District of Montana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Great Falls man sentenced on gun chargesRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Great Falls man who admitted to illegally possessing a firearm was sentenced yesterday to 20 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
James Keith LaBuff, 49, pleaded guilty in January 2025 to prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on August 31, 2023, the Cut Bank Police Department responded to the Terrace Motel for a report of a man waving a gun around. Witnesses identified LaBuff as having a pistol, making threats, and “racking” a round. Cut Bank Police ultimately located LaBuff and, after he raised his hands as instructed, officers observed a pistol in his back right pocket. The pistol and several rounds of ammunition were subsequently discovered on LaBuff’s person. After arrest, LaBuff said he did not mean to shoot the gun, but explained it went off when he put the pistol in his bag by the bed in the motel room where he had been staying. Officers observed a bullet hole in the floor between the bed and the dresser in the motel room.
In July 2010, LaBuff was convicted of robbery and aiding and abetting a robbery in the United States District Court for the District of Montana, which prohibits him from owning a firearm.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda Myers prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the ATF, Cut Bank Police Department and Glacier County Sheriff’s Office.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
East Helena man sentenced to over 5 years in prison on drug chargesRead the Press Release
HELENA – An East Helena man who admitted distributing meth was sentenced today to 64 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Gordon Eric Barraugh, 63, pleaded guilty in January 2025 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on September 21, 2022, law enforcement agencies conducted a controlled buy from Barraugh at his home in Helena. They purchased over 80 grams of actual methamphetamine from Barraugh in the alley behind his house.
On September 23, 2024, law enforcement arrested Barraugh on an arrest warrant. They also searched his truck and seized meth and prescription pills. When Barraugh was brought to the courthouse for an arraignment on December 16, 2024, the United States Marshal’s Service located a small baggie with methamphetamine residue and another pill.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by Missouri River Drug Task Force, State of Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, Helena Police Department, and ICE.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
Washington man sentenced to over 5 years in prison for distributing drugs on the Rocky Boy’s Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Washington man who admitted to distributing fentanyl on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation and Big Sandy, Montana was sentenced today to 66 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Terrence Derrell Milton, 35, pleaded guilty in December 2024 to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that beginning on or about May 18, 2023, and continuing through June 19, 2023, law enforcement received information from a witness that Milton and his co-defendant were working together to distribute fentanyl on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation. The witness said Milton and his co-defendant would keep their stash of drugs off the reservation in Big Sandy and front a couple hundred pills at a time to individuals on the reservation to sell.
On June 15, 2023, Milton met a witness for a controlled purchase of 20 fentanyl pills for $800 after communicating about the purchase through the co-defendant. The witness was met by Milton who provided the 20 fentanyl pills in exchange for $800.
On June 19, 2023, the Tri-Agency Task Force executed a search warrant on a motel room in Big Sandy being rented by Milton. Under a bed in the motel room, law enforcement located approximately 3,200 fentanyl pills and a 10 mm handgun with a loaded 10 round magazine.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Tri-Agency Task Force.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
U.S. Attorney’s Office recovers approximately $450,000 for victims of Missoula fraudsterRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — The U.S. Attorney’s Office recently recovered approximately $450,000 from a Missoula man who defrauded his victims out of almost $1 million by fraudulently inducing them to invest in his transportation and logistics companies, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said today.
The defendant, Jason L. Matheny, was convicted of wire fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1343 on November 22, 2019. The court sentenced him to five years of probation, subject to several conditions, and ordered him to pay $994,521.16 in restitution to his victims. In late 2024, Matheny sold a commercial property in Missoula and, because of its restitution lien, the government secured $448,965.36 to be paid to his victims.
“The collection of restitution for victims of fraud is an essential part of the criminal justice system and a priority for the Department of Justice. Collection from convicted felons can be exceedingly difficult because money is often spent, invested, and moved around. Through the dedication and hard work of the Financial Litigation Program, the U.S. Attorney’s Office was able to execute against Mr. Matheny’s business property. This allowed the proceeds of that sale to be routed to Mr. Matheny’s victims rather than to him.” U.S. Attorney Alme said.
In September 2024, U.S. Probation requested a summons for revocation of Matheny’s term of probation, alleging he had violated the terms of his sentence by failing to provide requested financial information. Matheny admitted the violation in November 2024 and the Court extended his probation for an additional year.
XXX
Havre man sentenced to over 5 years in prison for drug and gun charges on the Rocky Boy’s Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Havre man who admitted trafficking methamphetamine and fentanyl while possessing a firearm on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation was sentenced yesterday to 66 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Bradley Lynn Perkins, 25, pleaded guilty in January 2025 to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances (methamphetamine and fentanyl) and possession of an unregistered firearm.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on February 15, 2023, in Hill County, the Tri-Agency Task Force arranged a controlled purchase of roughly 27 grams of methamphetamine from the Perkins.
One week later, Perkins was in state custody on other narcotics charges. He was interviewed by law enforcement and admitted he bought 500 fentanyl pills from someone on February 18, 2023, and he had previously purchased meth from the same person. Perkins also said he had been selling fentanyl pills for the last month or two and estimated he sold about 100 pills for $10 each. In March 2023, two witnesses said they had purchased fentanyl pills from Perkins. Another witness described selling between 500 and 700 fentanyl pills to Perkins between August and December 2022.
On May 17, 2023, the Task Force and FBI arranged another controlled purchase of about 30 grams of methamphetamine from Perkins.
On December 13, 2023, an FBI agent interviewed a witness who had gotten methamphetamine from Perkins and had previously paid him for meth. The witness also said Perkins gave them a shortened shotgun prior to a probation search; the FBI seized the shotgun and found the barrel was less than 18 inches in length. Perkins claimed ownership of the gun, and it had not been registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Tri-Agency Task Force.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
Great Falls man sentenced to 20 years in prison for drug and money laundering chargesRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Great Falls man who distributed significant amounts of methamphetamine was sentenced today to 240 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Daniel Allen Wakeford, 61, pleaded guilty in October 2024 to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of money laundering.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that law enforcement learned Daniel Wakeford had been involved in the distribution of methamphetamine in Great Falls and elsewhere for several years. A witness informed law enforcement they received methamphetamine from Wakeford for resale since 2020. Prior to 2021, the witness had received approximately two pounds of methamphetamine from Wakeford. In March 2021, however, law enforcement learned Wakeford provided the witness with roughly five pounds of methamphetamine for resale. Surveillance conducted by law enforcement corroborated the witness’s account.
Law enforcement spoke with numerous individuals who received methamphetamine from Wakeford between approximately 2020 and 2024. Those individuals outlined how Wakeford and others would provide them with methamphetamine for resale. In February 2024, an individual referred to here as John Doe was apprehended in Billings, Montana with approximately 78 grams of methamphetamine in his possession. He outlined how, among other things, he had recently assisted Wakeford with packaging several hundred thousand dollars in cash, how John Doe received the methamphetamine from Wakeford in Great Falls, and that Wakeford made statements indicating he was conspiring to distribute a significant amount of methamphetamine.
Law enforcement determined that during the time of the conspiracy Wakeford did not have a significant source of legitimate income. However, on November 21, 2022, Wakeford paid $16,534 in cash for a new 2022 snowmobile in Great Falls.
Following the original indictment in this case, law enforcement conducted a search of Wakeford’s home in Great Falls, Montana and located paperwork for a storage unit that Wakeford leased in Phoenix, Arizona. Wakeford was arrested in Utah on a federal warrant while driving a motorhome valued at over $40,000. Inside the motorhome, officers located over $62,000 in cash, as well as additional paperwork related to the storage unit in Arizona. Federal agents in Arizona obtained a warrant to search the storage unit and located over 100 pounds of methamphetamine and a firearm (both pictured below).
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zeno Baucus and Jeff Starnes prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the Russell Country Drug Task Force.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
XXX
Browning man pleads guilty to drug possession on the Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Browning man accused of possessing methamphetamine on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation admitted to charges yesterday, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
The defendant, Clay Darwin Flamand, 54, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Flamand faces a mandatory minimum term of 10 years to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is set for October 1, 2025. Flamand was released pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that law enforcement learned Flamand was rumored to be providing a large quantity of methamphetamine to the Blackfeet Reservation in June and July 2024. On June 20, 2024, law enforcement arranged a controlled purchase of meth from Flamand.
