the vehicle. Officers impounded the vehicle and, pursuant to a search warrant, found evidence from the undercarriage that matched John Doe’s DNA. An autopsy determined that John Doe died of blunt force injuries typical of a pedestrian being struck by a vehicle. Sayetsitty admitted in court to driving the vehicle in a reckless manner, and striking John Doe, causing his death.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Wendy A. Johnson is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Fort Peck Tribes Department of Law and Justice, and the Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office.
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Florence Man Sentenced to Prison for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Florence man who admitted to receiving numerous files of child pornography was sentenced today to seven years in prison, followed by ten years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. The defendant was also ordered to pay $51,000 in restitution to the victims. Senior U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
Jeffrey Brandon Zabolotney, 35, previously pleaded guilty in March to one count of receipt of child pornography.
The government alleged in court documents that in November 2020, the Ravalli County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) received a report that the defendant was accessing child pornography online and that he possessed child pornography on a digital storage device. After obtaining a search warrant for the defendant’s residence, law enforcement seized multiple computers and storage devices. The RCSO reviewed some of the seized devices and located digital files that depicted children engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
In May 2021, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) began assisting the RCSO with the analysis and review of additional computer items that had not been searched by the RCSO. After analyzing data from computers and digital storage devices that belonged to and were used by the defendant, law enforcement officers and a Certified Forensic Examiner determined that between approximately June 2017 and August 2020, the defendant received over 4,600 image files and over 135 video files of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The sexually explicit conduct included children being raped and being subjected to sexually sadistic conduct. Some of the minors in the files are prepubescent. In addition to content of the files themselves, law enforcement located other evidence that shows the defendant’s intent to commit the crime including documents with websites and passwords related to child pornography and a web history related to a user seeking child pornography.
“HSI investigators and support personnel will relentlessly use all of our investigative capabilities to punish those who engage in the despicable abuse of children, in some cases as young as infants,” said Ryan L. Spradlin, Special Agent in Charge, HSI Denver. “This sentence holds Zabolotney accountable for his atrocious crimes and serves as a warning that HSI and its law enforcement partners will work diligently to keep these predators out of Montana.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Cyndee L. Peterson prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Ravalli County Sheriff’ Office and Homeland Security Investigations.
Billings Woman Sentenced to 32 Months in Prison in Identity Theft CaseRead the Press Release
BILLINGS - U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich announced today that a 37-year-old Billings woman was sentenced to two and a half years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release for multiple counts of wire fraud, bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. Additionally, the defendant was ordered to pay $21,045.98 in restitution. U.S. District Judge Susan Watters presided.
Elizabeth Stephenson, while working at an assisted living facility in Billings, Montana, took the debit card and PIN from a 96-year-old resident who requested she buy him a six-pack of beer. Stephenson did so, and then used the victim’s bank card twelve times to place funds—over $1,000—on the Telmate account of her boyfriend who was incarcerated in Idaho. Over the next month—and on 22 separate occasions—Stephenson took the card to an ATM and withdrew over $16,200 from the victim’s account, always in $700 increments. Stephenson also utilized the victim’s credit card to obtain thousands of dollars of criminal legal services for her boyfriend. All told, Stephenson caused a loss of over $21,000.00 to the elderly victim. The missing money was discovered by a relative who was serving as the victim’s Power of Attorney.
When questioned by law enforcement, Stephenson denied any involvement and claimed the victim never gave her his credit card. Stephenson maintained her innocence even when advised that her name had been entered in an attempted Cash App transaction on the victim’s phone. When Stephenson finally acknowledged she took the money, she claimed the victim gave her permission and that she always provided him with some of the funds she withdrew. Stephenson later conceded that the victim did not actually have the capacity to authorize the transfer of any funds to her.
When interviewed, the victim could not remember which employee he gave his card. After Stephenson’s theft was discovered, he only had $94 in his wallet.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla Painter prosecuted the case which was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Billings Police Department.
U.S. Attorney's Office Closes Investigation into Officer Involved Shooting in Lame DeerRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich announced that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana is closing its investigation into the Dec. 2, 2021 fatal shooting of Arlin Bordeaux by a Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) officer in Lame Deer, on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation.
