District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Rosebud Man Charged with Assaulting, Resisting, Opposing, and Impeding A Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, Opposing, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Jeremy Waln, age 32, was indicted on April 12, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 24, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 8 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge stems from an incident that took place on February 14, 2013, when Waln assaulted a law enforcement officer. The charge is merely an accusation and Waln is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher is prosecuting the case.
Waln was released to a third party custodian pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Indicted for Internet Sexual Contact with A MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet and Attempted Transfer of Obscene Material to a Minor.
Godfrey was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. A trial date has not been set.
Casey James Godfrey, age 27, was indicted on January 22, 2014. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on January 24, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of 10 years’ imprisonment up to life imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, lifetime supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment charges that Godfrey used the Internet to entice a girl under the age of 18 to engage in sexual activity and to send obscene matter to the girl.
The charges are merely accusations and Godfrey is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation was conducted by the Nebraska State Patrol and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins is prosecuting the case.
Rapid City Man Charged with Failure to Register as A Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Waldo Patrick War Bonnett, age 45, was indicted on January 15, 2014. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 21, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
On or about between the 15th day of October, 2013, and the 9th day of January, 2014, War Bonnett, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of a conviction under federal law, knowingly failed to register and update his registration.
The charge is merely an accusation and War Bonnett is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers is prosecuting the case.
War Bonnett was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Porcupine Man Indicted on Three Charges of Aggravated Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Porcupine, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for three charges of Aggravated Sexual Abuse.
Jaron Thunder Hawk, age 20, was indicted on January 22, 2014. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on January 27, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is life imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, and a lifetime of supervised release.
The charges relate to Thunder Hawk engaging in sexual acts with three children under the age of twelve in 2012 and 2013.
The charges are merely accusations and Thunder Hawk is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich is prosecuting the case.
Thunder Hawk was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for April 1, 2014.
North Dakota Man Charged with Sexual Abuse of A Person Incapable of ConsentRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Fort Yates, North Dakota, man, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Sexual Abuse of a Person Incapable of Consent.
William Left Hand, age 29, was indicted on January 15, 2014. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on January 17, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, a mandatory term of five years up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about February 22, 2012, Left Hand knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in a sexual act with the victim, who was physically incapable of declining participation in, or communicating her unwillingness to, engage in the sexual act.
The charge is merely an accusation and Left Hand is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Left Hand was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mission Man Charged with Burglary of A Post Office and Theft of MailRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Burglary of a Post Office and Theft of Mail.
Jesse Robinson, age 26, was indicted on August 21, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 28, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 5 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund on each count. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to an incident on June 17, 2013, when Robinson allegedly broke into the United States Post Office in Mission, and took multiple pieces of first class mail matter containing prescription medications.
The charges are merely accusations and Robinson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Postal Service and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers is prosecuting the case.
Robinson was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mission Man Charged with Assaulting A Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting a Federal Officer.
Reno Roubideaux, age 39, was indicted on August 21, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 22, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 8 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to an incident that occurred on July 31, 2013, when Roubideaux forcibly assaulted a law enforcement officer. The charge is merely an accusation and Roubideaux is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers is prosecuting the case.
Roubideaux was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for February 25, 2014.
Last Three People Sentenced in Drug Conspiracy RingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that men from Kyle, Potato Creek, and Porcupine, South Dakota, who were all previously convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, were sentenced this past week by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Edward Vocu, age 57, was sentenced to 120 months in custody, 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, for Conspiracy to Distribute Methethamphetamine.
Moses Montileaux, Sr., age 62, was sentenced to 60 months in custody, 4 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, for Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana.
Zeno Little, age 57, was sentenced to 3 years’ probation, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, for Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana.
The defendants were indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on May 15, 2012. Little was found guilty by a federal jury on August 30, 2013. Montileaux, Sr. pled guilty on August 14, 2013, and Vocu pled guilty on August 16, 2013.
A drug conspiracy investigation began on or about October 2008, that resulted in federal charges against the following 18 individuals: Abraham Romero, Richard Marshall, Lorenzo Camacho Tarango a/k/a Lencho a/k/a Lecho, Reyes Chavez-Rojo, Billi American Horse, Jimmy Bravo, Elwanda Fire Thunder, Kimberly Janis, Zeno Little, Norton Little Spotted Horse, Moses Montileaux, Jr., Moses Montileaux, Sr., Whisper Montileaux, Stephanie Standing Soldier, Edward Vocu, Theresa Vocu, Cassie Winters, and Wesley Yellow Horse, Sr.