On June 26, 2024, another controlled purchase was attempted. The sale did not occur, but law enforcement learned Flamand’s source of supply had just left for California to pick up methamphetamine
On July 11, 2024, law enforcement officers with the Bureau of Indian Affairs conducted a traffic stop. The driver told law enforcement his friend received methamphetamine from Flamand in the last couple of days and was planning to get more that evening. The friend of the driver reported Flamand had 10 pounds of methamphetamine at his residence. Also on July 11, 2024, a different witness contacted law enforcement and said Flamand’s source of supply had just returned to the Blackfeet reservation from California, was at Flamand’s residence, and had brought 10 pounds of methamphetamine.
Law enforcement obtained a tribal search warrant for Flamand’s residence. When they executed the warrant, Flamand was at the residence. Law enforcement seized over 400 grams of methamphetamine, $6,590 in U.S. currency, firearms, and drug paraphernalia.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Suek prosecuted the case. The BIA, DEA and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn.
XXX
Texas man found guilty of failing to register as a sex offenderRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Texas man who failed to register as a sex offender was found guilty by a federal judge today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Following a bench trial, Tracy Allen Reilly, 60, was found guilty of failure to register as a sex offender. Reilly faces 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and at least 5 years to a lifetime of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for October 1, 2025. Reilly will remain in custody pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in 1995, Tracy Allen Reilly was convicted in Texas of aggravated sexual assault of a child and sentenced to 20 years in custody. He discharged from custody in 2014 and was instructed to register as a sexual offender for the duration of his life. In July 2018, Reilly was convicted of another felony in Texas for violating sex offender registration. After he was released from custody on that sentence, Reilly signed additional registration forms in 2022 and in June of 2023.
Reilly moved to Montana sometime in the fall of 2023. Before he moved, he was informed he would be required to register as a sex offender in Montana. Once in Montana, Reilly camped on federal land around Homestake Lake in Jefferson County. In October 2023, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office contacted Reilly and advised him he was required to register as a sex offender.
In November 2023, an officer with the U.S. Forest Service was patrolling the Homestake area and made contact with Reilly. The officer learned Reilly was a non-compliant sex offender, and when the officer again encountered Reilly in January 2024, he told Reilly he needed to register. Reilly never registered as a sex offender in Montana.
On November 6, 2024, the Grand Jury returned an indictment charging Reilly with failure to register as a sex offender, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2250(a). Reilly was arrested in December 2024.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Forest Service, and Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
Pablo man and woman sentenced to 10 years each in prison for drug traffickingRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Pablo man and woman who both admitted trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine were sentenced today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Thomas Joseph Spotted Eagle, 42, was sentenced to 121 months in prison and five years of supervised release. His co-defendant, Veronica Egan Partida, 40, was sentenced to 120 months in prison and five years of supervised release. Both defendants pleaded guilty in January 2025 to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
The government alleged in court documents that On April 17, 2024, Flathead Tribal Police and the Northwest Montana Drug Task Force stopped Thomas Spotted Eagle when he left his residence in a vehicle. Spotted Eagle had an outstanding arrest warrant and was on federal supervision. The officers saw him ducking and reaching around frantically as he was stopping his car. The vehicle was searched, and law enforcement seized a black fanny pack under the driver’s seat that had several sandwich baggies with methamphetamine, a glass pipe, a blue fentanyl pill, and $934. Spotted Eagle said the methamphetamine was not his but admitted to attempting to hide it.
Officers then searched Spotted Eagle’s and co-defendant Veronica Partida’s residence. They found Partida, along with a digital scale with drug residue, a shotgun inside a baby crib, approximately 390 grams of methamphetamine, a bag with four blue fentanyl pills, a measuring spoon, small, empty baggies, a wallet with Partida’s identification and $1,710 cash. In another room officers located more methamphetamine, $140 cash, approximately 195 fentanyl pills and powder. Partida admitted she and Spotted Eagle shared the room in the house where the large amount of methamphetamine was found. She stated it was all hers and admitted that she intended to sell the drugs.
Officers spoke to Spotted Eagle’s work supervisor, who admitted to obtaining methamphetamine daily from Spotted Eagle since winter of 2023. He said the last time he obtained meth from Spotted Eagle was on April 16, 2024, and reported seeing Spotted Eagle on three different occasions with a gallon sized Ziploc bag containing a large amount of methamphetamine. He also was aware Spotted Eagle supplied methamphetamine to another person on four different occasions.
The United States Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the Northwest Montana Drug Task Force.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
Homeless man admits threatening to blow up Flathead County courthouseRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A homeless man with ties to Kalispell admitted today that he threatened to blow up the Flathead County courthouse, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Kermit “Ty” Poulson, 46, pleaded guilty to interstate communication of a threat to damage property by means of fire or explosive, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, a potential fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided and District Judge Dana L. Christensen will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for September 18, 2025. Poulson was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that on April 25, 2023, an attorney in Flathead County, Montana received the following email from Gmail account [email protected]:
The attorney reported receiving the email to the FBI and disclosed that he/she had previously represented defendant Poulson in a matter in Kalispell. The attorney recalled Poulson had a history of making similar threats.
The FBI obtained subscriber information from Google for Gmail account [email protected], which listed another associated Gmail account of [email protected]. The FBI obtained subscriber information for Gmail account [email protected], which named the subscriber of that account as Poulson. Criminal records checks show Poulson was previously the subject of an FBI investigation in Portland, Oregon. In that case, he was investigated, arrested, and convicted of threatening to set the Portland Mayor’s house on fire with Molotov cocktails. See United States v. Poulson, Case No. 3:18-CR-00622-SI-1 (D. Or. 2018). He also claimed in that case that he had ties to Antifa.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeff Starnes is prosecuting the case. The investigation was conducted by the FBI.
XXX
Browning woman sentenced to prison for assault on Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Browning woman who admitted striking another woman from behind, causing serious injury to the victim’s eye, was sentenced today to 12 months and one day in prison to be followed by two years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Autumn Rose Rider, 30, pleaded guilty in January 2025 to assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on July 24, 2022, the victim, referred to as Jane Doe, and Rider’s father drove Rider to a residence in Browning. While Jane Doe was standing outside of the vehicle and getting back into the car, Rider hit her from behind. The assault caused a laceration and caused Jane Doe to feel like there was a piece of glass in her eye. Jane Doe was ultimately transported to Kalispell Regional Hospital for treatment of injuries to her eye and face.
The U.S. Attorney's Office prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the FBI.
XXX
Livingston woman sentenced to 3 years in prison for drug and gun chargesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Livingston woman who admitted to possessing methamphetamine and a firearm was sentenced today to 36 months in prison to be followed by 4 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Jennifer Michelle Hall, 44, pleaded guilty in January 2025 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that as part of a long investigation into drug distribution in Livingston, Montana law enforcement identified Hall as someone selling methamphetamine for more serious distributors in Livingston.
On December 3, 2021, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Hall’s residence in Livingston. She was present at the time. Law enforcement located methamphetamine in plastic jewelry bags, paraphernalia, 10 fentanyl pills, and a semi-automatic pistol with 6 rounds of ammunition. The ATF also recovered Hall’s phone and iPad.
Hall was interviewed and admitted possessing the methamphetamine and the firearm, but stated she was only a user of methamphetamine and was not selling.
Search warrants were obtained for Hall’s iPad and phone. There were text message exchanges between Hall and other individuals in 2021 showing she was both using and selling drugs.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Godfrey prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the ATF and Park County Sheriff’s Office.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Billings woman sentenced to 11 years in prison for drug and gun chargesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Billings woman who admitted trafficking fentanyl while possessing a firearm was sentenced today to 11 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Renee Esperanza Arambula, 27, pleaded guilty in November 2024 to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in early 2023, the DEA began investigating Arambula for suspected drug trafficking. Agents discovered by reviewing financial documents that between May 2020 and January 2023, Arambula deposited over $230,000 of cash into the bank and received thousands more through electronic payment but was making only a small fraction of that through formal employment. Much of the money was proceeds of drug trafficking.
Based on its financial analysis, witness interviews, surveillance, and other investigative techniques, the DEA learned Arambula was trafficking fentanyl and other drugs in and around Billings, Montana. Specifically, individuals admitted purchasing more than 400 grams of fentanyl from Arambula between late 2020 and early 2023.
According to statements at the sentencing hearing and court documents, on January 28, 2023, during the course of her drug trafficking, Arambula used a firearm to shoot two unarmed men. She shot the first man at point-blank range in the neck, rendering him a paraplegic. Arambula then shot the second man in the abdomen as he was pleading for her not to shoot. Law enforcement recovered fentanyl pills and a firearm in Arambula’s possession.