“After a thorough investigation by the FBI into the shooting of Mr. Bordeaux by a BIA officer and an extensive review by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the office has declined to prosecute the case.
“According to the evidence reviewed during the investigation, the shooting occurred when a BIA officer responded to a call of a suspicious man near a residence and encountered Mr. Bordeaux, who was acting in a peculiar manner. Mr. Bordeaux disobeyed orders to stop and get on the ground and began fighting with the officer. The responding officer called for assistance and a second BIA officer arrived. Using non-lethal methods, including tasers, both officers tried unsuccessfully to gain control of Mr. Bordeaux, who was taller and heavier than the officers. During the fighting, Mr. Bordeaux obtained the assisting officer’s taser and was within arm’s reach of the responding officer. Believing the taser could incapacitate the responding officer or himself, the assisting officer shot Mr. Bordeaux twice. The first shot was through the back. The assisting officer shot Mr. Bordeaux a second time, in the shoulder, because Mr. Bordeaux again reached for the taser while he was still within arm’s reach of the responding officer. Both officers received minor injuries.
“An autopsy determined that the first shot did not incapacitate or kill Mr. Bordeaux, while the second shot nicked his heart and killed him. The autopsy also showed that Mr. Bordeaux had methamphetamine in his system.
“Evidence reviewed in the investigation included law enforcement video and audio files, interviews of the officers and the person who called the police, and autopsy records.
“As in all cases under its consideration, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is responsible for determining whether the government can prove each element of a federal crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Under the applicable federal criminal civil rights statute, prosecutors would have to establish that the assisting officer’s actions were objectively unreasonable under the circumstances, and that his actions were willful. To establish willfulness, the government must show that the officer acted with deliberate and specific intent to do something the law forbids – one of the highest standards of intent imposed by law. An officer reasonably believing that he or she is acting in self-defense or defense of others – even if predicated on mistake, misperception, negligence or poor judgment – is insufficient to establish this high standard.
“After a careful and thorough review into the facts surrounding the shooting, the evidence, when viewed as whole, is insufficient to prove that the officer’s actions were ‘objectively unreasonable’ under the law. The evidence is also insufficient to establish beyond a reasonable doubt that the officer acted willfully, that is with the specific intent to break the law.
“Accordingly, the investigation into this tragic incident has been closed. This decision is limited to the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s inability to meet the high legal standard required to prosecute the case under the applicable federal civil rights statute; it does not reflect an assessment of any other aspect of the shooting.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to investigating allegations of excessive force by law enforcement officers and will continue to ensure that all such allegations are fully investigated and aggressively prosecuted whenever there is sufficient evidence to do so.”
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 July 14 was:
Andre Jean Reum, 24, of Wolf Point, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, attempted possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and threatening a family member of a federal law enforcement officer. If convicted of the most serious crime, Reum faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and four years of supervised release. Reum was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-52.
Jessica Rose Menth, 33, of Helena, on charges of access device fraud, aggravated identity theft and possession of stolen mail. If convicted of the most serious crime, Menth faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release on the fraud charge and a mandatory two years in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine and one year of supervised release on the identity theft charge. Menth was detained pending further proceedings. The U.S. Postal Service and Lewis & Clark County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-05.
Nolan James Hendrickson, 34, of Poplar, on charges of assault with a dangerous weapon, assault of intimate partner by strangulation and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. If convicted of the most serious crime, Hendrickson faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Hendrickson was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office and Fort Peck Department of Law and Justice investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-49.
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on July 15 was:
Shania Lynn Burns, 19, a transient, on charges of bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. If convicted of the most serious crime, Burns faces a maximum of 30 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release on the bank fraud charge and a mandatory minimum two years in prison, consecutive to any other crime, a $250,000 fine and one year of supervised release on the identity theft charge. Burns was detained pending further proceedings. The Billings Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-67.
Appearing on July 14 was:
William Jay Crow, 57, of Billings, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Crow faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Crow was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-64.
Appearing on July 12 was:
Mary Johanna Amyotte, 41, of Lodge Grass, 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, Amyotte faces a mandatory minimum of five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. Amyotte was released pending further proceedings. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-37.