During the course of the conspiracy, Romero would receive marijuana, cocaine, and methamphetamine from Chavez-Rojo, Lencho, and other persons, and then the remaining above-named individuals and other persons conspired to distribute and/or distributed either marijuana, cocaine, or methamphetamine on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.
This case was investigated by Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ted L. McBride and Special Assistant Laura A. Shattuck prosecuted the case.
Vocu and Montileaux, Sr. were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Kyle Man Indicted for Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Sexual Abuse.
Palmier was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. A trial date has not been set.
Benjamin Joseph Palmier, age 55, was indicted on January 22, 2014. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on January 24, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is any term of imprisonment up to life and/or a $250,000 fine, lifetime supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The indictment charges that Palmier engaged in two sexual acts with a women who was incapable of consenting to the acts.
The charges are merely accusations and Palmier is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins is prosecuting the case.
Florida Man Sentenced in Counterfeit Money SchemeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Orlando, Florida, man convicted of Passing Counterfeit Obligations of the United States was sentenced on January 27, 2014, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Rafiq McDonald, age 22, was sentenced to 6 months in custody (concurrent with a state sentence he will serve in Wisconsin), to be followed by 2 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to make restitution in the amount of $400.
McDonald was indicted for Conspiracy to Pass Counterfeit Obligations of the United States and four counts of Passing Counterfeit Obligations of the United States by a federal grand jury on March 13, 2013. He pled guilty to one count of Passing Counterfeit Obligations on November 6, 2013.
McDonald and two co-defendants, Macquillie Isaac Woodard, age 22, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Timothy Oben, age 22, of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, passed counterfeit $100 bills at various businesses in Sioux Falls in December 2012. Woodard and Oben also pled guilty to one count of Passing Counterfeit Obligations and were previously sentenced to10 months and 24 months in custody, respectively. They were also ordered to make restitution.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department and the U.S. Secret Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.
McDonald was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Chamberlain Woman Charged with False Statements and FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Chamberlain, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for False Statements Relating to Health Care Matters and Attempt to Obtain Controlled Substance by Fraud.
Marcella His Law, a/k/a Michelle His Law, age 45, was indicted on January 15, 2014. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 24, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 5 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and up to $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on August 5, 2013, His Law, in a matter involving a health care benefit program, knowingly and willfully presented a falsified prescription for Hydrocodone, a Schedule III controlled substance, to the Indian Health Services Pharmacy in Ft. Thompson, South Dakota.
The charges are merely accusations and His Law is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Office of the Inspector General, Office of Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
His Law was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Two Men Sentenced in Marijuana Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that two men convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance were sentenced on January 27, 2014, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Samuel Joseph Pfeifle, age 27, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Sean Michael McFarland, age 33, of Vermillion, South Dakota, were both sentenced to 60 months in prison, to be followed by 4 years of supervised release.
The United States obtained money judgments against both men ($80,000 as to Pfeifle and $100,000 as to McFarland) as forfeiture of money or property they acquired as a result of their illegal activities.
The men were indicted on September 10, 2013, for conspiracy to distribute more than 100 kilograms of marijuana. McFarland pled guilty on October 30, 2013, and Pfeifle pled guilty on November 7, 2013.
The men joined a conspiracy to illegally distribute marijuana in South Dakota and elsewhere. During their involvement, the men grew, harvested, and obtained marijuana, illegally distributed it, caused it to be illegally delivered and distributed, paid others for it, and received payments for it.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in both South Dakota and California, and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Connie Larson prosecuted the case.
Both men were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Two Men Sentenced in Marijuana Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that two men convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance were sentenced on January 27, 2014, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Samuel Joseph Pfeifle, age 27, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Sean Michael McFarland, age 33, of Vermillion, South Dakota, were both sentenced to 60 months in prison, to be followed by 4 years of supervised release.
The United States obtained money judgments against both men ($80,000 as to Pfeifle and $100,000 as to McFarland) as forfeiture of money or property they acquired as a result of their illegal activities.
The men were indicted on September 10, 2013, for conspiracy to distribute more than 100 kilograms of marijuana. McFarland pled guilty on October 30, 2013, and Pfeifle pled guilty on November 7, 2013.
The men joined a conspiracy to illegally distribute marijuana in South Dakota and elsewhere. During their involvement, the men grew, harvested, and obtained marijuana, illegally distributed it, caused it to be illegally delivered and distributed, paid others for it, and received payments for it.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in both South Dakota and California, and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Connie Larson prosecuted the case.