The United States Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the DEA and Billings Police Department.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Tennessee man sentenced to 5 years of probation for selling unapproved drugsRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Greenville, Tennessee man who admitted selling unapproved drugs made from ingredients purchased from China was sentenced today to five years of probation, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Tyler Jordan Hall, 31, pleaded guilty in January 2025 to introduction of unapproved drugs in interstate commerce.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
“Tyler Hall manufactured unapproved drugs in an unregulated lab using ingredients he bought from China. And he sold those drugs to unwitting customers based on his false claims that the products were approved by the FDA. That behavior, which can result in serious health problems for users, will not be tolerated. I want to thank the FDA for investigating and Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon Clarke for prosecuting the matter as we continue to strive to protect Montanans and other Americans from this kind of deceitful and dangerous conduct.” U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
“Illegally manufacturing and selling unapproved drugs outside the legitimate U.S. supply chain can present serious health risks to those who buy and use them,” said Robert Iwanicki, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Los Angeles Field Office. “Furthermore, knowingly misleading customers and the FDA by making false claims about the nature and legitimacy of the products shows a reckless disregard for FDA regulations and for the lives and well-being of consumers. FDA will continue to pursue and bring to justice those who would disregard and jeopardize public health and safety by selling misbranded drugs.”
The government alleged in court documents that from June 17, 2020, through March 2022, Tyler Hall operated a business known as Rat’s Army, LLC, which imported, created, bottled, and labeled drugs. Hall marketed the substances to individuals in the bodybuilding and fitness community to increase muscle mass, reduce body fat, and counter the unwanted side effects of other bodybuilding drugs. Many of the substances were not safe for human consumption except under the supervision of a practitioner licensed to administer prescription drugs. Some drugs were of similar composition to FDA-approved drugs that require special boxed warnings in their labeling emphasizing serious potential side effects, including pulmonary embolism.
During the timeframe noted above, Hall obtained proceeds from Rat’s Army of approximately $3.8 million. The income was generated, at least in part, from the sale of unapproved drugs, including Raloxifene, Tamoxifen, and Pramipexole.
Hall knowingly took steps to mislead and defraud United States regulatory agencies, including the FDA, about the true nature of the products he was selling on the Rat’s Army website. Specifically, he attempted to conceal the nature of his products by falsely portraying them as “research chemicals” and “not for human consumption,” despite knowing and intending that the products were for ingestion by humans to affect the structure and function of their bodies.
Hall also took steps to mislead and defraud the consumers to whom he was offering the sale of these drugs by posting misleading Certificates of Analysis on the website to convince consumers Rat’s Army was manufacturing products which were legitimate and safe to consume.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon Clarke prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigation.
India-based Amazon scam leads to almost a $1 million dollar loss for elderly victim in MissoulaRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A man originally from India accused of stealing almost $1 million from the elderly appeared in federal court on charges on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Zabi Ullah Mohammed, 29, had an initial appearance on a complaint charging him with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and impersonating a federal agent. If convicted, Mohammed faces a maximum of 20 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and at least 3 years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Mohammed was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in the criminal complaint that in April 2025 Mohammed and others called an elderly victim in Missoula, Montana, posing as an Amazon representative and inquiring whether the victim purchased computer equipment. When the victim said she did not purchase any equipment, the Amazon representative claimed the victim’s identity was stolen and transferred the victim to the “Social Security Department” and the “U.S. Marshal.” The “U.S. Marshal” said the money from the victim’s bank accounts needed to be “legalized,” and an agent showed up on multiple occasions to pick up cash and gold from the victim’s residence. Law enforcement caught Mohammed when he returned to the victim’s house a final time. After searching Mohammed’s vehicle, law enforcement found airline tickets, car rental documents, and a bag containing approximately $68,987 in cash.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon is prosecuting the case. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Missoula County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation.
A complaint is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
PACER case reference. 25-40.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl
California man appears on drug chargesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A California man accused of possessing methamphetamine and cocaine appeared today for arraignment, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
The defendant, Heriberto Eddie Garcia, 45, pleaded not guilty to an indictment charging him with one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances and one count of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. If convicted of the most serious charge contained in the indictment, Garcia faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of life, a $10,000,000 fine, and at least 5 years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Tim Cavan presided. Garcia was released pending further proceedings.
Count one of the indictment alleges that in May 2023 and continuing until January 2024, Garcia knowing and unlawfully conspired with others to possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of cocaine.
Count two of the indictment charges that on January 22, 2024, Garcia knowingly and unlawfully possessed, with the intent to distribute, 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of cocaine.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The DEA, Montana Highway Patrol and Laurel Police Department conducted the investigation.
The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
PACER case reference. 25-16.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
Anaconda man sentenced to 1.5 years in prison for illegally possessing firearmRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – An Anaconda man who admitted to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm was sentenced today to 18 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Keegan Allan Strelnik, 42, pleaded guilty in January 2025 to prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on September 26, 2019, Strelnik was convicted of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine in federal court in Montana. Strelnik was sentenced to 41 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release. That federal drug conviction prohibited Strelnik from possessing firearms or ammunition.
On November 24, 2023, Strelnik went hunting in Granite County, Montana. He was captured on a game camera in possession of a hunting rifle. Strelnik attempted to remove the camera’s memory card. A witness later submitted a written statement that during the hunting expedition, Strelnik possessed the rifle, including using the rifle to fire at an elk.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Lowney prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the ATF, U.S. Probation Office, and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Pryor man sentenced to 2 years in prison for strangulation and assaultRead the Press Release
BILINGS – A Pryor man who admitted strangling and assaulting his dating partner was sentenced today to two years in prison to be followed by three of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Thomas Larson Medicinehorse III, 19, pleaded guilty in January 2025 to strangulation and assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to a dating or intimate partner.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on February 5, 2024, Medicinehorse and the victim, referred to here as Jane Doe, got into an argument. The altercation turned physical, and Medicinehorse strangled Doe by placing his hands around her throat. Doe’s vision went dark and she could not breathe.
The next day, February 6, 2024, Medicinehorse and Doe got into another argument. Medicinehorse struck Doe on the face, arms, and legs, causing bruising and swelling to her right eye and various bruises on her arms and legs.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the FBI, BIA, and Big Horn County Sheriff’s Office.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
Wolf Point man pleads guilty to multiple assault charges on the Fort Peck Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS - A Wolf Point man accused of assaulting two individuals on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
The defendant, Philip Ray Azure, 22, pleaded guilty to two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon related to two separate incidents. Azure faces a term of imprisonment of ten years, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for September 24, 2025. Azure was detained pending further proceedings.
The first incident occurred on March 16, 2023, when Azure went to John Doe’s residence in Wolf Point, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. Azure and John Doe were friends and were drinking alcohol together. Azure became intoxicated and was asked to leave for being too loud. A family member of Doe’s, who also lives in the home, started to walk Azure out. As he was leaving, he struck the family member. John Doe confronted Azure about hitting his family member. Azure pulled out a knife and stabbed Doe in the chest and then turned and walked away without saying anything.
Doe was rushed to the hospital for treatment of his serious injuries. The stab wound pierced his lung, causing a partial collapse that caused blood, gas, and air to build in the space between his lungs and rib cage. Doe was airlifted to Billings for surgery. After surgery to repair his lung, Doe spent a week in the hospital before being discharged.
The second incident happened on January 27, 2024. Azure and several friends, including two co-defendants, and the victim, John Doe 2, were in a yard in Wolf Point, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, playing a game of “slap-boxing.” The fighting escalated and eventually the group separated. Azure and his co-defendants returned home, and John Doe 2 arrived a short time later asking for his phone. Azure and his co-defendants exited the home and confronted Doe 2 in the driveway.
Several people witnessed the assault. One witness described seeing Azure and his co-defendants hitting John Doe 2 and saw someone using a bat and someone else using a hammer. A second witness saw Azure and his two co-defendants approach Doe 2 while he backed away and said all three “jumped” Doe 2. That witness saw Azure use a bat during the assault.
Doe 2 died at the scene before law enforcement arrived. According to an autopsy, he died from blunt and sharp force injuries to the head and chest, including a stab wound to the chest that perforated Doe 2’s sternum, heart, and esophagus.
Azure was arrested the day after the second assault. He initially claimed he wasn’t there when Doe 2 was assaulted. He later admitted he was involved but didn’t remember the details because he was intoxicated. He claimed Doe 2 had a big knife and he ultimately hit Doe 2 with a bat to stop him from using the knife. None of the other witnesses reported seeing Doe 2 with a knife.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI, Fort Peck Tribes Department of Law and Justice, and Wolf Point Police Department conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn.