Jonathan Andrew Rasco, 42, a transient, on charges of wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, counterfeiting obligations of the United States and possession of stolen mail. If convicted of the most serious crime, Rasco faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and at least three years of supervised release on the wire fraud charge and a mandatory minimum two years in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine and one year of supervised release on the identity theft charge. Rasco was detained pending further proceedings. The U.S. Secret Service investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-45.
Charles Allen Johnson, 58, of Henderson, Nevada, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth and possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, 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 Drug Enforcement Administration and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-45.
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on July 8 was:
Jeremy Johannes Hennick, 51, of Superior, on charges of timber set afire. If convicted of the most serious crime, Hennick faces a maximum of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Hennick was detained pending further proceedings. The U.S. Forest Service investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-35.
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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Fatal stabbing in Crow Agency sends man to prison for five yearsRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Lame Deer man who admitted to fatally stabbing another man during an argument at a Crow Agency convenience store on the Crow Indian Reservation was sentenced today to five years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
James Posey Fisher Sr., 36, pleaded guilty in February to voluntary manslaughter.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. Judge Watters ordered the sentence to run consecutive to pending state cases in Yellowstone and Big Horn counties.
The government alleged in court documents that on June 28, 2020, at the Teepee Station convenience store in Crow Agency, Fisher stabbed the victim, identified as John Doe, once in the chest. The victim died of a single stab wound before reaching the hospital. Fisher and the victim were with other individuals and were drinking heavily. At some point, Fisher and John Doe began arguing in a car that Fisher was driving and continued the argument when they got out at the convenience store. The argument turned physical. Witnesses thought it was only a fist fight until John Doe backed up suddenly, ran a short distance and collapsed. Witnesses realized John Doe had been stabbed because he was bleeding. Fisher jumped back into the car and drove away.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lori Harper Suek and Jeanne R. Torske and student intern, Alex Butler, prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI.
XXXBozeman man admits stealing government benefits while acting as a fiduciaryRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Bozeman man on Wednesday admitted to stealing more than $57,000 in government benefits from an individual for whom he was the fiduciary, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Ira Kyrk Westbrook, 47, pleaded guilty on July 13 to Social Security fraud. Westbrook faces a maximum of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Sentencing was set for Oct. 28 before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen. The court will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Westbrook was released pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in September 2021, the Social Security Administration (SSA) received information that Westbrook was misappropriating Social Security benefits for an individual, identified as John Doe. Doe suffered a stroke in 2018 and had been admitted to a rehabilitation and care facility. 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 be charged criminally if he misused the money.
An investigation determined that Westbrook transferred deposits by SSA and the Veteran’s Administration (VA) into Doe’s account to another account Westbrook controlled. Westbrook then made payments to local businesses and restaurants in Bozeman, along with payments to CenturyLink and Amazon, with the account incurring multiple overdrafts. In 2020, Westbrook purchased a travel trailer for $8,500 and a Jeep for $10,000. Westbrook claimed the vehicle was used to run errands for Doe but disclosed that he and his wife had put approximately 15,000 miles on it over seven months. Social media posts showed Westbrook and his wife in the Jeep on a camping trip with the travel trailer. Westbrook diverted a total of $57,329 of Doe’s funds, consisting of $37,731 in VA benefits and $19,598 in SSA benefits.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the SSA, VA and Bozeman Police Department.
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Jury convicts former Missoula resident of child pornography crimesRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A jury today convicted a former Missoula resident of transporting, distributing and receiving child pornography using the internet and social media, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
After a three-day trial, the jury found Taurean Jerome Weber, 39, formerly of Missoula and currently of Littleton, Colorado, guilty of all eight counts, including four counts of transportation of child pornography, three counts of distribution and one count of receipt of child pornography. The trial began on July 11. Weber faces a mandatory minimum five years to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. Judge Christensen set sentencing for Nov. 18. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Weber was remanded into custody pending further proceedings.
