District of Montana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Deer Lodge man sentenced to five years in prison for meth trafficking, firearms crimesRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Deer Lodge man who admitted to receiving packages of methamphetamine in the mail for re-distribution and to illegally possessing firearms was sentenced today to five years in prison and to five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Shawn James Miller, 33, pleaded guilty on Feb. 18 to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and to prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. Miller was detained.
The government alleged in court documents that law enforcement learned Miller was involved in drug trafficking in Montana from about 2017 until 2020. Miller admitted to investigators that he received and possessed packages of meth through the mail for re-distribution. The investigation determined that Miller sent a package containing $4,000 cash to California. The government further alleged Miller aided drug trafficking activities by wiring money to the Dominican Republic and Mexico, in addition to other locations, and that Miller was conservatively responsible for at least two pounds of meth, which is the equivalent of 7,248 doses, in Montana’s communities. Miller also pawned two firearms in Butte in March 2020 after having been convicted of multiple felonies in Montana. Co-defendants Humberto Horiol Medina Villarreal and Charles Joshua Petty have pleaded guilty in the case and are awaiting sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, Butte Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations 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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Cocaine trafficking sends Bozeman man to prison for eight yearsRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Bozeman man who admitted to trafficking cocaine after an investigation determined he received packages of cocaine and large amounts of cash was sentenced today to eight years in prison and to seven years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Luis Alberto Rocha, 38, pleaded guilty on Feb. 12 to conspiracy to distribute cocaine.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. Rocha was detained.
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that in September 2019, the Missouri River Drug Task Force in Bozeman received information that Rocha was involved in the distribution of drugs, was moving a lot of weight and had a source of supply in Texas. In April 2020, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service noticed packages scheduled for delivery to Rocha’s residence in Belgrade and to his former residence in Bozeman. The investigation determined that a total of 14 packages had been delivered from California, Texas and Arizona since July 2019.
In July 2020, the postal inspector searched two packages pursuant to search warrants and found $27,000 in currency in one package and $62,000 in currency in a second package. On Aug. 17, 2020, another package addressed to Rocha’s former Bozeman residence was searched pursuant to a warrant, and investigators found it contained about 6.5 pounds of cocaine. The delivery of the package was delayed because of the investigation, and agents learned that someone checked on the status of the package more than 300 times from an internet provider address that was registered to Rocha.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Racicot prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Missouri River Drug Task Force and U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
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Canadian truck driver admits drug trafficking crime after U.S. Customs and Border Protection finds 211 pounds of cocaine in trailer load of bananasRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Canadian truck driver admitted to a drug trafficking crime today after U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents found 211 pounds of cocaine in a trailer load of load of bananas during an inspection as the driver was attempting to enter Canada, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Gurpal Singh Gill, 39, of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine as charged in a superseding information. Gill 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 Sept. 30. Gill was detained pending further proceedings.
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that on Jan. 30, CBP officers at the Sweetgrass Port of Entry, in Toole County, were targeting commercial drivers destined for Canada from the United States. At about 8 p.m., officers observed a freightliner semi-truck with Alberta license plates traveling north on Interstate 15 at the Sweetgrass Port of Entry. Officers identified Gill as the driver and sole occupant of the semi-truck. Upon initial inspection, officers learned Gill was transporting a load of fresh bananas from California to Calgary. However, a missing rear seal on the truck’s trailer led to a secondary inspection. Officers observed seven unmarked boxes sitting on top of bananas in the back of the trailer. The unmarked boxes were a different color and size from the boxes of bananas. Officers opened the boxes and found a white powdery substance that appeared to be cocaine. An analysis by the Drug Enforcement Administration determined the packages contained about 211 pounds of cocaine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica A. Betley is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
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Butte man sentenced to more than 15 years in prison for meth trafficking, firearms and money laundering crimesRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Butte man who admitted conspiring to traffic methamphetamine in Montana, wiring the drug proceeds to California and Mexico and illegally possessing firearms was sentenced today to 15 years and eight months in prison followed by five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Joshua Jay Schroeder, 40, pleaded guilty on Aug. 24, 2020 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth, felon in possession of a firearm and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. Schroeder was detained.
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that law enforcement became aware that Schroeder was involved in drug trafficking in and around Montana. In April 2019, an undercover agent purchased meth from Schroeder, and by June 2019, law enforcement found multiple pounds of meth mailed to Schroeder, all of which was meant for distribution in Montana. In a search of Schroeder’s house, agents found 44 grams of meth and a digital scale. In addition, investigators found a total of five firearms in Schroeder’s vehicle. Schroeder possessed the firearms after having been convicted of multiple felonies in Montana. Schroeder admitted to law enforcement that he accepted packages of meth for redistribution and helped in collecting and wiring money used in drug trafficking. Financial records showed that Schroeder wired drug money from Montana to Mexico and California.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations 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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Arizona man admits sexually exploiting two Montana children through online activityRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – An Arizona man accused of coercing minor girls to send him sexually explicit images of themselves through the internet and of receiving child pornography pleaded guilty to charges today, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Joshua Dean Fish, 27, of Gilbert, Arizona, pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual exploitation of a child and to receipt of child pornography. Fish faces a mandatory minimum 15 years to 40 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release on each sexual exploitation crime and a mandatory minimum five years to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release on the receipt of child pornography crime.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and set sentencing for Sept. 23. Chief Judge Morris continued Fish’s detention pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in January 2020, the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office received a report of online sexually explicit activity involving two children, who were under the age of 18. An investigation identified Fish as the person who was offering to pay for the sexually explicit images. Prior to mid-2018, Fish resided in Montana. The two child victims, one residing in Butte and another residing in Helena, reported that an online user promised monetary digital payments in exchange for nude images that would be sent through the internet. Both child victims sent Fish sexually explicit images of themselves.
The government further alleged that an investigation by Arizona law enforcement into a Cybertip to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children involving sending and receiving child pornography through a social media application led to Fish. In June 2020, law enforcement searched Fish’s residence and interviewed him. Fish admitted he paid minor girls for nude images, which were sent to him online, and to possessing numerous hard drives containing child pornography. During an examination of digital devices seized during the search, law enforcement found hundreds of thousands of images and video files of child pornography.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Cyndee L. Peterson is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office, Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Gilbert (Arizona) Police Department.
This case was initiated under the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, which was launched in 2006 to combat the proliferation of technology-facilitated crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children. Through a network of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and advocacy organizations, Project Safe Childhood attempts to protect children by investigating and prosecuting offenders involved in child sexual exploitation. It is implemented through partnerships including the Montana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The ICAC Task Force Program was created to assist state and local law enforcement agencies by enhancing their investigative response to technology facilitated crimes against children.
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Informational: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on June 4 was:
Jared Robert Williams, 41, of Bozeman, and Marty Eugene McDonald, 62, of Amsterdam, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, the defendants face a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Williams and McDonald were detained pending further proceedings. The Missouri River Drug Task Force, FBI, Bozeman Police Department, Montana Probation and Parole and Montana Highway Patrol investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-20.
Appearing on June 2 was:
Max Dudley Stilson, 57, of Belgrade, and Arthur Ronald Kane, 51, of Belgrade, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, the defendants face a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Stilson and Kane were detained pending further proceedings. The Missouri River Drug Task Force, FBI, Bozeman Police Department, Montana Probation and Parole and Montana Highway Patrol investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-20.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on June 1 was:
Charles Dean Fourbear II, 28, of Poplar, on charges of stalking. If convicted of the most serious crime, Fourbear faces a maximum five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Fourbear was released pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-32.
Joseph Young Lodgepole, 41, of Box Elder, on charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted of the most serious crime, Lodgepole faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and four years of supervised release. Lodgepole was released pending further proceedings. The FBI and Rocky Boy’s Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-34.
