District of Montana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Fort Belknap man sentenced to prison for strangling womanRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS— A Fort Belknap man convicted of assaulting and strangling a woman in Lodge Pole, on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, last year was sentenced today to 28 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
After a two day trial in January, a jury found Jordan Alexander Werk, 32, guilty of assault by striking, beating or wounding and of strangulation.
U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The prosecution presented evidence at trial that Werk assaulted and strangled the victim on April 8, 2019 in Lodge Pole in Blaine County and on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation. The victim reported on April 8, 2019 that Werk had assaulted her by grabbing her hair and throwing her to the ground. Werk kicked her in the chest, punched her in the head and choked her, causing her to see stars and have trouble breathing.
The victim also told law enforcement that during the assault, Werk told her that he knew how to hit someone to not show bruises and that if she was going to act like a victim, then he would treat her like one. The victim was treated for injuries, including a broken rib, at the Indian Health Service in Harlem.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paulette Stewart prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Fort Belknap tribal law enforcement.
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Fatal crash in Glacier National Park sends man to prisonRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS—An East Glacier Park man convicted after a drunken driving crash killed one passenger and seriously injured a second passenger in Glacier National Park last year was sentenced today to 18 months in prison and three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
After a three-day trial in February, a jury found Leo James Hagan, 20, guilty of involuntary manslaughter and of assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The prosecution presented evidence at trial that the crash occurred on June 11, 2019, on Two Medicine Road, about 200 yards inside of Glacier National Park. Hagan and the two victims had been socializing at the Trailhead Saloon in East Glacier that night, and Hagan had consumed alcohol. The group left the saloon and traveled toward Two Medicine Lake, with Hagan driving a Ford Escape.
Hagan lost control of the vehicle, failed to negotiate a sharp left turn, went off the road and hit a tree. The vehicle spun and rolled and came to a rest on the driver's side. The front seat passenger was ejected and suffered severe injuries. The rear seat passenger also was ejected, pinned under the vehicle and died at the scene.
Hagan left the scene on foot and called 911. He implied he had come upon the scene of a crash and was otherwise not involved. He reported seeing one injured person but not his involvement, the cause or that a passenger had died.
A Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services officer ultimately found Hagan at his residence at about 2:30 a.m. Hagan confirmed he had been in the crash and had been driving. A blood draw during the investigation determined that Hagan had a blood alcohol concentration of .093 percent more than four hours after the crash.
A crash investigation determined that the vehicle was traveling more than 70 mph in a 45 mph speed zone when it crashed, that the driver never applied the brakes and that neither Hagan nor the front seat passenger was wearing a seatbelt. Hagan had claimed he was wearing a seatbelt and had braked.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kalah Paisley and Ethan Plaut prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the National Park Service, Blackfeet Law Enforcement and Medical Services, the Glacier County Sheriff's Office and the Montana Highway Patrol.
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Billings meth trafficker sentenced to 15 years in prisonRead the Press Release
BILLINGS—A Billings man convicted in a drug investigation in which agents found six pounds of methamphetamine and guns in a motel room was sentenced today to 15 years in prison and five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Dameon Pierre Beasley, 41, pleaded guilty in November to possession with intent to distribute meth and to possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The prosecution said in court records that Drug Enforcement Administration agents went to a Billings motel in July 2018 where they had observed a man and a woman known to be involved in drug trafficking enter the building. Agents knocked on the door of the suspects’ room. The man consented to a search, and agents found drug paraphernalia. The woman volunteered that they had returned from Missoula where they had been helping Beasley transport drugs.
Beasley also was staying at the motel. Agents went to his room, and co-defendant Jessica Lynn Denny, answered the door. While speaking to Denny, agents witnessed movement behind her and secured the room. Agents found Beasley and another co-defendant, David Lopez, in the room. A firearm was on a table. Agents executed a search warrant on the room and found six pounds of meth, two handguns and $11,190 in currency. Six pounds of meth is the equivalent of about 21,744 doses.
Beasley admitted he was selling meth and distributing to Denny and Lopez and that Lopez had brought one of the guns to trade it to him for meth. Text messages on phones seized from Denny and Beasley indicated that Denny had brokered the gun trade and that she and Lopez were completing the firearm for meth deal when agents entered the room. Denny pleaded guilty in the case and was sentenced to six years in prison. Lopez has pleaded guilty to charges and is awaiting sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin Rubich prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the DEA, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Billings Police Department.
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. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 through 2018. 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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Billings meth dealer sentenced to six years in prisonRead the Press Release
BILLINGS—A Billings man who admitted supplying methamphetamine for a drug deal with a confidential informant was sentenced today to six years in prison and four years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Patrick Bryan Cleveland, 39, pleaded guilty in January to distribution of meth.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The prosecution said in court records that in June 2019, drug task force agents met with a confidential informant about drug trafficking in the Laurel and Billings areas and arranged for the informant to buy meth from co-defendant Shawna Bercier, of Laurel. The informant bought about two grams of meth from Bercier in a transaction observed by law enforcement. Agents arranged another controlled buy in which the informant bought one ounce from Bercier. For the second deal, Bercier advised the informant she would be getting the meth from "Pat" and that it was worth the wait. Agents observed Cleveland arrive at Bercier's workplace and provide her with a cigarette box, which contained about an ounce of meth. The cigarette box was provided to the informant.
Agents followed Cleveland's vehicle to a Billings residence, where a third co-defendant, Lynn Kuntz, lived. Kuntz had been identified as a source of supply for meth.
Bercier and Kuntz have pleaded guilty to charges in the case and are awaiting sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Patten prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 to 2018. 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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Washington supplier of meth to Montana sentenced to prisonRead the Press Release
HELENA—A Washington man who admitted supplying methamphetamine for drug runs to Montana in 2018 was sentenced today to 17 years and six months in prison and five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Hugo Yanez, 38, of Everett, WA, pleaded guilty in October to conspiracy to distribute meth and possession with intent to distribute meth.
Senior U.S. District Judge Charles C. Lovell presided.
The prosecution said in court documents filed in the case that in an interview in 2019 with law enforcement, Yanez said that he and a co-defendant, Breanne Bame, of Kenmore, WA, moved into the residence of a third co-defendant, Tavia Dion Blume, of Monroe, WA. Yanez admitted to supplying narcotics for Blume to distribute on four trips to Montana.
In December 2018, the Montana Highway Patrol stopped a vehicle driven by Blume and occupied by a fourth co-defendant, Kyle Douglas Alverson, of Lake Stevens, WA, east of Missoula. During a search of the vehicle, officers found firearms, ammunition, about 1.5 pounds of meth and U.S. currency. One and a half pounds of meth is the equivalent of 5,436 doses.
Blume was sentenced to 14 years in prison, while Alverson was sentenced to 14 years and 11 months in prison for their convictions in the case. Bame was sentenced to 97 months for her conviction in the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Bartleson prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Montana Highway Patrol and the Missouri River Drug 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. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 through 2018. 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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Department of Justice Awards More Than $2.3 Million to Hire 16 New Law Enforcement Positions in MontanaRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice today announced more than $2.3 million in grant awards for Montana as part of nearly $400 million in grant funding through the Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program (CHP). The Attorney General announced funding awards to 596 law enforcement agencies across the nation, which allows those agencies to hire 2,732 additional full-time law enforcement professionals.
In Montana, 12 sheriff's offices and police departments were awarded more than $2.3 million, with grant amounts ranging from $375,000 to $125,000, to hire 16 new positions.
The awards announced today are inclusive of the $51 million announced in May as part of Operation Relentless Pursuit.