XXX
Fatal crash on Blackfeet Indian Reservation sends Browning man to prisonRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Browning man who admitted to driving while under the influence of drugs and alcohol when he crashed into another vehicle killing the driver was sentenced today to 16 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Chasen James Kipp, 25, pleaded guilty in December 2024 to involuntary manslaughter.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on October 21, 2023, Kipp was driving his 2022 Dodge Charger near the Cut Bank airport when he crossed the center lane of traffic, collided with a sedan, and killed the driver, Jane Doe.
When law enforcement officers arrived at the scene, they saw Kipp trying to flee. An officer described Kipp staggering and could smell alcohol on him. The officers detained Kipp, who said he had consumed two mixed drinks at the Pioneer Bar in Cut Bank and was returning to his home in Birch Creek. Kipp was arrested and consented to a blood draw, where he told the medical provider he was too drunk to remember the crash and he “came to” when the airbags deployed. He estimated he was driving 60 mph at the time of the crash.
Paramedics pronounced Jane Doe dead at the scene. She died from blunt force trauma sustained from the crash. The Montana Highway Patrol conducted the crash investigation and determined Kipp was going 82 mph in a 65-mph zone when he crossed the center line and struck Doe’s vehicle. The toxicology report showed his blood alcohol content was .114 and he had cocaine in his system.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the FBI, Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services, the Cut Bank Police Department, the Glacier County Sheriff’s Office, and the Montana Highway Patrol.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme, for the District of Montana, recognizes the public service and sacrifice of federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed from Sunday, May 11, through Saturday, May 17.
“This week, we recognize the men and women in law enforcement who risk their lives every day to protect us, often while the rest of us are sleeping. Too many have sacrificed their lives to make our communities safer. We honor their bravery and reaffirm our support for every law enforcement officer in Montana and across the United States. On behalf of all of us in the United States Attorney’s Office, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to them and their families,” 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.
The names of the fallen officers added this year to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Monday, May 12, during the 37th Annual Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C., starting at 8:00 p.m. ET. Those who wish to view the vigil live online can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/live/5ALpizgnNz8. The schedule of National Police Week events is available on NLEOMF’s website at https://nleomf.org/
XXX
Coram man pleads guilty to drug chargesRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS - A Coram man accused of possessing methamphetamine admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
The defendant, Blaine Justin Olds, 51, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Olds faces a mandatory minimum term of 10 years to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is set for September 18, 2025. Olds was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that beginning in May 2024, Blaine Justin Olds and his co-defendant were coming from their home in Coram, Montana, to the Blackfeet Indian Reservation to deliver large amounts of methamphetamine. In October 2024, law enforcement arranged three controlled purchases of large of amounts of methamphetamine from the defendants. During each of these controlled purchases, Olds and his co-defendant traveled from their home in Coram to the Blackfeet Indian Reservation and exchanged methamphetamine for money.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kalah Paisley prosecuted the case. The FBI, BIA, DEA, Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services, and Glacier County Sheriff's Office conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn.
XXX
Laurel man sentenced to 3 years in prison for possessing stolen firearm after breaking into law enforcement vehiclesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Laurel man who broke into law enforcement vehicles and possessed a stolen firearm was sentenced today to 36 months in prison to be followed by3 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Jacob Charles Berger, 28, pleaded guilty in December 2024 to possession of a stolen firearm.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that beginning on March 5, 2024, and continuing until March 15, 2024, an unknown male vandalized five different law enforcement vehicles. The suspect stole multiple items from inside the vehicles, including medical kits; body armor; and, on one occasion, a 12-gauge shotgun and ammunition. The Billings Police Department began investigating the thefts.
Law enforcement officers obtained home surveillance footage from one of the thefts which showed the suspect was wearing black “skater” shoes and was riding a black and red bicycle with skinny tires. The bicycle appeared to have been wrapped in black electrical tape. Investigators recovered the bicycle on March 15, and processed it for fingerprints. Three latent fingerprints on the bicycle were identified as Berger’s.
On March 20, 2024, law enforcement arrested Berger on an unrelated warrant. He admitted to breaking into police vehicles and taking body armor, medical supplies, and a shotgun. Investigators searched Berger’s garage and seized the shotgun, as well as eight other firearms that had been reported stolen between July 2023 and March 2024. They also located the medical kits and body armor Berger stole from the police vehicles.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Yerger prosecuted the case, and the investigation was conducted by the ATF and Billings Police Department.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
Lame Deer man sentenced to over 15 years in prison for rape on Northern Cheyenne Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Lame Deer man who raped a woman on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation was sentenced today to 188 months in prison to be followed by15 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Adriano Sparkxxx LeBeaux, 21, was found guilty at trial in October 2024 of aggravated sexual abuse as charged in an indictment.
U.S. District Judge Susan Watters presided.
In court documents and at trial, the government alleged that on March 8, 2023, the victim, identified as Jane Doe, met up with LeBeaux at a residence in Lame Deer, on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation. LeBeaux told Doe the police were on their way to search the house and that they needed to hide in the basement. Jane Doe had been drinking and did not want to be arrested because Northern Cheyenne is a dry reservation. Hiding in the basement seemed like a good idea to Jane Doe.
While in the basement, LeBeaux told Jane Doe to lie down in a corner on the floor, and she fell asleep or passed out. At some point, Jane Doe awoke to LeBeaux holding a knife to her throat and then he raped her. Jane Doe left the residence and went to the Indian Health Service Clinic where she underwent a sexual assault exam. An analysis of DNA indicated LeBeaux was the contributor to male DNA identified in the sexual assault exam.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lori Suek and Paul Vestal prosecuted the case, and the investigation was conducted by the FBI, BIA and Northern Cheyenne Investigative Services.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
Former Altana Federal Credit Union employee sentenced to more than 1 year in prison for embezzlement and ordered to pay over $65,000 in restitutionRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Billings woman who formerly served as the Operations Manager for Altana Federal Credit Union in 2023 was sentenced yesterday to 12 months and 1 day in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release and ordered to immediately pay full restitution of $65,046.37, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Kelly Jo Muzzana, 40, pleaded guilty in July 2024 to embezzlement by a credit union employee.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that throughout 2023, Muzzana served as the Operations Manager for Altana Federal Credit Union in Billings, Montana. In that role, Muzzana had access to customer data and was responsible for managing Altana’s entire fraud-alert process. This included supervising the employees who documented customers’ fraud claims and facilitating what funds were reimbursed by Altana. Muzzana also managed the fraud reporting system and was entrusted to independently authorize bank cards that were re-issued to customers or returned to the bank through the mail.
During her time as Operations Manager, Muzzana created duplicate bank cards for customers’ accounts and took them home with her. She did the same with cards that Altana received in the mail that were undelivered to customers. Muzzana took numerous bank cards from Altana and used them to make purchases online and in retail stores around Billings, Montana such as Target and Walmart. After using their cards to finance her private spending, Muzzana personally handled many of the subsequent fraud claims to prevent detection by law enforcement.
Eventually, an Altana customer reported one of Muzzana’s fraudulent purchases to law enforcement. When a detective called Altana to investigate, Muzzana downloaded a recording of the call and, upon learning of the investigation, fled the building and never returned.
Altana reimbursed its customers all of the money Muzzana stole. In a victim impact statement, Altana’s CEO, Jason Hagadone explained that the credit union “suffered significant reputation risk from this incident. As a financial institution, our members entrust us with one of the most important aspects of their life: their finances. Kelly breached that trust by stealing and using their debit cards.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Hargrove prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the Billings Police Department and FBI.
XXX
California man sentenced to 12 years in prison for trafficking methamphetamine in BillingsRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A California man who distributed methamphetamine in Billings was sentenced today to 144 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Sergio Rene Tagaban, 56, pleaded guilty in January 2025 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
On November 7, 2022, law enforcement seized approximately two pounds of methamphetamine from a suspicious parcel shipped to Billings, Montana, from Calexico, California. Tagaban was identified as the person who mailed the package. The intended receiver of the package, Angelena LaFave, was sentenced on November 6, 2024, to five years in prison for her role in the offense.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Vestal prosecuted the case, and the investigation was conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
Hardin man sentenced to 2 years in prison for placing threatening phone callsRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Hardin man who made threatening and vulgar phone calls to the FBI in 2023 was sentenced today to 24 months in prison to be followed by 1 year of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Glenn Gale Ware, 46, pleaded guilty in March 2024 to placing harassing telephone calls.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in May 2022, the FBI in Billings began receiving telephone calls, emails, and online messages from Ware, who was falsely reporting misconduct by two special agents. Ware alleged the agents were using satellite technology to transmit their voices to him and threaten his family. He made similar reports to the FBI Field Office in Salt Lake City, to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), to the FBI’s National Threats Operation Center, and to the Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office. These reports were false.