Brandon Wayne Glover, 38, of Havre, on charges of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, distribution of meth, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and felon in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Glover 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 consecutive five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release on the charge of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Glover was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, Havre Police Department and Tri-Agency Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-33.
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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Havre man admits to receiving child pornographyRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Havre man accused of receiving child pornography on his cell phone admitted to charges today, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Joshua Daniel Kaupang, 38, pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography. Kaupang faces a mandatory minimum five years to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and at least five years to life of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris set sentencing for Sept. 19. Kaupang was released pending further proceedings.
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that in January 2019 in Havre, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Kaupang’s cell phone looking for evidence in a theft case. While searching the phone, agents observed child pornography files. An agent applied for a second search warrant and located child pornography. The investigation determined that Kaupang used his phone to view “sets” of child pornography that were available for download.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Cyndee L. Peterson is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force 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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California drug trafficker sentenced to five years in prison after Flathead County law enforcement seize three pounds of methRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A California man who admitted trafficking methamphetamine after Flathead County law enforcement officers seized a package containing three pounds of the drug was sentenced today to five years in prison and to five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Santiago Marron, 38, of San Bernardino, California, pleaded guilty on Jan. 25 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that on Dec. 25, 2019, Marron and co-defendant, Adan Barjas Bedal, dropped off a package at a Flathead County residence. Confidential informants told law enforcement that Marron drove the package to Montana from another state and knew that the package contained meth. The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office seized the package pursuant to a Montana search warrant and recovered three pounds of meth. Three pounds of meth is the equivalent of 10,872 doses. Co-defendant Bedal was sentenced to 70 months in prison for his conviction in the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara J. Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Northwest Montana Drug 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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Box Elder man sentenced to prison for assaulting woman on Rocky Boy’s Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Box Elder man who admitted assaulting a woman, causing serious injuries, on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation, was sentenced on Wednesday to 21 months in prison and to three years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Kelcey James Morsette, 31, pleaded guilty on Feb. 24 to assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris also ordered $941 in restitution.
The government alleged in court documents that on Nov. 14, 2019, Morsette was highly intoxicated and belligerent. Morsette argued with the victim, identified as Jane Doe, before becoming angry and attacking her. Doe sustained serious injuries from the assault and was hospitalized. The assault occurred on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared C. Cobell prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Rocky Boy’s Police Department Criminal Investigations.
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Spokane woman sentenced to more than 10 years in prison for trafficking meth on Rocky Boy’s Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Spokane, Washington, woman who admitted trafficking methamphetamine on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation was sentenced today to 10 years and four months in prison followed by five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Kristina Dawn Russette, 31, pleaded guilty on Feb. 24 to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris continued Russette’s detention.
According to court documents, the government alleged that in 2019 and 2020, law enforcement officers learned from multiple individuals that Russette was supplying meth from the Spokane area to individuals on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation.
The government alleged that in May 2020, Russette was driving a vehicle stopped in Washington for traffic violations. The vehicle was searched pursuant to a tribal search warrant and Russette’s consent and probation conditions. In a purse in the rear seating area were multiple bags containing about 1.5 pounds of meth. A passenger in the vehicle stated that he and Russette had picked up those drugs in Spokane. Investigators also obtained information from Facebook accounts in which Russette had used slang or code to communicate about drugs and to arrange for the distribution of drugs. In addition, individuals told investigators that Russette was a longtime supplier of large quantities of meth to persons on and around the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Chippewa Cree Law Enforcement Services, Tri-Agency Drug Task Force, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Kalispel Tribe Public Safety Department in Washington and the Airway Heights Police Department in Washington.
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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Montana Man Indicted on Federal Hate Crime and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - A federal grand jury in Billings, Montana, returned an indictment on May 20 charging a Montana man with hate crime and firearm violations for allegedly firing a gun into an individual’s house and threatening the individual with violent, homophobic slurs.
According to court documents, John Russell Howald, 44, of Basin, is charged with violating the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, and with the use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. The indictment alleges that on March 22, 2020, in Basin, Howald attempted to injure an individual because of their actual and perceived sexual orientation by discharging a firearm into the individual’s house, stating that he wanted to “get rid of the lesbians [and] gays.” The offense included an attempt to kill the individual.
Howald is scheduled for an arraignment on June 29 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in Great Falls. If convicted, Howald faces up to life in prison on the hate crime charge and a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, on the firearm charge.
A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson of the District of Montana made the announcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan McCarthy of the District of Montana and Trial Attorney Eric Peffley of Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case. The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
For more information and resources on the department’s efforts to combat hate crimes, visit www.justice.gov/hatecrimes.
Missoula man sentenced to more than 12 years in prison for trafficking meth in Flathead and Missoula countiesRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Missoula man who admitted to trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine in Flathead and Missoula counties was sentenced today to 12 years and seven months in prison followed by five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Dylan Roy Mace, 29, pleaded guilty on Feb. 10 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that for about a year, beginning in November 2019, Mace and others conspired to distribute meth. Law enforcement began investigating Mace after receiving information that he was distributing ounce quantities of meth and was a partner with Leon Kavis in distributing the drug. Kavis has pleaded guilty to a conspiracy crime and is awaiting sentencing. Investigators learned from individuals that Mace sold meth in ounce quantities, received one-pound deliveries of meth on a weekly basis and that he and Kavis had been provided with 12 to 14 pounds of meth. Fourteen pounds of meth is the equivalent of about 50,736 doses. The government further alleged that Mace and Kavis used an East Missoula location to obtain and distribute meth. Law enforcement intercepted a package containing about five pounds of meth that was to have been delivered to the East Missoula location.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer S. Clark prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force and the Missoula Police Department.
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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Meth trafficking sends Missoula man to prison for 100 monthsRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Missoula man who admitted to possessing with the intent to distribute methamphetamine after law enforcement officers found the drug in his hotel room was sentenced today to 100 months in prison and to five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Demetrius Demon McVay-Hite, 36, pleaded guilty on Jan. 26 to possession with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that on March 1, 2020, Missoula Police Department officers executed a Montana search warrant on McVay-Hite’s hotel room and recovered more than one ounce of meth. During an investigation, law enforcement learned from numerous individuals that McVay-Hite was involved in distributing meth.
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 Missoula Police Department.
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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Man admits meth trafficking crime after law enforcement seizes 10 pounds of the drug destined for ButteRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A man accused of trafficking methamphetamine in Montana admitted to charges today after law enforcement recovered a package containing 10 pounds of the drug that was addressed to his residence in Butte, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said today.
Steven Douglas Shipe, 52, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth. Shipe faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Sentencing was set for Sept. 29. Shipe was released pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that law enforcement learned Shipe was involved in drug trafficking in Montana and purchased about one ounce of meth from Shipe on June 19, 2019. Law enforcement also learned that Shipe was receiving packages of meth in the mail. Investigators recovered a package containing approximately 10 pounds of meth that was addressed to Shipe’s residence in Butte. Ten pounds of meth is the equivalent of 36,240 doses. The drugs were intercepted in Bakersfield, California, and the shipping label reflected that the parcel was sent from another individual in that city. In addition, Shipe used local co-conspirators to arrange and help with the meth deals. In many instances, local co-conspirators would bring prospective buyers to Shipe’s house to complete the transactions.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Postal Service.
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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Butte man admits drug trafficking conspiracy after receiving two packages totaling 10 pounds of methRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Butte man today admitted to trafficking methamphetamine in Montana after telling law enforcement that he received meth totaling 10 pounds in two separate packages and worked with others to distribute the drug, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
David Ray Shaver, 33, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth. Shaver faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Sentencing was set for Sept. 29. Shaver was detained pending further proceedings.
