District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Rosebud 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 Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on February 28, 2023.
Damon Has Horns, age 41, was sentenced to two years and eight 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.
Has Horns was indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender by a federal grand jury in March of 2022. He pleaded guilty on November 21, 2022.
Has Horns was convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse on June 20, 2001. As a result of this conviction, Has Horns is required to register as a sex offender and update his registration within three business days of relocation or changing employment or student status. Has Horns last registered in June of 2022, providing an address in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Has Horns failed to pay rent in September and the locks to his apartment were changed on October 1, 2022. Has Horns’ whereabouts were unknown until he was arrested on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation on June 18, 2022.
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 U.S. Marshals Service and Sioux Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler prosecuted the case.
Has Horns was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Fourth Failure to Register as a Sex Offender ConvictionRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Chief Judge, Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on February 27, 2023.
Benjamen T. Flute, a/k/a Benjamin T. Flute, age 43, was sentenced to 25 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.
Flute was indicted by a federal grand jury in September of 2022. He pleaded guilty on November 7, 2022.
Flute was convicted of Second-Degree Rape in Caddo County, Oklahoma, in December of 2007. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender and to update his registration within three business days of relocation or changing employment. Flute was convicted in U.S. District Court of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender in 2017, 2019, and 2021. In August of 2022, Flute was released from prison with instructions to begin supervised release in Rapid City. Flute thereafter did not arrive at his expected residence in Rapid City, and he failed to update his sex offender registration. An arrest warrant was subsequently issued, and Flute was arrested in Rapid City on August 25, 2022.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson 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.
Flute was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Watertown Man Charged with Several Counts of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a federal grand jury has indicted a Watertown, South Dakota, man for two counts of Production of Child Pornography and one count of Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography.
Ted Jeffrey Hurkes, age 44, was indicted in February of 2023. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 24, 2023, 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 years of supervised release, and $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on October 2, 2022, and again on November 12, 2022, Hurkes knowingly employed, used, persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced a minor female to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of such conduct.
The Indictment also alleges that between on or about October 2, 2022, and January 13, 2023, Hurkes knowingly received and distributed, and attempted to receive and distribute, any child pornography that had been mailed, shipped, and transported in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce by any means, including by computer.
The charges are merely accusations and Hurkes is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations and the Watertown Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting 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.
Hurkes was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, which has been set for May 2, 2023.
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell Announces Implementation of New Voluntary Self-Disclosure PolicyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell has announced the implementation of the new United States Attorney’s Offices’ Voluntary Self-Disclosure Policy. The policy, which is effective immediately, details the circumstances under which a company will be considered to have made a voluntary self-disclosure (VSD) of misconduct to a United States Attorney’s Office (USAO), and provides transparency and predictability to companies and the defense bar concerning the concrete benefits and potential outcomes in cases where companies voluntarily self-disclose misconduct, fully cooperate and timely and appropriately remediate.
The goal of the policy is to standardize how VSDs are defined and credited by USAOs nationwide, and to incentivize companies to maintain effective compliance programs capable of identifying misconduct, to expeditiously and voluntarily disclose and remediate misconduct, and to cooperate fully with the government in corporate criminal investigations. The policy was developed pursuant to the Deputy Attorney General’s September 15, 2022 memorandum, “Further Revisions to Corporate Criminal Enforcement Policies Following Discussions with Corporate Crime Advisory Group” (Monaco Memo), which directed each Department of Justice (DOJ) component that prosecutes corporate crime to review its policies on corporate voluntary self-disclosure and, if there was no formal written policy to incentivize self-disclosure, draft and publicly share such a policy.
Under the new VSD policy, a company is considered to have made a VSD if it becomes aware of misconduct by employees or agents before that misconduct is publicly reported or otherwise known to the DOJ, and discloses all relevant facts known to the company about the misconduct to a USAO in a timely fashion prior to an imminent threat of disclosure or government investigation. A company that voluntarily self-discloses as defined in the policy and fully meets the other requirements of the policy, by—in the absence of any aggravating factor—fully cooperating and timely and appropriately remediating the criminal conduct (including agreeing to pay all disgorgement, forfeiture, and restitution resulting from the misconduct), will receive significant benefits, including that the USAO will not seek a guilty plea; may choose not to impose any criminal penalty, and in any event will not impose a criminal penalty that is greater than 50% below the low end of the United States Sentencing Guidelines (USSG) fine range; and will not seek the imposition of an independent compliance monitor if the company demonstrates that it has implemented and tested an effective compliance program.