“The Department of Justice is committed to providing the police chiefs and sheriffs of our great nation with needed resources, tools, and support. The funding announced today will bolster their ranks and contribute to expanding community policing efforts nationwide,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “A law enforcement agency’s most valuable assets are the men and women who put their lives on the line every day in the name of protecting and serving their communities.”
"This great news for our local law enforcement partners across the state. This funding will provide more officers and deputies on the ground and help us keep our keep communities safe," U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
In the Montana, the agencies and grant awards included: Broadwater County Sheriff's Office, $250,000; Carbon County Sheriff's Office, $125,000; Gallatin County Sheriff's Office, $375,000; Lake County Sheriff's Office, $219,009; Lewis and Clark County Sheriff's Office, $125,000; Miles City Police Department, $125,000; Mineral County Sheriff's Office, $223,779; Missoula Police Department, $250,000; Park County Sheriff's Office, $125,000; Prairie County Sheriff's Office, $179,593; Sweet Grass County, $125,000 and Troy Police Department, $189,779.
The COPS Hiring Program is a competitive award program intended to reduce crime and advance public safety through community policing by providing direct funding for the hiring of career law enforcement officers. In addition to providing financial support for hiring, CHP provides funding to state, local, and tribal law enforcement to enhance local community policing strategies and tactics. In a changing economic climate, CHP funding helps law enforcement agencies maintain sufficient sworn personnel levels to promote safe communities. Funding through this program had been on hold since the spring of 2018 due to a nationwide injunction that was lifted earlier this year.
CHP applicants were required to identify a specific crime and disorder problem focus area and explain how the funding will be used to implement community policing approaches to that problem focus area. 43 percent of the awards announced today will focus on violent crime, while the remainder of the awards will focus on a variety of issues including school-based policing to fund school resource officer positions, building trust and respect, and opioid education, prevention, and intervention. The COPS Office received nearly 1,100 applications requesting more than 4,000 law enforcement positions.
The complete list of awards can be found here. To learn more about CHP, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/chp. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Informational: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto on a criminal complaint on May 26 was:
Oscar Noe Celio Luna, 32, of Bakersfield, CA, 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, Luna faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Luna was detained pending further proceedings. The Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, Missouri River Drug Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations and Helena Police Department investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 20-8.
If the above cases are of interest to your media organization and the community it serves, we encourage you to monitor its progress regularly through the U.S. District Court calendar and the PACER system.
To establish a PACER account, which will allow you to review documents filed in the case, please go to, http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the district court’s calendar, please go to https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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U.S. Attorney warns public of COVID-19 contact tracing fraudsRead the Press Release
BILLINGS—U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme today warned Montanans to be aware of COVID-19 contact tracing scams in which someone steals personal identifying information while posing as a government or health care representative.
The Department of Justice is getting reports that contact tracing fraud is an emerging nationwide scam. Contact tracing is a process to help stop the spread of the coronavirus by identifying people who have come into contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 and instructing them to quarantine and monitor symptoms.
"Don't be fooled by imposter tracers. Scammers calling or texting and saying, 'I'm with the health department and I need your Social Security number or bank account information…' have been effective at stealing personal identification information. A legitimate contact tracer will not ask for money or information like your Social Security number or bank account number. During this time, stay healthy and keep your money safe," U.S. Attorney Alme said.
For more information about COVID-19 contact tracing scams and tips to protect yourself from identity theft and financial fraud, visit the Federal Trade Commission at: https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2020/05/covid-19-contact-tracing-text-message-scams.
To report COVID-19 related frauds, contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud at 866-720-5721 or [email protected].
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Meth trafficker from Utah sentenced to prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA—A Utah woman who had nearly two pounds of methamphetamine hidden on her body when arrested near Butte was sentenced today to four years in prison and five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Ebony Cherelle Tafoya, 31, of Midvale, Utah, pleaded guilty in January to possession with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The prosecution said in court documents that on Sept. 6, 2019, Tafoya was arrested outside of Butte. Law enforcement officers conducted a pat down search of Tafoya and found 520 grams, which is about 1.1 pounds, of meth in a belly band. Another 333 grams, or about three-quarters of a pound, was found hidden in Tafoya's bra and chest area at the Butte-Silver Bow Detention Center. The amount of meth seized was the equivalent of about 7,248 doses. Tafoya previously had distributed large quantities of meth to a confidential source in August 2019.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Bartleson prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Russell Country Drug Task Force, the Montana Southwest Drug Task Force, the Montana Highway Patrol and the Montana Department of Corrections.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 to 2018. 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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Great Falls man sentenced to more than 21 years for sexually exploiting childRead the Press Release
HELENA—A Great Falls man was sentenced to 21 years and eight months in prison and a lifetime of supervised release today after he admitted to taking sexually explicit photographs of a minor, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Virgil Allen Wolfe, 54, pleaded guilty in May 2019 to sexual exploitation of a child.
Senior U.S. District Judge Charles Lovell presided.
The prosecution said in court records that law enforcement had received a report that Wolfe used a camera to take photographs of the victim in the nude and then uploaded them to his computer. The victim was younger than 12 years of age.
Law enforcement with Homeland Security Investigations and the Cascade County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at Wolfe’s residence in June 2017 and seized computers, a phone and a digital camera. A forensic analysis of the devices found child pornography images on a computer and on a memory card inside the camera. The images were taken in 2008 and 2009.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Bartleson prosecuted the case, which was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Border Patrol and the Cascade County Sheriff’s Office.
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Cut Bank man admits assaulting minorRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Cut Bank man today admitted assaulting a minor girl on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Daniel Mark Tanner, 33, pleaded guilty to assault on a minor as charged in a superseding information. Tanner faces a maximum five years in prison, a $50,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and set sentencing for Sept. 17. Tanner was released pending further proceedings.
The prosecution said in court records that in January 2018, the Cut Bank Police Department began investigating allegations of Tanner having inappropriate contact with a minor girl. At the time of the disclosure, the victim was under the age of 14. In an interview with law enforcement, the victim said that a few months earlier, she awoke to find that Tanner had grabbed her hand and pulled it toward him. She described trying to move her hand away, but Tanner held it against her will. The assault occurred on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kalah Paisley is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Blackfeet 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 defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on May 21 was:
Amy Lillian Tamaska, 41, of Desert Hot Springs, CA, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and distribution of meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Tamaska faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Tamaska was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI Transnational Organized Crime West Task Force investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 19-101.
Lisa Marie Fish, 38, of Worden, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute meth and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. If convicted of the most serious crime, Fish faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. If convicted of the firearms crime, Fish faces a minimum mandatory five years to life consecutive to any other sentence. Fish was released pending further proceedings. The FBI Transnational Organized Crime West Task Force investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 19-101.
Appearing on a criminal complaint on May 21 was:
Johnathon Scott Cooper, 33, address unknown, on charges of possession of an unregistered silencer. If convicted of the most crime, Cooper faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Cooper was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 20-46.
If any of the above cases are of interest to your media organization and the community it serves, we encourage you to monitor the progress of the case regularly through the U.S. District Court calendar and the PACER system.