Over time, the frequency of Ware’s calls increased. Between June 19 and August 12, 2023, Ware called the FBI Resident Agency Office in Billings and left 29 voicemails. He made the calls from his personal phone number and identified himself by name in most of the voicemails. In the voicemails, Ware addressed a specific FBI Special Agent by name and used vulgar and threatening language toward and about that person to harass them. He also continued making reports about the agent’s actions that were untrue. The FBI received the calls and recorded the voicemails. The agent to whom they were directed heard them as well.
Ware was interviewed by a different FBI agent on August 8, 2023. He admitted making the calls and leaving the voicemails.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Hargrove prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the FBI.
Seven Romanian nationals charged with immigration offensesRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – Seven Romanian nationals accused of crossing illegally from Canada into Montana appeared yesterday for arraignment, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Two defendants, Ionut Gheorghe, 27, and Adi Marinescu Gheorghe, 32, pleaded not guilty to transporting illegal aliens, which, if convicted, carries a maximum punishment of five years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. Adi Marinescu Gheorghe was also charged with illegal reentry of a removed alien, which is punishable by two years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
The other five defendants, Mihai Mahaela, 40, Sorin Sandu, 45, Conte Nicolae, 19, Alin Amadeus Musuroi, 23, and Lacrimoara Nicolae, 51, each pleaded not guilty to illegal entry of an alien. If convicted, they could be sentenced to up to six months in prison, fined $100,000, and placed on supervised release for one year.
Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston presided. All seven defendants were detailed pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that Ionut Gheorghe and Adi Marinescu Gheorghe were each driving a van on April 25, 2025. The other defendants were passengers in the vans, which the U.S. Border Patrol detected illegally crossing into the United States at approximately 2:30 a.m. Law enforcement located the vans traveling south on I-15, stopped the vehicles, took the occupants into custody, and transported them to the Sweetgrass Border Patrol Station for further investigation and processing. In total, the two vans contained 21 men, women, and children.
The United States Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case, and the United States Border Patrol conducted the investigation.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
PACER case references: 25-50, 25-51, 25-52, 25-53, 25-54, 25-55, 25-56.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
Billings woman man sentenced to 4 years in prison on drug and gun chargesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Billings woman who sold methamphetamine and provided a firearm to a juvenile was sentenced today to 4 years in prison to be followed by 4 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Ali Sage Hausmann, 26, pleaded guilty in October 2024 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and false statement during a firearm transaction.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in 2022, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated Hausmann for purchasing a gun used by a juvenile during a home invasion. On May 9, 2022, two teenagers burglarized a home in Billings and one of them possessed a Beretta pistol during the burglary. ATF learned Hausmann bought the Beretta at Scheels in Billings one day before the home invasion, which one of the juveniles confirmed during an interview with law enforcement. Approximately two weeks after the burglary, Hausmann pawned the firearm.
As part of the investigation into the firearm purchase, ATF obtained a search warrant for Hausmann’s Facebook account and learned she was selling methamphetamine. Agents also located messages confirming she purchased the firearm for the juvenile. On December 7, 2022, law enforcement seized 6.9 grams of meth from Hausmann’s residence, along with an additional firearm from her purse. Hausmann admitted to selling methamphetamine and to purchasing the gun for the juvenile.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Patten prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the ATF and the Billings Police Department.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Ashland man sentenced to more than 12 years in prison for trafficking meth on the Northern Cheyenne Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – An Ashland man who trafficked methamphetamine on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation was sentenced today to 151 months in prison to be followed by 4 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Joe Vega, 49, pleaded guilty in July 2024 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in December of 2023, the FBI began an investigation into Joe Vega for the distribution of methamphetamine. One source reported purchasing methamphetamine from Vega a dozen times.
In April of 2024, the FBI intercepted a package from Arizona destined for Vega’s Billings address. Agents obtained a search warrant for the package and discovered 1331.5 grams of meth, almost three pounds, that was 100% pure.
The FBI later learned Vega was traveling to Arizona, possibly to pick up methamphetamine. On April 22, 2024, a Montana Highway Patrol trooper conducted a stop of the vehicle in which Vega was a passenger. Vega and the driver consented to a search and law enforcement found two pounds of methamphetamine in a bag belonging to Vega. That meth was also 100% pure.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Patten prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the FBI, with the assistance of BIA, Montana DCI, and the Montana Highway Patrol.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
Hardin woman arraigned on charges for sex trafficking a minorRead the Press Release
BILLINGS - A Hardin woman accused of sex trafficking a minor appeared today for arraignment, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
The defendant, Veronica Clarice Baker, 29, pleaded not guilty to an indictment charging her with one count of sex trafficking of a minor. If convicted of the crime charged in the indictment, Baker faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years, a maximum term of life, a $250,000 fine, and five years to lifetime supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy Cavan presided. Baker was detained pending further proceedings.
The indictment alleges that in or before August 2022, in Billings, the defendant knowingly recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided, obtained, advertised, maintained, patronized, and solicited, by any means an individual, Jane Doe 1, knowing and in reckless disregard that Jane Doe 1 was under the age of 18, to engage in a commercial sex act.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno Baucus is prosecuting the case. The FBI conducted the investigation.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
The charging document is merely an accusation and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
PACER case reference. 25-43.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
Wolf Point residents arraigned on murder chargeRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS - Two individuals accused of murdering a man on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation were arraigned today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Abrianne Lillian Deserly, 24, and Calvin Florin Lester, 35, both of Wolf Point, pleaded not guilty to an indictment charging both defendants with second degree murder. If convicted of the charge contained in the indictment, the defendants each face a maximum term of imprisonment of life, a $250,000 fine, and five years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John Johnston presided. Both defendants were detained pending further proceedings.
The indictment alleges that on February 26, 2025, near Wolf Point, the defendants unlawfully and with malice aforethought, that is recklessly with extreme disregard for human life, killed John Doe, and aided and abetted the same.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kalah Paisley is prosecuting the case. The FBI, BIA, Fort Peck Tribes Department of Law & Justice, and Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
PACER case reference. 25-45.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
Billings man sentenced to almost 5 years in prison for distributing methamphetamineRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Billings man who distributed methamphetamine was sentenced today to 57 months in prison to be followed by 4 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Ryder Lyle Allard, 37, pleaded guilty in December 2024 to one count of distribution of methamphetamine.
U.S. District Judge Susan Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that beginning in at least March of 2022 and continuing until in or about October of 2022, at Billings and elsewhere, Allard distributed methamphetamine, which was corroborated by controlled purchases by undercover law enforcement officers and confidential sources in 2022.
On September 13, 2022, law enforcement executed a controlled purchase of methamphetamine from Allard. The transaction, which was audio-recorded, involved two undercover officers meeting with Allard in a vehicle at a gas station in Billings. During the meeting, Allard sold the undercover officers roughly 1.5 ounces of methamphetamine for $1,365.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno Baucus prosecuted the case, and the investigation was conducted by the DEA.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
Billings man arraigned on child pornography chargesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Billings man accused of distributing child pornography appeared today for arraignment, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
The defendant, Kole David Kuntz, 41, pleaded not guilty to an indictment charging him with 2 counts of distribution of child pornography. If convicted of the charges contained in the indictment, Kuntz faces a mandatory minimum 5 years to 20 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 5 years to lifetime of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Tim Cavan presided. Kuntz was released pending further proceedings.
The indictment alleges that in November 2024, the defendant knowingly distributed a visual depiction using any means or facility of interstate commerce, including by computer and the internet, the production of such visual depiction involved the use of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct, and the visual depiction was of such conduct.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno Baucus is prosecuting the case. The FBI conducted the investigation.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
PACER case reference. 25-40.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
Lame Deer man sentenced to 2 years in prison for trafficking methamphetamine on the Northern Cheyenne Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Lame Deer man who distributed methamphetamine on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation was sentenced today to 24 months in prison to be followed by 6 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Shannon Tyrone Seminole, 50, pleaded guilty in October 2024 to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
U.S. District Judge Susan Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in the spring of 2022, law enforcement received reports that Shannon Seminole was selling methamphetamine on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation. Agents arranged two controlled purchases from Seminole, one in December 2022 and the other in September 2023. Following the second buy, agents executed a search of Seminole’s residence. During the search, agents seized an airsoft pistol and an AR-15 upper receiver and bolt.
