District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
McLaughlin Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Charles B. Kornmann, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact. The sentencing took place on July 8, 2024.
Brady James Claymore, age 37, was sentenced to eight months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Claymore was indicted by a federal grand jury in February of 2024. He pleaded guilty on April 10, 2024.
On the morning of December 3, 2023, Claymore went into the bedroom of a 20-year-old woman. He sat down on her bed and touched her thighs and intimate parts over her clothing without her consent. The abuse ended when the woman told Claymore to get out of her room. This incident occurred in McLaughlin, South Dakota, which lies within the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
Claymore was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Manderson Woman Sentenced for Misprision of a FelonyRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Manderson, South Dakota, woman convicted of Misprison of a Felony. The sentencing took place on July 8, 2024.
Jaimee Lewis, 43, was sentenced to one year in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Lewis was indicted for Accessory After the Fact to Second Degree Murder by a federal grand jury in May of 2022. She pleaded guilty to Misprision of a Felony on May 3, 2024.
On February 5, 2022, a seventeen-year-old female was shot to death by her boyfriend in a home where Lewis had temporarily been living. Lewis arrived home after the minor had been killed, but while her remains lay in a bedroom in the residence. Lewis used bleach to conceal evidence of the shooting and did not immediately report her knowledge of the death to law enforcement or any other authorities.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Knox prosecuted the case.
Lewis was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Kyle Man Convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor and Witness TamperingRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a jury has convicted Lloyd Emerson Elk, age 47, of Kyle, South Dakota, of four counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor, one count of Abusive Sexual Contact, and one count of Witness Tampering following a two-day jury trial in federal district court in Rapid City. The verdict was returned on July 2, 2024.
Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 30 years up to life in custody; Abusive Sexual Contact carries any term of years up to life in custody; and Witness Tampering carries maximum penalty of 20 years in custody. Elk was indicted by a federal grand jury in March of 2024 for the above-listed crimes.
Evidence at trial established that Elk sexually abused a young girl multiple times when she was between the ages of five and seven years old. Elk employed years of domestic violence to control the victim and her family, including physical and emotional abuse. Elk told the victim if she ever told anyone about the sexual abuse, that he would kill her, her mother, and her brother. When the victim finally disclosed the abuse in late 2023, the investigation revealed Elk had sexually abused another young girl in 1998—while employed as a police officer in Idaho—and made similar threats to her to keep her quiet.
This case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Lindrooth and Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date has been set for October 2, 2024. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Black Hawk Man Sentenced to Federal Prison on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Court Chief Judge Roberto Lange has sentenced a Black Hawk, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on July 2, 2024.
Kyle Puckett, 33, was sentenced to three years and five months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Puckett was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in June of 2023. He pleaded guilty on April 5, 2024, to Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
The charges were filed after Puckett, who is a convicted felon, was arrested in Rapid City with a loaded pistol, as well as over a thousand dollars in cash, numerous loaded magazines, a distributable amount of methamphetamine, and drug distribution paraphernalia.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Lindrooth prosecuted the case.
Puckett was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Hosts Summer Law CampRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS – Earlier this week, 36 area high school students participated in an immersive Summer Law Camp hosted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota. Over the course of three days, students learned about the federal justice system from the perspective of criminal, civil, and appellate attorneys and paralegals, victim witness advocates, human resource specialists, law enforcement officials, judicial law clerks, the federal judiciary, and law students.
“The USAO’s Summer Law Camp was developed to introduce high school students to various career paths associated with the criminal justice system and the practice of law,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “It is our hope that by offering a window into the work we do each and every day to uphold the rule of law and keep our communities safe, we can inspire the next generation to consider careers as lawyers, law enforcement officers, or vital legal support professionals.”
In addition to meeting with members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, students heard from the Federal Public Defender’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshal’s Service (USMS), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI), the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), South Dakota’s FUSION Center, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Sioux Falls Police Department (SFPD). On the third day of Camp, students conducted a mock trial before U.S. District Court Judge Karen E. Schreier.
This was the first Summer Law Camp organized by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota. Information about future programming will be distributed to area school districts in Spring 2025. For more information, please reach out to [email protected].
St. Francis Man Sentenced for Prohibited Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a St. Francis, South Dakota, man convicted of Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm. The sentencing took place on July 1, 2024.
Tyson Quigley, a/k/a Tyson Stands, age 35, was sentenced to seven years and six months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Quigley was indicted by a federal grand jury in February of 2023. He was found guilty following a three-day jury trial in April of 2024.
The conviction stems from an incident that occurred on January 1, 2023, near St. Francis within the boundaries of the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. On that date, law enforcement was searching for Quigley based on an alleged home invasion that occurred that morning in St. Francis. Quigley was subsequently located in a parked vehicle at a residence near St. Francis. A .40 caliber pistol was found in the vehicle where he was sitting.
Quigley has three prior felony convictions. In 2013, he was convicted of Domestic Assault of a Pregnant Woman in Platte County, Nebraska. In 2018, he was convicted of Felon in Possession of a Firearm in United States District Court for the District of South Dakota. In 2019, he was convicted of Possession of Methamphetamine in Madison County, Nebraska. As a result of these convictions, it is illegal for Quigley to possess firearms or ammunition. Quigley will forfeit ownership of the firearm to the United States.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Quigley was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man and Woman Sentenced for Embezzlement and Theft from Indian Tribal OrganizationRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Chief Judge Robert A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced two persons from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, who were convicted of Embezzlement and Theft from an Indian Tribal Organization. The sentencings took place on July 1, 2024.
April Ferguson, age 46, was sentenced to five months in federal prison and an additional five months of home confinement, followed by two years of supervised release, restitution of $36,077 for the Ideal Lakota Community, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Steven Casto, age 41, was sentenced to two years of probation, restitution of $5,922 for the Ideal Lakota Community, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Ferguson and Casto were indicted by a federal grand jury in March of 2023. Ferguson and Casto pleaded guilty on March 18, 2024.