In court documents in the case, the government alleged that law enforcement learned Shaver was involved in drug trafficking in Montana and was accepting packages of meth through the mail and then distributing the drug. When interviewed, Shaver admitted to purchasing meth for $6,000 a pound. He also said he accepted one package containing six pounds of meth in December 2018 and another package containing four pounds of meth in January 2019. The government further alleged that Shaver worked with other co-conspirators to distribute meth from about August 2018 until about February 2019.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Postal Service and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
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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Wolf Point man sentenced to prison for sexually abusing minorRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Wolf Point man who admitted he sexually abused a minor on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation was sentenced on Thursday to five years in prison and to seven years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said today.
Christopher George Follette, 33, pleaded guilty on Feb. 18 to sexual abuse of a minor as charged in an indictment.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris ordered Follette detained.
The prosecution said in court documents that in 2019 and 2020, Follette sexually abused a minor, identified as Jane Doe, who was over the age of 12 but had not yet reached 16 years of age, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared C. Cobell prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Fort Peck Law Enforcement Services and Wolf Point 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 May 27 was:
Jamie Leigh Gracey, 43, and Dwight Benjamin Boyce, 34, both of Culbertson, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, distribution of meth, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. If convicted of the most serious crime, Gracey and Boyce face a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Gracey and Boyce were detained pending further proceedings. The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-10.
Angelo Corey Stackhouse, 51, of Billings, on charges of transportation of person with intent to engage in illegal sexual activity, distribution of cocaine to a person under the age of 21, distribution of cocaine and meth, possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a trafficking offense. If convicted of the most serious crime, Stackhouse faces a mandatory minimum one year to 40 years in prison, a $1 million fine and at least six years of supervised release on the crime of cocaine distribution to a person under the age of 21, plus a mandatory minimum seven years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release consecutive to any other sentence on the firearms crime. Stackhouse was detained pending further proceedings. The Montana Division of Criminal Investigation investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-35.
Lonnie Burdette Porter, 59, of Fairview, on charges of felon in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Porter faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Porter was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-16.
Francisco Javi Martinez Escoto, 33, of Bozeman/Honduras, on charges of illegal reentry. If convicted of the most serious crime, Escoto faces maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Escoto was detained pending further proceedings. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-33.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on May 27 was:
Brandon Lewis Kelly, 30, of Great Falls, on charges of failure to register/update registration of a sexual offender. If convicted of the most serious crime, Kelly faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. Kelly was detained pending further proceedings. The U.S. Marshals Service, Glacier County Sheriff’s Office and Great Falls Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-29.
Appearing on May 25 was:
Harrison Garrett Alvarez, 30, of Cut Bank, on charges of intimidation. If convicted of the most serious crime, Alvarez faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $50,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Alvarez was released pending further proceedings. The FBI, Glacier County Sheriff’s Office and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-26.
Regina Ann Peters, 51, of Queen Creek, Arizona, 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, Peters faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Peters was detained pending further proceedings. The Great Falls Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, Russell Country Drug Task Force, U.S. Postal Service, Cascade County Sheriff’s Office and Utah Highway Patrol investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-13.
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on May 24 was:
Aaron Charles Fritsch, 50, of Missoula, on charges of receipt of child pornography. If convicted of the most serious crime, Fritsch faces a mandatory minimum five years to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. Fritsch was detained pending further proceedings. The Homeland Security Investigations and Montana Probation and Parole Division investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-17.
Craig Mark Draper, 54, of Las Vegas, Nevada, on charges of wire fraud and money laundering. If convicted of the most serious crime, Draper faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Draper was released pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-20.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Billings Man Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Trafficking MethRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Billings man who admitted to trafficking methamphetamine and heroin was sentenced today to 72 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Christopher Dennis Shelton, 43, pleaded guilty on November 23, 2020 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. Shelton was detained.
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that in July 2019, Shelton, after being found in possession of a stolen trailer, fled with his co-defendant, Susan Wilkinson, in a truck that contained 56 grams of meth and 22 grams of heroin. Later that day, Shelton and Wilkinson attempted to escape from law enforcement in a grocery store parking lot by entering a stranger’s vehicle and seeking help. When the stranger refused, Shelton fled on foot while Wilkinson was arrested. Wilkinson pleaded guilty in the case and was sentenced to five years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the 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.
Former East Helena police chief suspected of distributing child pornography appears in courtRead the Press Release
MISSOULA—The former East Helena chief of police had an initial appearance today on a criminal complaint accusing him of distributing child pornography, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
A criminal complaint filed in the case and unsealed today alleges that William Daly Harrington, 42, of Helena, distributed child pornography. The crime has a mandatory minimum penalty of five years to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Harrington voluntarily surrendered this morning and was taken into custody by the FBI. The arrest is the result of a joint investigation between the FBI and the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office as part of the FBI's Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Harrington was detained pending further proceedings.
According to the criminal complaint and affidavit filed in support of the complaint, in September 2020, a law enforcement officer began investigating a Cybertip to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s CyberTipline, a national centralized reporting system for the online exploitation of children. The court documents alleged that the investigation led to a Facebook account that used a fictitious name and was created and controlled by Harrington, who was the East Helena chief of police. The documents further allege that Harrington distributed child pornography to the Facebook account of another individual on multiple occasions.
The FBI, Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office, Bozeman Police Department and Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force investigated the case.
PACER case reference. MJ-21-9.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Informational: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law:
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on May 18 was:
Gregg Lawrence Haywood Sr., 54, of Billings, on charges of felon in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Haywood faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Haywood was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-32.
Appearing on May 20 and pleading not guilty was:
Elizabeth Marie Stephenson, 35, of Billings, on charges of wire fraud, bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. If convicted of the most serious fraud crime, Stephenson faces a maximum 30 years in prison, a $1 million fine and five years of supervised release. If convicted of aggravated identity theft, Stephenson faces a mandatory minimum two years in prison consecutive to any other punishment. Stephenson was released pending further proceedings. The U.S. Secret Service investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-28.
William Orville Deshaw III, 36, of Whitehall, on charges of false statement during a firearms transaction. If convicted of the most serious crime, Deshaw faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Deshaw was released pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 20-35.
Appearing in Great Falls before Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris and pleading not guilty on May 20 was:
Tasha Leigh Morsette, 33, of Havre, on charges of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, and distribution of fentanyl. If convicted of the most serious crime, Morsette faces a maximum 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and three years of supervised release. Morsette was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-35.
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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California man sentenced to 14 years in prison for trafficking meth in the Helena area, illegal possession of firearmRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A California man who admitted receiving packages of methamphetamine shipped to Helena for distribution was sentenced today to 14 years in prison and to five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Michael Richard Browning, 34, of California, pleaded guilty on Feb. 9 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth and to prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that from October 2019 until July 2020 in Helena, Browning and others received packages of meth for distribution. In December 2019, Browning and co-defendant, Jennifer Davidson, picked up a package containing about one and one-half pounds of meth at FedEx. Law enforcement recovered the package of meth. The investigation further included recorded conversations of Browning bragging about using the mail to transport illegal drugs. The government further alleged that Browning, who had a previous felony conviction, sold a 9mm pistol to an individual in Helena. Davidson was sentenced to 54 months in prison for conviction in the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the U.S. Department of Justice’s recent initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws, and Project Safe Neighborhoods, the USDOJ’s initiative to reduce violent crime. Through these initiatives, 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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Three Missoula area residents admit methamphetamine trafficking crimeRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – Three Missoula area residents accused in a large methamphetamine trafficking ring pleaded guilty on Tuesday, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said today.
Laura Jeanne Haacke, 46, of Missoula, Jennifer Renee Hawkes, 39, of Missoula, and Jason Dean Hager, 55, of Lolo, each pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth. Haacke and Hawkes face a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Hager faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and four years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided. Sentencing was set for Dec. 16 for all defendants. Hager and Hawkes were detained, while Haacke was released pending further proceedings.
