District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Lower Brule Man Charged with Assault by Strangulation and SuffocationRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation.
Shane Coleman, age 25, was indicted on November 14, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 10, 2013, 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 on July 11, 2013, Coleman assaulted his spouse or intimate partner by strangling and suffocating her.
The charge is merely an accusation and Coleman 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.
Coleman was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, which has been set for February 11, 2014.
Ft. Pierre Man Sentenced for Bank FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Fort Pierre, South Dakota, man convicted of bank fraud was sentenced on December 12, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Wyatt Rasmussen, age 40, was sentenced to 33 months in custody to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to make restitution of $238,969.59.
Rasmussen was indicted for bank fraud by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2013. He pled guilty on August 1, 2013.
Rasmussen applied for a business line of credit from Dakotaland Federal Credit Union in Huron. In support of his application, he created and submitted fraudulent documents that grossly overstated and misrepresented his income. Rasmussen received the line of credit and used the funds for his own personal purposes.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.
Rasmussen was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Wanblee Man Pleads Not Guilty to Making False Statements to Obtain Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Wanblee, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for False Statements Relating to Health Care Matters and Attempt to Obtain Controlled Substances by Fraud.
Robert George Quiver, age 22, was indicted on December 3, 2013. Quiver appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on December 4, 2013, 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, 1 year of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund on each charge. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Quiver presenting a falsified prescription for Hydrocodone, a Schedule III controlled substance, to the Indian Health Services Pharmacy in Wanblee on July 11, 2013.
The charges are merely accusations and Quiver is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich is prosecuting the case.
Quiver was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. A trial date has not been set.
Oglala Man Sentenced for First Degree BurglaryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Oglala, South Dakota, man convicted of First Degree Burglary was sentenced on December 4, 2013, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Tim Two Bulls, age 24, was sentenced to 18 months of imprisonment, 2 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Two Bulls pled guilty to the charge on October 24, 2013. The charge related to Two Bulls unlawfully breaking into the home of a woman on December 16, 2011, in the Red Shirt Table community.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety.
Two Bulls was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Convicted in Sex Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Mohammed Sharif Alaboudi, age 45, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, was found guilty of four counts of sex trafficking, including sex trafficking by force and sex trafficking of a child. The guilty verdicts followed a four-day federal jury trial in Sioux Falls. Each of the four counts carries a maximum prison term of life. Three counts carry mandatory minimum prison terms of 15 years.
In 2011, the Sioux Falls Police Department (SFPD) Street Crimes Unit began investigating a criminal organization operating in and around Sioux Falls. Witnesses identified several individuals they claimed had been selling narcotics and prostitutes. In January 2012, the SFPD requested federal assistance, and a team consisting of the Department of Homeland Security–Criminal Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the SFPD, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation began investigating the case.
Investigators discovered that Alaboudi was living in a one-bedroom, upstairs apartment in a house several blocks from downtown Sioux Falls. Girls and young women, many homeless and suffering from addiction, would frequent Alaboudi’s residence where he provided drugs and a place to stay. At trial, victims and other witnesses described how, once they were there, Alaboudi would use violence and drugs to force them into having sex with him and with other men who would come to the apartment and pay Alaboudi with drugs and money.
“Alaboudi operated a house of horrors right here in South Dakota. He lured women and young girls to his home and then kept them high on drugs and alcohol while forcing them to engage in sex acts with strangers,” said Johnson. “This case reminds us that when people fall through the cracks in our community, there are sexual predators waiting in the wings to exploit them. Thanks to the outstanding work of law enforcement, Mr. Alaboudi’s days of preying on the most vulnerable citizens in our community are over.”
Alaboudi was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 6, 2012, as a co-defendant of Emmanuel Nyuon, alleging the two men conspired to engage in the sex trafficking of one child victim. On March 6, 2013, the grand jury added additional charges against Alaboudi regarding another child victim and an adult victim. Alaboudi’s and Nyuon’s cases were severed on March 11, 2013. A count regarding a fourth victim was added against Alaboudi on May 8, 2013. Nyuon was convicted on April 5, 2013, following a separate jury trial, and he is currently serving a federal prison sentence of 30 years.