The policy identifies three aggravating factors that may warrant a USAO seeking a guilty plea even if the other requirements of the VSD policy are met: (1) if the misconduct poses a grave threat to national security, public health, or the environment; (2) if the misconduct is deeply pervasive throughout the company; or (3) if the misconduct involved current executive management of the company. The presence of an aggravating factor does not necessarily mean that a guilty plea will be required; instead, the USAO will assess the relevant facts and circumstances to determine the appropriate resolution. If a guilty plea is ultimately required, the company will still receive the other benefits under the VSD policy, including that the USAO will recommend a criminal penalty of at least a 50% and up to a 75% reduction off the low end of the USSG fine range, and that the USAO will not require the appointment of a monitor if the company has implemented and tested an effective compliance program.
In cases where a company is being jointly prosecuted by a USAO and another DOJ component, or where the misconduct reported by the company falls within the scope of conduct covered by VSD policies administered by other DOJ components, the USAO will coordinate with, or, if necessary, obtain approval from, the DOJ component responsible for the VSD policy specific to the reported misconduct when considering a potential resolution. Consistent with relevant provisions of the Justice Manual and as allowable under alternate VSD policies, the USAO may choose to apply any provision of an alternate VSD policy in addition to, or in place of, any provision of its policy.
Sturgis Man Indicted for Sexual Exploitation of a MinorRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a federal grand jury has indicted a Sturgis, South Dakota, man for Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet, Attempted Receipt of Child Pornography, and Attempted Transfer of Obscene Material to a Minor.
Bobby Allan Aldinger, age 52, was indicted in November of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta L. Wollmann on February 21, 2023, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of 15 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, mandatory minimum of five years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for each count. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Aldinger attempting to sexually exploit an undercover law enforcement agent posing as a 14-year-old female.
The charge is merely an accusation and Aldinger is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins is prosecuting the case.
Aldinger was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for May 2, 2023.
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North Carolina Woman Indicted for Making False StatementsRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a federal grand jury has indicted a Greensboro, North Carolina, woman on two counts of False Statement.
Erin Lynn Hower, M.D., age 38, was indicted in January of 2023. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollman on February 24, 2023, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to five years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
In July of 2020, at Pine Ridge, South Dakota, Hower knowingly made false statements in an employment application she submitted to Indian Health Services.
The charge is merely an accusation and Hower is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Hower was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has been scheduled for May 2, 2023.
Former Oglala Sioux Tribe President Indicted for Wire Fraud and EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a federal grand jury has indicted a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man on six counts of Wire Fraud, one count of Larceny, and one count of Embezzlement and Theft from an Indian Tribal Organization.
Julian Bear Runner, age 37, was indicted in September of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollman on February 24, 2023, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Between 2019 and 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 did not take.
The charges are merely accusations and Bear Runner is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Bear Runner was remanded to the custody of the US Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been scheduled for May 2, 2023.
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Rapid City Man Sentenced for Causing a Fire on U.S. Forest Service LandRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man charged with Causing a Fire pleaded guilty and was sentenced on February 17, 2023, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta L. Wollmann.
Dillon Rose, age 23, was ordered to pay $16,704 in restitution to the U.S. Forest Service, Buffalo Gap National Grasslands, a $500 fine, and $10 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stems from an incident that took place on March 6, 2021, when Rose, who had gone to the Agate Beds on the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands to hunt for agates and other rocks, left the authorized trails and got his truck stuck in a creek bed. During one of the attempts to get out, Rose’s truck fuel line ruptured. The leaking gas and heat from the engine started a fire that burned approximately 2,600 acres of the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands. Rose did not immediately report the fire to authorities.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Forest Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Scherier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on February 13, 2023.
James Verbrugge, 29, 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.
Verbrugge was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in September of 2022. He pleaded guilty on December 2, 2022.