In an interview, Seminole admitted to providing methamphetamine to the many drug users that helped him with his work. He admitted selling methamphetamine starting when he was released from jail three years prior. His source provided him with a regular supply of meth that he would sell. Seminole also admitted he carried firearms when selling drugs.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Patten prosecuted the case, and the investigation was conducted by the FBI.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
Convicted felon sentenced to over 5 years in prison for firearm possessionRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A convicted felon from Basin, Wyoming who possessed a firearm illegally was sentenced today to 66 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Juan Ortiz, 48, pleaded guilty in September 2024 to one count of prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
U.S. District Judge Susan Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on or about August 29, 2023, Billings police were called to a house on Midland Road in Billings, Montana for a weapons complaint. At the house, police learned the Defendant, Juan Ortiz, was in possession of a firearm and had fled on foot. Police searched the area and located Ortiz. Nearby, police located a pistol that Ortiz had discarded. At the time Ortiz possessed the firearm, he had been, and knew he had been, convicted of multiple felony drug offenses in Montana and Wyoming.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelsey Hendricks prosecuted the case, and the investigation was conducted by the ATF and Billings Police Department.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
Missoula woman sentenced to 8 years in prison for trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamineRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Missoula woman who distributed significant amounts of fentanyl and methamphetamine was sentenced today to 96 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Taylor Gale Penny, 35, pleaded guilty in December 2024 to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
U.S. District Judge Dana Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that law enforcement investigated Penny and her co-defendant for distribution of fentanyl and methamphetamine from November 2023 through her September 2024 arrest. In a series of vehicle searches, law enforcement recovered over 1,000 fentanyl pills and 1.5 ounces of methamphetamine. Law enforcement received information that Penny and her co-defendant were moving over 100,000 fentanyl pills and pounds of methamphetamine. Confidential sources stated they were the biggest dealers in the Missoula area.
After her arrest on September 3, 2024, Penny told law enforcement she began distributing fentanyl in January 2024 to support her habit. By March 2024, she was distributing approximately 5,000 fentanyl pills per week in the Missoula area. In total, she admitted to distributing well over 120,000 pills during the nine months preceding her arrest. This amount was corroborated by a confidential source who told law enforcement Penny had distributed approximately 120,000 fentanyl pills and six ounces of fentanyl powder over six months.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case, and the investigation was conducted by the FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
Hardin man sentenced to 3 years in prison for using a phone to promote prostitution with a minorRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Hardin man who promoted prostitution with a minor was sentenced today to 36 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
William Serges Joseph, 75, pleaded guilty in November 2024 to use of facility in interstate commerce in aid of racketeering.
U.S. District Judge Susan Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in March 2023, Jane Doe, a juvenile female, disclosed to law enforcement that, commencing in approximately September 2022, she began showing her breasts to the Joseph. The two messaged each other on Facebook and Joseph was aware of she was a juvenile. Jane Doe said she allowed Joseph to touch her in exchange for alcohol and he also asked her for naked pictures.
Jane Doe was interviewed again in June 2023. She added that Joseph continued to message her and offered her $50 for sexual contact. A review of her cell phone reflected, among other communications, a February 2023 message from Joseph with a picture of male genitalia. Joseph was interviewed in February 2024. He admitted providing alcohol to Jane Doe in exchange for pictures of her breasts. At the time of the offense, prostitution was illegal under the laws of Montana and Sex Trafficking was illegal under the laws of the United States.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case, and the investigation was conducted by the FBI.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
XXX
Convicted felon sentenced to 10 years in prison on drug and gun chargesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A convicted felon from Belgrade who possessed methamphetamine and a firearm was sentenced today to 121 months in prison to be followed by 5 years supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Robert Stuart Quam, 44, pleaded guilty in July 2024 to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
U.S. District Judge Susan Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on March 27, 2023, agents with the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) received information Robert Quam was distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl in Montana. Given this intel, a DCI Agent, acting in an undercover capacity, began speaking to Quam via social media.
During their conversations, Quam agreed to sell one ounce of methamphetamine for $500. On March 31, 2023, the undercover agent and Quam agreed to meet at the Scheel’s parking lot in Billings to conduct the transaction. Quam arrived at the parking lot and entered the agent’s vehicle. During the transaction, the agent observed Quam with a black bag. Quam removed another bag from inside of the black bag which contained numerous smaller bags with suspected methamphetamine. Quam provided one of the smaller bags containing approximately one ounce of methamphetamine to the agent and the agent provided Quam with $500. Toward the end of the transaction, Quam pulled a pistol from his pocket and placed it onto floorboard of the car. Quam then placed the pistol into the black bag and left the vehicle.
The undercover agent and Quam spoke over the phone again after the transaction. During the conversation, Quam began talking about firearms. Quam told the agent there are a lot of people getting robbed, and he does not like guns, however, he knows he needs a firearm for protection. Quam advised the agent his pistol was a “.45 caliber.” On September 20, 2023, a Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in Belgrade. Quam was identified as the passenger in the vehicle and had a safe on the floorboard at his feet. During the interaction, the deputy uncovered a loaded firearm in Quam’s left pocket. Quam was detained.
GCSO deployed a canine to conduct an exterior sniff of the vehicle and the dog alerted to the presence of drugs inside the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle told law enforcement the safe belonged to Quam.
Law enforcement received a search warrant for the vehicle and its contents and seized approximately 1086.8 grams of methamphetamine.
Quam was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, a felony, in the United States Court for the District of Montana on February 28, 2014. Consequently, he is prohibited from possessing firearms.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin Rubich prosecuted the case, and the investigation was conducted by the Missouri River Drug Task Force.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
Box Elder woman sentenced for trafficking fentanyl on the Rocky Boy's Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Box Elder woman who distributed fentanyl in northern Montana and on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation was sentenced today to time served to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Dai Shawn Whitford, 33, pleaded guilty in December 2024 to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and one count of distribution of fentanyl.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that law enforcement received information that Whitford’s co-defendants were working together to bring drugs from Washington to distribute on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation and nearby locations. On at least one occasion, Dai Shawn Whitford helped distribute on behalf of the co-defendants.
In May 2023, a confidential source paid a co-defendant $800 for 30 fentanyl pills. The co-defendant directed the confidential source to pick up the fentanyl at a residence on Rocky Boy’s. The informant went to the house and was provided approximately 30 fentanyl pills from Dai Shawn Whitford.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case, and the investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Tri-Agency Task Force.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
Billings woman sentenced to 5 years in prison on drug chargesRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Billings woman who possessed methamphetamine was sentenced today to 60 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Lynda Diane Good, Jr., 60, pleaded guilty in December 2024 to possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances.
U.S. District Judge Susan Watters presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on or about April 3, 2024, an undercover officer conducted a controlled purchase of four ounces of methamphetamine from the defendant, Lynda Diane Good, at her residence in Billings. Following this purchase, on April 11, 2024, police obtained a warrant to search Ms. Good’s residence. During the search, they recovered 434 grams of methamphetamine and multiple firearms. Ms. Good admitted to possessing approximately one pound of methamphetamine and to selling the drug.
An Assistant U.S. Attorney prosecuted the case and the investigation was conducted by the ATF, Billings Police Department, and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
XXX
Former US Forest Service law enforcement officer pleads guilty to fraudRead the Press Release
MISSOULA - A Thompson Falls man accused of falsifying time and attendance records admitted to charges today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
The defendant, Nathan J. Snead, 47, pleaded guilty to theft of government money. Snead faces ten years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen DeSoto presided. U.S. District Judge Dana Christensen will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is set for August 27, 2025. Snead was released with conditions pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that the defendant was required to work 40 hours of regular time per week, and he was compensated for administratively uncontrollable overtime, which is premium pay designed to compensate law enforcement officers (LEOs) for irregular and unscheduled overtime duty. In 2023, the defendant’s overtime rate was 15%, meaning he was required to justify an additional 5-7 hours per week to maintain that percentage at his next overtime review.
The defendant documented his regular and overtime hours on his Time and Attendance Record for each pay period and signed the following certification: “I certify that the above information on hours worked and leave used is true and accurate.” The defendant also completed a record of overtime for each pay period in which he provided a case number and justification for the overtime and signed the following certification: “I certify that the official duties were performed as described above and were administratively uncontrollable.”