“The Civil Rights Division commends the District of South Dakota for vindicating the rights and dignity of some of the most vulnerable members of our society—the homeless young women and girls the defendant cruelly exploited and sold for sex,” commented Jocelyn Samuels, Acting Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “When human traffickers prey on those hidden in the shadows, destroying human lives for their own profit, they offend the values of liberty and justice for all that lie at the heart of our nation. We are committed to bringing these traffickers to justice.”
This case was investigated by the SFPD, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security—Criminal Investigations, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Koliner and Jeff Clapper prosecuted the case.
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 the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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.
A presentence investigation was ordered. Alaboudi was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service and a sentencing date will be set.Pine Ridge Man Pleads Not Guilty to Theft of Government PropertyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Theft of Government Property and False Statement.
Michael Twiss, age 49, was indicted on November 19, 2013. Twiss appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on December 4, 2013, 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 on each charge. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Twiss illegally taking overtime payments in an amount greater than $1,000 while employed as a Wildland Fire Operations Specialist for the Bureau of Indian Affairs in 2009. Twiss then gave false statements concerning the theft to a special agent with the Office of Inspector General.
The charges are merely accusations and Twiss is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Office of Inspector General, U.S. Department of the Interior. Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne Venhuizen is prosecuting the case.
Twiss was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has been set for February 18, 2014.
Man from Mexico Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MarijuanaRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a man from Mexico convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on December 2, 2013, by U.S. Chief Judge Jeffery L. Viken.
Reyes Chavez-Rojo, age 25, was sentenced to 97 months in custody, 4 years supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Chavez-Rojo was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on May 15, 2012. He pled guilty on August 16, 2013.
Beginning no later than 2010 until May 15, 2012, Chavez-Rojo distributed in excess of 100 kilograms of marijuana to Abraham Romero, and Romero would then engage in further distribution within the District of South Dakota. Chavez-Rojo was involved in this conspiracy with more than five participants and was acting as an organizer or leader. Romero was previously sentenced to 120 months in custody.
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 prosecuted the case.
Chavez-Rojo was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Lower Brule Man Charged with Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding A Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Dru Peterson, age 26, was indicted on November 14, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 3, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 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 September 3, 2013, Peterson interfered with several officers while they were engaged in the performance of their official duties as federal law enforcement officers.
The charge is merely an accusation and Peterson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Peterson was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Fort Thompson Man Charged with Failure to Register as A Sex OffenderRead 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 Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Stuart Dion, age 30, was indicted on November 14, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 3, 2013, 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, a mandatory minimum period of at least 5 years of supervised release, with a violation of a condition of release possibly resulting in 2 years of additional incarceration on any such revocation. If Dion commits a new felony violation of sexual abuse, sexual exploitation and other abuse of children, transportation for illegal sexual activity and related crimes, kidnapping, or sex trafficking of children by force, fraud, or coercion, while on supervised release, he may be incarcerated for a mandatory minimum term of 5 years up to life for each violation. He may also be required to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between September 17, 2013 and October 21, 2013, Dion knowingly failed to register and update his registration.
The charge is merely an accusation and Dion is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Dion was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Colorado Man Indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana and Distribution of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Colorado man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Distribution of a Controlled Substance.
Christopher Luke, age 28, was indicted on November 19, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica Duffy on December 2, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in custody and/or a $1,000,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Beginning no later than the summer of 2012, Luke conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine in the District of South Dakota.
The charge is merely an accusation and Luke is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Unified Narcotic Enforcement Team and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ted L. McBride is prosecuting the case.
Luke was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set yet.
Batesland Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MarijuanaRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Batesland, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on December 2, 2013, by U.S. Chief Judge Jeffery L. Viken.
Richard Marshall, age 46, was sentenced to 60 months in custody, 4 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Marshall was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on May 15, 2012. He pled guilty on August 23, 2013.
Beginning no later than 2010 until May 15, 2012, Marshall received and stored marijuana, in excess of 100 kilograms, from Abraham Romero and then engaged in further distribution within the District of South Dakota. Marshall was acting as an organizer or leader in this drug conspiracy. Romero was previously sentenced to 120 months in custody.
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 U.S. Attorney Laura A. Shattuck prosecuted the case.
Marshall was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Wanblee Man Charged with Child AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Wanblee, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Felony Child Abuse and Neglect.
Simon Glenn, age 21, was indicted on November 19, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on December 3, 2013, 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, 2 years of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The indictment charges that in November 2013, near Wanblee, Glenn abused a child who had not attained the age of seven years.