Ferguson and Casto both previously lived within the Ideal Lakota Community, an organized political subdivision of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, established and governed by its Constitution and bylaws. Article V of the Rosebud Constitution explains the duties and responsibilities of the community chairperson and other officers, including how monies are to be expended for the benefit of community members. Between March 1, 2020 and June 1, 2021, Ferguson, acting in her capacity as the elected chairperson of the Ideal Lakota Community, fraudulently embezzled and stole money and assets from the community. Ferguson was dating Casto during part of this time. As chairperson, Ferguson had access to community treasury accounts. In December 2020, the Rosebud Sioux Tribe issued a large check to the Ideal Lakota Community. Ferguson and Casto linked a CashApp account to the Ideal Lakota Community’s bank account and conducted numerous transactions that were not for the benefit of the community members. Transactions included purchases from Amazon, Apple, Playstation Network, gas stations, restaurants, department stores, and grocery stores. Ferguson and Casto either directly benefited from the expenditures or allowed others to benefit from the funds rightfully belonging to the Ideal Lakota Community.
This case was brought pursuant to the Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities. The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include: the FBI; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; IRS Criminal Investigation; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and the U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
For additional information about the Guardians Project, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (605) 330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
This case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher prosecuted the case.
Ferguson was ordered to self surrender to the U.S. Marshals Service on July 15, 2024 to serve her custody sentence.
St. Francis Man Sentenced for AssaultsRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Chief Judge Robert A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a St. Francis, South Dakota man convicted of two counts of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. The sentencing took place on July 1, 2024.
Charles Cordier, age 25, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Cordier was indicted by a federal grand jury in June of 2023. He pleaded guilty on April 1, 2024.
On February 12, 2023, Cordier was in St. Francis when he struck a man in the face with a metal bar. The victim suffered a mandible fracture and received medical care in Rosebud and in Rapid City for the injuries. For most of the month of March, 2023, Cordier had been quarreling with another man. On March 26, 2023, their feud came to a head when they encountered each other and the victim was armed with a chain and Cordier had a pistol. Cordier fired his gun at the other man and struck him, fracturing a bone in his forearm. This victim received medical care in Rosebud and Rapid City to treat his injuries. Both assaults occurred within the Rosebud Reservation.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher prosecuted the case.
Cordier was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal to serve his sentence.
Bridger Mother and Son Convicted of Second-Degree Murder and Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a jury has convicted Theodora Belt, age 47, and Bailey Belt, age 23, both from Bridger, South Dakota, of Second-Degree Murder, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. Bailey Belt was convicted of additional Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury charges involving a different victim, following a four-day jury trial in federal district court in Pierre, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on June 28, 2024.
Theodora Belt faces a maximum penalty of up to life in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, five years of supervised release, and a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Bailey Belt faces a maximum penalty of up to life in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, five years of supervised release, and a $500 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Both defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury in June of 2023.
The convictions stem from an incident that occurred on May 27, 2023, in Bridger, within the Cheyenne River Reservation. Theodora and Bailey Belt were at the victims’ home socializing. An argument began between the parties and the defendants assaulted victim #1 by punching, kicking, and beating him with a shovel. As victim #1 lay on the ground outside the home he was run over with Theodora’s car, ultimately killing him. In addition, Bailey Belt struck victim #2 in the head with a shovel, causing him to be life-flighted to Rapid City for medical treatment, where he survived.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Troy R. Morley and Brian J. Murphy prosecuted the case.
The defendants were immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Swift Bear Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a Swift Bear, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. The sentencing took place on June 24, 2024.
William Moran, age 35, was sentenced to two years and two months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Moran was indicted by a federal grand jury in December of 2023. He pleaded guilty on March 21, 2024.
On November 18, 2023, Moran was consuming alcohol and socializing with a group of individuals in the Swift Bear Community, near White River, South Dakota. While there, he assaulted a woman, punching her and knocking her to the ground. Thereafter, he repeatedly punched and kicked her in the head and face. Other people tried to intervene, but he resisted efforts to stop him from assaulting the woman. He knocked another person to the ground. The woman was treated at a hospital in Rapid City, South Dakota, because she suffered hemorrhaging in her cranium, and had respiratory failure due to a collapsed lung. The area where the assault occurred is within the Rosebud Indian Reservation.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Moran was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to serve his sentence.
Sisseton Man Sentenced for Voluntary Manslaughter in Connection with a 30-Year-Old CrimeRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a Sisseton, South Dakota, man convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter. The sentencing took place on June 24, 2024.
Jay Adams, age 58, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay a $50 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Adams was indicted by a federal grand jury in April of 2023. He pleaded guilty in November of 2023.
In the early morning hours of September 4, 1992, in the Lake Traverse Indian Reservation, Adams killed a young person, in the heat of passion, by slamming the victim’s head on a hard concrete floor. Afterward, he placed her back on the bed and returned to his bedroom. Adams did not seek medical attention for the victim and later the same day discovered she had died. Adams feigned ignorance as to the cause of the victim’s injury. An initial investigation failed to identify Adams as the assailant and the case remained unsolved for over 30 years.
In early 2023, a witness to the crime came forward and identified Adams as being responsible for the death of the victim in 1992. Law enforcement officers from the Sisseton-Wahpeton Tribal Police Department and the FBI continued the investigation. Prior to indictment in April of 2023, investigators conducted interviews of other individuals associated with Adams and consulted with a pathologist to review the 1992 autopsy performed on the victim. The medical evidence corroborated Adams eventual statement related to his guilty plea that he injured the child, which caused blunt force trauma and caused the child’s death.
“Tragically this matter took thirty years to resolve,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “But the resolution nonetheless demonstrates law enforcement’s relentless commitment to cracking these cases so that perpetrators can be held to account. It is our hope the Defendant’s sentence offers some measure of closure to the victim’s family.”
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case is part of the Department of Justice’s newly created Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Regional Outreach Program, which aims to aid in the prevention and response to missing or murdered Indigenous people through the resolution of MMIP cases and communication, coordination, and collaboration with federal, Tribal, state, and local partners. The Department views this work as a priority for its law enforcement components. Through the MMIP Regional Outreach Program, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify MMIP cases and issues in Tribal communities and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. This prosecution upholds the Department’s mission to the unwavering pursuit of justice on behalf of victims and their families despite the passage of time.
The investigation was conducted by the Sisseton-Wahpeton Tribal Police Department and the FBI. The case was prosecuted by MMIP Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Great Plains Region Troy R. Morley.
Adams was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Lawrence L. Piersol has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man, convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on June 24, 2024, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Stanley Richard Wright, age 48, was sentenced to two years and two months federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. He was ordered to pay $100 as a statutorily required special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Wright was indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender by a federal grand jury in February of 2024. He pleaded guilty on March 27, 2024.