Both men were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
St. Francis Man Charged with False Statements and FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for False Statements Relating to Health Care Matters and Attempt to Obtain Controlled Substance by Fraud.
Titus James Iron Shield, age 48, was indicted on January 15, 2014. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 23, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 5 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges stem from an incident that took place on April 30, 2013, when Iron Shield presented a forged prescription to a pharmacy to obtain Hydrocodone pills knowing the prescription was falsified.
The charges are merely an accusation and Iron Shield is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Office of the Inspector General – Department of Health and Human Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher is prosecuting the case.
Iron Shield was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced in Firearms CaseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Stolen Firearm was sentenced on January 27, 2014, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Andrei Kevin Russell, age 29, was sentenced to 92 months in prison, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.Russell was indicted for being a felon in possession of a firearm and for possessing a stolen firearm by a federal grand jury on March 6, 2013. He pled guilty to the stolen firearm offense on November 1, 2013. The other charge was dismissed.
Russell came into contact with law enforcement at his residence in Hartford, South Dakota, on July 19, 2012. He gave officers permission to search his residence, where they discovered a Benelli 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun in the garage. The shotgun had been stolen from a Sioux Falls residence.This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Connie Larson prosecuted the case.
Russell was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Attempted Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Trafficking with Respect to Involuntary Servitude and Forced Labor was sentenced on January 27, 2014, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Murphy was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eric Murphy, age 28, was sentenced to 10 years of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Murphy will also be required to register as a sex offender.
On August 3, 2013, as part of a sex-trafficking undercover operation during the Sturgis Bike Rally, Murphy was arrested for attempting to obtain sex with a 12-year old girl. Murphy responded to a law enforcement-generated Internet advertisement which advertised sex with a fictitious 12 or 13 year-old girl and negotiated the terms of the sexual encounter. Murphy then met with an undercover agent posing as the pimp who could provide the young girl, and he was subsequently arrested.
The investigation was conducted by the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Meade County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins prosecuted the case.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Attempted Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Trafficking with Respect to Involuntary Servitude and Forced Labor was sentenced on January 27, 2014, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Murphy was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eric Murphy, age 28, was sentenced to 10 years of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Murphy will also be required to register as a sex offender.
On August 3, 2013, as part of a sex-trafficking undercover operation during the Sturgis Bike Rally, Murphy was arrested for attempting to obtain sex with a 12-year old girl. Murphy responded to a law enforcement-generated Internet advertisement which advertised sex with a fictitious 12 or 13 year-old girl and negotiated the terms of the sexual encounter. Murphy then met with an undercover agent posing as the pimp who could provide the young girl, and he was subsequently arrested.
The investigation was conducted by the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Meade County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins prosecuted the case.
Parmelee Man Charged with Failure to AppearRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Appear.
Adam Poor Bear, age 24, was indicted on December 10, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Mark A. Moreno on January 21, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 2 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 1 year of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
On December 2, 2013, Poor Bear, having been charged with Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Supervised Release Revocation, failed to appear for his sentencing hearing as ordered by the court.
The charge is merely an accusation and Poor Bear is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher is prosecuting the case.
Poor Bear was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
North Dakota Woman Charged with TheftRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Mandan, North Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Theft Concerning Programs Receiving Federal Funds.
Dawn Muir, age 52, was indicted on January 15, 2014. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on January 17, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between February 2, 2011, and December 31, 2013, Muir, being an agent of the Pretty Bird Woman House, knowingly and intentionally embezzled, stole, obtained by fraud, as well as intentionally misapplied property worth at least $5,000 which was owned by the Pretty Bird Woman House.
The charge is merely an accusation and Muir is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Muir was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Idaho Man Sentenced for Failure to Pay Child SupportRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Post Falls, Idaho, man convicted of three counts of Failure to Pay Legal Child Support was sentenced on January 23, 2014, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
David E. Cox, age 47, was sentenced to 5 years of unsupervised probation on each count to run concurrently, ordered to pay a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and child support restitution in the amount of $62,277.67. He was found guilty by a federal jury on January 16, 2014.
Cox was indicted for failing to pay over $61,000 in child support on July 9, 2013. The obligations went unpaid for more than two years and were in amounts greater than $10,000. At that time, Cox was residing in Idaho while his minor children resided in South Dakota. From that date and continuing to the present, Cox willfully and unlawfully failed to pay these past due child support obligations.
This case was investigated by the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Fort Thompson Man Indicted on Assault Charges and Child AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, Domestic Abuse by an Habitual Offender, and Child Abuse.