The charge is merely an accusation and Glenn is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman is prosecuting the case.
Glenn was released pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Pine Ridge Man Sentenced for AssaultsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault by Striking, Beating or Wounding was sentenced on December 2, 2013, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Jon Craig Dillon, age 25, was sentenced to 37 months of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. For Assault by Striking, Beating or Wounding, Dillon was sentenced to 6 months of imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release, to run concurrently to the first sentence, and $25 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Dillon pled guilty to the charges on August 2, 2013. The conviction stems from Dillon assaulting his female companion numerous times in 2012. The assaults resulted in injuries to the kidney and the head, choking injuries, and extensive bruising covering her body.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Dillon was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Charged with Simple Possession of A Controlled SubstanceRead 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 Simple Possession of a Controlled Substance.
Steven Plank, age 29, was indicted on November 14, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 27, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 1 year in custody and/or a $100,000 fine, 1 year of supervised release, and $25 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Plank is accused of possessing hydrocodone, a schedule III controlled substance.
The charge is merely an accusation and Plank 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.
Plank was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Kyle Man Pleads Not Guilty to Assaulting A Federal OfficerRead 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 Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Scotty Old Horse, age 18, was indicted on November 19, 2013. Old Horse appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on December 2, 2013, 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 an incident in Porcupine, South Dakota, when Old Horse resisted a law enforcement officer employed by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety while engaged in the performance of his official duties.
The charge is merely an accusation and Old Horse is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich is prosecuting the case.
Old Horse was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has been set for February 4, 2014.
Wanblee Man Indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana and MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Wanblee, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances.
Dana Provincial, age 35, was indicted on November 19, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on November 25, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in custody and/or a $1,000,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
No later than 2009, Provincial conspired with others to distribute marijuana and methamphetamine in the District of South Dakota.
The charge is merely an accusation and Provincial is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ted L. McBride is prosecuting the case.
Provincial was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for January 28, 2014.
Spearfish Man Sentenced for Mail Fraud and Misbranding of A DrugRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Spearfish, South Dakota, man convicted of Mail Fraud and Misbranding of a Drug was sentenced on November 25, 2013, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
John Martin, age 74, was sentenced to 9 years in custody, 3 years of supervised release, a $125 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and restitution of at least $209,300. The court deferred a final determination on restitution until a later date.
Martin was indicted for Mail Fraud and Misbranding of a Drug by a federal grand jury on March 20, 2012. He pled guilty on May 9, 2013.
Between February 27, 2007, and December 31, 2011, Martin, who is not a physician, fraudulently claimed he could treat and cure cancer and other diseases. Martin instructed individuals who contacted him to send samples of bodily fluids and hair, along with money, to him in Spearfish. In one instance, he instructed a person to send money and samples of blood, saliva, and hair so that he could test the samples for cancer. Martin then informed the individual of the presence of colon cancer, and that the individual needed to travel to Spearfish for treatment. Martin charged the individual for treatment, prescribed herbal supplements, and later informed the individual that the cancer was cured.
Additionally, in April 2011, Martin directed a person to take herbal supplement pills, which Martin provided, as a treatment for cancer. Martin fraudulently informed that person that he had liver cancer and prescribed 96 herbal supplements to treat the cancer, which caused the supplements to become “drugs” under federal law. The supplements lacked labeling bearing adequate directions for use in the treatment of cancer.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Spearfish Police Department, the Belle Fourche Police Department, and the Butte County Sheriff's Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman.
Martin was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Porcupine Man Pleads Not Guilty to Second Degree MurderRead 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 Second Degree Murder.
Lawrence Red Shirt, age 27, was indicted on November 19, 2013. Red Shirt appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on November 26, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction 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 charge relates to Red Shirt killing another man by stabbing him multiple times on November 8, 2013, at Rocky Ford.
The charge is merely an accusation and Red Shirt is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich is prosecuting the case.
Red Shirt was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for February 4, 2014.
Methamphetamine Conspiracy Case Ends with Two Pleading Guilty and Two Convicted at TrialRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that two Sioux Falls, South Dakota, men were found guilty of drug charges as a result of a federal jury trial in Sioux Falls, and their two co-defendants were sentenced after pleading guilty.