To establish a PACER account, which will allow you to review documents filed in the case, please go to, http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the district court’s calendar, please go to https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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California woman sentenced for meth trafficking in the Flathead ValleyRead the Press Release
MISSOULA—A California woman who admitted bringing methamphetamine to the Flathead Valley for distribution after officers found more than 10 pounds of the drug in her vehicle was sentenced today to six years in prison and five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Kristal Patricia Leonard, 34, of Huntington Beach, CA, pleaded guilty in February to possession with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The prosecution said in court documents that on Sept. 19, 2019 near Lolo, during an undercover surveillance operation, Montana Highway Patrol officers searched a vehicle Leonard had been driving and recovered heroin and more than 10 pounds of meth. Ten pounds of meth is the equivalent of 36,240 doses. In addition, the Kalispell Police Department served a search warrant on Leonard's residence and recovered firearms, meth, a digital scale and paraphernalia. A confidential informant told law enforcement that Leonard distributed large amounts of meth in Lake and Flathead counties and would make one to two trips per months to pick up meth for re-distribution in Montana. The informant personally distributed meth for Leonard.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Northwest Drug Task Force and Homeland Security Investigations.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 to 2018. 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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Illegal possession of firearms sends Columbia Falls man to prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA—A Columbia Falls man who was on state probation was sentenced today to two years in prison and three years of supervised release for illegally possessing firearms and ammunition, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
George Harrison Burger, 50, pleaded guilty in February to prohibited person in possession of firearms.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
In court records filed in the case, the prosecution said that in December 2018, officers from the Flathead County Sheriff's Office and Montana Probation and Parole conducted a probation search of Burger's residence as a condition of his probation. Law enforcement recovered nine firearms and multiple rounds of ammunition. Burger had prior convictions that prohibited him from possessing firearms.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Flathead County Sheriff's Office and Montana Probation and Parole.
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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California man admits to trafficking crime for meth found hidden in peanut butter, piñataRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A California man admitted to a drug distribution charge today after investigators found almost two pounds of methamphetamine hidden in a peanut butter jar and a piñata that were bound for the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Don Fred Baldwin, 47, of Merced, CA, pleaded guilty to distribution of meth. Baldwin faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian Morris presided and set sentencing for Sept. 17. Baldwin was detained.
The prosecution said in court documents that Baldwin mailed a package on Nov. 7, 2019 from California to Brockton, located on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. Law enforcement officers intercepted the package, obtained a search warrant and found meth hidden inside a jar of peanut butter and a piñata. The amount of meth totaled about 776 grams, which is about 1.7 pounds and the equivalent of approximately 6,208 doses. When interviewed, Baldwin told law enforcement that he mailed the meth. Baldwin clarified later that he provided the meth to another person who mailed it to Montana.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Cassady Adams is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Fort Peck Tribal Criminal Investigators and the Merced, CA, Police Department.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 to 2018. 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 sentenced to prison for raping, sexually abusing two womenRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS—A Browning man convicted by a jury of raping and sexually abusing two women on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation under the guise of offering each a ride home was sentenced today to 54 months in prison and five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
A jury in January found Alphonse Bird, 85, guilty of one count of aggravated sexual abuse and one count of sexual abuse.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian Morris presided.
"American Indian women face far too much violence. The violence must stop, and offenders, regardless of their age, will be held accountable," U. S. Attorney Alme said.
During trial, the prosecution presented evidence that Bird sexually assaulted two women on separate occasions within two months in 2018 on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. On Sept. 15, 2018, the first victim approached a Blackfeet Law Enforcement officer near the Town Pump in Browning and reported that Bird had just raped her. Bird had picked her up near the Blackfeet Care Center and she thought he was giving her a ride home. Instead, Bird drove toward East Glacier Park, parked the vehicle and raped her. The victim couldn’t get Bird to stop until she got sick. He dropped her off near Advanced Towing and witnesses helped her. The victim promptly reported the assault.
In the second assault, a witness called law enforcement on Nov. 4, 2018 to report an incident she had just observed south of Browning in which a vehicle was parked on the side of the road. The witness pulled up to the passenger side to see if the occupants needed assistance. Bird was in the driver’s seat and the victim was a passenger. The victim attempted to sit up but was unable to do so. Bird drove away. The witness tried to follow but could not keep up and called law enforcement. A law enforcement officer located the vehicle and when she approached, she saw Bird, who had his right arm in a sling and was putting a glove on his left hand. Bird said he was bringing his passenger home and was just turning around.
The victim told the officer that Bird had picked her up and she thought he was going to take her home. The victim was intoxicated and had trouble recounting what happened, but said Bird sexually assaulted her despite her telling him to stop. The victim said Bird kept telling her she was going to be okay.
DNA analysis linked Bird to evidence collected from both of the victims.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kalah Paisley prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Blackfeet Law Enforcement.
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Washington meth dealer sentenced to prisonRead the Press Release
HELENA—A Washington woman who admitted dealing methamphetamine in Helena, including selling it to an undercover officer in a car wash, was sentenced today to 97 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Breanne Marie Bame, 40, of Kenmore, WA, pleaded guilty in October to distribution of meth.
U.S. District Judge Charles C. Lovell presided.
The prosecution said in court records in the case that in November 2018, a co-defendant offered to sell an undercover officer 13 ounces of meth for $6,000. Later, in a controlled purchase with the co-defendant in Helena, the officer got into the co-defendant's car, where Bame also was seated. The co-defendant introduced Bame as "boss lady Bre." The officer said he had only $4,500 and asked if he could buy 10 ounces of meth. The co-defendant asked Bame for approval, Bame gave the go ahead and the deal was conducted. Bame later told law enforcement agents in an interview that she had traveled to Montana with the co-defendant and confirmed that they had sold meth at a car wash in Helena.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Bartleson prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Missouri River Drug Task Force, the Montana Highway Patrol, the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff's Office, the Helena Police Department and the U.S. Marshals Service.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 to 2018. 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 meth dealer sentenced to prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Missoula man who admitted trafficking methamphetamine in the community for several years was sentenced today to 12 years in prison and five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Dustin Lee McGough, 41, pleaded guilty in January to conspiracy to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
The prosecution said in court documents that evidence from at least 13 confidential informants would show that McGough was a prolific meth dealer in the Missoula from the spring of 2015 through June 2019 and that he obtained meth mostly from California and brought it back to Missoula. When the Missoula County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant at McGough's residence and vehicle in March 2018, officers found meth, heroin and drug paraphernalia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI 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. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 to 2018. 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 12 was:
Maliyah Jae Chavez, 18, of Billings, and Rodrigo Gomez, 19, of Billings, on charges of possession of stolen firearms. If convicted of the most serious crime, Chavez and Gomez face a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Both defendants were detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 20-28.
Bo Bryan Fish, 40, of Worden, 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 drug trafficking. If convicted of the most serious crime, Fish faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. In addition, Fish faces a minimum mandatory five years to life consecutive to any other crime on the firearms count. Fish was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI Western Transnational Organized Crime Task Force investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 20-30.
Trevion Maurice Jones, 44, 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, Jones faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Jones was detained pending further proceedings. The Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and FBI Western Transnational Organized Crime Task Force investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 20-32.
Gaspar Feliciano Salas, 43, of Gilbert, AZ, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute meth and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. If convicted of the most serious crime, Salas faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. In addition, Salas faces a minimum mandatory five years to life consecutive to any other crime on the firearms count. Salas was detained pending further proceedings. The Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and FBI Western Transnational Organized Crime Task Force investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 20-33.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John Johnston and pleading not guilty on May 14 was:
Russell Robert Moddison, 48, 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, Moddison faces a minimum mandatory five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and four years of supervised release. Moddison was detained pending further proceedings. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Great Falls Police Department and Russell Country Drug Task Force investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 20-27.
If any of the above cases are of interest to your media organization and the community it serves, we encourage you to monitor the progress of the case regularly through the U.S. District Court calendar and the PACER system.