Anthony Comes Flying, a/k/a Anthony Miller, age 29, was indicted on January 15, 2014. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 16, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 15 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and up to $600 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about January 4, 2014, Comes Flying assaulted his dating partner and their two children, when Comes Flying had a final conviction on at least two separate occasions for prior offenses against a spouse or dating partner.
The charges are merely accusations and Comes Flying is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Comes Flying was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Eagle Butte Woman Charged with LarcenyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Larceny.
Susan Dillabaugh, age 33, was indicted on January 15, 2014. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on January 23, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 5 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about between September 23, 2011, and January 9, 2012, Dillabaugh unlawfully took and carried away with intent to steal and purloin the personal property of another, namely Pretty Bird Woman House. The property had a value in excess of $1,000.
The charge is merely an accusation and Dillabaugh is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Dillabaugh was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Cherry Creek Man Sentenced for Assault with A Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Cherry Creek, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on January 22, 2014, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
William Z. Mexican, age 21, was sentenced to 24 months in custody, 2 years of Supervised Release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Mexican was indicted for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon by a federal grand jury on October 22, 2013. He pled guilty on December 12, 2013.
Mexican’s conviction was the result of an incident on August 20, 2013, in Cherry Creek, when he got into an altercation with two other individuals. Mexican pulled a hunting knife and tried to stab the victim, with the intent to do bodily harm.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikal Hanson prosecuted the case.
Mexican was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Chamberlain Man Sentenced for LarcenyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Chamberlain, South Dakota, man convicted of Larceny was sentenced on January 21, 2014, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Warren LaRoche, age 23, was sentenced to time served (66 days), 1 year of supervised release, $1,381.94 in restitution and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
LaRoche was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 14, 2013. He pled guilty on December 12, 2013.
On November 29, 2012, LaRoche checked a guest into the Lone Star motel in Fort Thompson, South Dakota. The guest used a credit card to pay for two nights. LaRoche memorized the credit card and created an account on Amazon.com. Beginning on December 3, 2012 through April 16, 2013, LaRoche made 64 purchases on the Amazon account using the guest’s credit card as payment. The purchases were goods totaling $1,381.94. LaRoche admitted he did not have permission to use the credit card to make these purchases.This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Eagle Butte Woman Charged with Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily InjuryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
Kenna Bridwell, age 28, was indicted on January 14, 2014. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 17, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Bridwell is alleged to have assaulted a woman in November 2013, as a result of a car crash near Eagle Butte. The charge is merely an accusation and Bridwell is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikal Hanson is prosecuting the case.
Bridwell was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Batesland Man Sentenced for Two Charges of Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Batesland, South Dakota, man convicted of two charges of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on January 23, 2014, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
George American Horse, age 62, was sentenced to 72 months in custody for one charge and 48 months for the other charge, for a total of 120 months (10 years), 5 years of supervised release on each count to run concurrently, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
American Horse pled guilty to the charges on September 26, 2013. The charges relate to incidents that happened between 2009 and 2012 near Batesland, when American Horse engaged in sexual contact with a child who had not attained the age of 12.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
American Horse was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Batesland Man Sentenced for Two Charges of Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Batesland, South Dakota, man convicted of two charges of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on January 23, 2014, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
George American Horse, age 62, was sentenced to 72 months in custody for one charge and 48 months for the other charge, for a total of 120 months (10 years), 5 years of supervised release on each count to run concurrently, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
American Horse pled guilty to the charges on September 26, 2013. The charges relate to incidents that happened between 2009 and 2012 near Batesland, when American Horse engaged in sexual contact with a child who had not attained the age of 12.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
American Horse was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Wood Man Charged with Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Child AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Wood, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Child Abuse.
Elias LaPointe, age 20, was indicted on January 15, 2014. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 21, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 15 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to an incident that took place on October 23, 2013, when LaPointe allegedly assaulted and abused a child under the age 7, and the said assault resulted in serious bodily injury.
The charge is merely an accusation and LaPointe is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher is prosecuting the case.
LaPointe was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Man Convicted of 26 Investment Fraud FeloniesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Randal Kent Hansen, age 65, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, was found guilty on January 22, 2014, of conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, four counts of wire fraud, and 21 counts of mail fraud, as a result of a federal jury trial in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
“Randy Hanson’s and his co-conspirators' multi-million dollar scam cost many victims their life’s savings. We are pleased with the verdict and applaud the work of law enforcement which put together a very complicated case. We hope the victims of this fraud find some vindication in knowing that the conspirators have been brought to justice,” said U.S. Attorney Brendan Johnson.
The convictions each carry a maximum penalty of twenty years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Hansen will also be required to pay restitution to his victims.