Austin Jon Dalsted, age 20, was found guilty of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. The charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life in prison and/or a $10 million fine, a minimum of 5 years and maximum of life on supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Jeffrey Harley Strom, age 29, was convicted of the lesser included offense of distribution of methamphetamine. That charge carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison and/or a $1 million fine, a minimum of 3 years and a maximum of life on supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Regina Renee Johnson, of Sioux Falls, and Robert Raymond Jackson, of Brandon, South Dakota, both age 43, pled guilty to their part in the conspiracy on September 12 and 13, 2013, respectively.
Both Johnson and Jackson were sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Lawrence L. Piersol on November 25, 2013, to 210 months in custody followed by 5 years of supervised release. A sentencing date for Dalsted and Strom has not yet been set.
The four defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2013 for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Johnson and Jackson pled guilty in September 2013. The trial for Dalsted and Strom commenced on November 19 and concluded on November 21, 2013.
On March 27, 2013, Sioux Falls Police were called to a local motel when Regina Johnson tried to return to the room in which she had already checked out. The motel manager asked the police to check Johnson’s room. When the police checked the room, they found $87,300 cash hidden under the bed. Police located and arrested Johnson. At the time of her arrest she was with Robert Jackson in an SUV, which contained over seven pounds of methamphetamine. While the police were searching the SUV, they noticed Jeff Strom watching them and making calls on his cell phone. When questioned by the police, Strom admitted that Johnson had called him to serve as a lookout at the motel where the cash was found. The police next searched the home where Johnson, Jackson and Johnson’s son, Austin Dalsted, were living. The search found more cash and methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Haak prosecuted the case.
All defendants are in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.Fort Thompson Woman Charged with LarcenyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Larceny.
Ruby Sazue, age 20, was indicted on November 14, 2013. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 26, 2013, 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.
Sazue is alleged to have stolen a motor vehicle in Fort Thompson in October 2013. The charge is merely an accusation and Sazue is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Sazue was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. Trial has been set for January 21, 2014.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Third Degree Burglary and Aiding and AbettingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Third Degree Burglary and Aiding and Abetting was sentenced on November 26, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Brian One Feather, age 31, was sentenced to 18 months of custody, 2 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution will remain open for 30 days.
One Feather was indicted by a federal grand jury for Third Degree Burglary, Aiding and Abetting, and Larceny on July 17, 2013. He pled guilty to Third Degree Burglary and Aiding and Abetting on September 12, 2013.
One Feather’s conviction is the result of a June 2012 break-in at the Howard V. Johnson Cultural Heritage Center for the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe in Eagle Butte. After One Feather broke in, he took approximately $37,420 worth of cultural and craft items belonging to the Cultural Heritage Center.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Law Enforcement Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikal Hanson prosecuted the case.
One Feather was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute A Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on November 25, 2013 by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Aadam Tiger, age 29, was sentenced to 55 days of custody, 2 years of Supervised Release, a $1,000 fine and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Tiger was indicted for the above charge by a federal grand jury on November 15, 2012. He pled guilty on August 13, 2013.
On December 2, 2011, Cheyenne River Law Enforcement stopped the Defendant’s vehicle for a traffic violation. The officer could smell marijuana coming from inside the vehicle. The officer was given consent to search the vehicle and found marijuana, plastic baggies, a grinder, scale, zig-zag papers, roaches, and $725. Tiger had the intent to distribute some or all of the marijuana that was in his possession.
The investigation was conducted by the Cheyenne River Law Enforcement Services and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Colorado Man Indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana and Distribution of MarijuanaRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Colorado man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Distribution of a Controlled Substance.
Dustin Reller, age 27, was indicted on November 19, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica Duffy on November 22, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $500,000 fine, 4 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Beginning no later than August 2013, Reller conspired with others to distribute marijuana in the District of South Dakota and distributed more the 5 grams of marijuana to a person under 21 years of age.
The charge is merely an accusation and Reller is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Unified Narcotic Enforcement Team and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ted L. McBride is prosecuting the case.
Reller was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for January 28, 2014.
Spearfish Man Sentenced for Mail Fraud and Misbranding of A DrugRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Spearfish, South Dakota, man convicted of Mail Fraud and Misbranding of a Drug was sentenced on November 25, 2013, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
John Martin, age 74, was sentenced to 9 years in custody, 3 years of supervised release, a $125 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and restitution of at least $209,300. The court deferred a final determination on restitution until a later date.