Wright was convicted on a federal charge of Sexual Abuse in 2004. He is classified as a Tier III sex offender and is required to register as a sex offender for life. Prior to the charged incident, he last registered with the Sioux Falls Police Department on September 29, 2023, listing an address in Sioux Falls. Shortly thereafter, he left his registered address and no longer resided there. His whereabouts remained unknown until he was arrested on a warrant on November 28, 2023. This violated the requirement that he update his registration to include any change of residence within three business days.
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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Beau Blouin prosecuted the case.
Wright was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to continue serving his sentence.
Rosebud Man Sentenced for Transportation of Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Transportation of Stolen Firearm. The sentencing took place on June 24, 2024.
Jeremiah Picotte, age 24, was sentenced to approximately five months in federal detention and three months of home confinement, followed by two years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Picotte was indicted by a federal grand jury in February of 2024. He pleaded guilty on March 28, 2024.
On December 13, 2023, Picotte was visiting a federal firearm licensee store in Valentine, Nebraska. While in the store, he picked up an AR-15 rifle, went to an area of the store where the store clerk could not see, and put the firearm down his pant leg, concealing the rifle with his pants and shirt. He walked out of the store and took the firearm to the Rosebud Reservation. At the time he took the rifle from Nebraska to South Dakota, he knew it was stolen. He later had someone else return the firearm to law enforcement officers.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Valentine Police Department, Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher prosecuted the case.
Picotte was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to serve his sentence.
Nevada Woman Sentenced for Methamphetamine Trafficking and Failure to AppearRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a Sparks, Nevada, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, and Failure to Appear. The sentencing took place on June 24, 2024.
Dawn Eagle Feather Floyd, 42, was sentenced to six and half years in federal prison on each of the two drug convictions to be served concurrently. She was sentenced to one year and eight months on the failure to appear conviction to be served consecutively to the drug convictions for a total of eight years and three months in federal prison. Following release from custody, Floyd will be on supervised release for four years. She was also ordered to pay a fine of $1000, and a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Floyd was indicted by a federal grand jury in August of 2020. A superseding indictment was filed in May of 2023. She was found guilty of the drug charges following a federal jury trial on March 29, 2024. She pleaded guilty to the Failure to Appear charge on April 15, 2024.
Floyd lived in Valentine, Nebraska, in the fall of 2019, when she knowingly and intentionally agreed with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine within the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. Floyd conspired with others to travel to Colorado where she obtained methamphetamine and brought it back to her home in Valentine and then onto the Rosebud Reservation for distribution. Law enforcement recovered over 100 grams of methamphetamine from Floyd’s residence, vehicle, and person during the investigation. Floyd’s methamphetamine was tested and found to be 100 percent pure. While awaiting trial, Floyd, who had been released on bond, fled the District of South Dakota, and knowingly failed to appear for her jury trial that had been set for August of 2023. Floyd was arrested in Nevada and brought back to South Dakota to stand trial in March of 2024.
This case was investigated by the FBI, Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, and the Valentine Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Eagle Feather Floyd was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Lake Andes Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Prohibited Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Lake Andes, South Dakota, man, convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on June 25, 2024, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Reginald Robinson, Jr., age 31, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He was ordered to pay $100 as a statutorily required special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Robinson was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in February of 2023. He pleaded guilty on March 7, 2024.
On January 17, 2021, Sioux Falls Police responded to Walmart for a report of shoplifting. Upon arrival, law enforcement came into contact with Robinson. Robinson was searched and found to be in possession of a magazine located in his pants pocket and a firearm tucked into the waistband of his pants. Upon arrest and further search, Robinson was also found to be in possession of methamphetamine and marijuana.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paige Petersen prosecuted the case.
Robinson was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to continue serving his sentence.
Jury finds Parmelee Man Guilty of Attempted RobberyRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Phillip Clairmont, age 25, of Parmelee, South Dakota, was found guilty of Attempted Robbery following a federal jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on June 21, 2024.
The charge carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Clairmont was indicted by a federal grand jury in March of 2024. The conviction stems from an incident that occurred on January 13, 2024, in the Rosebud Indian Reservation. On that date, Clairmont assaulted a man and attempted to steal money from him.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date has not been set. Quigley was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Former Oglala Sioux Tribe President Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Linda R. Reade has sentenced a Batesland, South Dakota, man convicted of six counts of Wire Fraud, one count of Larceny, and one count of Embezzlement and Theft from an Indian Tribal Organization. The sentencing took place on June, 20, 2024.
Julian Bear Runner, 39, was sentenced to 22 months in federal prison on each count to run concurrently, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $800 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $82,483.71 in restitution to the Oglala Sioux Tribe.
Bear Runner was indicted by a federal grand jury in September of 2022. He was found guilty of wire fraud, larceny, and embezzlement following a three-day jury trial in April of 2024.
Between January of 2019 and January of 2020, at Pine Ridge, Bear Runner, while acting in his capacity as President of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, fraudulently submitted travel vouchers for official business travel and received payment for travel that he was not entitled to as he was not actually traveling. Bear Runner submitted multiple travel authorizations to different locations outside South Dakota, including New Mexico, Montana, Ohio, North Carolina, New York, and Arizona, claiming the need to travel for official business. As a result of the fraudulently submitted travel authorizations, Bear Runner received more than $80,000 in advance travel payments but did not go on the travel. Instead, Bear Runner cashed the checks at a casino, gambled, and stayed in local hotels.
This case was brought pursuant to the Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities. The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include: the FBI; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; IRS Criminal Investigation; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and the U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
For additional information about the Guardians Project, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (605) 330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
This case was investigated by the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin Patterson and Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Bear Runner was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 27 Years for Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Sex Trafficking of an Adult by Force and Coercion. The sentencing took place on June 17, 2024.
Odarie Massiah, age 34, was sentenced to 27 years and three months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Massiah was indicted by a federal grand jury in August of 2023. He was found guilty on March 14, 2024, following a three-day court trial.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between July 1, 2020, and September 24, 2022, when Massiah recruited and forced an adult woman to engage in prostitution. Massiah used physical and emotional abuse to gain the victim’s compliance. Massiah required the woman to give him the money received from the forced prostitution. Massiah fled the state with his victim after a warrant for his arrest was issued in Minnehaha County for physically assaulting her by strangulation on two separate occasions. Massiah was apprehended in Tennessee with his victim in August of 2022.