According to court documents, the government alleged that Haacke, Hawkes, Hager, and a fourth co-defendant, Terry David Starrett, conspired to distribute meth in Missoula from January 2018 through January 2021. Starrett pleaded guilty on May 11 to possession with intent to distribute meth. The government alleged that officers learned through confidential informants that Haacke stored meth for a drug distributor and at one point had 40 pounds of meth in a trap floor at her residence. When interviewed by law enforcement, Haacke admitted that she used meth and that in February 2019, she had about 80 pounds of meth stored in her residence. Eighty pounds of meth is the equivalent of about 289,920 doses.
The government further alleged that in July 2019, Hawkes supplied a person with about two ounces of meth. After the transaction, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Hawkes’ residence and recovered an additional three pounds of meth.
The government also alleged that in December 2019, Hager sold meth to an undercover informant three times in monitored transactions. Agents further learned that a confidential informant saw Hager with one and one-half pounds of meth and that he helped a co-defendant move numerous pounds of meth and kept some to use as his own supply.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara J. Elliott is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force, Missoula Police Department and Missoula County Sheriff’s Office.
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Meth trafficker sentenced to 10 years in prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Billings man who admitted selling methamphetamine in parking lot deals from his BMW or Range Rover was sentenced today to 10 years in prison and to five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Todd William Weidler, 52, pleaded guilty on Jan. 5 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that in July 2019, law enforcement learned that Crossroads Correction Center inmate, James McPhail, a co-defendant, was in contact with Weidler and another co-defendant, Angie Krogstad, to arrange for Krogstad to deliver meth to Weidler in Billings. Krogstad was picking up meth in California for delivery to Weidler. Investigators also learned that Weidler always had meth on hand, could usually sell ounces in a matter of minutes and conducted all of his business from his BMW or Range Rover in parking lots.
The government further alleged that in August 2019 outside of Three Forks, law enforcement intercepted Krogstad, who had about two pounds of meth she was bringing to Weidler. In September 2019, law enforcement conducted searches of Weidler’s residence, vehicles and storage units and recovered meth and approximately $11,900 in currency. Law enforcement estimated Weidler distributed at least 1,153.3 grams, or about 2.5 pounds, which is the equivalent of about 9,060 doses. Krogstad and McPhail have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer S. Clark prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Montana Department of Corrections, Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
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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Jury convicts Billings woman of illegal possession of firearmRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A federal jury convicted a Billings woman on Tuesday for illegally possessing a firearm that was pawned in Billings, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said today.
After a two-day trial that began on May 17, a jury found Kaycee Nicole Kolka, 26, guilty of being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm as charged in an indictment. Kolka faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. Judge Watters set sentencing for Sept. 22 and ordered Kolka detained pending further proceedings.
“Felons who possess firearms are a threat to community safety and will be held responsible. I want to thank Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julie R. Patten and Thomas K. Godfrey and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for investigating and prosecuting this case,” Acting U.S. Attorney Johnson said.
In court documents and at trial, the government presented evidence alleging that in November 2018, Kolka was sentenced for a felony in Powder River County and acknowledged she was prohibited from possessing firearms. The government alleged that on Jan. 19. 2020, Kolka pawned a 9 mm revolver, which had been reported stolen in November 2018, at a Billings pawn shop. The pawn shop provided a pawn slip signed by Kolka, who declared she owned the gun. The government further alleged that Kolka told an investigator that she handled the pawn because she was the firearm’s owner.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julie R. Patten and Thomas K. Godfrey prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
This case is part of Project Guardian, a Department of Justice initiative launched in the fall of 2019 to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Through Project Guardian, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Montana is working to enhance coordination of its federal, state, tribal and local law enforcement partners in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes. In addition, Project Guardian supports information sharing and taking action when individuals are denied a firearm purchase by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System for mental health reasons or because they are a prohibited person.
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Arizona woman admits meth trafficking crimeRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – An Arizona woman accused of bringing multi-pound quantities of methamphetamine to Montana for distribution admitted to a trafficking crime today, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Lisa Elizabeth Caudron, 42, of Gilbert, Arizona, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth. Caudron faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. Caudron was released pending further proceedings. A sentencing date will be set before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen.
The government alleged in court documents filed in the case that the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force learned in February 2020 that a person had been buying multi-pound quantities of meth from Caudron and from a co-defendant, Gaspar Salas, since February 2019 and that the two always came to Montana together. On April 23, 2020, law enforcement located Salas and Caudron at a hotel in Livingston and executed a search warrant for their room and their vehicle. The hotel room search resulted in the seizure of 4.69 pounds of meth, which is the equivalent of about 16,996 doses, in a backpack. Salas was sentenced in March to 15 years in prison for conviction in the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin M. Rubich prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and the FBI’s Big Sky Western Transnational Organized 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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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 May 10 was:
Buddy Jonathan Shaw Jr., 49, of Belgrade, on charges of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Shaw faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Shaw was detained pending further proceedings. The Bozeman Missouri River Drug Task Force – FBI, Bozeman Police Department, Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office, Drug Enforcement Administration and U.S. Postal Service investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-17.
Appearing on May 13 and pleading not guilty was:
Zachary Christopher Hillis, 28, of Sand Springs, on charges of illegal reentry. If convicted of the most serious crime, Hillis faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release. Hillis was detained pending further proceedings. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-31.
Appearing on May 14 and pleading not guilty was:
Colton Thomas Jens, 38, of Billings, on charges of distribution of meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Jens faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and four years of supervised release. Jens was detained pending further proceedings. The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. PACER case reference. 20-123.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on May 11 was:
Ray Dean Bird, 42, of Starr School, on charges of aggravated sex abuse of a child, abusive sexual contact and other crimes. If convicted of the most serious crime, Bird faces life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. Bird was released pending further proceedings. The FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-30.
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on May 12 was:
Tommy Plante, 32, of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm and illegal entry into the United States. If convicted of the most serious crime, Plante faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Plante was detained pending further proceedings. The U.S. Border Patrol, Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-22.
Appearing on May 14 and pleading not guilty was:
Brandie Rae Hulford, 42, of Bozeman, on charges of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute meth and possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Hulford faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Hulford was released pending further proceedings. The Bozeman Missouri River Drug Task Force – FBI, Bozeman Police Department, Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office, Drug Enforcement Administration and U.S. Postal Service investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-16.
Ciara Lee Ann Creason, 29, of Helena, on charges of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute meth and possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Creason faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Creason was released pending further proceedings. The Bozeman Missouri River Drug Task Force – FBI, Bozeman Police Department, Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office, Drug Enforcement Administration and U.S. Postal Service investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-15.
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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Cattle rustling scheme sends Bozeman man to prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Bozeman man accused in a cattle rustling scheme of stealing cattle and embryos while defrauding a bank and a business partner was sentenced today for conviction in the case to 30 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $450,993 restitution, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Joshua James Chappa, 45, pleaded guilty on Jan. 21 to conversion of secured property and to wire fraud.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. Judge Christensen allowed Chappa to self-report to prison.
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that Chappa was a ranch manager and worked for Hayes Ranch, LLC, in Wilsall, from 2008 until 2017. Chappa also formed Cold Smoke Cattle, LLC, in 2015. While working for Hayes Ranch, Chappa had access to the cattle, embryos and other items. When the owners were out of the country, Chappa began dealing in cattle, including stealing cattle from the Hayes Ranch and selling them as if they were his own.
The government alleged that in 2015, Chappa signed two security agreements with Northwest Farm Credit Services, PCA, which is a member of the Farm Credit System. Chappa pledged his cattle as collateral. Between 2015 and 2017, Chappa intended to defraud Northwest by selling cattle in which Northwest had a security interest without remitting the proceeds as promised. Chappa defaulted on the loan and Northwest suffered a loss.