Martin was indicted for Mail Fraud and Misbranding of a Drug by a federal grand jury on March 20, 2012. He pled guilty on May 9, 2013.
Between February 27, 2007, and December 31, 2011, Martin, who is not a physician, fraudulently claimed he could treat and cure cancer and other diseases. Martin instructed individuals who contacted him to send samples of bodily fluids and hair, along with money, to him in Spearfish. In one instance, he instructed a person to send money and samples of blood, saliva, and hair so that he could test the samples for cancer. Martin then informed the individual of the presence of colon cancer, and that the individual needed to travel to Spearfish for treatment. Martin charged the individual for treatment, prescribed herbal supplements, and later informed the individual that the cancer was cured.
Additionally, in April 2011, Martin directed a person to take herbal supplement pills, which Martin provided, as a treatment for cancer. Martin fraudulently informed that person that he had liver cancer and prescribed 96 herbal supplements to treat the cancer, which caused the supplements to become “drugs” under federal law. The supplements lacked labeling bearing adequate directions for use in the treatment of cancer.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Spearfish Police Department, the Belle Fourche Police Department, and the Butte County Sheriff's Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman.
Martin was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Wisconsin Man Charged with Commercial Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Milwaukee, Wisconsin, man has been charged in federal court for Transportation for Prostitution, Coercion, and Commercial Sex Trafficking.
Thomas Alexander Roberts, age 33, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge John E. Simko on November 26, 2013, and pled not guilty to the charges.
The maximum penalty upon conviction 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.
In November 2013, Roberts allegedly transported an adult female from Wisconsin to South Dakota with the intent to have her engage in prostitution and sexual activity.
The charge is merely an accusation and Roberts is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Sioux Falls Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Roberts was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.White River Man Sentenced for Failing to Register as A Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a White River, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on November 26, 2013, by Roberto A. Lange.
Nathan First In Trouble, age 34, was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day of custody, 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
First In Trouble was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 17, 2013. He pled guilty on September 16, 2013.
First In Trouble was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in federal court in April 1998. At that time, he was sentenced to 30 months in prison and ordered to register as a sex offender. From February to April 2013, First In Trouble registered as a sex offender at his father’s residence in Mellette County. However, he was not staying there. First In Trouble was working and staying in Pierre from January to April 2013, when he was arrested. During that time, he failed to register as a sex offender by updating his residence and employment information.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher prosecuted the case.
First In Trouble was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Parmelee Man Sentence for Child AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, man convicted of Child Abuse was sentenced on November 26, 2013, by Roberto A. Lange.
Morrisette was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Joseph Morrisette, age 43, was sentenced to 9 months of custody, 18 months of supervised release, and $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Morrisette was indicted for Child Abuse by a federal grand jury on August 21, 2013. He pled guilty on September 16, 2013.
Morrisette’s conviction was the result of a July 9, 2013, incident when Morrisette was babysitting several children at his home while he was drinking. While he was intoxicated, he struck the victim and gave the child a black eye.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher prosecuted the case.
Isabel Woman Sentenced for Simple Assault of A MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Isabel, South Dakota, woman convicted of Simple Assault of a Minor was sentenced on November 25, 2013, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cheyenne River Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikal Hanson prosecuted the case.
Crystal Lee Reeder, a/k/a Crystal Taylor, age 29, was sentenced to 6 months of probation and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Reeder was indicted for Child Abuse by a federal grand jury on June 12, 2013. She pled guilty on September 19, 2013, to Simple Assault of a Minor.
In May 2012, the victim went to Reeder’s home to visit. During the visit, Reeder asked the victim, who was under the age of 16, inappropriate questions and offered alcohol to the victim, which she refused. While the victim was sitting on the couch, Reeder engaged in offensive touching of the victim and a Simple Assault of the victim’s person.
Allen Man Charged with Burglarizing A HomeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Allen, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for First Degree Burglary.
George Cortier, age 26, was indicted on November 19, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on November 26, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 25 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The indictment charges that in July 2013, near Allen, Cortier broke into a man’s home and stole three television sets.
The charge is merely an accusation and Cortier is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman is prosecuting the case.
Cortier was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
St. Francis Man Sentenced for LarcenyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man convicted of Larceny was sentenced on November 25, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
John Swift, age 55, was sentenced to 2 years’ probation, a $500 fine, $9,458.49 in restitution, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Swift was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 13, 2013, and pled guilty to the charge on July 23, 2013.