“Odarie Massiah went to great lengths to keep this victim engaged in prostitution,” said U.S. Attorney Ramsdell. “He manipulated her; he physically abused her; and he used the money she made through prostitution to support his own lifestyle. Massiah’s conviction and subsequent sentence demonstrate our office’s commitment to seeking justice on behalf of the victims of these reprehensible crimes. We do this work alongside our local and federal partners, whose persistence in identifying and investigating sex trafficking makes our communities safer places to live.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeffrey C. Clapper and Elizabeth A. Ebert-Webb prosecuted the case.
Massiah was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Guatemalan Man Sentenced for Immigration Related MattersRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Guatemalan man convicted of Illegal Reentry after Deportation; Trafficking with Respect to Peonage, Slavery, Involuntary Servitude or Forced Labor; Harboring Aliens; Extortion; and Possession of Firearm by Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on June 17, 2024, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
William Waldemar Godoy, age 32, was sentenced to seven years and three months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He was ordered to pay restitution of $2, 810, as well as $700 as a statutorily required special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and was also ordered to forfeit $8,750.
Godoy was initially indicted by a federal grand jury in August of 2022, but a superseding indictment was filed in March of 2024. He was convicted of Illegal Reentry after Deportation; Trafficking with Respect to Peonage, Slavery, Involuntary Servitude or Forced Labor; Harboring Aliens; Extortion; and Possession of Firearm by Prohibited Person after a jury trial on April 4, 2024.
The evidence at trial showed Godoy was bringing individuals into the United States illegally to work and then threatening them with physical or financial harm if they did not pay him for the smuggling fee and high interest rates. He was also convicted of illegally re-entering the United States himself after previously being deported. Evidence also showed he possessed firearms belonging to another individual despite being prohibited from doing so because he was unlawfully in the United States.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Connie Larson prosecuted the case.
Godoy was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to continue serving his sentence.
Flandreau Man Sentenced for Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Serious Bodily InjuryRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Flandreau, South Dakota, man convicted of Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. The sentencing took place on June 17, 2024.
Jeremy James Simon, age 27, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Simon was indicted by a federal grand jury in April of 2022. He pleaded guilty on March 27, 2024.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on September 23, 2021, when Simon intentionally distributed fentanyl to a third party who smoked the fentanyl and died. Fentanyl is a Schedule II controlled substance. Simon is the second person to be sentenced for the death. Rundial Biliu of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, sold the pills to Simon that he ultimately gave to the victim. Biliu was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison in April of 2023.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Flandreau Santee Tribal Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Simon was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Washington Man Sentenced for Marijuana TraffickingRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced an Olympia, Washington, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on June 10, 2024.
Lawrence Swan, age 63, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Swan was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in January of 2022. He pleaded guilty on March 10, 2024.
This conviction stems from a conspiracy to purchase marijuana in Washington and transport it across the country to be sold in several other states, including South Dakota, that occurred between January 1, 2020, and December 13, 2021. During this time frame Swan made five different trips across the country distributing marijuana. On December 13, 2021, Swan was stopped outside of McLaughlin, South Dakota, and found to have over 80 pounds of marijuana, methamphetamine, and a large amount of cash in his possession. Swan admitted to distributing over 280 pounds of marijuana during the course of the conspiracy.
This case was investigated by the Corson County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.
Swan was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Cherry Creek Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a Cherry Creek, South Dakota, man convicted of two counts of Abusive Sexual Contact. The sentencing took place on June 10, 2024.
Dana James Marshall, age 38, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Marshall was indicted by a federal grand jury in October of 2023. He pleaded guilty on March 11, 2024.
On April 15, 2022, Marshall invited his 18-year-old niece to his bedroom. She accepted his invitation and disrobed at his behest, but clearly told Marshall she did not want him to sexually touch her. Marshall nonetheless seized her by the ribs and groped her private body parts. This incident occurred in the Cherry Creek Community, which lies within the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Service and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
Marshall was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
White River Man Sentenced for Failure to RegisterRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a White River, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on June 10, 2024.
Nathan First In Trouble, age 45, was sentenced to 13 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
First In Trouble was indicted by a federal grand jury in December of 2023. He pleaded guilty on March 21, 2024.
On December 12, 1995, First In Trouble was convicted in Mellette County, South Dakota of Sexual Contact With a Person Incapable of Consenting. On April 13, 1998, he was also convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in U.S. District Court in Aberdeen, South Dakota. Both convictions required him to register as a sex offender under the provisions of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA) and South Dakota law. First In Trouble failed to update his registration between July 29, 2022, and December 12, 2023.
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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher prosecuted the case.
First In Trouble was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Wakpala Man Sentenced for Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate PartnerRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a Wakpala, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate Partner. The sentencing took place on June 10, 2024.
Phillip Lewis Young Hawk, age 45, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Young Hawk was indicted by a federal grand jury in June of 2023. He pleaded guilty on December 18, 2023.
On April 7, 2023, Young Hawk quarreled with his girlfriend on a rural roadside near Wakpala, South Dakota, which lies within the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation. Young Hawk knocked his girlfriend down, then kicked her twice with shod feet as she lay helpless on the ground, whimpering and pleading. The assault ended when Young Hawk’s brother forcibly restrained him. Young Hawk’s girlfriend briefly lost consciousness from the assault and incurred significant bruising to her face. Young Hawk has several prior convictions for domestic violence.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
Young Hawk was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mobridge Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a Mobridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on June 10, 2024.
Brandon James Noisy Hawk, age 42, was sentenced to 20 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Noisy Hawk was indicted by a federal grand jury in January of 2024. He pleaded guilty on March 18, 2024.
Noisy Hawk is required to register as a sex offender under federal law for sexually abusing a 13-year-old-girl. This is his fourth conviction for failure to register as a sex offender. Following his last release from prison, Noisy Hawk registered a primary residence with the Mobridge Police Department. Noisy Hawk failed to verify his address as required in October of 2023 and moved out of his home in November of 2023. Noisy Hawk only updated his address following his arrest on state charges on December 4, 2023.
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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
Noisy Hawk was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Kyle Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen Schrier, has sentenced a Kyle, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine. The sentencing took place on June 7, 2024.
Evan Brown Bull, age 38, was sentenced to 33 years and four months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Brown Bull was indicted by a federal grand jury in July of 2023. The defendant was convicted following a three-day jury trial in federal district court in Rapid City, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on March 8, 2024.
Evidence at trial established that between 2016 and 2023, Brown Bull conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and throughout Rapid City. Brown Bull was seen on video participating in four controlled buys, where he was selling methamphetamine to a confidential informant. Chat records obtained also detailed multiple methamphetamine deals and demonstrated the conspiracy in which Brown Bull was involved.