Hansen was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2013 for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud, wire fraud and mail fraud.
The case involved the investigation of a hedge fund known as RAHFCO Funds, Limited Partnership and RAHFCO Growth Fund. As president of the fund, Randy Hansen collected money from over a hundred investors that totaled over $20 million dollars. Investors were told that only a small portion of the money was supposed to be used to make trades on the futures market for the S&P 500, that the rest was securely invested in government securities, and that they could withdraw funds at will. The fund operated from 2007 until April 2011 when one of Hansen’s co-conspirators turned himself into authorities. The investigation revealed that the fund was operating in a Ponzi-like fashion with new investor money being used to pay off older investors seeking to withdraw funds. Ultimately, investor losses have exceeded $10 million.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date has been set for April 28, 2014. The defendant was released pending sentencing.
Florida Man Sentenced in IRS Fraud CaseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Tampa, Florida, man convicted of Conspiracy to Defraud the United States and Aggravated Identity Theft was sentenced on January 17, 2014, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Adams was involved in a scheme to defraud the United States by using personal identifying information, including names, Social Security numbers, and dates of birth of other individuals to file bogus income tax returns showing tax refunds due. The requested refunds total approximately $1 million, and the IRS paid fraudulent claims of over $400,000 before the fraud was discovered.
Charlie Frank Adams, age 23, was sentenced to 30 months in prison on the conspiracy charge and 24 months on the ID theft charge, to be served consecutively. Upon release from prison, he will be on supervised release for 3 years. Adams was also ordered to make restitution to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and ID theft victims in the total amount of $421,832.83.
Adams and 10 others were indicted on the above charges by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2013. Adams pled guilty on October 29, 2013.
Several of Adams’ co-defendants attended the University of South Dakota in Vermillion and are former members of the football team.
As his part in the conspiracy, Adams filed bogus tax returns using stolen identifying information received from a co-conspirator, kept the co-conspirator informed as to whether the returns were accepted by the IRS and, if so, to which address the refunds would be mailed. He also provided stolen identifying information to his co-conspirators.
This case was investigated by the Vermillion Police Department, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Assistance, and the IRS Criminal Investigation Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Haak prosecuted the case.
Adams was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Woman Charged with Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily InjuryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
Kenna Bridwell, age 28, was indicted on January 14, 2014. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 17, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Bridwell is alleged to have assaulted a woman in November 2013 as a result of a car crash near Eagle Butte. The charge is merely an accusation and Bridwell is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikal Hanson is prosecuting the case.
Bridwell was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Wakpala Man Sentenced for Distribution of A Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Wakpala, South Dakota, man convicted of Distribution of a Controlled Substance was sentenced on January 10, 2014, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Francis DuBray, age 24, was sentenced to 16 months in custody, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
DuBray was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 21, 2013. He pled guilty on November 18, 2013.
The conviction stems from two incidents wherein a confidential informant was given pre-recorded money to purchase marijuana from Dubray. The first controlled buy was on May 13, 2013, when the informant used $600 to purchase 6.92 ounces of marijuana from DuBray. For the second controlled buy, the confidential source used $850 in pre-recorded money to purchase 7.60 ounces of marijuana from DuBray on June 11, 2013.
The investigation was conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
DuBray was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Two St. Francis Men Charged with Second Degree Murder and A Sioux City Woman Charged with Accessory After the FactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that two men from St. Francis, South Dakota, have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Second Degree Murder, Aiding and Abetting, and a Sioux City, Iowa, woman has been charged with Accessory After the Fact.
BillyRay McCloskey, age 23, Riley McCloskey, age 20, and Crystal Red Hawk, age 36, were indicted on January 7, 2014. They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 15, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction for Second Degree Murder, Aiding and Abetting is up to life in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered. The maximum penalty for Accessory After the Fact is 15 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Riley and BillyRay McCloskey are charged with two counts of Second Degree Murder, Aiding and Abetting for the death of one victim by strangulation, and the death of a second victim by assaulting him with hands and shod feet, and stabbing him in the chest with a screwdriver. Red Hawk is charged with Accessory After the Fact for assisting BillyRay and Riley in order to hinder and prevent their apprehension, trial, and punishment.
The charges are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson and Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers are prosecuting the case.
The Defendants were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for March 11, 2014.
St. Francis Man Sentenced for Assault by Striking, Beating and Wounding and Simple AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man charged with Assault by Striking, Beating and Wounding and Simple Assault pled guilty to, and was sentenced, on January 15, 2014, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.