On May 2, 2023, based on information Snead was not working his claimed hours, agents installed a GPS tracker on his government-issued patrol vehicle to monitor his movements. The tracker data showed Snead’s patrol vehicle was stationary at his house during hours he claimed to be working.
On several occasions, Snead certified on his Time and Attendance Record he worked an 8-hour regular shift. However, his patrol vehicle remained stationary at his house for the entire 8 hours. Additionally, Snead claimed overtime hours when his patrol vehicle was stationary at his house for much of his regular shift and for the entire time of claimed overtime.
Agents also evaluated Snead’s law enforcement statistics from 2021 through 2023. His productivity levels, measured via incident reports and the issuance of violation notices, were much lower than other similarly situated LEOs. The United States estimates Snead’s false time claims resulted in him stealing approximately $18,645.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The U.S. Forest Service conducted the investigation.
XXX
Lolo man sentenced to 20 years in prison for distributing child pornographyRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Lolo man who received and distributed child pornography was sentenced today to 240 months in prison to be followed by lifetime supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Erik Robert Salazar, 29, pleaded guilty in November 2024 to one count of distribution of child pornography and one count of receipt of child pornography.
U.S. District Judge Dana Christensen presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on September 13, 2023, Missoula County Sheriff's Office Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) detectives received a Cyber Tipline Report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The report originated from Snapchat, who reported to NCMEC that a user, later identified as Salazar, had uploaded two images of child sexual abuse material to their servers on August 19, 2023.
Through legal process, detectives determined the Snapchat account in question belonged to Salazar. Detectives received the remaining contents of Salazar’s Snapchat account and reviewed his communications with other parties.
Salazar’s communications were replete with contact with minor females on dates ranging from September 2015 to October 31, 2023. Salazar consistently requested images and videos of those minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Some of the minors sent Salazar images and videos in response to his requests. Additionally, Salazar used Snapchat to send some of these minors images and videos depicting other minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. For example, beginning on August 4, 2023, Salazar began to communicate on Snapchat with a minor female (MV1) who was then 15 years old. In their communications, MV1 informed Salazar of her age, which Salazar indicated sexually excited him. Throughout the communications, Salazar solicited nude images of MV1, which she sent. MV1 also reported that Salazar sent her at least one video of a child engaged in sexually explicit conduct. MV1 reported Salazar told her he wanted to have a baby with her and asked MV1 if she would allow him to perform similar acts on their future daughter.
Salazar was arrested in Missoula, Montana, for a related offense on October 31, 2023, and was interviewed by detectives. He admitted the Snapchat account involved in the cyber tip belonged to him and that he received images depicting children engaged in sexually explicit conduct using the account.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case and the investigation was conducted by the FBI and Missoula County Sheriff’s Office.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
XXX
Poplar man sentenced to seven years in prison on assault and gun chargesRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Poplar man who broke into a house on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation and assaulted a resident was sentenced today to 85 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Marion Wallace Runs Through, Jr., 33, pleaded guilty in December 2024 to assault with a dangerous weapon and use (by brandishing) of a firearm during a crime of violence.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that on the evening of November 21, 2023, Runs Through and a co-defendant went to a remote residence on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. Runs Through carried with him an AR-15 style rifle. He met with two other co-defendants outside the home. While still outside the residence Runs Through fired one round into the ground and six into the air. He and a co-defendant then broke into the residence. The defendant assaulted the two occupants of the home, striking them with the rifle while demanding access to a safe. The victims identified the assailant as the man with face tattoos. Runs Through has noticeable face tattoos. While Runs Through was the only assailant armed during the home invasion, one witness heard a co-defendant tell Runs Through to “Kill the white guy! Shoot him! Shoot him!” Runs Through then pointed the rifle at the witness, but did not pull the trigger.
Runs Through was arrested the next day at his parents’ house and law enforcement found an assault rifle. The weapon was purchased in North Dakota by a cousin of one of the co-defendants.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case and the investigation was conducted by the FBI, BIA, ATF and Fort Peck Tribes Department of Law & Justice.
XXX
Kalispell man sentenced to over 10 years in prison for conspiring to distribute drugs on the Blackfeet Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Kalispell man who conspired to distribute drugs on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation was sentenced today to 128 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Cameron Lee Richard Carr, 34, pleaded guilty in September 2024 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in early November 2023, law enforcement received information Carr was trafficking illegal drugs from Kalispell, Montana to Browning, Montana. On November 28, 2023, Carr was observed leaving the Going to the Sun Inn in Browning. A Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services officer saw Carr run a stop sign and attempted to conduct a traffic stop. Carr fled before eventually stopping his vehicle and attempting to run away on foot. He was apprehended by the officer and arrested. The officer saw Carr reach for his waistband when he was arrested, so the officer searched him for weapons before placing him in a patrol vehicle. The officer recovered suspected meth and fentanyl from and noticed a 9 mm Ruger handgun on the ground near the area where Carr was apprehended.
Law enforcement searched Carr’s vehicle and seized 11 additional firearms, 500 grams of methamphetamine, 168 grams of fentanyl in pill and powder form, and small amounts of heroin, oxycodone, morphine, and cocaine. On December 1, 2023, during an interview with law enforcement, Carr admitted distributing drugs in Browning.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case and the investigation was conducted by the FBI, DEA, Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services, and the Glacier County Sheriff’s Office.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
XXX
Great Falls woman sentenced to 20 years in prison on meth chargesRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Great Falls woman who conspired to distribute significant amounts of methamphetamine was sentenced yesterday to 20 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said. The government also forfeited nearly $75,000 in cash, a gun, a BMW, and a motorhome.
Melissa Ann Barone, 55, pleaded guilty in December 2024 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that in 2020, law enforcement discovered Melissa Barone and her co-defendant were involved in distributing pounds of methamphetamine in and around Great Falls. Between 2020 and 2024, numerous drug associates advised law enforcement
of the pair’s drug distribution activities and travels to Colorado, Washington and Arizona to obtain methamphetamine to redistribute in Montana. Sources identified purchasing one-pound quantities of methamphetamine totaling over six to eight pounds within a 10-month period from 2020 to 2021.
In 2022 and 2023, sources reported Barone was trafficking half or full eightballs of methamphetamine for her co-defendant. It was discovered her codefendant was purchasing 50 to 100 pounds of methamphetamine at a time and spending over $100,000 delivered in bulk amounts. Barone and her co-defendant were purchasing vehicles and RVs at auto auctions for cash.
In February 2023, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle operated by the defendants as they were traveling back to Montana from Texas. A K-9 detection dog alerted on the vehicle, and $17,000 in United States currency was found rubber banded to a seatbelt inside the vehicle.
On May 5, 2024, law enforcement executed a warrant and arrested Barone in Great Falls. A search of her purse revealed approximately 444.4 grams of methamphetamine, a scale, and paraphernalia. Her vehicle contained $7,911 in United States currency, 46.3 grams of methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia. During the seizure of a BMW owned by her co-defendant, law enforcement located $5,000 in United States currency in a vacuum-sealed bag concealed under the back seat.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case and the investigation was conducted by the Russell Country Drug Task Force.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
XXX
Boulder man sentenced to over 6 years in prison on gun chargesRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Boulder man who possessed a firearm while being a prohibited person was sentenced today to 78 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Paul Anthony LaFournaise, 59, was found guilty of prohibited person in possession of a firearm in December 2024.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian Morris presided.
At trial, the government presented evidence that LaFournaise has multiple previous felony convictions, and as a result is prohibited from using, owning, possessing, transferring, or controlling any firearms or ammunition. LaFournaise was aware of this prohibition. On May 11, 2024, a relative of LaFournaise reported to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office that he was threatening family members at their home. LaFournaise was ultimately arrested for partner or family member assault, and his relative then revealed the cause of his agitation: he had returned from work to discover that his bag—which contained a handgun and drug paraphernalia—was missing. A family member had found the bag earlier that day and had hidden it from LaFournaise upon discovering the gun inside of it. The gun was identified as a Kel-Tec 9 mm pistol.