This case was investigated by the Badlands Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, which is comprised of agents from the FBI, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Drug Enforcement, Martin Police Department, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Brown Bull was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Fort Thompson Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Abusive Sexual Contact of a ChildRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child by Force. The sentencing took place on June 10, 2024.
Earlwyn Makes Room For Them, age 28, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Makes Room For Them was indicted by a federal grand jury in January of 2023. The defendant pleaded guilty in May of 2024.
In 2014, Makes Room For Them repeatedly abused a young girl living in the same home in Fort Thompson, within the Crow Creek Reservation. Makes Room For Them forced the young victim, who was under age 12, to touch his genitalia. Makes Room For Them also forced his hand down the young victim’s pants and touched her groin.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Makes Room For Them was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
District of South Dakota Recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - Alison J. Ramsdell, U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota, will join national, state, local, and tribal leaders in recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) on June 15, 2024. Since 2006, WEAAD has been commemorated to promote awareness and increases understanding of the many forms of elder abuse as well as the resources available to those at risk.
Highlighting the partnership between law enforcement and the public, U.S. Attorney Ramsdell emphasized the importance of awareness and education.
“A recent study found that one in ten older Americans are victims of some form of elder abuse each year,” noted U.S. Attorney Ramsdell. “In observance of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the District of South Dakota reaffirms its commitment to working with federal, tribal, state, and local community partners to bring an end to elder abuse in all forms. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota will continue to use all available tools to prevent and combat elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.”
Elder abuse is an act that knowingly, intentionally, or negligently causes or creates a serious risk of harm to an older person by a family member, caregiver, or other person in a trust relationship. Such harm may be financial, physical, sexual, or psychological. The Justice Department maintains a variety of programs and initiatives to combat elder abuse.
The Transnational Elder Fraud Task Force marshals federal and state agencies working collaboratively to investigate and prosecute foreign-based schemes that target older Americans. In addition to aggressively investigating the individuals, organizations, and networks responsible for these crimes, this initiative provides the public with information to guard against both traditional scams, like tech support fraud, as well as trending schemes, such as romance scams.
Using one scam to perpetrate or conceal another, some fraudsters rely on money mules to move the proceeds of their illegal activity. Preying on the good will or financial vulnerability of their targets, scammers recruit people, many times older victims, to participate in schemes to move money in ways that avoid notice. The Money Mule Initiative identifies and addresses money mule activity to disrupt these fraud schemes, and helps people to recognize and avoid participation in perpetuating fraud.
To help older individuals and their families identify and avoid fraudulent activity, the Justice Department provides Senior Scam Alerts with information about the tactics used in specific schemes. Common scams include the following:
- Romance Scams, scammers use dating sites, social networking sites, and chat rooms to meet potential victims. They create fake profiles to build online relationships and eventually convince people to send money in the name of love. Some even make wedding plans before disappearing with the money. An online love interest who asks for money is almost certainly a scam artist.
- Social Security Administration Impostor Scams. Scammers impersonate government administrators and falsely report suspicious activity to request that the victims provide their Social Security number for confirmation.
- Tech Support Scams. Fraudsters contact victims, sometimes through internet pop-up messages, to warn about non-existent computer problems, ask that the victim give them remote access to their computer, and identify a non-existent problem, then demand large sums of money for unnecessary services.
- Lottery Scams. Telemarketers falsely notify victims that they have won a sweepstakes and tell them they must first pay fees for shipping, insurance, customs duties, or taxes before they can claim their prizes.
- IRS Scams. Callers claim to be employees of the IRS and tell victims they owe money to the IRS, which must be paid promptly through a wire transfer or stored value card such as a gift card. Victims who refuse to cooperate are threatened with arrest, deportation, or suspension of a business or driver’s license.
To learn more about the Department’s elder justice efforts, please visit the Elder Justice Initiative page. To report elder fraud, contact the dedicated National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 or 1-833-372-8311 or visit the FBI’s IC3 Elder Fraud Complaint Center at IC3.gov.
Sioux Falls Man Charged with Multiple Counts of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a federal grand jury has indicted a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man for six counts of Attempted Production of Child Pornography, three counts of Production of Child Pornography, and seven counts of Transfer of Obscene Materials to Minors.
Justin Preuschl, age 27, was indicted in June of 2024. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on June 7, 2024, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 30 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and up to $1,600 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that starting in October of 2023 and continuing in 2024, Preuschl engaged in sexually explicit communications with multiple juvenile female victims. Preuschl pretended to be a 15-year-old male and pressured the victims into sending him sexually explicit materials. Preuschl also sent pictures of male genitals to the victims. He was employed as a teacher at Whittier Middle School in Sioux Falls at the time of many of the charged offenses.
The charges are merely accusations and Preuschl is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
The investigation is ongoing. If you or someone you know has had contact with the Snapchat accounts cpiper9696, justinpreuschl1, swilliams69420, swilliams420696, justin99696, or justin9996, or cambam7276 on TikTok, call the HSI Tipline at 1-877-4-HSI-TIP. The public can also contact [email protected].
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, Sioux Falls Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the North Liberty Iowa Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Preuschl was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Wanblee Man Sentenced to Ten Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Wanblee, South Dakota, man convicted of Discharge of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence. The sentencing took place on June 7, 2024.
Francis White Lance, 68, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $100 in restitution and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
White Lance was indicted for Bank Robbery and Discharge of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence by a federal grand jury in November of 2022. He pleaded guilty on March 20, 2024.
On November 7, 2022, White Lance entered the Lakota Federal Credit Union in Kyle, South Dakota, armed with a semi-automatic rifle, and robbed the credit union. He discharged the rifle during the robbery, firing a bullet over the head of one of the tellers. White Lance fled Kyle but was quickly identified by law enforcement. All but $100 of the money White Lance stole from the credit union was recovered by the FBI following his apprehension. At the sentencing, U.S. District Judge Schreier denounced the “horrible message” White Lance’s actions sent to the community and the damage he inflicted by robbing the credit union.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Lindrooth prosecuted the case.
White Lance was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced on Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on June 7, 2024.
Joseph “Jo Jo” Dowty, 33, was sentenced to two years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
In May of 2023, a federal grand jury indicted Dowty for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. Dowty pleaded guilty on March 15, 2024.