The government further alleged that Chappa partnered with Willers Mitten Brand, in Norfolk, Nebraska, in various cattle ventures and failed to remit payment to Willers Mitten Brand when selling the cattle. In a cattle sale at Billings Livestock Commission in January 2017, Chappa requested that payment of $41,262 be made to his company, Cold Smoke Cattle, saying that Willers Mitten Brand had “already signed the brand release for that to happen.” When questioned by Willers Mitten Brand about the payment, Chappa deceived it, ensured he received the full amount and failed to split the proceeds.
The government alleged that between 2015 and 2017, Chappa stole cattle and embryos, and sold cattle in which Northwest Farm Credit Services had a security interest, resulting in a total loss of approximately $481,805.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and the Montana Department of Livestock.
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Lodge Grass man admits assault crime in Crow Agency shootingRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Lodge Grass man accused of shooting and wounding a pedestrian from his vehicle in Crow Agency admitted to an assault crime today, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Fabian Cruz Dawes, 31, appeared for an arraignment and pleaded guilty to an information charging him with assault with a dangerous weapon. Dawes faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. Dawes was detained pending further proceedings. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that on April 7, the victim, identified as John Doe, was walking with another person on Makawasha Avenue, toward the downtown area of Crow Agency, on the Crow Indian Reservation. At the same time, Dawes was parked in a blue vehicle near the Teepee Service, out of view of Doe. As Doe approached a laundromat near the Teepee Service, Dawes drove toward Doe and stopped near the victim. Doe approached the driver’s side door and engaged in a short conversation with Dawes. Dawes then fired a single 9mm bullet at Doe, striking him in the leg, then drove away at a high rate of speed. Doe was treated for injuries at the Indian Health Services. Video evidence and witnesses identified Dawes as the shooter to law enforcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Harper Suek is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and FBI.
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Kalispell meth trafficker sentenced to three years in prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Kalispell man who admitted to conspiring with others to obtain large quantities of methamphetamine for distribution was sentenced today to three years in prison and to three years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Scott Michael George Daniels, 31, pleaded guilty on Jan. 21 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
In court documents, the government alleged that law enforcement learned from several sources that Daniels was distributing meth and that he and others transported stolen vehicles from Kalispell to Spokane and traded them for illegal drugs. The government further alleged that Leon Kavis supplied Daniels with about 12 pounds of meth, which is the equivalent of 43,488 individual doses, in mid-August 2020. Kavis, of Missoula, is awaiting sentencing for a meth conspiracy conviction in a separate case.
The government also alleged that a confidential source saw Daniels with three pounds of meth in his garage and saw him distribute the drug to others. Law enforcement served a search warrant on Daniels’ residence and recovered six rifles, body armor, small quantities of meth and heroin and drug paraphernalia. Daniels admitted to distributing between 49 ounces and 60 ounces of meth between the spring and fall of 2020.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer S. Clark prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.
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Browning man admits kidnapping, strangling womanRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Browning man accused of kidnapping a woman and strangling her in two separate assaults in 2020 on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation admitted to charges today, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Nash Devine Angel Ingraham, 19, pleaded guilty to kidnapping and to strangulation of a dating partner. Ingraham faces a maximum of life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release. A plea agreement in the case calls for a term of between 135 months to 168 months of imprisonment and five years of supervised release to be imposed if the federal district court judge accepts the agreement at sentencing. The judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Sentencing was set for Aug. 26, and Ingraham was detained pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that on Feb. 10, 2020, the victim, identified as Jane Doe, met up with Ingraham in Browning, on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. Doe left Ingraham’s house and went to a friend’s place to sleep. Ingraham arrived at the friend’s house the next morning, jerked the victim out of bed, forced her out of the house and then force-marched her across Browning, assaulting her along the way. Ingraham took Doe to his house where he continued to assault her. Law enforcement officers went to Ingraham’s house multiple times looking for Doe, but the family refused to open the door. Officers responded to the house a third time, and Doe exited the house. Officers observed injuries on Doe.
The government further alleged that Ingraham strangled Doe to near unconsciousness on Dec. 17, 2020 during an assault at a Browning residence, where he had held her for about four days. Doe went to a hospital in Browning and reported the assault.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kalah A. Paisley is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services.
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Browning man sentenced to prison for distributing methamphetamine on Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Browning man who admitted distributing methamphetamine on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation was sentenced today to 20 months in prison and to four years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Dakoda Blu Wade Iron Shirt, 28, pleaded guilty on Feb. 4 to distribution of meth.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in August 2019, a confidential source working with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the FBI bought about a half ounce of meth from Iron Shirt in a controlled purchase. Additional witnesses identified Iron Shirt as a meth distributor on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, Cut Bank Police Department, Big Sky Safe Trails Task Force and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services.
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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Missoula man admits methamphetamine trafficking crimeRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Missoula man accused of dealing large quantities of methamphetamine in the community and of having nine pounds of the drug at his property and vehicle admitted to a trafficking crime today, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Terry David Starrett, 53, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth as charged in a superseding information. Starrett faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Sentencing was set for Sept. 2 before U.S. District Court Judge Donald W. Molloy. Starrett was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that law enforcement served a federal search warrant on Jan. 7 and recovered more than nine pounds of meth from Starrett’s rental property and his vehicle. Nine pounds of meth is the equivalent of about 32,616 individual doses. The government further alleged that Starrett sold an undercover informant about two ounces of meth in December 2020 and that he trafficked meth from Washington to Montana once or twice a week. In addition, in the fall of 2020, Starrett traveled to California with another person and returned to Missoula with about 15 pounds of meth. Fifteen pounds of meth is the equivalent of about 54,360 individual doses.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara J. Elliott is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, the Missoula Police Department, Missoula County Sheriff’s Office and 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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Havre man admits assaulting womanRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Havre man accused of beating and strangling a woman on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation pleaded guilty to an assault crime today, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Joseph Tyler Henderson, 28, pleaded guilty to assault resulting in substantial bodily injury. Henderson faces a maximum of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris set sentencing for Aug. 26. Henderson was released pending further proceedings.
According to court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that on Feb. 26, 2020 and into Feb. 27, 2020, Henderson was out drinking alcohol with the victim, a dating partner identified as Jane Doe, and a mutual friend. The three were in a pickup truck, with the friend driving. Henderson and the victim began to argue, and Henderson struck the victim several times. The assault continued after the group reached a residence, and the victim attempted to flee the property. Henderson followed, punched the victim multiple times and strangled her to unconsciousness. The victim was treated for injuries at Northern Montana Hospital in Havre.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared C. Cobell is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI and the Rocky Boy’s Police Department.
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Lame Deer man admits manslaughter crime in vehicle death of womanRead the Press Release
UPDATE: The defendant in this case, Jerard David Threefingers, ultimately withdrew his guilty plea and the case went to a jury trial, where he was acquitted on Dec. 14, 2021 of the charge alleged in the indictment described in the press release below.
BILLINGS – A Lame Deer man accused in the death of a woman who was struck and killed by his car on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation pleaded guilty to charges today, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Jerard David Threefingers, 31, pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter, as charged in an indictment. Threefingers faces a statutory maximum of eight years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. A plea agreement filed in the case calls for a term of five years of probation to be imposed if the federal district court judge accepts the agreement at sentencing. The judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. Judge Watters ordered Threefingers released and set sentencing for Sept. 17.
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that on March 6, 2020, Threefingers was at a Muddy Cluster house, on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, where he was hanging out and drinking with the victim, identified as Jane Doe, and others. Threefingers and Doe argued, and he drove away in a car. Threefingers returned, Doe came outside and they continued to argue at the car. Doe attempted to punch at Threefingers through the window and then grabbed the handle of the car door. Threefingers started to drive away.