When LaFournaise was interviewed by law enforcement, he admitted he received the gun from a friend and was holding on to it. The friend was interviewed and confirmed giving the gun to LaFournaise because LaFournaise needed it “for protection” when getting drugs.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case and the investigation was conducted by the ATF, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and Montana Probation and Parole Office.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
XXX
Helena real estate agent convicted of felony and fined $150,000 for failing to provide lead-based paint disclosures for veterans residing in Fort Harrison rental housingRead the Press Release
HELENA – A Helena real estate agent and property manager who admitted to failing to provide lead-based paint disclosures as required to veterans residing in housing at Fort Harrison, in Helena, which resulted in the exposure of veterans and their families to significant levels of lead, was sentenced yesterday to three years of felony probation and fined $150,000, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Melanie Ann Carlin, 54, of Clancy, pleaded guilty in November 2024 to one felony count of knowing endangerment.
Mold Wranglers, Inc., a Kalispell-based company that provides hazardous material mitigation services was also sentenced yesterday to two years of probation, a $50,000 fine, and $348,000 in restitution to be paid to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for filing false reports for payment to a federal agency, claiming an abatement of lead paint was done at Freedom’s Path Fort Harrison when it was not. The company pleaded guilty to one count of False Claims Act Conspiracy in November 2024.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian Morris presided.
“We take seriously the obligation to ensure the safety of our veterans and their families and will continue to work with our agency partners to hold accountable individuals like Melanie Carlin and businesses like Mold Wranglers who cut corners and jeopardize their safety in order to turn a profit. I want to thank AUSA Ryan Weldon for his work on this case, as well as the investigators from HUD, the VA, and the EPA,” U.S. Attorney Alme said.
“Providing safe and affordable housing for low-income veterans and their families is something that should be taken with the upmost care,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Staci Gurin of the EPA Office of Inspector General. “Instead of taking the proper steps as required by law to ensure that the lead remediation process was handled properly for the housing, the fraudulent actions of these defendants exposed our veterans and their children to significant levels of lead. The EPA-OIG will actively pursue those who commit fraud against our EPA Programs that are in place to protect human health and the environment.”
“Melanie Carlin engaged in dangerous behavior by failing to provide lead-based paint disclosures for housing units which resulted in low-income veteran families and their children unknowingly being exposed to significant levels of lead,” said Special Agent in Charge Machelle Jindra with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Office of Inspector General (OIG). “HUD OIG remains steadfast in its commitment to working with our prosecutorial, law enforcement, and oversight partners to aggressively pursue individuals who engage in activities that threaten the integrity of HUD programs and our most vulnerable community members.”
“The VA OIG is dedicated to ensuring that veterans and their families receive VA services in a safe environment,” said Special Agent in Charge Dimitriana Nikolov with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Northwest Field Office. “This sentencing reinforces that those who do not uphold safety and integrity standards will be held accountable.”
“The defendant placed our military veterans and their children in danger by callously disregarding reporting and disclosure requirements for lead-based paint in rental properties. Lead poisoning can have catastrophic effects on young children and pregnant women,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Catherine Holston for EPA’s Criminal Investigative Division. “Today’s sentence sends a message that the agency will hold accountable anyone who places our military veterans and their children in harm’s way by violating our environmental laws.”
The government alleged in court documents that from September 2019 until September 2021, Carlin failed to provide lead-based paint disclosures as required, placing an individual in imminent danger of death and serious bodily injury and exposing low-income veteran families and their children at Freedom’s Path Fort Harrison to significant levels of lead.
Carlin is the owner of 406 Properties, Inc, a property management service in Helena, and has more than 26 years of professional real estate experience. In 2018, Carlin agreed to provide property management services for rental units known as Freedom’s Path Fort Harrison. The rentals included multiple homes for military veterans to use as affordable housing. In May 2019, Carlin received and forwarded an email from the Montana Department of Commerce requesting information detailing any lead-based paint remediation completed on the homes because the buildings were constructed before 1978. The buildings were constructed in approximately 1895 and 1905.
Despite the email, in June 2019, Carlin signed two Request for Tenancy Approval Forms for the Fort Harrison rentals. Carlin selected “lead-based paint disclosures do not apply because this property was built on or after January 1, 1978” on the form. Carlin knew the selections were false and did not provide lead-based paint disclosures to veterans seeking residence at Freedom’s Path Fort Harrison.
In September 2019, Carlin attended a meeting to discuss lead-based paint that was peeling at Freedom’s Path Fort Harrison. The meeting agenda identified “lead-based paint peeling in the units – doors won’t shut, paint peels when attempt to shut door” and veterans have identified “chipped paint” in the units. At this point, Carlin knew the buildings were built prior to 1978, and she knew deteriorating lead-based paint was located inside the buildings.
Despite Carlin’s knowledge and extensive real estate experience, she continued to sign forms indicating that the units were free of lead-based paint, or they were built after 1978, none of which was true. In addition, Carlin continued to fail to provide lead-based paint disclosures to the veterans and their families residing in the units.
The government further alleged that in December 2020, Carlin failed to provide a lead-based paint disclosure to a veteran of Freedom’s Path Fort Harrison. In September 2021, an 18-month-old child in the veteran’s home was found eating paint chips inside the unit. Subsequent medical testing confirmed the child had elevated blood lead levels exceeding levels considered to be “very high” and required treatment for lead poisoning. Lead poisoning can have catastrophic effects on children and their development, and Congress requires a warning about the effects of lead poisoning be given when individuals lease homes built prior to 1978.
When interviewed by federal agents, Carlin agreed she was familiar with the requirement to provide lead disclosures and confirmed that no lead disclosures were provided to veterans living in units at Freedom’s Path Fort Harrison. A review of the rental units confirmed lead was present in almost every unit, including the building where the 18-month-old child was present. A subsequent property management company corrected the omission by making lead disclosures to the veterans.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The Environmental Protection Agency Office of Inspector General, Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division, the U.S. Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation.
XXX
Browning sex offender sentenced to over a year in prison for not registering and attempting to elude law enforcementRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Browning man accused of not registering as a sex offender as required and attempting to flee law enforcement by leading officers on a high-speed chase was sentenced today to 15 months in prison to be followed by 5 years supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
The defendant, Austin Kade Goings, 27, pleaded guilty in October 2024 to failure to register as a sex offender, a felony, and attempting to elude a peace officer, a misdemeanor.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
In court documents, the government alleged Goings was on federal supervised release following his conviction by a guilty plea to sexual abuse of a minor. In April 2021, Goings was sentenced to 21 months of custody, followed by five years of supervised release. Goings was last released from federal custody following a revocation in early January 2024. Upon his release, Goings failed to update his sex offender registration as required by Montana state law and a warrant was issued for his arrest for violations of supervised release.
On July 25, 2024, an undercover law enforcement officer observed Goings driving a vehicle on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. Knowing of Goings’ federal arrest warrant, the officer notified other nearby law enforcement. Officers with Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services and the Glacier County Sheriff’s Office attempted to initiate a traffic stop of Goings and activated their emergency lights. Goings drove through a stop sign without stopping and reached 80 mph in a 25-mph zone. The pursuit reached 100 mph in a 65-mph zone, with Goings traveling at 100 mph through the Starr School community. Goings was observed swerving and driving down the center lane, and he approached another vehicle head on, forcing the vehicle into a ditch. Law enforcement called the Border Patrol for assistance. Goings led officers on a 45-mile pursuit that stopped just short of the border. There were three other occupants in the vehicle at the time of the stop, including two minors. Officers arrested Goings on his federal warrant.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The U.S. Marshals Service, Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services, the Glacier County Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Border Patrol conducted the investigation.
XXX
Individuals arraigned on immigration chargesRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – Two individuals accused of harboring and re-entry appeared this week for arraignment, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
- Kristin Louise Mitchell, aka Kristin Louise Short, 41, of Shelby pleaded not guilty to an indictment charging her with attempted harboring of illegal aliens. If convicted of the charge contained in the indictment, Mitchell faces five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
- Carlos Alexis Ponce-Lopez, 33, of Honduras, pleaded not guilty to an indictment charging him with re-entry of removed alien. If convicted of the charge contained in the indictment, Ponce-Lopez faces two years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge John Johnston presided. Mitchell was released on conditions, and Ponce-Lopez was detained pending further proceedings.
Count 1 of the indictment alleges that on March 4, 2025, near Shelby, Mitchell attempted to conceal, harbor and shield from detection three illegal aliens and took a substantial step toward the commission of that offense. Ponce-Lopez is charged in count 2 of the indictment with illegal reentry of a removed alien near Billings on February 21, 2025. The indictment alleges Ponce-Lopez is a citizen of Honduras, was removed from the United States in August 2014, and reentered the country without the permission of the Attorney General or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The U.S. Border Patrol, Montana Highway Patrol, and Toole County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
PACER case reference. 25-34.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
XXX