To establish a PACER account, which will allow you to review documents filed in the case, please go to, http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the district court’s calendar, please go to https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Blowing up ATM machine sends Missoula man to prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA—A Missoula man who admitted pouring gasoline on an ATM machine and setting it on fire, causing an explosion, was sentenced today to 38 months in prison and three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Guy Murray Culligan, 58, pleaded guilty in January to malicious use of explosive material.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution said that on Nov. 7, 2019, the Missoula Police and Fire departments responded to a report of an explosion at First Security Bank and found an ATM that had been set on fire. The ATM was damaged as a result of the explosion, which was caused by a buildup of gasoline vapors inside the machine. Damage to the ATM was approximately $30,000.
A witness told investigators about seeing Culligan light the ATM on fire and calling the Missoula Police Department to report the incident. The explosion shattered the windows of Culligan's vehicle and the witness provided a description of the vehicle.
Law enforcement located Culligan in a damaged vehicle, with its windows blown out. Culligan had singed facial hair and an ATM keypad was in his vehicle. Culligan admitted he poured gasoline over the ATM and threw a lit object at it to ignite it, causing the explosion.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Missoula Police Department and Missoula Fire Department.
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Lame Deer man admits beating girlfriendRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Lame Deer man today admitted he hit his girlfriend repeatedly in the face, causing facial and dental injuries, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Anfernee Jamal Whiteman, aka Anfernee Jamal Limberhand, 21, pleaded guilty to assault resulting in substantial injury to a dating partner. Whiteman faces a maximum five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. Whiteman was detained pending further proceedings. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
In court documents filed by the prosecution, the assault occurred on Sept. 14, 2019 near the commodities building in Lame Deer, on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation. A Bureau of Indian Affairs law enforcement officer responded to a report of a woman being beaten up and heard the victim scream as he neared the area. The officer saw Whiteman standing over the victim.
The victim was upset, bloody and screaming at Whiteman. Whiteman attempted to flee and was arrested. Whiteman's knuckles were swollen and there was blood on his pants and shirt. The victim was taken to the Lame Deer Indian Health Service where she said her "boyfriend hit her repeatedly in the face." The victim had abrasions on her head and face and dental injuries from the assault.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan Dake prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI.
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U.s. Attorney Kurt Alme Recognizes Law Enforcement Officers During Police WeekRead the Press Release
BILLINGS— In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme encouraged everyone to join him in recognizing the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
"Every day in Montana, law enforcement officers put their own lives at risk to protect us and our way of life. Some sacrifice their bodies and some give up their lives. To all of you who carry a gun and a badge out on the street, protecting us while exposing yourselves to dangers like coronavirus and worse, know that you have our sincere thanks," U.S. Attorney Alme said.
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including one officer here in Montana. Gallatin County Sheriff's Deputy Jake Allmendinger was killed in an accident as he was assisting a stranded motorist.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
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Ronan woman sentenced to prison for embezzling from company, evading taxesRead the Press Release
MISSOULA—A Ronan woman who admitted stealing more than $300,000 from her employer and evading paying income taxes was sentenced today to 25 months in prison, three years of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Kerry Snow Yeager, 48, pleaded guilty in October to wire fraud, aggravated identity theft and tax evasion.
U.S. District Judge Dana Christensen presided. Judge Christensen ordered $252,740 in restitution, with $216,231 to the victim owner and $36,509 to the IRS.
The prosecution said in court documents that Yeager had worked for a company in Ronan for several years and embezzled $316,231 from the firm beginning in 2015 until August 2017. Yeager used various methods to steal the money including unauthorized cash withdrawals at ATMs, unauthorized use of a company debit card and cashing and depositing checks written on the company's account with a forged signature of the victim owner. Yeager also failed to pay taxes on the embezzled money in 2015, 2016 and 2017. The victim owner discovered Yeager was stealing in August 2017. When confronted, Yeager admitted to the fraud. After the fraud was discovered, a relative of Yeager's paid the victim owner $100,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Racicot prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation Division.
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Improvised bomb possession sends West Yellowstone man to prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA—A West Yellowstone man who admitted having unregistered improvised bombs after officers found three small devices in his truck was sentenced today to 40 months in prison and three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Charles Gibson Bailey, 33, pleaded guilty in January to possession of unregistered explosive devices.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
In court records filed in the case, the prosecution said that on Feb. 26, 2019, the West Yellowstone City Court issued a protection order against Bailey. On March 27, 2019, in connection with an investigation into Bailey’s violation of the protection order, law enforcement officers searched Bailey’s truck.
During the search, officers seized three small destructive devices. A Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives expert examined the devices and concluded they were designed as weapons and were properly identified as improvised explosive devices. Bailey did not register the devices with the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Racicot prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the ATF, West Yellowstone Police Department, Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office, National Park Service and Forest Service.
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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Miles City man admits illegal possession of gunRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Miles City man admitted today he illegally possessed a handgun after having been convicted of a felony, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Braden Charles Losing, 25, pleaded guilty to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm and to possession of a firearm while being a user of any controlled substance. For each charge, Losing 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. A sentencing date will be set at a later time. Losing was detained.
The prosecution said in court documents that Losing had a prior felony drug conviction in Custer County. On Aug. 24, 2019, Glendive law enforcement officers responded to a report of a man passed out and unresponsive in a truck. Officers found Losing unconscious in the passenger seat and observed drug paraphernalia. Medical responders administered Naloxone and Losing regained consciousness. Officers executed a search warrant on the truck and found drug paraphernalia along with a 9mm semiautomatic handgun loaded with a magazine.
Losing admitted to officers that on the day of his overdose, he smoked meth and injected fentanyl and could not remember anything after that. Losing did indicate he knew the handgun was in the truck and that it "probably" would contain his DNA and fingerprints. He acknowledged he was a convicted felon and was prohibited from possessing the gun.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla Painter is prosecuting 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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Florida woman sentenced for attempted transportation of illegal aliensRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS— A Florida woman who admitted driving to Montana last year to try to pick up three illegal aliens from Mexico for transportation back to Florida was sentenced today to three years of probation, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Lucia Marlene Mendez, 34, of Tampa, Fla., pleaded guilty in January to attempted transportation of an illegal alien.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The prosecution said in court records that at about 4:15 a.m. on Sept. 8, 2019, a Border Patrol agent saw a suspicious black 2018 Dodge Caravan, with a Florida license plate registered to a vehicle rental company, driving in Sweetgrass, about a block from where three illegal aliens from Mexico had been apprehended.
Border Patrol agents pulled over the Caravan, and Mendez, the driver, and a passenger, her boyfriend, were identified. Mendez is a U.S. citizen, but boyfriend was an undocumented alien from Mexico and in the country illegally. Mendez initially told agents that she was on vacation and was looking for a hotel. After being told that one of the undocumented aliens had already told an agent that she was coming to pick them up, Mendez acknowledged she was there to get them.
Mendez told agents that she was to be paid $600 for driving from Florida to Sweetgrass to get the illegal aliens. She was given $1,000 for gas and hotels for roundtrip travel to Montana and back to Florida. Mendez told agents that had she realized how far Sweetgrass was from Florida, she would have asked for more money.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paulette Stewart prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the U.S. Border Patrol.
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Fairfield man who defrauded family of more than $700,000 sentenced to prisonRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS—A Fairfield man who admitted posing as a financial services manager to steal more than $700,000 from a family and then spent the money for his own benefit was sentenced today to 28 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Michael Lee Van Auken, 41, pleaded guilty in January to wire fraud, money laundering and filing a false tax return.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and allowed Van Auken to self-surrender. Judge Morris ordered Van Auken to pay $719,340 restitution to the family and $165,195 restitution to the IRS.
"Montanans have a tradition of trust when it comes to doing business with one another. We’re also raised to pay our taxes. When someone violates that trust to embezzle a family's money for his own gain and avoids paying income taxes, he will be caught and prosecuted," U.S. Attorney Alme said.