On April 4, 2023, police officers with the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety were actively searching for Dowty due to an arrest warrant Dowty had for absconding from state parole on his 2018 felony manslaughter conviction out of Pennington County, South Dakota. When officers arrested Dowty, he was carrying a Ruger Wrangler .22 caliber revolver and more than 11 grams of methamphetamine, which had been broken down into 49 separate packages.
This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Knox prosecuted the case.
Dowty was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Two Mexican Citizens Sentenced to Decades in Federal Prison in a South Dakota Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced the second of two Mexican men convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on June 3, 2024.
Mario Castro Covarrubias, 37, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. On March 11, 2024, Melecio Rodriguez Medina, 39, was sentenced to 27 years and three months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Mario Castro Covarrubias and Melecio Rodriguez Medina were indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in February of 2022. Rodriguez Medina pleaded guilty on November 6, 2023, and Castro Covarrubias pleaded guilty on January 3, 2024.
Rodriguez Medina and Castro Covarrubias were based in Mexico and were part of an international organization that arranged for the transportation of large amounts of narcotics to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, from Mexico. While in Mexico, Rodriguez Medina and Castro Covarrubias coordinated with two couriers to get approximately 25 kilograms of cocaine delivered to Sioux Falls in October of 2021. On October 18, 2021, law enforcement seized the cocaine that they had shipped to South Dakota. In December of 2021, the two again coordinated to ship approximately 42 kilograms of cocaine to Sioux Falls, which was also seized. In addition to cocaine, Rodriguez Medina was responsible for organizing a shipment of 1 kilogram of fentanyl pills to Sioux Falls. Investigators also determined that Rodriguez Medina made arrangements for a co-conspirator in South Dakota to pick up multi-pound shipments of methamphetamine in California and then take them back to South Dakota for distribution.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Both men were immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service after their respective sentencings.
Plankinton Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Plankinton, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet. The sentencing took place on June 5, 2024.
Kody William Konechne, age 23, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Konechne must register as a sex offender upon release from federal prison.
Konechne was indicted by a federal grand jury in March of 2023. He pleaded guilty on February 27, 2024.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on March 5, 2023, when Konechne used his cell phone to attempt to coerce a 14-year-old female he met on Facebook to engage in sexual activity. The girl, however, was an undercover agent. Konechne was arrested when he arrived at the location where he thought he would be meeting the girl.
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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations – Sioux Falls, the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Konechne was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Brandon Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited PersonRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Brandon, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on June 3, 2024, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Antonio Gary Angelo, age 36, was sentenced to three years and one month in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He was ordered to pay $100 as a statutorily required special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Angelo was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in October of 2023. He pleaded guilty on March 7, 2024.
On June 30, 2023, Angelo was involved in a traffic stop in Sioux Falls. During the traffic stop, Angelo was non-complaint with law enforcement, refusing to give his name and attempting to flee. Angelo was quickly apprehended by law enforcement and a search of his person was conducted. During the search of his person, Angelo was found in possession of a firearm.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paige Petersen prosecuted the case.
Angelo was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to continue serving his sentence.
Watertown Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a Watertown, South Dakota, man convicted of Production of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on June 3, 2024.
Ted Jeffrey Hurkes, age 46, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Upon his release from federal prison, Hurkes must register as a six offender.
Hurkes was indicted by a federal grand jury in February of 2023. He pleaded guilty on December 4, 2023.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on October 2, 2022, when Hurkes used his cell phone to take pictures and make video recordings of a partially unclothed minor female while she was asleep. The child was unaware of the images being created by Hurkes.
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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Watertown Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Hurkes was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sisseton Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a Sisseton, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact. The sentencing took place on June 3, 2024, in Aberdeen, South Dakota.
Lincoln Duane Wanna, age 40, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. He was ordered to pay $100 as a statutorily required special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Wanna was indicted for Abusive Sexual Contact and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in July of 2022. He pleaded guilty to Abusive Sexual Contact on November 20, 2023.
The conviction stemmed from Wanna's repeated sexual abuse of a juvenile female from the time she was seven years old until she was 12 years old.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Sisseton Wahpeton Law Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeremy R. Jehangiri and Elizabeth A. Ebert prosecuted the case.
Wanna was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to continue serving his sentence.
Last of Six Defendants Sentenced to Federal Prison for a Methamphetamine, Fentanyl, and Money Laundering Conspiracy Spanning from California to South DakotaRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Victorville, California, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on June 3, 2024.
Terry Morris III, age 24, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Terry Morris Jr., age 41, father of Terry Morris III, was sentenced on November 13, 2023, for his Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance charge to 33 years and four months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. He was then sentenced on the Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments charge to 20 years in federal prison. Both sentences were ordered to run concurrently with one another, but consecutive to his sentence in California. He was also ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Morris III and his other five co-conspirators were indicted on charges of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments by a federal grand jury in June of 2023. Morris III pleaded guilty on March 15, 2024.
Morris Jr. orchestrated a drug trafficking organization from his prison cell within the Kern Valley State Prison in California, where he was incarcerated for murder. Using a cell phone which had been smuggled in, Morris Jr. communicated by call, text, and social media with members of his family, to include Terry Morris III, along with numerous other co-defendants from both South Dakota and California, in order to distribute large amounts of methamphetamine and fentanyl in the Sioux Falls, South Dakota area. Morris III was involved in the distribution of approximately 27 pounds of methamphetamine and hundreds of fentanyl pills during his involvement in this conspiracy. Morris Jr. is attributed with distributing at least 200 pounds of methamphetamine and 80,000 fentanyl pills during his involvement in this conspiracy, drugs that were known to be sourced from Mexican cartels.
Others that have been charged as part of this conspiracy include Rigoberto Hernandez, age 32, of Los Angeles, California, who was sentenced on May 1, 2023, to 11 years and eight months in federal prison; Reginald Davis, age 41, also of Los Angeles, was sentenced on May 26, 2023, to 17 years and one month in federal prison; Kessara Mikkelson, age 35, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, was sentenced on October 30, 2023, to 19 years and seven months in federal prison; Asia Gunhammer, age 31, also of Sioux Falls, was sentenced on October 30, 2023, to 10 years and six months in federal prison. All defendants were also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
This case was investigated by the FBI, Sioux Falls Police Department, and the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Morris III was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Georgia Woman Sentenced in South Dakota Drug and Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Decatur, Georgia, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments. The sentencing took place on June 3, 2024.