Westlee Ford, age 20, was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day in custody, and was ordered to pay $35 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stems from an incident that took place on June 15, 2013, when Ford was at a party in which the victim was also present. There were verbal disagreements and Ford stabbed the victim with a knife. The victim had four stab wounds to his body as a result of the assault.
The investigation was conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher.
Ford was ordered to self-report to the U.S. Marshals Service by noon on January 22, 2014.
Oglala Woman Sentenced for Causing Death of ChildRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Oglala, South Dakota, woman convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter was sentenced on January 10, 2014, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Red Star-Benson was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Elizabeth Red Star-Benson, a/k/a Elizabeth Shantelle Benson, a/k/a Elizabeth Red Star, age 27, was sentenced to 5 years of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
On August 31, 2012, at Porcupine, Red Star-Benson was driving under the influence with a blood alcohol content of .261 and rolled her vehicle on BIA Hwy 27 near KILI radio station. Her four-year old son, who was not properly restrained, was ejected from the vehicle and died at the scene from his traumatic injuries.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins.
Kadoka Man Sentenced for Destruction of Government PropertyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Kadoka, South Dakota, man convicted of Destruction of Government Property was sentenced on January 13, 2014, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Lynn Standing Bear, age 21, was sentenced to 8 months in custody, 3 years of supervised release, ordered to pay $10,293.50 in restitution, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Standing Bear pled guilty to the charge on October 18, 2013. The charge related to Standing Bear entering the Indian Health Services Clinic in Wanblee during the nighttime hours on July 5, 2013. Once inside the clinic, Standing Bear used different tools to cause damage to the clinic. Standing Bear also stole 11 bottles of Hydrocodone and then attempted to sell the pills in the Wanblee area.
This case was investigated by the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Standing Bear was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Idaho Man Found Guilty of Failure to Pay Legal Child SupportRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that David E. Cox, age 47, of Post Falls, Idaho, was found guilty by a federal jury in Rapid City, South Dakota, of 3 counts of Failure to Pay Legal Child Support.
A sentencing date was set for Thursday, January 23, 2014.
The charge carries a maximum penalty of 2 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 1 year of supervised release, a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and child support restitution amount owing at the time of sentencing.
Cox was previously ordered by the Eighth Judicial Circuit, Lawrence County, South Dakota, to pay child support for his minor children in three separate cases. At trial, it was revealed that Cox owes approximately $61,000 in past due child support obligations.
This case was investigated by the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Four People Sentenced in Large Drug Conspiracy RingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that three women from Kyle, South Dakota, and a man from Oglala, South Dakota, convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance were all sentenced this past week by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
The four defendants were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. Three defendants from this drug conspiracy remain to be sentenced, which is scheduled for later this month.
Wesley Yellow Horse Sr., age 58, was sentenced to 57 months in custody, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana.
Theresa Vocu, age 45, was sentenced to 36 months in custody, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for Conspiracy to Distribute Methethamphetamine.
Elwanda Fire Thunder, age 49, was sentenced to 21 months in custody, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana.
Kimberly Janis, age 51, was sentenced to 46 months in custody, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana.
The defendants were indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on May 15, 2012. Fire Thunder pled guilty on August 22, 2012. Janis pled guilty on April 8, 2013. Vocu and Yellow Horse were found guilty by a federal jury on August 30, 2013
A drug conspiracy investigation began on or about October 2008 that resulted in federal charges against the following 18 individuals: Abraham Romero, Richard Marshall, Lorenzo Camacho Tarango, a/k/a Lencho, a/k/a Lecho, Reyes Chavez-Rojo, Billi American Horse, Jimmy Bravo, Elwanda Fire Thunder, Kimberly Janis, Zeno Little, Norton Little Spotted Horse, Moses Montileaux, Jr., Moses Montileaux, Sr., Whisper Montileaux, Stephanie Standing Soldier, Edward Vocu, Theresa Vocu, Cassie Winters, and Wesley Yellow Horse, Sr.
During the course of the conspiracy, Romero would receive marijuana, cocaine, and methamphetamine from Chavez-Rojo and Lencho, and then the remaining above-named individuals and other persons conspired to distribute and/or distributed either marijuana, cocaine, or methamphetamine on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.
This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ted L. McBride and Special Assistant Laura A. Shattuck prosecuted the case.