“Special Agents pride themselves on untangling complex financial transactions created by fraudsters such as Van Auken,” said IRS-Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Andy Tsui. “Along with protecting the integrity of our nation’s tax system, IRS-Criminal Investigation seeks to help individuals and entities who suffer financial harm at the hands of swindlers and bring them to justice.”
"Not only did the family suffer a devastating financial loss, but they are also left to deal with the consequences of Mr. Van Auken's misrepresented tax services," said Paul Haertel, special agent in charge of the Salt Lake City FBI. "The case should serve as a reminder that the FBI and our law enforcement partners will go after unscrupulous individuals who deceive and defraud unwitting people of their hard-earned money. We also encourage the public to do their due diligence and research when looking to invest and to immediately report any fraud to police or the FBI."
In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution said Van Auken formed various business entities to hide his embezzlement from a Montana family. Van Auken offered to provide the family various financial services, including investment opportunities, filing of personal and business taxes and the creation of wealth management plans.
Investigators found that Van Auken failed to provide the services as promised. Instead, Van Auken used the money for personal expenses and invested in foreign currency trading to try to recover amounts owed, none of which the victims authorized. Van Auken defrauded the victims of approximately $719,340.
As part of the scheme, Van Auken misrepresented his background to gain the victims' trust by claiming he had received a law degree and an accounting degree. Van Auken further misrepresented the value of the "investments" to the victims by creating fraudulent documents and telling them the investments were doing well, when in fact, the investments did not exist and the money was not invested as claimed.
In addition, Van Auken created a wealth management plan that he claimed would double the victims' net worth in five years. The plan induced the victims to use Van Auken's services. When the victims asked Van Auken return their funds, he failed to do so.
Van Auken claimed he would invest the victims' money in a new drill bit for oil drilling and fracking industries. Instead, Van Auken invested the money in foreign currency trading in an attempt to repay the funds owed and embezzled the money for his own personal expenses.
As part of the scheme, Van Auken laundered $210,000 he received from the victims for the drill bit investment by spending it on unauthorized expenditures and transferring $100,000 to a personal account.
Van Auken also filed a false tax return in 2018 for tax year 2014 in which he claimed a total income loss of $118,839, but did not claim $295,340 he received from defrauding the victims. The additional income resulted in $76,819 due in taxes. The investigation also showed that Van Auken owed $165,195 in taxes for the years 2013-2015.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Weldon prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and IRS.
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California man admits blackmailRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A California man accused of threatening to inform on a person if he wasn't paid money today admitted blackmail charges, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Bryan Gregg Waterfield Nash, 56, of Woodside, CA, pleaded guilty to blackmail. Nash faces a maximum one year in prison, a $100,000 fine and one year of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided and continued Nash's release pending further proceedings. Sentencing is set for August 7, 2020.
In documents filed in the case, the prosecution said that the blackmail began in December 2013 and ran until about June 2019 in Whitefish and in northern California. Nash knew the victim, identified as John Doe 1, for many years. Beginning in about December 2013, Nash frequently communicated with John Doe 1 in person and electronically and with his family, friends and colleagues.
Many of Nash's communications demanded money from John Doe 1, and he also accused the victim of committing federal crimes. Nash alleged the victim could be investigated by the IRS for tax fraud. In a text message sent in April 2016, Nash told the victim: "This brings all your IRS stuff to the public eye even more. This will be huge news. You were scamming the IRS." During the same time period Nash was accusing the victim of breaking federal law, he repeatedly asked for financial assistance.
When John Doe 1 stopped responding to communications from Nash, Nash intensified communications with the victim's family, friends, employees and privately-retained lawyers. Many of the messages referenced the victim being investigated by the IRS or FBI, and Nash repeatedly asked to meet with the victim's lawyers to "settle" with the victim. Nash's requests to settle with the John Doe 1 were in consideration for not filing a civil complaint against the victim or reporting his alleged criminal transgression to law enforcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tim Racicot and Ryan Weldon are prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI.
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Billings felon sentenced for illegal possession of firearmsRead the Press Release
BILLINGS—A Billings man who admitted illegally having guns after having been convicted of a felony was sentenced today to 30 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Franklin Joseph Takeshorse, 40, pleaded guilty in January to prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The prosecution said in court documents in the case that in June 2019, the Billings Police Department received a call of a suspicious person attempting to enter a closed business. The business reported the person went back into his car and passed out. Officers approached the car and saw Takeshorse asleep and a rifle on the back seat. Takeshorse was on probation from a 2007 felony conviction and there was a warrant for his arrest. The rifle was recovered along with a pistol that was in a backpack next to Takeshorse. The rifle was unloaded, while the pistol was loaded.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom 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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President Trump issues proclamation for Missing and Murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives Awareness DayRead the Press Release
BILLINGS—U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme and the Department of Justice today commemorated Missing and Murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives Awareness Day as proclaimed by President Donald J. Trump.
President Trump today signed a proclamation declaring May 5 as Missing and Murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives Awareness Day. The proclamation affirms the government's commitment to ending violence against these Americans and to honoring those whose lives have been lost.
Attorney General William P. Barr said in a statement, "American Indian and Alaska Native people have suffered injustices for hundreds of years, including today’s rampant domestic and sexual violence carried out primarily against women and girls. Today, President Trump has proclaimed a day to remember all those missing and lost to this unacceptable violence. Through the Presidential Task Force – co-chaired by Katie Sullivan, who heads our Office of Justice Programs – and in partnership with Tribal Nations, we are all committed to ending this cycle of violence. To that end, we have brought unprecedented resources to support public safety and victim services, including $270 million in grant funding in fiscal year 2019. The department is also hiring 11 coordinators to consult with tribes and develop common protocols to address this scourge of violence. From this day forward, today’s proclamation marks a time for all of us to honor Native Americans who have been lost and rededicate ourselves to what President Trump has called ‘our mission to bring healing, justice, hope, and restoration’ to American Indian and Alaska Native communities.”
"We know that violence in tribal communities is too common. Native women and children suffer disproportionally high rates of domestic violence and sexual assault and too often go missing or are murdered. Montana has had several tragic cases," said U.S. Attorney Alme, who is vice chairman of the Department of Justice's Native American Issues Subcommittee. "Today, we remember all those who have been murdered or have disappeared. By all of us working together, I believe we can find solutions and stop this crisis."
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Box Elder woman sentenced for stabbing manRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Box Elder woman who admitted stabbing a man in the upper chest with a butterfly knife on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation last year was sentenced today to 18 months in prison and two years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Katie Lynn Big Bow, 44, pleaded guilty in January to assault of a dating partner resulting in substantial bodily injury.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The prosecution said in court records that the assault occurred on May 2, 2019 when Big Bow stabbed the victim with a butterfly knife in the left hand and upper chest at his house in Box Elder. The victim drove himself to the clinic on the reservation. Big Bow and the victim were in a long-term relationship.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paulette Stewart prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Rocky Boy’s Chippewa Cree Law Enforcement.
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Ex-BLM employee admits using government credit card to defraud agency, buy potteryRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A former Bureau of Land Management employee today admitted he used government credit cards to steal from the agency, including buying pottery for his personal use, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Adrian Anthony Aragon, 49, of Butte, pleaded guilty to wire fraud. Aragon faces a maximum 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and up to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. The Court detained Aragon and set sentencing for Aug. 14.
The prosecution said in court records filed in the case that Aragon worked as an administrative assistant for the BLM and had been issued government travel and purchase cards to be used only for official business. An investigation found that in 10 months, Aragon attempted to obtain about $20,901 by improperly using his government cards. On July 28, 2019, Aragon used his card to spend $2,500 to buy pottery for his personal use. To cover the fraudulent purchase, Aragon doctored the account statement to omit the transaction and then submitted the statement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Weldon prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Land Management, Office of Law Enforcement and Security.