The conviction stems from incidents that took place between August 2009 and December 2010, when Swift was the Chief of the St. Francis Volunteer Fire Department. Swift wrote himself 9 checks from the St. Francis Volunteer Fire Department’s checking account totaling $5,200, which he had countersigned by co-defendant Harvey LaPointe. Swift countersigned 12 checks for other members of the fire department totaling $2,800. These 21 checks were issued to Swift and others who were not entitled to those funds, which were designated by the Todd County Treasurer to pay for insurance premiums for the fire department. Swift also took and carried away property that belonged to the St. Francis Volunteer Fire Department.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced in Methamphetamine Conspiracy CaseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine was sentenced on November 25, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Steven Michael Schumm, age 48, was sentenced to 240 months in custody to be followed by 10 years of supervised release. He was also fined $2,000 and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Schumm was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2013, for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. He pled guilty on September 3, 2013.
On April 16, 2013, a federal search warrant was executed on Schumm’s Sioux Falls residence. Packages of methamphetamine, over $30,000 in cash, and a loaded handgun were located and seized.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Haak prosecuted the case.
Schumm was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.Rosebud Man Sentenced for Assaulting, Resisting, or Impeding Federal OfficersRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, or Impeding Federal Officers was sentenced on November 25, 2013, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.
Lawrence Gary, age 36, was sentenced to 90 days in custody with credit for time served and $25 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Gary was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 12, 2013, and pled guilty to the charge on September 19, 2013.
The charge relates to an incident that occurred on July 25, 2012, when Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Officers responded to a complaint that the Defendant was driving while intoxicated. As a result, Gary was asked to step out of the car and perform sobriety tests. He refused to comply and the officers had to pull Gary from the car and place handcuffs on him. Gary was non-compliant, spun away from the officers, and lunged toward one of the officers before being restrained again and placed in a patrol car.
The investigation was conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers.
Rosebud Man Sentenced for Assaulting, Resisting, or Impeding A Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, or Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on November 25, 2013, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.
Anthony One Star, age 26, was sentenced to 60 days in custody and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
One Star was indicted for Assaulting, Resisting, Opposing, and Impeding a Federal Officer by a federal grand jury on September 17, 2013. He pled guilty on November 25, 2013.
The conviction stems from an incident in Mission on August 19, 2013, when One Star was intoxicated and walked into a home where he didn't belong. The home owner summoned law enforcement officers, and a Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services Officer responded and found One Star sleeping on the kitchen floor. The officer awoke One Star, who apologized for being intoxicated but said that he just wanted to sleep, and he also indicated he was on probation and was not supposed to be drinking. The Officer attempted to take the One Star to jail for the violations, but One Star did not cooperate and he spat upon the officer.
This case was investigated by Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher prosecuted the case.
One Star was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Oregon Man Sentenced for Conspiracy and Possession with Intent to Distribute A Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Bend, Oregon, man convicted of Conspiracy and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on November 25, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Glenn Shea, age 21, was sentenced to two years of probation with four months home confinement concurrent on each count, a $1,000 fine on each count, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund on each count.
Shea was indicted for the above charges by a federal grand jury on March 13, 2013. He pled guilty on November 25, 2013.
Between September 1, 2012 and September 15, 2012, Shea, along with two others, transported several pounds of marijuana for distribution. Shea was aware that the vehicle he traveled in contained marijuana and shared in the proceeds of the sale.
This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Mission Man Indicted on Assault ChargesRead 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 Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
Celso Estrada, Jr., age 49, was indicted on November 19, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 25, 2013, 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.
Estrada is accused of stabbing two people at an apartment complex in Mission on November 16, 2013. The charges are merely accusations and Estrada 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.
Estrada was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
McLaughlin Woman Sentenced for Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding A Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on November 21, 2013, by U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes.
Rhonda Brown, age 41, was sentenced to four months, 1 year of supervised release and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Brown was indicted for the above charge by a federal grand jury on July 17, 2013. She pled guilty to a Superseding Information on November 21, 2013.