“Weber’s distribution of child pornography perpetuated the sexual exploitation and abuse of children for his own gratification. It was wrong and disgusting. We are committed to protecting children from this horrible crime and will be resolute in our efforts to hold those who prey on them accountable. I want to thank Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cyndee L. Peterson and Karla E. Painter, along with the Missoula Police Department, Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and FBI for investigating and prosecuting this case,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
In court documents and at trial, the government alleged that from about September 2016 to July 2020, Weber used Dropbox and Instagram to transport child pornography images and a computer to distribute child pornography. An investigation began in October 2019 when Instagram reported child pornography on its platform to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which sends those CyberTips to members of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force for investigation. Records obtained through subpoenas and search warrants found evidence that Weber was the creator and user of the social media and email accounts. Investigators served a search warrant on Weber’s residence, seized computers and storage devices and determined they contained video and image files depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cyndee L. Peterson and Karla E. Painter are prosecuting the case, which was investigated by Missoula Police Department Det. Katie Hall, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and FBI.
This case was initiated under the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, which was launched in 2006 to combat the proliferation of technology-facilitated crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children. Through a network of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and advocacy organizations, Project Safe Childhood attempts to protect children by investigating and prosecuting offenders involved in child sexual exploitation. It is implemented through partnerships including the Montana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The ICAC Task Force Program was created to assist state and local law enforcement agencies by enhancing their investigative response to technology facilitated crimes against children.
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Billings man sentenced to more than 26 years in prison for sex trafficking, firearms and prostitution-related crimesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man convicted of multiple crimes stemming from a broad investigation into a sex trafficking network that involved nearly 20 victims, including minor girls, violence, drugs and the shooting death of a victim, was sentenced today to 26 years and 10 months in prison, to be followed by a lifetime of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
The defendant, William Maurice Newkirk, 41, pleaded guilty in January to sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, use of a facility in interstate commerce in aid of racketeering, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and transportation of person with intent to engage in prostitution.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. Judge Watters also set a restitution hearing for Sept. 9 and ordered a total of $10,200 in special assessments.
“For years, Newkirk ruthlessly wielded abuse, threats, violence and drugs to force women and girls to work in commercial sex, all so he could make money. Far too many victims suffered, including one who tragically died as a result of Newkirk’s reprehensible actions. Today’s sentence holds Newkirk accountable for his criminal conduct. My office will continue to aggressively fight sex trafficking occurring in our communities and to seek justice for victims,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
“Newkirk preyed on vulnerable women and young girls, subjecting them to horrific abuse and other crimes for years, strictly for his own profit,” said Special Agent in Charge Dennis Rice of the Salt Lake City FBI. “This case should serve as an eye-opener that sex trafficking happens in our communities, but there is help and hope for victims as the FBI and our partners are committed to holding those who exploit them accountable.”
In court documents, the government alleged that Newkirk coerced, manipulated and violently trafficked multiple women, including minors, into commercial sex for nearly a decade and across multiple states. An investigation following a June 2019 fatal shooting of one of Newkirk’s victims, identified as Jane Doe 1, uncovered a network of individuals, including Newkirk, who were involved in violent and narcotic-related offenses. Newkirk used violence, threats and drugs to exploit almost 20 victims, some of whom were minor girls, into working in commercial sex for him.
The government further alleged that in early 2019, Newkirk and Jane Doe 1 became involved. Newkirk forced Jane Doe 1 to engage in commercial sex, verbally and physically abused her and took her to Wyoming, where he forced her to engage in commercial sex on her birthday.
In June 2019, the government alleged, Jane Doe 5 was a passenger along with two others in a car Newkirk was driving. Newkirk became upset with Jane Doe 5 and drove to Jane Doe 1’s residence, called Jane Doe 1 and told her to “come mop this bitch up,” referring to beating up Jane Doe 5. Upon arrival, Jane Doe 1, along with Newkirk and others, assaulted Jane Doe 5. In an effort to defend herself, Jane Doe 5 reached for a firearm. As Jane Doe 5 was being pulled out of the car, the firearm discharged and struck Jane Doe 1, who died from her injuries two days later. Law enforcement arrested Newkirk the day of the shooting. Investigators found cocaine residue on a digital scale in the car and the firearm used in the shooting near a co-defendant’s residence.