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Missoula woman sentenced to prison in meth conspiracyRead the Press Release
MISSOULA—A Missoula woman who admitted her role in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy was sentenced today to 46 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Crystal Marie Buhler, 35, pleaded guilty in January to conspiracy to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Donald M. Molloy presided.
In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution said Buhler distributed drugs in the Missoula area from the spring of 2018 through June 2019. Witnesses told law enforcement that Buhler, along with a co-defendant, bought heroin from California with money obtained from the co-defendant's meth distribution. Buhler had heroin shipped to her residence for distribution.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and the 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. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 to 2018. 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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Poplar woman sentenced to prison for bar stabbingRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS—A Poplar woman who admitted stabbing a man multiple times while in a Wolf Point bar on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation was sentenced today to 20 months in prison and two years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Emily Kaye Marie Gourneau, 32, pleaded guilty in December to assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The prosecution said in court records that the assault occurred on July 23 at the Water Hole 1 bar in Wolf Point. Gourneau and the victim, who was playing pool, had been socializing. At some point, when the victim walked toward Gourneau from the pool table, Gourneau pulled out a knife and stabbed the victim multiple times, running around the bar chasing after him. The assault was recorded on a security camera. Gourneau left the bar after the assault.
First responders found the victim lying on the floor and severely wounded and bleeding. The victim underwent surgery for multiple stab wounds at a hospital in North Dakota.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Cassady Adams is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Wolf Point Police Department and the Fort Peck Tribes’ Criminal Investigation.
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Missoula meth distributor sentenced to prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA—A Missoula woman who admitted to distributing meth on behalf of another person was sentenced today to one year and one day in prison followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Aurora Elizabeth Quinn, 37, pleaded guilty in December to distribution of meth.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution said that Quinn, acting on behalf of another person, referred to as John Doe, distributed about 12 grams of meth to a confidential source in May 2019. Before the deal, the confidential source had talked to John Doe, who indicated that Quinn would have the drugs. The source called Quinn, the two arranged to meet and the source paid Quinn $500 for a package of meth.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and the 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. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 to 2018. 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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Illegal firearm possession sends Missoula man to prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA—A Missoula man who admitted he illegally possessed a firearm and ammunition was sentenced today to 15 months in prison and three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Paul Aaron Champion, 52, pleaded guilty in December to felon in possession of a firearm.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The prosecution said in court documents that in September 2017, federal, state and local law enforcement conducted a home visit and probation check at Champion's residence. Champion told his probation officer that he had used methamphetamine recently so his probation officer searched his residence. The officer found a bag containing a .380-caliber pistol and ammunition for the gun. Champion at first denied, then admitted the firearm belonged to him. Champion was convicted of a felony and was serving a suspended sentence at the time.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Cyndee Peterson prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Missoula Police Department and Montana Probation and Parole.
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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Three Mexico citizens sentenced for smuggling aliens from CanadaRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS—Three Mexico citizens who admitted trying to smuggle aliens across the border from Canada into Glacier County in Montana last year were sentenced this week to time served, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Samuel Velasco-Tovar, 28, who was a foot guide, and Omero Banderas-Rodriguez, 39, who was a driver, both were sentenced on Wednesday to 158 days of time served. Alberto Guillen-Gordillo, 23, who was intended to be a driver, was sentenced today to 159 days of time served. All three defendants pleaded guilty in February to transportation of illegal aliens.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Judge Morris referred all defendants to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for deportation proceedings.
“Human smuggling across the Canadian border is dangerous both to those who are being smuggled and to Montanans who may cross paths with the smugglers. Those who are smuggled and cannot pay the fee may be forced to work to pay it off. Those who prey on the aspirations of those from other countries wanting a better life for themselves, putting them and Montanans at risk, will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” U.S. Attorney Alme said.
The prosecution said in court records that on Nov. 17 at about 11:15 p.m., Border Patrol agents conducted traffic stops of two vehicles south of the United States-Canada border in Glacier County. In the first vehicle, which was a Chevrolet Suburban, the agent found the driver, Banderas-Rodriguez, and nine passengers. All of the passengers admitted to being in the United States illegally. During the stop of the second vehicle, a Chevrolet Tahoe, all of the occupants ran into a nearby field. Agents found eight individuals within a few minutes. Each of the individuals admitted to being in the United States illegally.
In all, law enforcement transported 19 suspects to the Sweetgrass Border Patrol Station for processing. Four of the transported illegal aliens told agents they had paid from $4,000 to $4,750 to be smuggled into the United States and identified Velasco-Tovar as the foot guide who helped them cross into the United States.
Banderas-Rodriguez rented hotel rooms in Cut Bank prior to this pickup, was one of the contacts prior to the trip to cross the border and was one of the drivers at the pickup. He told law enforcement he would be paid $2,000 for driving an SUV full of aliens from Montana to Utah.
Shortly after the arrests, a Border Patrol agent and Glacier County Sheriff’s deputy went to a Cut Bank hotel where the subjects had been staying to determine if any remaining occupant in one of the hotel rooms was in violation of trafficking laws.
Co-defendant Guillen-Gordillo answered the door, identified himself and was taken into custody. Guillen-Gordillo admitted to being in the United States illegally. He rented the two SUVs from a Utah rental company. A co-defendant identified Guillen-Gordillo as the driver of a third vehicle but that he stayed at the hotel because he was not feeling well.
A fourth co-defendant, Josue Bermudez-Lopez, of Mexico, pleaded guilty to illegally transporting aliens and was sentenced to four months in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paulette Stewart, Jeff Starnes and Ethan Plaut are prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the U.S. Border Patrol and the Glacier County Sheriff’s Office.
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Methamphetamine trafficking sends Laurel man to prisonRead the Press Release
BILLINGS—A Laurel man who admitted to selling methamphetamine in the community was sentenced on Wednesday to six years and eight months in prison followed by four years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Seth James Todd, 26, pleaded guilty in November to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth and to distribution of meth as charged in an indictment.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The prosecution said in court documents that in the summer of 2017, drug task force officers worked with a confidential informant to buy meth from a co-conspirator. The co-conspirator, who was convicted in federal court, identified sources of supply in Spokane, where the co-conspirator traveled numerous times and bought about 15 pounds of meth. Fifteen pounds of meth is the equivalent of about 54,360 doses. Individuals from the Billings area traveled with the co-conspirator on those trips to obtain meth for personal use and for resale in the community. Todd made one trip to Spokane with the co-conspirator, who sold a half-pound of meth to Todd. A different confidential informant working with the task force bought meth from Todd.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Suek prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 to 2018. 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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Pryor man sentenced to prison for assault on elderly manRead the Press Release
BILLINGS—A Pryor man convicted by a jury of beating an elderly man and causing facial injuries was sentenced today to 54 months in prison and three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
After a two-day trial, a jury on Nov. 13, 2019 found Joseph Nathan Smells, 34, guilty of assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
“Our senior citizens deserve our respect, not abuse. Elder abuse is an all too common crime in our communities. We will prosecute those who harm our elders to the full extent of the law. I want to thank Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeanne Torske, Legal Intern Ryan Warner, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the FBI for investigating and prosecuting this case,” U.S. Attorney Alme said.
In documents filed in the case, the prosecution presented evidence that Smells assaulted the victim, an elderly man, by head-butting and punching him on Feb. 13, 2019. The victim suffered multiple facial injuries that required surgery.