The conviction stems from an incident occurring on July 10, 2013, in which Brown’s car was stuck in a ditch. When law enforcement arrived, she became belligerent and fled the scene. A Bureau of Indian Affairs Officer Lieutenant located Brown in a field, but Brown ignored his commands and began to run away. The Lt. gave pursuit on foot and after a short chase, caught up to Brown who was lying face down with her hands underneath her. He ordered Brown to place her hands behind her back, but she continued to resist. The Lt. then grabbed Brown’s elbow, and she rolled on her left side, exposing a knife in her right hand. After several failed attempts to get Brown to comply, the Lt. deployed his taser, striking Brown on the shoulder.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Iowa Man Sentenced in Methamphetamine CaseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Paullina, Iowa, man convicted of Distribution of a Controlled Substance was sentenced on November 25, 2013, by U.S. District Court Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Dustin William Coates, a/k/a “DC,” age 27, was sentenced to 108 months in custody and four years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Coates was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 6, 2013. He pled guilty on September 3, 2013.
On January 23, 2013, Coates agreed to sell methamphetamine to a drug customer. Unknown to Coates, the customer had begun to cooperate with law enforcement. Later the same day, Coates and the customer met in the parking lot of a Sioux Falls business where Coates sold him over 50 grams of methamphetamine for $3,800. Law enforcement recorded the transaction.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Haak prosecuted the case.
Coates was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.Eagle Butte Man Charged with LarcenyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury.
Torin DeWitt, age 25, was indicted on November 14, 2013, for Larceny. DeWitt appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 21, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 5 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation, and a mandatory $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges are merely accusations, and DeWitt is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The Indictment alleges that on September 30, 2012, October 23, 2013, and October 25, 2013, DeWitt stole 2 vehicles and monies not belonging to him.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
DeWitt was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. A trial date has not been set.
Wakpala Man Sentenced for Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding A Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Wakpala, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on November 18, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Juan Valadez, Jr., age 20, was sentenced to 12 months of custody, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Valadez was indicted for the above charge by a federal grand jury on March 13, 2013. He pled guilty to an Information on August 22, 2013.
The conviction stems from an incident occurring on January 26, 2013, in which an officer with the Bureau of Indian Affairs received a call regarding a high speed pursuit in excess of 90 mph involving Valadez. During the pursuit, the officer’s car and Valadez’s car came into physical contact with one another. Valadez ignored the officer’s commands, but eventually the officer was able to get Valadez to stop and exit his vehicle. As a result of the physical contact, the officer sustained mild contusions.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Valadez was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
St. Francis Man Charged with Assault with A Dangerous WeaponRead 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.
Samuel White Lance, age 22, was indicted on November 14, 2013, for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 21, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation, and a mandatory $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge is merely an accusation, and White Lance is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The Indictment alleges that on October 9, 2013, White Lance and the victim argued and fought. Following the fight, White Lance allegedly assaulted the victim with a knife.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers is prosecuting the case.
White Lance was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. A trial date has not been set.
McLaughlin Man Charged with Assault with A Dangerous Weapon and Domestic Assault by an Habitual OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury.
Lawrence Village Center, age 46, was indicted on November 14, 2013, for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender. Village Center appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on November 19, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation, and a mandatory $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges are merely accusations, and Village Center is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The Indictment alleges that on August 31, 2013, Village Center assaulted his spouse with a hammer.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Village Center was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. A trial date has not been set.
McLaughlin Man Charged with Aggravated Sexual Abuse of A MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury.
Robert Arnold Stand, age 25, was indicted on November 14, 2013, for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor. Stand appeared before U.S. Magistrate William D. Gerdes on November 19, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of 30 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, and a mandatory minimum of 5 years up to life of supervised release. If Stand is found to have violated any condition of his supervised release, he may be incarcerated for an additional term of up to 5 years for each violation with one exception. If Stand commits a new felony violation of sexual abuse, sexual exploitation and other abuse of children, transportation for illegal sexual activity and related crimes, kidnapping, or sex trafficking of children or by force, fraud, or coercion, while on supervised release, he may be incarcerated for a mandatory minimum term of 5 years up to life for each violation. The maximum penalty also includes a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and restitution may be ordered.
The charge is merely an accusation, and Stand is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The Indictment alleges that on October 5, 2013, Stand engaged in and attempted to engage in a sexual act with a minor.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Stand was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. A trial date has not been set.
Little Eagle Woman Charged with Assault with A Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily InjuryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Little Eagle, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury.