Deadwood Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Deadwood, South Dakota, man convicted of Illegally Possessing a Firearm was sentenced on January 13, 2014, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Sean Jason Romanjenko, age 39, was sentenced to 2 years of probation, ordered to pay a $2,500 fine, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Romanjenko pled guilty to the charge on October 18, 2013. The charge related to Romanjenko knowingly being in possession of a .45 caliber pistol at a shooting range near Deadwood on December 1, 2012. Romanjenko was previously convicted of a crime and was prohibited from possessing firearms as a result of this conviction.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Custer Couple Indicted for Destruction of Government PropertyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Custer, South Dakota, couple have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Destruction of Government Property.
Jerry Nored, age 61, and Susan Nored, age 60, were indicted on December 17, 2013. They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on January 13, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to the Noreds leading and guiding clients on horseback rides over unauthorized trails within the Black Hills National Forest between March and December 2013. These rides caused damage in excess of $1,000 to the Black Hills National Forest.
The charge is merely an accusation and the Noreds are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman is prosecuting the case.
The Noreds were released on bond pending trial. A trial date has been set for March 18, 2014.
California Man Sentenced for Possession of A Firearm with an Obliterated Serial NumberRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Tracy, California, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number was sentenced on January 13, 2014, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Troy Leroy James, age 48, was sentenced to time served, 2 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
James pled guilty to the charge on October 8, 2013. The conviction stems from an incident on December 20, 2012, in Rapid City, when James was in possession of a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver, from which he knew the manufacturer’s serial number had been removed and obliterated
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Box Elder Man Sentenced for Using Computer to Engage in Criminal Sexual ConductRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Box Elder, South Dakota, man convicted of Receipt of Child Pornography was sentenced on January 10, 2014, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Craig Joshua Weires, age 23, was sentenced to 6 years of imprisonment, 10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
In April 2013, while executing a search warrant on Weires’s home, law enforcement authorities found child pornographic videos on Weires’s computer, which he had downloaded off the Internet.
The investigation was conducted by the Rapid City Police Department, Pennington County Sheriff's Office, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Office of Special Investigations from Ellsworth Air Force Base, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins.
Weires was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
St. Francis Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on January 14, 2014, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Vernon Verdell Blackhorse, age 63, was sentenced to 144 months in custody, 3 years of supervised release, a $3,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Blackhorse was indicted for Abusive Sexual Contact by a federal grand jury on May 15, 2013. He pled guilty on November 6, 2013.
The conviction stems from an incident that took place in Eagle Butte between May 1, 2002, and August 30, 2002, when the victim was living at the home of a relative where the defendant was also staying. The victim, who was age 11 or 12 at the time, was sleeping on a couch, and Blackhorse was laying on a couch behind her. The victim woke up when she felt Blackhorse touching her over her clothing in a sexual manner. The victim jumped off of the couch and was able to end the sexual contact.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers prosecuted the case.
Blackhorse was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Parmelee Man Sentenced for Child Related Sexual Abuse and Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, man convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor, Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child, Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child, and Abusive Sexual Contact While Registered as a Sex Offender was sentenced on January 14, 2014, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Randy Never Misses A Shot, age 49, was sentenced to 444 months in custody, 5 years of supervised release, and a $500 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Never Misses A Shot was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 16, 2013. A Superseding Indictment was filed on March 13, 2013. On September 10, 2013, Never Misses A Shot appeared before the Honorable Roberto A. Lange for a jury trial. On September 12, 2013, a jury found him guilty on all charges.
The conviction stems from several incidents which occurred between January 1, 1993, and May 15, 2007, in which Never Misses A Shot sexually abused multiple victims under the ages of 12.
During the years of 1993 through 1997, Never Misses A Shot visited Child Victim A, a young relative, who was staying on the Rosebud Indian Reservation. While visiting her, Never Misses A Shot would sexually abuse her. In addition, Never Misses A Shot engaged in sexual acts with Child Victim A in a wooded area near the He-Dog housing community. As a result of this conduct, Never Misses A Shot was convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child and Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child.
In the summer of 2000, Never Misses A Shot was staying with relatives at a housing complex near Parmelee. While there, Never Misses A Shot sexually abused Child Victim B, another young relative. As a result of this conduct, Never Misses A Shot was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child.
The final incident occurred over Mother’s Day weekend of 2007. Never Misses A Shot was on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, traveling with a woman and her young daughter, Child Victim C. They stopped at Pine Ridge for the weekend, and while there, Never Misses A Shot grabbed child victim C behind a trailer, forced her to the ground, and abused her in a sexual manner. As a result of this conduct, Never Misses A Shot was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child and Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child While Required to Register as a Sex Offender.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Rapid City Police Department, Sioux Falls Police Department, Rosebud Sioux Tribal Law Enforcement, Brooking Police Department, Jefferson County’s Sheriff’s Office, Washington, and the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Never Misses A Shot was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on January 9, 2014, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Maksim Mehiolvich Stefanyuk, age 22, was sentenced to 24 months in custody, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
Stefanyuk was indicted for possessing child pornography by a federal grand jury on October 4, 2011. He pled guilty on October 23, 2013.