The assault occurred in Pryor, on the Crow Indian Reservation, as the victim was sitting in a vehicle. While dropping off another passenger, the group in the vehicle passed a house. The driver noticed that the door had been kicked in and stopped to investigate. The driver walked toward the house and saw Smells just inside the house and another man. The driver told them both to leave. Smells and the driver argued, and as the driver tried to call police, Smells walked to the vehicle, where the victim was a passenger. Smells spoke briefly to the victim, then jerked open the door and began assaulting him. After the fight, Smells ran away.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeanne Torske and Legal Intern Ryan Warner prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the FBI.
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Department of Justice Commemorates National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme joins the Department of Justice and communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, celebrating victims’ rights, protections and services throughout the week. This year’s observance takes place April 19-25 and features the theme, “Seek Justice| Ensure Victims' Rights | Inspire Hope.”
“Every year, millions of Americans suffer the shock and trauma of criminal victimization, affecting their well-being and sense of security and dignity,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “To these victims, we affirm our unwavering commitment to supporting them in their hour of need. We also commend the thousands of victim advocates and public safety professionals who labor tirelessly to secure victims’ rights and support survivors.”
“Violent crime in Montana increased 36% since 2013. Each of those crimes had victims who suffered pain, loss and trauma, sometimes for the rest of their lives. We all need to work together to ensure that people in our communities stay safe from dangerous criminals. I want to thank those who came forward, and especially the courageous victims, to report crimes and to ensure the attackers didn’t hurt anyone else. I also want to commend our federal, state, tribal and local prosecutors, law enforcement and especially our victim specialists who work every day to seek justice for victims and provide them support,” U.S. Attorney Alme said.
“While we have made tremendous progress driving down crime and violence across the country, far too many Americans continue to suffer the pain and loss of criminal victimization,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Office of Justice Programs. “This week, we stand by these survivors and their families, and we pledge our ongoing support to the countless men and women who serve them with such extraordinary skill and compassion.”
Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week in 1981, putting crime victims' rights, needs, and concerns in a prominent spot on the American agenda. He also established the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims. President Trump and his administration have implemented historic levels of support for victim assistance and victim compensation.
Some 3.3 million Americans age 12 and older were victims of violent crime in 2018, according to the National Crime Victimization Survey. The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), part of the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs, supports more than 7,000 local victim assistance programs and victim compensation programs in every state and U.S. territory. Funds for these programs come from the Crime Victims Fund, which is made up of federal criminal fines, penalties and bond forfeitures.
During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local and tribal agencies traditionally host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services. This year, many communities are organizing virtual gatherings and online public awareness campaigns.
This year’s commemoration began yesterday, 25 years to the day when a truck bomb exploded in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, taking the lives of 168 people, including 19 children, as well as injuring hundreds of others. The mass murder remains the worst act of domestic terrorism in our nation’s history and led to the establishment of the Antiterrorism Emergency Reserve, which is administered by OVC, and has been used to provide direct services to hundreds of victims of mass violence and terrorism.
“Crime victims deserve to know that they have the encouragement and support of the American people,” said OVC Director Jessica E. Hart. “I hope that citizens throughout the nation will take the opportunity this week to remember all victims of crime and their heroic stories of survival. I encourage everyone to also find meaningful ways to express their appreciation to the many committed and compassionate service providers across the country who work tirelessly supporting these survivors.”
This year, the annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony will be postponed until a time when we can honor this year’s award recipients in person. During the ceremony, OVC will present awards recognizing individuals and organizations from across the nation for their outstanding service on behalf of crime victims. The awardees will be selected from public nominations in 11 categories, including federal service, special courage, public policy, and victim services. Visit www.ovc.gov/gallery to learn more about past recipients.
For more information on how to create your own public campaigns to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights online and at events throughout the year, please visit: https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw2020/overview.html.
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Man sentenced for illegal gun possession in Baker deer poaching investigationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS—A Louisiana man who admitted illegally having a firearm after confessing to shooting a mule deer buck in the Baker area was sentenced today to 15 months in prison and to three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Matthew Stephen Hays, 32, of Rayville, LA, pleaded guilty in November to prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The prosecution said in court documents that Hays was convicted of felony theft of a firearm in Louisiana in 2014. In January 2019, Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks wardens were investigating reports of deer poaching in eastern Montana. While on Sheep Mountain Road, the wardens saw a small pickup truck, heard four shots and saw the truck drive away. The wardens drove to where the truck had stopped and found a mule deer buck thrashing in sage brush about 150 yards from the road. The wardens hiked to the animal and found it dead from several gunshot wounds.
Four days later, one of the wardens saw in a Baker parking lot a truck matching the description of the truck that had been seen on Sheep Mountain Road. There were deer antlers in the back of the pickup and a rifle and several boxes of ammunition in the back seat of the cab. Hays emerged from a nearby store and walked to the truck. He confessed to the warden that he shot mule deer buck with his .22-caliber rifle. During a search of the truck, the warden recovered a .22-caliber rifle and a second firearm. Hay also told the warden he had a prior felony conviction.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla Painter 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. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 through 2018. 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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Billings man charged with drug trafficking crime after officers seize eight pounds of methRead the Press Release
BILLINGS—A Billings man suspected of trafficking methamphetamine for distribution in the community appeared on charges today after law enforcement officers intercepted a package containing about eight pounds of the drug that was sent through the U.S. Postal Service, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Trevion Maurice Jones, 44, had an initial appearance on a criminal complaint charging him with possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Jones faces a minimum mandatory 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 and ordered Jones detained pending further proceedings.
The charging document is merely an accusation, and Jones is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Court documents filed in the case said drug enforcement officers learned that Jones was a meth supplier and had sources in California and Las Vegas. Jones received some meth through the mail. On April 14, a U.S. Postal inspector located a priority express parcel addressed to Jones’ residence and sent from a California address. The package weighed 24 pounds. A K-9 alerted to the package, which officers opened after getting a search warrant. Inside the parcel was a safe, which contained five vacuum sealed packages that weighed about eight pounds and tested positive for meth. Eight pounds of meth is the equivalent of about 28,992 doses.
Officers replaced some of the meth in the safe, obtained a search warrant for Jones’ residence and made a controlled delivery. The postal inspector knocked on the door, delivered the package to Jones, who answered, and left. Law enforcement officers then served the search warrant at the residence and arrested Jones without incident.
The Drug Enforcement Agency, Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and U.S. Postal Service investigated the case.
Pacer case reference. MJ-20-35.
If the above cases is of interest to your media organization and the community it serves, we encourage you to monitor its progress through the U.S. District Court calendar and the PACER system.
To establish a PACER account, which will allow you to review documents filed in the case, please go to, http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the district court’s calendar, please go to https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Informational: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on April 9 was:
Keith Charles Harrison, 32, of Great Falls, on charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Harrison faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Harrison was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Great Falls Police Department and Russell Country Drug Task Force investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 20-21.
If the above case is of interest to your media organization and the community it serves, we encourage you to monitor its progress through the U.S. District Court calendar and the PACER system.
To establish a PACER account, which will allow you to review documents filed in the case, please go to, http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the district court’s calendar, please go to https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Illegal possession of firearm sends Billings man to prisonRead the Press Release
BILLINGS—A Billings man who admitted he illegally had a firearm after being found passed out in a vehicle was sentenced today to two and one half years in prison and three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Matthew Robert-Jefferson Miller, 32, pleaded guilty in October to prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The prosecution said in court documents that in 2009, Matthew Robert-Jefferson Miller was convicted of felony drug charges. On March 8, 2019, a Rosebud County Sheriff’s sergeant received a call for service regarding a vehicle off the road and stuck in the snow near the Rosebud Creek turn off on Highway 10. The officer found the vehicle with Miller passed out behind the wheel. During a pat down search of Miller, the officer found a loaded firearm in his waistband. The officer conducted a DUI investigation and arrested Miller. During an interview, Miller advised he had the firearm for protection.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Patten 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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U.S. Attorney urges public to report potential hoarding of supplies needed to fight COVID-19Read the Press Release
BILLINGS—U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme today urged the public to report potential stockpiling or price gouging of medical supplies needed to respond to the coronavirus pandemic.