Verinda Red Legs, age 29, was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 14, 2013, for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. Red Legs appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on November 19, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation, and a mandatory $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges are merely accusations, and Red Legs is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The Indictment alleges that on October 18, 2013, Red Legs assaulted her dating partner with a knife and that assault resulted in serious bodily injury.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Red Legs was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. A trial date has not been set.
Little Eagle Man Charged with Embezzlement and Theft from an Indian Tribal OrganizationRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Little Eagle, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury.
Dana Fast Horse, age 46, was indicted on November 14, 2013, for Embezzlement and Theft from an Indian Tribal Organization. Fast Horse appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on November 19, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 5 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation, and a mandatory $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges are merely accusations, and Fast Horse is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The Indictment alleges that between August 15, 2013 and October 1, 2013, Fast Horse, while Vice Chairman for the Running Antelope District, willfully and unlawfully stole, embezzled, misapplied, and converted to his own use over $1,000 of the monies and funds belonging to the Running Antelope District, which is a subdivision of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Fast Horse was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. A trial date has not been set.
Ft. Thompson Man Sentenced for Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding A Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Ft. Thompson, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on November 20, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Patrick Wind, a/k/a Patrick Azure, age 21, was sentenced to 13 months of imprisonment, 18 months of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Wind was indicted for the above charge by a federal grand jury on June 12, 2013, and he pled guilty on August 28, 2013.
The conviction stems from an incident on June 4, 2013, wherein a Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) officer was dispatched to a home in Lower Brule, responding to a report of a passed out male on the front porch of a residence. The officer made contact with the male, later identified as Wind. Wind was placed under arrest for public intoxication and Wind became noncompliant.
Once handcuffed, Wind lunged at the officer, kicking and swearing at the officer who attempted to put him in the car. Two additional BIA officers arrived on scene, and as one of them was attempting to put leg restraints on Wind, he continued to resist by spitting and kicking at the officers. Wind continued to resist the entire time.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Wind was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Bullhead Woman Sentenced for Child AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Velnita Hairy Chin, age 41, of Bullhead, South Dakota, pled guilty to Child Abuse and was sentenced on November 18, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Hairy Chin was sentenced to 12 months in custody, 1 year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Hairy Chin was indicted for the above charge by a federal grand jury on December 11, 2012. The conviction stems from an incident occurring between March 30, 2012 and May 20, 2012, in which Hairy Chin neglected the needs of her infant daughter by failing to seek prompt medical attention for her injuries.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Hairy Chin was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Bullhead Man Indicted on Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Bullhead, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury.
Alexander Oka, age 22, was indicted on November 14, 2013, for Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation and Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender. Oka appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on November 19, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation, and a mandatory $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges are merely accusations, and Oka is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The Indictment alleges that on August 20, 2013, Oka assaulted his dating partner by strangling and suffocating her.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Oka was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. A trial date has not been set.
Wounded Knee Man Sentenced for Assaulting A Woman with A BatRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Wounded Knee, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on November 15, 2013, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Lyle Sutton, Jr., age 27, was sentenced to 36 months of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and restitution.
Sutton was indicted for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury by a federal grand jury on February 20, 2013. The charges stemmed from an incident that occurred at Wounded Knee on December 28, 2012. Sutton struck a woman with a wooden bat, causing nasal and cheek fractures and severe bruising to her back. Sutton pled guilty to Assault with a Dangerous Weapon on May 3, 2013.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne Venhuizen prosecuted the case.
Sutton was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Wounded Knee Man Sentenced for Assaulting A Woman with A BatRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Wounded Knee, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on November 15, 2013, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Lyle Sutton, Jr., age 27, was sentenced to 36 months of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and restitution.
Sutton was indicted for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury by a federal grand jury on February 20, 2013. The charges stemmed from an incident that occurred at Wounded Knee on December 28, 2012. Sutton struck a woman with a wooden bat, causing nasal and cheek fractures and severe bruising to her back. Sutton pled guilty to Assault with a Dangerous Weapon on May 3, 2013.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne Venhuizen prosecuted the case.
Sutton was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
St. Francis Man Charged with Assaulting A Federal OfficerRead 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 Assaulting, Resisting, Opposing, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Cyrus Black Spotted Horse, age 32, was indicted on November 14, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 19, 2013, 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 is merely an accusation and Black Spotted Horse is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher is prosecuting the case.
Black Spotted Horse was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.