Verbrugge, along with his co-conspirators, was responsible for distributing 50 grams or more of pure methamphetamine in the District of South Dakota. On April 7, 2022, Verbrugge assisted his co-conspirators in completing a sale of methamphetamine to a confidential informant. Verbrugge provided his co-conspirators with methamphetamine so they could complete the sale. The transaction took place in a grocery store parking lot where they exchanged approximately 333.8 grams of methamphetamine, which was at 98% purity, in return for $4,600.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration. This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Paige Petersen, who also serves as a prosecutor with the South Dakota Attorney General’s Office.
James Verbrugge was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
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Yankton Man Sentenced to over 10 Years in Fentanyl 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 Yankton, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on February 7, 2023.
Justin Duane Langen, 38, was sentenced to 10 years and one month 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.
Langen was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in June 2021. He pleaded guilty on November 14, 2022.
In June of 2021, Langen reached an agreement to distribute over 400 grams fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, in the District of South Dakota. During his involvement, he obtained Fentanyl pills from a co-conspirator and sold them to drug customers in South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Langen was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
South Dakota Man Sentenced to over 12 Years for Meth DistributionRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Harrison, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on February 13, 2023.
James Dean Houseman, 62, was sentenced to 12 years and seven months in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Houseman was indicted for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in March of 2022. He pleaded guilty on November 8, 2022.
In October of 2021, Houseman was pulled over by a South Dakota Highway Patrol Trooper. After a search of the vehicle, the trooper found more than five grams of pure methamphetamine, which Houseman had separated out into smaller baggies in order to distribute them into the community. In the vehicle, troopers also found a loaded magazine containing Ruger .22 ammunition. A later search of Houseman’s house revealed a loaded semiautomatic .22 caliber Phoenix pistol and an additional 15 pounds of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Highway Patrol, South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigation, and the FBI. This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Ebert, who also serves as a prosecutor with the South Dakota Attorney General’s Office.
Houseman was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Transportation 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 Transportation of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on February 13, 2023.
Terry Zoppe, age 49, was sentenced to 11 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.
Zoppe was indicted by a federal grand jury in December of 2021. He pleaded guilty on November 8, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between September 19, 2017, and March 23, 2021, when Zoppe knowingly transported child pornography over the internet. After searching the internet for child pornography, he downloaded the files containing child pornography to his two e-mail accounts with Google domain. Zoppe also had child pornography on three cell phones. He knew the files contained child pornography before he chose to download them.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, SD Division of Criminal Investigation, SD Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Sioux Falls PD, and the U.S. Marshal’s Service. 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.
Zoppe was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Charged with Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a federal grand jury has indicted a Rapid City, South Dakota, man for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Jarrad Smith, age 37, was indicted in January of 2023. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on February 10, 2023, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years’ imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge stems from Smith knowingly possessing a semi-automatic pistol in Rapid City in December of 2022. Smith has a prior felony conviction and, as a result, cannot legally possess firearms.
The charge is merely an accusation and Smith is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama is prosecuting the case.
Smith was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for April 18, 2023.
Pine Ridge Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Voluntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken has sentenced a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter. The sentencing took place on February 3, 2023.
Julian James Hard Heart, 20, was sentenced to six and a half years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Hard Heart was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Hard Heart was indicted for Second Degree Murder by a federal grand jury in January of 2022. He pleaded guilty on October 21, 2022.
The conviction stems from Hard Heart shooting another person after a verbal altercation on November 28, 2021, in Pine Ridge. The victim succumbed to his injuries.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.
Hard Heart was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Oglala Man Sentenced to Life ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced an Oglala, South Dakota, man convicted of Kidnapping, Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force, Interstate Domestic Violence, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, and Assault by Strangulation of a Dating Partner. The sentencing took place on February 10, 2023.
Jesse Sierra, a/k/a Jesse Sierro, 37, was sentenced to Life imprisonment for Kidnapping and Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force. Sierra was also sentenced to 10 years in federal prison on the convictions for Interstate Domestic Violence, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, and Assault by Strangulation of a Dating Partner. Each of the sentences was ordered to run concurrently. He was also ordered to pay $500 in special assessments to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $8,395.79 in restitution.