The Department of Justice is getting reports of persons using the coronavirus crisis to stockpile urgently needed medical supplies to make windfall profits at the expense of public health and safety. Hoarding these items makes it difficult for healthcare providers and first responders to resist the spread of COVID-19.
“Hoarding critically needed medical supplies to get rich quick during a pandemic is not only morally reprehensible, it’s illegal. Stockpiling supplies and price gouging puts the health and safety of individuals at risk and hampers efforts to stop the spread of this deadly virus. It cannot and won’t be tolerated.” U.S. Attorney Alme said.
A recent Executive Order authorized a Defense Production Act provision that prohibits hoarding of designated items. The Justice Department’s COVID-19 Hoarding and Price Gouging Task Force is working with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which designates items, and with the Federal Emergency Management Service, to seize stockpiles of healthcare and medical items where appropriate. Designated supplies include items like masks, ventilators and disinfectants.
This stockpiling prohibition does not apply to regular Americans who are stocking up on daily necessities, businesses needing supplies or manufacturers.
The goal is to locate potential stockpiles of designated materials, quickly confiscate the items and redistribute the supplies where they are needed. Persons caught stockpiling supplies could face prosecution.
Please report COVID-19 hoarding, price gouging and fraud scams to the Department of Justice’s fraud hotline at 866-720-5721 or email [email protected].
“I want to assure Montanans that my office and our law enforcement partners are fully engaged and ready to investigate and prosecute these cases.” U.S. Attorney Alme said.
For more information on the coronavirus, visit Justice.gov/coronavirus.
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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 March 30 was:
Marc Buetow, 52, of San Diego, CA, on charges of conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession with intent to distribute. If convicted of the most serious crime, Buetow faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Buetow was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 18-89.
Appearing on April 2 was:
Courage Dane DeCrane, 20, of Pryor, on charges of aggravated sexual abuse and abusive sexual contact. If convicted of the most serious crime, DeCrane faces a maximum of life in prison, a $250,000 fine and at least five years to life of supervised release. DeCrane was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 20-16.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on March 31 was:
Amanda Jean Holland, 38, of Sunburst, on charges of theft of mail by postal employee and destruction of mail by postal employee. If convicted of the most serious crime, Holland faces a maximum five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release. The U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 20-16.
If any of the above cases are of interest to your media organization and the community it serves, we encourage you to monitor the progress of the case regularly through the U.S. District Court calendar and the PACER system.
To establish a PACER account, which will allow you to review documents filed in the case, please go to, http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the district court’s calendar, please go to https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Missoula drug trafficker sentenced to more than 16 years in prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA—A Missoula man convicted at trial of trafficking methamphetamine and heroin and illegally having firearms was sentenced today to 16 years and three months in prison and 10 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
A jury in December found Allan Roy Goodman, 43, guilty on all counts, including conspiracy to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute meth, distribution of a controlled substance, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, prohibited person in possession of a firearm and obstruction of justice.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
The prosecution’s evidence showed that Goodman was a prolific meth and heroin dealer. Goodman sold drugs to a confidential source who was working for the Missoula High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, and two witnesses testified about selling Goodman a pistol for heroin.
Law enforcement served a search warrant on Sept. 12, 2019 on Goodman’s garage and recovered two firearms. Goodman had been convicted of felonies on two prior occasions.
The prosecution also presented evidence showing that in early October 2019, Goodman and another person assaulted a cooperating witness while all were incarcerated in Shelby.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force, the Missoula HIDTA Task Force and the Northwest Drug Task Force.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the U.S. Department of Justice’s initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws, and Project Safe Neighborhoods, the USDOJ’s initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 through 2018. 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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Department of Justice Makes $850 Million Available to Help Public Safety Agencies Address COVID-19 PandemicRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – The Department of Justice this week announced that it is making $850 million available to help public safety agencies respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19. The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump, will allow eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately for these critical funds. The department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.
“As we all confront this coronavirus pandemic, our local and tribal partners face unprecedented challenges maintaining public health and safety in our communities. These funds will provide necessary support and resources during this critical time. I encourage all eligible agencies to apply,” U.S. Attorney Alme said.
“This is an unprecedented moment in our nation’s history and an especially dangerous one for our front-line law enforcement officers, corrections officials, and public safety professionals,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are grateful to the Congress for making these resources available and for the show of support this program represents.”
The solicitation, posted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance in the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will remain open for at least 60 days and be extended as necessary. OJP will fund successful applicants as a top priority on a rolling basis as applications are received. Funds may be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, cover protective equipment and supplies, address correctional inmates’ medical needs and defray expenses related to the distribution of resources to hard-hit areas, among other activities. Grant funds may be applied retroactively to Jan. 20, 2020, subject to federal supplanting rules.
Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for this emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations.
For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553. For more information about the Office of Justice Programs, please visit https://www.ojp.gov/.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Heroin, meth dealer sentenced to 15 years in prison for trafficking, firearms crimes in BillingsRead the Press Release
BILLINGS—A Colorado man convicted of trafficking heroin and methamphetamine in the community and of possessing a firearm was sentenced today to 15 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Scott Allen Wortman, 48, of Englewood, CO, pleaded guilty in May to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin and to two counts of possession with intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine. A jury convicted Wortman of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution said the evidence showed that federal agents identified Wortman in 2016 as a Billings area heroin distributor who traveled to Denver to get heroin and was supplying several other local dealers. In early 2018, law enforcement used a confidential informant to make two controlled buys of heroin from Wortman. Agents executed a search warrant at Wortman’s residence and found a small amount of heroin, two firearms, $4,000 in cash, surveillance equipment and drug paraphernalia. In an interview with agents, Wortman said he made regular trips to Denver to get heroin and that he had distributed more than a kilo of the drug. A kilo is 2.2 pounds. When Wortman was arrested, he had a .38-caliber pistol in his pocket, and agents found about 10 ounces of meth in his vehicle.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Colin Rubich and Julie Patten prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI 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. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 through 2018. 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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Harlem man sentenced in strangulation assaultRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS— A Harlem man who admitted strangling his dating partner on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation was sentenced today to 23 months in prison and to two years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Allesandro Shalamar Foursouls, 27, pleaded guilty in December to assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to a dating partner.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution said the assault occurred on April 13, 2019 at Foursouls’ grandmother’s home, where he lives. Foursouls and the victim, a dating partner, were drinking alcohol when Foursouls became angry with something she said. Foursouls told the victim, “I’ll kill you bitch,” and put his hands around her neck and squeezed until she lost consciousness. The victim was unable to escape until the next morning. She went to the Indian Health Service emergency room, where she was treated for pain and injuries to her throat. The victim told the medical staff that Foursouls had strangled her a day or two prior to her visit and that he had strangled her previously about a week earlier. The victim continued to experience pain from the assault and was treated again in May at Billings Clinic in Billings.
In August, law enforcement saw Foursouls and the victim together and the victim had a fresh black eye and bruising on her body. The victim told officers that Foursouls had assaulted her again a day or two prior.
Foursouls admitted to the FBI to squeezing the victim’s neck in the April assault.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Cobell prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services.
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