Victims told law enforcement that they observed Newkirk with a firearm and that he would provide them with cocaine.
All four co-defendants, Anthony Marcos Chadwell, Djavon Lamont King, Mario Juan Drake and Dejon Anthony Duncan pleaded guilty to charges and have been sentenced to various terms.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zeno B. Baucus, Bryan T. Dake and Benjamin D. Hargrove prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation and the Billings Police Department.
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Pryor woman admits assaulting BIA police officer on Crow Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Pryor woman today admitted to accosting and slapping a Bureau of Indian Affairs police officer, who had shot and wounded the woman’s co-defendant after a vehicle chase in Lodge Grass, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Darwyna Caylynn Catherine Bullshows, 25, pleaded guilty to assault on a federal officer. Bullshows faces a maximum of eight years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. A sentencing date will be set before U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters. The court will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other sentencing factors. Bullshows was released pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that on March 14, 2021, BIA police officers became engaged in a vehicle pursuit of co-defendant, Darnell Not Afraid, in Lodge Grass, located on the Crow Indian Reservation. Not Afraid, operating a stolen truck, drove at high speeds through residential neighborhoods and nearly struck various pedestrians. At some point during the chase, Bullshows, Not Afraid’s girlfriend at the time, got out of the truck. Not Afraid continued the pursuit, eventually stopped at a residence, got out of the truck and fled on foot. One of the officers left his vehicle and chased Not Afraid into the home’s yard. The officer drew his Taser. As the officer neared Not Afraid, Not Afraid turned toward him, pulled up his shirt and grabbed a revolver from his waistband. The officer then dropped his Taser, drew his service pistol and fired multiple times at Not Afraid, striking him at least once in the arm. Law enforcement recovered the revolver on the ground and determined that it was loaded.
The government further alleged that a crowd of angry people, many of whom were residing at the home where the incident occurred and had been watching the vehicle chase, accosted the officer. They yelled and cursed at the officer and were angry at him for shooting Not Afraid. They also prevented the officer from attending to Not Afraid.
An investigation found that Bullshows assaulted the officer, and that she admitted in an interview to slapping the officer’s face three times.
Not Afraid has pleaded not guilty to charges and is pending trial.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Harper Suek 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 Billings on July 8 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan for an initial appearance on a criminal complaint was:
Daniel Joseph Colvin, 35, of Livingston, on charges of unlawful user of controlled substance in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Colvin faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Colvin was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-92.
Malea Orser, 24, of Billings, on charges of possession with intent to distribute narcotics. If convicted of the most serious crime, Orser faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. Orser was detained pending further proceedings. The U.S. Postal Service investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-100.
Appearing on an indictment and pleading not guilty on July 7 was:
Jeremy Taylor Sims, 33, of Billings, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. If convicted of the most serious crime, Sims faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Sims was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-62.
Appearing on July 6 was:
Earl Landon Old Chief, Jr., 36, of Lodge Grass, on charges of assault on a federal officer. If convicted of the most serious crime, Old Chief faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Old Chief was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-44.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on July 6 was:
Rachel Aileen Goodbird, 29, of Poplar, on charges of involuntary manslaughter. If convicted of the most serious crime, Goodbird faces a maximum of eight years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Goodbird was released pending further proceedings. The FBI, Fort Peck Law Enforcement, Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office and Montana Highway Patrol investigated the case. PACER case reference. 22-41.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Missoula area man sentenced to 10 years in prison for trafficking controlled substancesRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A man who admitted to dealing controlled substances in the Missoula area for more than two years was sentenced today to 10 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Jamie Scott Chandler, 48, of Alberton, pleaded guilty in February to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
The government alleged in court documents that Chandler distributed methamphetamine and heroin in the Missoula area from about January 2019 through June 2021. Officers with the Missoula Police Department and Montana Probation and Parole arrested Chandler on June 29, 2021 in Missoula County on a state warrant. Officers searched Chandler’s backpack and recovered heroin, meth, packaging materials, and a large amount of U.S. currency. When interviewed, Chandler told law enforcement that he had obtained drugs and provided drugs to others and had purchased the drugs found in his backpack.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara J. Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.
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