The government further alleged that Doe continued to hang onto the handle and that her hand became lodged in it. Doe fell and got caught under the car. Threefingers picked up Doe and drove her to a relative’s house. An ambulance was called, and Doe was pronounced dead. An autopsy determined the cause of death was multiple blunt force trauma.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan T. Dake is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by 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 Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on May 6 was:
Aaron Leo Ludwig, 30, of Billings, on charges of felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a stolen firearm and illegal receipt of a gun by a person under indictment. If convicted of the most serious crime, Ludwig faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Ludwig was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Glacier County Sheriff’s Office and Billings Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-24.
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on May 4 was:
Ronald Dean Lords, 53, of Corvallis, on charges of wire fraud, money laundering and filing false tax returns. If convicted of the most serious crime, Lords faces a maximum 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Lords was released pending further proceedings. The FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-16.
Christopher Scott Jessop, 46, of Belgrade, on charges of felon in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Jessop faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Jessop was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office and Montana Probation and Parole investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-08.
Ramon Gomez Delgado, 32, of Mexico, on charges of illegal entry of a previously removed alien. If convicted of the most serious crime, Delgado faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Delgado was detained pending further proceedings. The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office, Montana Highway Patrol and Department of Homeland Security’s Enforcement and Removal Operations. PACER case reference. 20-37.
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on May 4 was:
Ras Jahmikes Matta, 27, 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, Matta faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Matta was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI Transnational Organized Crime Task Force West and Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-22.
Appearing on May 6 and pleading not guilty was:
Raul Jorge Acosta, 27, of Billings, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth and possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Acosta faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Acosta was released pending further proceedings. The FBI Transnational Organized Crime Task Force West and the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-22.
Robert Roswald Redfield, 40, of Lodge Grass, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute meth and prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition. If convicted of the most serious crime, Redfield faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Redfield was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. PACER case reference. 20-77.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Billings man sentenced to more than 12 years in prison on meth trafficking crimesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Billings man convicted by a jury of trafficking crimes for his role in a large drug organization that brought hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine into Montana was sentenced today to 12 years and seven months in prison and to five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
During a three-day trial, a jury found Nicholas John Montano, 35, guilty on Feb. 12, 2020 of conspiracy to possess meth with intent to distribute and possession with intent to distribute as charged in an indictment.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
In court documents and evidence presented at trial, the government alleged that in the spring and summer of 2018, Montano received meth from Joshua Clause, who headed a large drug trafficking ring that imported hundreds of pounds of meth into Montana. Clause pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges and was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison. After meeting Montano through another person, Clause contacted Montano, who began to receive meth from Clause for redistribution.
Clause told law enforcement that he supplied Montano with a quarter pound to one pound of meth each time he restocked. Clause and Montano also traveled once together to Bakersfield, California, where Clause got meth from a supplier. Clause supplied Montano with approximately 10 to 15 pounds of meth during their association. Fifteen pounds of meth is the equivalent of about 54,360 doses. Law enforcement officers arrested Montano in Billings on a federal warrant on Aug. 19, 2018 after he fled in a stolen vehicle and was tracked to an apartment complex.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Colin M. Rubich and Thomas K. Godfrey prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, Billings Police Department, FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration.
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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Statement of Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson commemorating Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness Day, 2021Read the Press Release
BILLINGS -- "Native American women and children suffer disproportionally high rates of domestic violence and sexual assault and too often go missing or are murdered. In recent years, Montana has had several tragic cases, and the Montana U. S. Attorney’s Office is committed to doing its part to address this crisis,” Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said today.
“In the last year we have continued to work closely with the Montana MMIP State Task Force to identify the root causes of this problem and to develop solutions. In April, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes announced the completion of their tribal community response plan (TCRP), which identifies how tribal law enforcement, working with local, state and federal law enforcement and community partners, will respond when someone goes missing. This work was done in partnership with my office, the FBI, local and state law enforcement agencies and community organizations as part of the Department of Justice’s MMIP Initiative. It was the first such plan completed in the United States. Currently, several other tribes have begun developing similar response plans to address missing persons in their communities.
“Although we have made marked progress in the last year, we recognize that there is still much work to do. Today, we remember all those who have been murdered or have disappeared. We remain committed to finding the missing and seeking justice for the murdered. By all of us working together, I believe we can end this crisis."
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Wolf Point man convicted of rape, child abuse and assault crimes sentenced to more than 20 years in prisonRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Wolf Point man convicted by juries in two separate trials of rape, child abuse and assault crimes was sentenced today to a total of 20 years and five months in prison, followed by a total of 10 years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
A jury convicted Luke John Scott, Sr., 33, on Jan. 28 of aggravated sexual abuse and of assault by striking, beating or wounding, a misdemeanor, in a July 2017 rape and assault of a woman. On Nov. 19, 2020, a separate jury convicted Scott of felony child abuse that began in July 2018 and of assault resulting in serious bodily injury for an assault on the same minor child in March 2019. The crimes in both cases occurred on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation.
Chief Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
In the aggravated sexual abuse and assault case, Chief Judge Morris sentenced Scott to 10 years and five months in prison and to 10 years of supervised release. In the felony child abuse and assault case, Chief Judge Morris sentenced Scott to 10 years in prison and to three years of supervised release. Chief Judge Morris ordered the prison sentences in the two cases to run consecutively, for a total of 20 years and five months, and for the terms of supervised release in the two cases to run concurrently, for a total of 10 years of supervised release.
“Mr. Scott’s violent conduct not only seriously harmed the victims in these two cases but also endangered the entire community. These sentences will hold Mr. Scott accountable for his crimes, while protecting the community from further violence by him. Those who rape women and abuse children will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” Acting U.S. Attorney Johnson said.
In the aggravated sexual abuse case, the government alleged in court records and through evidence presented at trial that on July 7, 2017, Scott approached the victim, identified as Jane Doe, on the street, told her he had a bottle of vodka and that a relative was fishing by the Poplar river. The victim went with Scott to the river, where he threatened to kill her, tried to strangle her and then raped her. Jane Doe reported the assault to law enforcement and was transported to the hospital in Poplar.
In the child abuse and assault case, the government alleged in court records and through evidence presented at trial that for approximately eight months, beginning in July 2018, Scott abused and injured a minor child in Wolf Point. The abuse culminated in a March 2019 assault in which the Scott assaulted the child by repeated blunt force trauma to the head and strangulation. The victim was treated for serious injuries.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kalah A. Paisley prosecuted the cases, which were investigated by the FBI and Fort Peck Law Enforcement Services.
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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 all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law:
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on April 27 was:
Dennis Wayne Householder, Jr., 38, 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, Householder faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Householder was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI Transnational Organized Crime Task Force and the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-22.
Appearing on April 29 and pleading not guilty was:
Stacey Lee Milch, 39, of Billings, on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. If convicted of the most serious crime, Milch faces a maximum 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release on the wire fraud charges and a mandatory two years in prison consecutive to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine and one year of supervised release on the aggravated identity theft charge. Milch was detained pending further proceedings. The U.S. Secret Service and the Billings Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-23.
Appearing on April 30 and pleading not guilty was:
Josue Mikael Nunez, 21, of Carrollton, Georgia, 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, Nunez faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Nunez was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-24.
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on April 28 was:
Robert Raymond Fasuga, 39, of Helena, on charges of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute, possession with intent to distribute meth and possession of a stolen firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Fasuga faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Fasuga was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-03.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on April 30 was:
Harold Goodson Hill, 36, of Helena, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute meth, and interstate transportation of stolen property. If convicted of the most serious crime, Hill faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Hill was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, U.S. Postal Service, Russell Country Drug Task Force, Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office, Broadwater County Sheriff’s Office, Missouri Highway Patrol and Sioux Falls Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-19.