Julia Precious Ballansaw, 21, was sentenced on the count of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance to five years and 10 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. She was then sentenced on the count of Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments to five years and 10 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, each sentence to run concurrently with one another. She was also ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Ballansaw was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments by a federal grand jury in October of 2023. She pleaded guilty on March 14, 2024.
Ballansaw obtained methamphetamine from a co-conspirator in California and then transported it back to another co-conspirator in South Dakota in order for it to be further distributed. Ballansaw also obtained methamphetamine from another co-conspirator in South Dakota and distributed it to others within South Dakota. Additionally, Ballansaw and others conducted wire transfers at financial institutions of funds that were derived from the sale of controlled substances in South Dakota, in order to send the money to co-conspirators in California.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, Sioux Falls Police Department, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Ballansaw was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Recognizes Medicare Fraud Prevention WeekRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that Medicare Fraud Prevention Week is being observed June 3–June 9, 2024. The Department of Justice prioritizes combating health care fraud, a commitment reflected in fiscal year 2023's outcomes. Over $2.68 billion in fraud settlements and judgments were secured, with more than $1.8 billion relating specifically to the health care sector.
These recoveries replenish funds to federal programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE, the health care program for service members and their families. Equally important is the role of federal fraud statutes enforcement and the prosecution of offenders, which serve as deterrents against fraudulent schemes. These actions not only prevent financial loss but also shield patients from unnecessary or potentially harmful medical interventions.
Join us in observing Medicare Fraud Prevention Week by visiting the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota Twitter/X account @DSDNews1 to learn about ways to stop Medicare fraud from occurring.
Iowa Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Senior District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Des Moines, Iowa, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact. The sentencing took place on May 16, 2024.
Douglas Hennigar, age 66, was sentenced to 27 years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Hennigar was indicted for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor and Abusive Sexual Contact by a federal grand jury in September of 2023. He pleaded guilty on March 15, 2024.
In 2010, Hennigar moved to the Pine Ridge Reservation after meeting the victims’ grandmother/mother through social media. The grandmother cared for multiple children, including her 10-year-old daughter at the time. Almost immediately after moving in with the grandmother, Hennigar sexually abused two female children, who were between the ages of 5-10. The abuse spanned multiple years and occurred on and off the Pine Ridge Reservation. At the time of the abuse, the youngest child was five years old, but did not disclose the abuse until she was 14 years of age.
This case was investigated by the FBI. U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Hennigar was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
As MMIP Awareness Month Draws to a Close, U.S. Attorney's Office Reaffirms Its Commitment to Public Safety in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - It has long been a priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to address the disproportionately high rates of violence experienced by Native Americans living in reservations in our state, and relatedly, the high rates of indigenous persons reported missing. As Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Awareness Month draws to a close, the U.S. Attorney’s Office renews its commitment to work with federal, tribal, state, and local law enforcement partners to respond to the crisis of violence and abuse in our tribal communities with the urgency these matters demand.
In the last year, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has demonstrated its commitment by securing additional resources for Indian country prosecutors, including an MMIP AUSA that is now located in Pierre and serving the Great Plains Region. We have resolved previously unsolved cases, including the 1992 murder of a minor victim in Roberts County. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregg Peterman served as a Department of Justice representative on the Not Invisible Act Commission, which held seven in-person hearings and one national virtual hearing. In all, the Commission heard from 260 witnesses who shared their suffering and hope, expertise, experiences, and recommendations. In November of 2023, the Commission published “Not One More: Findings & Recommendations of the Not Invisible Act Commission,” which detailed their findings and included hundreds of recommendations to the Departments of Justice and Interior. As Chair of the AGAC’s Native American Issues Subcommittee, U.S. Attorney Ramsdell participated in and led national conversations about the Department of Justice’s response to this report, including at the White House Tribal Nations Summit in December 2023.
And throughout the year, the U.S. Attorney’s Office engaged in regular outreach to tribal communities to address MMIP issues and other public safety concerns, including at tribal council meetings, school assemblies, tribal law enforcement trainings, tribally organized conferences, and community forums. Lastly, federal prosecutors and victim witness specialists engaged in monthly multi-disciplinary team (MDT) meetings in each reservation, and the District’s Law Enforcement Coordinator joined with federal prosecutors and investigators to conduct in-person opioid training for federal, tribal, state, and local law enforcement in Rosebud, Eagle Butte, Pine Ridge, Yankton, and Mobridge.
Most recently, on May 14, 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office hosted a Tribal MMIP Summit in Pierre, SD, to introduce tribal leaders to the concept of Tribal Community Response Plans (TCRP), which are guides for how tribal communities will respond to reports of missing persons. Importantly, the development of these plans is led by Tribes, allowing each Tribe to incorporate culturally appropriate protocols into every aspect of the TCRP. Leadership from all nine South Dakota Tribes were invited to the Summit, where participants heard presentations from federal and state law enforcement partners, including the FBI, U.S. Marshal’s Service, Social Security Administration, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, as well as prosecutors and personnel from within the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the South Dakota Attorney General’s Office.
Participants also heard from members of the Fort Peck Tribes, including Fort Peck’s chief tribal judge, lead criminal investigator, and Chief of Police, who jointly discussed the challenges and advantages to developing a TCRP and other opportunities for cross-jurisdictional collaboration with state and federal partners. Lastly, representatives from the National Criminal Justice Training Center of Fox Valley Technical College were in attendance to discuss training and technical assistance available to Tribes, including resources to assist with the development of TCRPs. Representatives also discussed the availability of AMBER Alert training to improve the investigative response of local law enforcement to high-risk victims and children in crisis. As part of this outreach, each Tribe received AMBER Alert in Indian Country Toolkits, which will assist officers in quickly gathering necessary information to ensure AMBER Alerts and NCIC entries include as much information as possible. Items included tools such as mobile printers, scanners, and hotspots.
This engagement follows on decades of work by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota to develop meaningful relationships with tribal leaders and their communities. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office has been unwavering in its commitment to improving public safety in Indian country,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “We remain committed to listening closely to tribal communities and working collaboratively with our federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners to address public safety concerns throughout Indian country.”
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Receipt of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on May 29, 2024.