On April 28, 2011, law enforcement officers with the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force executed a search warrant at Stefanyuk’s residence in Sioux Falls. Officers seized Stefanyuk’s computer. When it was examined, images of child pornography were discovered that had been downloaded from the internet using a file-sharing program. Stefanyuk admitted knowing that he possessed the images on his personal laptop computer.
This case was investigated by the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Department, the Sioux Falls Police Department, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Stefanyuk was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
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 the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Possession of A Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Stolen Firearm was sentenced on January 9, 2014, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Sheldon LaPointe, age 38, was sentenced to 48 months in custody, 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $1,000 in restitution and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stems from LaPointe being in possession of a stolen Colt .45 caliber handgun which he was hiding to protect his niece. The niece had stolen the gun on October 19, 2012, at Rapid City.
This case was investigated by the Rapid City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
LaPointe was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Norris Man Sentenced for Sexual Abuse of A MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Norris, South Dakota, man convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor was sentenced on January 13, 2014, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Jeremy Eagle Bear, age 23, was sentenced to 18 months in custody, 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Eagle Bear was indicted for Sexual Abuse of a Minor by a federal grand jury on August 21, 2013. He pled guilty on October 24, 2013.
The conviction stems from an incident on February 11, 2011, when Eagle Bear met the 13 year old victim at a house party and had sexual intercourse with her.
This case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher prosecuted the case.
Eagle Bear was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Minnesota Man Sentenced for Passing Counterfeit SecuritiesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Vadnais Heights, Minnesota, man convicted of Passing Counterfeit Securities was sentenced on January 9, 2014, by the Honorable Karen E. Schreier, U.S. District Judge.
Gregory Wayne Newell, age 43, was sentenced to 24 months in custody, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $1,200 restitution to the victims in the case.
Newell was indicted for Passing Counterfeit Securities by a federal grand jury on July 9, 2013. He pled guilty on October 23, 2013.
In December of 2012, Newell passed four counterfeit $50 American Express traveler’s checks at a Sioux Falls Hy-Vee Store.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department and the United States Secret Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Newell was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Lower Brule Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as A Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on January 13, 2014, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Jewell Iron Heart, age 21, was sentenced to 21 months in custody, 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Iron Heart was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 17, 2013. He pled guilty on November 19, 2013.
The conviction stems from the fact that Iron Heart has previously admitted to an offense that requires him to register as a sex offender for life. Iron Heart registered as a sex offender for the first time in May 2012. On March 18, 2013, Iron Heart was arrested on a federal warrant due to violating conditions of his supervision. He was placed at the Community Alternatives of the Black Hills (CABH) facility in Rapid City by his probation officer.
On August 7, 2013, Iron Heart registered the CABH facility as his address in compliance with the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. On August 18, 2013, Iron Heart absconded from the facility, and since that date, Iron Heart has not updated his sex offender registration as required by law.
The investigation was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Iron Heart was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Kimball Man Sentenced for Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding A Federal Officer and Lacey Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Kimball, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding a Federal Officer and Lacey Act Violations was sentenced on January 10, 2014, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
James R. Steckley, age 44, was sentenced to 2 days in custody with credit for one day, 6 months of home confinement, 2 years of supervised release, and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund on the Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding a Federal Officer charge. He was sentenced to 40 hours of community service, a $7,500 fine, and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund on the Lacey Act Violations charge. Steckley cannot possess guns for a period of 2 years and cannot hunt for 2 years.
Steckley was indicted for Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding a Federal Officer by a federal grand jury on September 19, 2012. He was indicted for the Lacey Act Violations charge on February 13, 2013. He pled guilty to both charges on October 29, 2013.
The convictions stem from an incident wherein Steckley, on September 6, 2012, interfered with a Special Agent with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service while that agent was investigating the Lacey Act Violations. The investigation ultimately revealed that between November 27, 2011, and December 5, 2011, in Brule County, South Dakota, Steckley, then part owner of Steckley’s Wild Dakota Outfitters, a commercial hunting operation in Central South Dakota, hosted paying clients to hunt deer without appropriate licenses.
This case was investigated by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the South Dakota Game Fish and Parks. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Steckley will self-surrender to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.