Appearing on April 29 and pleading not guilty was:
Tammy Lynn Lapie, 55, of Great Falls, 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, Lapie faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Lapie was released pending further proceedings. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Great Falls Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-27.
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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Browning man sentenced to prison for strangling dating partnerRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Browning man who admitted to strangling his dating partner on two separate occasions on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation was sentenced on April 29 to 40 months in prison and to two years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said today.
Drew Dion Gallineaux, 27, pleaded guilty on Jan. 13 to two counts of strangulation of a dating partner.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Gallineaux was detained.
According to court documents, the government alleged that on Dec. 22, 2019, Gallineaux and the victim were drinking and got into an argument. Gallineaux assaulted the victim, including strangling her. The government further alleged that on July 8, 2019, Gallineaux assaulted and strangled the victim while in a vehicle. Both assaults occurred in Browning.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kalah A. Paisley and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney and Blackfeet Tribal Prosecutor Josh Lamson prosecuted the case. In addition to prosecuting misdemeanor crime in Tribal Court, Lamson, as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, assists with the prosecution of felony crimes occurring on the reservation in federal court. The position is funded through a U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance grant that was awarded to the Blackfeet Tribe in 2018. The grant supports collaboration between the Blackfeet Indian Nation and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to improve public safety on the reservation.
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Gunfight over fake meth deal sends Billings man to prison for 10 years on trafficking, firearms crimesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Billings man who admitted to drug trafficking crimes after a fake methamphetamine deal led to a gunfight at the seller’s residence was sentenced today to 10 years in prison and to three years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
James Armstrong Higgins, 41, pleaded guilty on Oct. 29, 2020 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth and to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that on June 3, 2019, co-defendant Gregg Johnson introduced Higgins to a man in a Billings Walmart parking lot. Higgins paid the man $3,000 for a package wrapped in black plastic, which the seller said was meth. Everyone went their separate ways. Instead of meth, the seller had provided Higgins with a brick of rock salt.
When Higgins realized he had been cheated, he, a friend and Johnson went to the seller’s house to recover the money. Higgins, Johnson and the friend all were carrying firearms. No one answered when they pounded on the door. Higgins’ friend went to a rear door and as he began to enter, the shooting started. The friend and Johnson both fired their weapons. Several people were shot and wounded. There was no evidence Higgins brandished or fired his gun. Johnson was sentenced to seven years and 10 months in prison for conviction in the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin M. Rubich prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the U.S. Department of Justice’s recent initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws, and Project Safe Neighborhoods, the USDOJ’s initiative to reduce violent crime. Through these initiatives, 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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Browning man sentenced to prison for sexual abuse of a minor on Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Browning man convicted of sexual abuse of a minor on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation was sentenced on April 28 to 21 months in prison and to five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said today.
Austin Kade Goings, 23, pleaded guilty on Oct. 13, 2020 to sexual abuse of a minor.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in November 2017, the victim, identified as Jane Doe, who was between the ages of 12 and 16, was driving around with Goings and others on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. The group was drinking alcohol. At some point, Goings and the victim exited the vehicle and went to an abandoned trailer house. The victim alleged Goings hit her and forced her to have sexual intercourse. The victim reported the sexual assault, was examined and treated. Goings denied using force but admitted to having sexual intercourse with the victim.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeffrey K. Starnes and Cassady Adams prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services.
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Billings man sentenced to prison for meth trafficking, illegal possession of firearmRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Billings man convicted of trafficking methamphetamine and illegally possessing a firearm was sentenced today to six years in prison and to four years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Calvin Tyrone Bowens, 40, pleaded guilty on Dec. 9, 2020 to possession with intent to distribute meth and to prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that on April 7, 2020, Montana State Probation and Parole officers searched Bowens’ residence after law enforcement stopped him earlier and he admitted to possessing a firearm and narcotics at his home. Bowens was on state probation for felony convictions at the time and was prohibited from possessing firearms. During a search of Bowens’ residence, officers found a .45-caliber, semi-automatic pistol, numerous rounds of ammunition and 15 to 20 grams of meth. Bowens admitted in an interview with a federal agent to selling about one pound of meth. The investigation further determined that Bowen met with other known drug dealers in the Billings area. In a subsequent search of his residence, agents found meth and two loaded pistol magazines.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie R. Patten prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the U.S. Department of Justice’s recent initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws, and Project Safe Neighborhoods, the USDOJ’s initiative to reduce violent crime. Through these initiatives, 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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Man suspected in shooting on Crow Indian Reservation appears on assault chargesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A man suspected of shooting and wounding a pedestrian from his vehicle in Crow Agency, on the Crow Indian Reservation, had an initial appearance on a criminal complaint today, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Fabian Cruz Dawes, 31, a transient, is accused by a criminal complaint of assault with a dangerous weapon. If convicted of the most serious crime, Dawes faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. Judge Cavan ordered Dawes detained pending further proceedings.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
In a criminal complaint and affidavit filed in the case, the government alleged that on April 7, near the Teepee Service gas station and a laundromat in Crow Agency, the victim, an adult male, was walking with another person, when Dawes approached in a vehicle and stopped near the victim. The victim approached the driver’s side door and engaged in a short conversation with Dawes. The government further alleged that Dawes fired a single shot at the victim, striking him in the leg. Dawes then drove from the scene. The victim was treated for injuries at the Indian Health Services hospital in Crow Agency.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Suek is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs.
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Canadian national suspected in armed encounter with officers in illegal border crossing appears in courtRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Canadian national suspected of illegally crossing into Montana near Eureka and arrested after an armed encounter with a Border Patrol officer and pursuit through the woods appeared on criminal charges on April 23, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said today.
Tommy Plante, also known as Joseph Sylvain Tommy Plante, 32, of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, had an initial appearance on a criminal complaint accusing him of illegal entry into the United States and prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition. If convicted of the most serious crime, Plante faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Judge DeSoto ordered Plante detained pending further proceedings.
According to the criminal complaint and affidavit filed in support of the complaint, the government alleged that on the evening of April 19, the Eureka Montana Border Patrol Station received information from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police that Plante was possibly in a kayak on Lake Koocanusa and may be attempting to enter the United States. The next morning, a Border Patrol agent arrived in the area and saw a beached kayak and camp site in Montana, about one-quarter mile south of the border. The agent approached the subject, later identified as Plante, and identified himself as with the Border Patrol.
The court documents allege that Plante stepped toward the agent and grabbed a rifle that was leaning against a tree. The agent drew his government-issued handgun while taking cover behind a tree and ordered Plante to put down his rifle. Plante slung the rifle on his shoulder and put up his hands but did not put down the rifle. Plante picked up a water bottle and ran into the woods. Multiple agencies joined in a ground and air search for Plante, who was arrested without injury about approximately five and one-half miles from the initial encounter.
The case was investigated by the Border Patrol and the Air and Marine Operations, both within U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Homeland Security; FBI; Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks; and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.
PACER case reference. 21-58.
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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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 April 19 was:
Joel Zamora, 40, of Billings, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute meth and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. If convicted of the most serious crime, Zamora faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release on the drug counts and a mandatory minimum five years to life consecutive to any other crime, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release on the firearms count. Zamora was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI Transnational Organized Crime West Task Force and Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-22.
Appearing on April 20 was:
James Posey Fisher, Sr., 34, of Lame Deer, on charges of voluntary manslaughter. If convicted of the most serious crime, Fisher faces a maximum 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Fisher was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-11.