Shane Allan Nelson, age 38, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Nelson was indicted by a federal grand jury in May of 2022. He pleaded guilty on February 13, 2024.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between March 13, 2020, and March 18, 2020, when Nelson received materials containing child pornography. Nelson used his Apple iPhone to access the internet and direct a 16-year-old female in Delaware to send him nude photos of herself.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. 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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Nelson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
McLaughlin Man found Guilty of Simple Assault and Assault by Striking, Beating and WoundingRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a jury has convicted Kenton Wynn Walks, age 39, of McLaughlin, South Dakota of Simple Assault and Assault by Striking, Beating and Wounding following a two-day jury trial in federal district court in Aberdeen, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on May 22, 2024.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of one and a half years in federal prison and/or a $105,000 fine, up to one year of supervised release, and a $50 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Walks was indicted by a federal grand jury in July of 2022.
On April 22, 2022, law enforcement in McLaughlin was called because Walks had assaulted an elderly man by kicking him in the head. The assault occurred on the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation. The victim suffered a laceration on the rear right side of his head, which produced a significant amount of blood. The laceration was approximately three inches long and required six staples to be closed.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date has not been set. The defendant was ordered to self-report for sentencing on July 2, 2024.
Tea Woman Sentenced for Obtaining a Controlled Substance by FraudRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Tea, South Dakota, woman convicted of Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Misrepresentation, Fraud, Forgery, Deception, and Subterfuge. The sentencing took place on May 24, 2024.
Brittany Enstad, age 40, was sentenced to two years of probation and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Enstad was indicted by a federal grand jury in June of 2023. She pleaded guilty on March 6, 2024.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between July 1, 2022, and December 30, 2022, when Enstad, who was working at a registered nurse at the Sanford Canton-Inwood Medical Center in Canton, South Dakota, obtained blister packs from the narcotics cabinet containing OxyContin, removed the OxyContin, and replaced the drug with other medications, such as melatonin and acetaminophen. Enstad then resealed the blister packs knowing that the other medications could be dispensed to patients at the medical center instead of OxyContin. Enstad used the stolen OxyContin for her own use.
“Patients deserve to have confidence that they are receiving the proper treatment from those entrusted with providing their medical care. Those who knowingly tamper with medicines for patients put those patients’ health at risk,” said Special Agent in Charge Ronne Malham, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Chicago Field Office. “Our office will continue to pursue and bring to justice healthcare professionals who take advantage of their position and compromise patients’ health and comfort by tampering with needed drugs.”
This case was investigated by the Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigation and the DEA. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.
Porcupine Man Acquitted of Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Porcupine, South Dakota, man was acquitted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person following a federal jury trial in Rapid City, South Dakota, on May 22, 2024.
Daelan High Wolf, age 37, was indicted by a federal grand jury in February of 2024.
High Wolf was charged with possessing a handgun in a vehicle driven he was driving on February 17, 2021. High Wolf is prohibited from possessing firearms because he has a felony conviction.
The investigation was conducted by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety and the U.S. Attorney's Office prosecuted the case.
Little Eagle Woman Sentenced for First Degree BurglaryRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a Little Eagle, South Dakota, woman convicted of First Degree Burglary. The sentencing took place on May 20, 2024.
Amanda Lorraine Bobtail Bear, age 31, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Bobtail Bear was indicted by a federal grand jury in June of 2023. She pleaded guilty on October 30, 2023.
On April 1, 2023, Bobtail Bear learned a 12-year-old girl had kissed Bobtail Bear’s 25-year-old brother-in-law. In response, Bobtail Bear and several other individuals, including Bobtail Bear’s 14-year-old niece, broke into the 12-year-old girl’s Little Eagle home, which is within the Standing Rock Reservation. Bobtail Bear kicked the 12-year-old girl and encouraged her niece to “hit her some more!” while the 12-year-old begged them to stop. Bobtail Bear’s brother restrained the 12-year-old girl’s wheelchair-bound father during the assault to prevent him from protecting his daughter. The 12-year-old girl sustained minor injuries
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
Bobtail Bear was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Little Eagle Woman Sentenced for Child AbuseRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a Little Eagle, South Dakota, woman convicted of Child Abuse. The sentencing took place on May 20, 2024.
Adele Fay Fast Horse, age 26, was sentenced to two years of probation and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Fast Horse was indicted by a federal grand jury in June of 2023. She pleaded guilty on October 30, 2023.
On April 1, 2023, Fast Horse’s 14-year-old niece showed her photographs of Fast Horse’s husband kissing a 12-year-old girl in Little Eagle, which is within the Standing Rock Reservation. Fast Horse offered the niece money to beat up the 12-year-old-girl. Later that day, the niece and several other individuals broke into the 12-year-old’s home, woke her up and assaulted her. The 12-year-old girl sustained minor injuries. When the niece showed Fast Horse a recording of the assault, Fast Horse paid her $20.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
Wanblee Man Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Wanblee, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault on a Federal Officer. The sentencing took place on May 17, 2024.
Chad Doyle Jr., 22, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Doyle was indicted for two counts of Assault on a Federal Officer by a federal grand jury in January of 2024. He pleaded guilty to one count of Assault on a Federal Officer on March 11, 2024.
The case stemmed from Doyle assaulting an Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety patrol officer in December of 2023. During the assault, Doyle kicked and attempted to punch the officer.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because officers employed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety are federal law enforcement officers.
This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Lindrooth prosecuted the case.
Doyle was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. Chief District Judge Roberto A. Lange has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Receipt of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on May 16, 2024.
T Jay Joseph Sullivan, 29, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Sullivan will also be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Sullivan was indicted for Receipt of Child Pornography and Transportation of Obscene Matters by a federal grand jury in March of 2023. He pleaded guilty on February 14, 2024.
The investigation originated from a CyberTip which reported child pornography associated with Sullivan’s Facebook account. Investigators learned Sullivan messaged a thirteen-year-old girl over Facebook, sent the girl images of his penis, and requested the girl send him images of some of her specific body parts. The thirteen-year-old girl sent Sullivan images that constituted child pornography. During the investigation, detectives learned Sullivan also requested nude images from a different thirteen-year-old girl by using Facebook Messenger and sent that girl images of his penis. All the messages and images were located in Sullivan’s Facebook account.
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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Lindrooth prosecuted the case.
Sullivan was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on May 17, 2024.
Vance Hayes, 34, was sentenced to three years and five months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Hayes was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in May of 2023. He pleaded guilty on March 11, 2024.
Hayes was arrested in March of 2023 after being pulled over in Rapid City for a traffic violation. During the traffic stop, officers learned Hayes was in possession of a stolen firearm. Hayes is a convicted felon and was on federal supervised release at the time. Hayes was aware of his status as a convicted felon and was also aware he was prohibited from possessing firearms.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Lindrooth prosecuted the case.
Hayes was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.