Orville James McIntire, 20, of Livingston, on charges of illegal receipt of firearm by a person under indictment, possession of stolen firearm and controlled substance user in possession of firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, McIntire faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. McIntire was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-14.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on April 21 was:
Gordon Lee Connelly, 20, of Cut Bank, on charges of attempted kidnapping, strangulation, assault resulting in substantial bodily injury and interstate violation of protection order. If convicted of the most serious crime, Connelly faces a maximum 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Connelly was released pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Indian Affairs, Glacier County Sheriff’s Office and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-21.
Appearing on April 20 was:
Roy Allen Shostak, 28, of Polson, on charges of possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Shostak faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Shostak was detained pending further proceedings. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Helena Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-02.
Christina Westcott, 37, of Great Falls, on charges of possession with intent to distribute meth and heroin. If convicted of the most serious crime, Westcott faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and four years of supervised release. Westcott was detained pending further proceedings. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Great Falls Police Department and Cascade County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-15.
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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Mexican National admits to using stolen identityRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Mexican national accused of using personal information stolen from another person to live and work in the Billings community pleaded guilty today to charges, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.
Hugo Javier Quiroga, also known as Antonio Alatorre, 47, pleaded guilty to false representation of a Social Security number, false claim to United States citizenship and aggravated identity theft. Quiroga faces a maximum five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release and a mandatory consecutive two years in prison, a $250,000 fine and one year of supervised release on the identity theft count.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. Judge Cavan ordered Quiroga detained. A sentencing date will be set.
The government alleged in court documents that in 2018, law enforcement began investigating a complaint from an individual named Antonio Alatorre, originally from Brownsville, Texas, who said his identification documents had been stolen in the 1990s and that he had encountered problems due to having his identity stolen. The complainant had learned that someone in Billings was using his identity.
Investigators determined that the individual in Billings was Quiroga, who went by the alias Antonio Alatorre, and that Quiroga had admitted to a former wife that he swam across the Rio Grande to enter the United States, lived in Brownsville, Texas for a couple of years, and used the alias as a “work name.” Investigators also obtained the marriage license from the marriage to his former wife, which showed that Quiroga was born in Matamoros, Mexico.
The government further alleged that Quiroga falsely used the name, date of birth, and social security number for Alatorre to join the boilermakers union and work for several companies in Montana. Additionally, Quiroga falsely claimed that he was a United States citizen on one of the employment application forms.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan McCarthy is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Billings Police Department.
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Lodge Grass man admits burning down house on Crow Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS —A Lodge Grass man accused of setting fire to an occupied house on the Crow Indian Reservation admitted charges today, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.
Travis Rusty Wallace, 18, pleaded guilty to arson, as charged in an indictment. Wallace faces a maximum of life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. Wallace was released pending further proceedings. A sentencing date will be set.
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that on June 23, 2020, the victim, identified as John Doe, was in his residence in Lodge Grass when he smelled smoke. He went into his bedroom and saw that the curtains were on fire. While extinguishing the flames, he saw Wallace was in the back yard running from the house. After putting out the fire, Wallace left the residence for approximately an hour and a half. While Doe was gone, his roommate returned home from work and fell asleep in a back bedroom. A smoke alarm awakened the roommate, who ran into the hallway and saw that Doe’s bedroom was engulfed by flames. The roommate ran out the back door and saw Wallace drop a gas can on the lawn and drive away. A neighbor saw Wallace repeatedly driving around the neighborhood past Doe’s home before the fires were set.
The government further alleged that Wallace denied he set the fire and consented to his clothes being taken. The fire marshal determined the fire was set with gasoline, and an analysis found gasoline on Wallace’s clothes.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Suek is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs.
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Havre man admits meth trafficking on Rocky Boy’s Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Havre man accused of supplying large quantities of methamphetamine to individuals on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation pleaded guilty to a trafficking crime today, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.
Clayton Cree Morsette, 23, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth. Morsette 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 Aug. 5 and ordered Morsette detained.
In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that in 2019, law enforcement officers learned from individuals that co-defendant Kristina Russette, of Washington, and her boyfriend, Morsette, worked together to distribute meth from the Spokane area to the Rocky Boy’s Reservation. In addition, in May 2020, Russette was driving a vehicle stopped in Washington for traffic violations. Morsette was a passenger. During a search of the vehicle, officers found multiple bags containing approximately 1.6 pounds of meth. Morsette told an officer that he and Russette had picked up those drugs in Spokane and that some of it was destined for Montana.
Multiple other individuals told law enforcement that Morsette was a longtime supplier of large quantities of meth to persons on and around the Rocky Boy’s Reservation and described him as working with Russette. Morsette admitted to working with Russette to distribute meth, making multiple trips to bring ounces of meth to the reservation and to having brought a pound of meth in a trip in March or February of 2020. Russette pleaded guilty in the case and is awaiting sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan Plaut is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Chippewa Cree Law Enforcement Services, Tri-Agency Drug Task Force, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Kalispel Tribe Public Safety Department in Washington and the Airway Heights Police Department in Washington.
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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Two Montana nurse practitioners admit telemedicine scheme to defraud Medicare of more than $18 millionRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS—Two nurse practitioners in Montana this week admitted charges that they conspired to defraud Medicare of millions of dollars in a scheme in which they received money to sign fraudulent orders for orthotic braces, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said today.
Janae Nichole Harper, 34, of Kalispell, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit health care fraud. Harper was a licensed nurse practitioner in Montana, Missouri, Nevada, South Carolina and Wyoming and was enrolled as a medical provider with Medicare.
Mark Allen Hill, 54, of Edinburg, North Dakota, and whose address of record for participation in the Medicare program was in Cut Bank, Montana, pleaded guilty on April 20 to conspiracy to commit health care fraud. Hill was a licensed nurse practitioner in Montana, Iowa, Maine, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Washington.
Hill and Harper each face a maximum 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
Chief Judge Morris set sentencing for both Harper and Hill for July 27 and continued their release.
Harper and Hill were among those indicted in a historic national health care fraud and opioid enforcement action announced by the U.S. Department of Justice on Sept. 30, 2020. The enforcement action involved 345 charged defendants across 51 federal districts, including more than 100 doctors, nurses and other licensed medical professionals.
These defendants were charged with submitting more than $6 billion in false and fraudulent claims to federal health care programs and private insurers, including more than $4.5 billion connected to telemedicine. Telemedicine uses telecommunications to provide health care services remotely.
In court documents filed in Harper’s case, the government alleged that from Nov. 18, 2017 through July 16, 2019, Harper worked with certain staffing and telemedicine companies to commit health care fraud and received money to sign brace orders that were prepared by telemarketers who had no medical training or certification. Harper routinely signed these orders for Medicare beneficiaries regardless of medical necessity. Harper signed approximately 7,673 brace orders, which resulted in $8,259,849 billed to Medicare, of which Medicare paid approximately $4,307,934. Harper was paid at least $94,395 for the orders she signed.
In court documents filed in Hill’s case, the government alleged that from Oct. 15, 2017 to April 24, 2019, Hill worked with certain staffing and telemedicine companies to commit health care fraud and received money to sign unnecessary brace orders for Medicare beneficiaries regardless of medical necessity, often without ever talking to the Medicare beneficiary to determine whether the braces were medically necessary. Hill signed approximately 7,097 brace orders, which resulted in $10,055,436 billed to Medicare, of which Medicare paid approximately $5,054,866. Hill was paid at least $124,900 for the orders he signed.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Kakuk and Darren Halverson, Trial Attorney, and Robyn Pullio, former Trial Attorney, Fraud Section, Criminal Division of the Justice Department.
The enforcement actions were led and coordinated by the Criminal Division, Fraud Section’s Health Care Fraud Unit, in conjunction with its Health Care Fraud and Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid (ARPO) Strike Force program, and its core partners, the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, HHS-OIG, FBI, and DEA, as part of the department’s ongoing efforts to combat the devastating effects of health care fraud and the opioid epidemic.
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