Sierra was indicted for the charges by a federal grand jury in August of 2019. He was found guilty following a federal jury trial in Rapid City in October of 2022. Also indicted with Jesse Sierra was his brother, Dustin Sierra, who was also convicted of various offenses arising out of the same event.
The convictions related to Jesse Sierra and his brother, Dustin Sierra, traveling to the female victim’s place of employment in July of 2019 and convincing her to leave with them. When Dustin Sierra began driving the female to the Pine Ridge Reservation, Jesse Sierra wrapped his arm around her neck and strangled her until she became unconscious. Each time the female regained consciousness, Jesse Sierra strangled her again. Between July 13, 2019, and July 17, 2019, Jesse Sierra took the female to a number of locations on the Pine Ridge Reservation against her will. Jesse inflicted multiple physical and sexual assaults upon the female during the time he held her against her will. Around July 17, 2019, Dustin Sierra drove Jesse Sierra and the female to Chadron, Nebraska. Jesse Sierra then hid her in a motel in Crawford, Nebraska. On July 21, 2019, Jesse dropped her off at the emergency room in Chadron. Local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies searched for the victim from July 14, 2019, until she was located at the Chadron hospital on July 21, 2019.
This case was investigated by the FBI, Rapid City Police Department, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, Box Elder Police Department, Dawes County Sheriff’s Office, Chadron Police Department, and the Nebraska State Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Heather Sazama and Kelsey Blair prosecuted the case.
Sierra was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Oglala Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Role in Kidnapping and Interstate Domestic ViolenceRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced an Oglala, South Dakota, man convicted of Aiding and Abetting Kidnapping, and Aiding and Abetting Interstate Domestic Violence. The sentencing took place on February 10, 2023.
Dustin Sierra, a/k/a Dustin Sierro, 38, was sentenced to 10 years and one month in federal prison for Aiding and Abetting Kidnapping, and 10 years in federal prison to for Aiding and Abetting Interstate Domestic Violence. Both sentences were ordered to run concurrently. Sierra was ordered to serve five years of supervised release for the Aiding and Abetting Kidnapping charge and three years on the Aiding and Abetting Interstate Domestic Violence charge, to run concurrently. He was also ordered to pay $200 in special assessments to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Sierra was indicted for the charges by a federal grand jury in August of 2019. He was found guilty following a federal jury trial in Rapid City in October of 2022. Also indicted with Dustin Sierra was his brother, Jesse Sierra, who was also convicted of various offenses arising out of the same event.
The convictions related to Dustin Sierra and his brother, Jesse Sierra, traveling to the female victim’s place of employment in July of 2019 and convincing her to leave with them. When Dustin Sierra began driving the female to the Pine Ridge Reservation, Jesse Sierra wrapped his arm around her neck and strangled her until she became unconscious. Each time the female regained consciousness, Jesse Sierra strangled her again. Between July 13, 2019, and July 17, 2019, Jesse Sierra took the female to a number of locations on the Pine Ridge Reservation against her will. Jesse inflicted multiple physical and sexual assaults upon the female during the time he held her against her will. Around July 17, 2019, Dustin Sierra drove Jesse Sierra and the female to Chadron, Nebraska. Jesse Sierra then hid her in a motel in Crawford, Nebraska. On July 21, 2019, Jesse dropped her off at the emergency room in Chadron. Local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies searched for the victim from July 14, 2019, until she was located at the Chadron hospital on July 21, 2019.
This case was investigated by the FBI, Rapid City Police Department, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, Box Elder Police Department, Dawes County Sheriff’s Office, Chadron Police Department, and the Nebraska State Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Heather Sazama and Kelsey Blair prosecuted the case.
Sierra was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Montana Man Convicted of Trafficking in Golden Eagle FeathersRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a jury has convicted Harvey Hugs, age 59, of Hardin, Montana, of three counts of violating the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act following a two-day federal jury trial in Rapid City, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on February 14, 2023.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of two years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, one year of supervised release, and a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Hugs was indicted by a federal grand jury in May of 2022.
The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act makes it a crime for anyone to take, sell, purchase, and barter, bald and golden eagles and any parts and feathers of eagles. In February of 2020, Montana authorities received information that Hugs was involved in trafficking golden eagle feathers. Between August 20, 2020, and November 3, 2020, law enforcement utilized recorded phone calls and text messages in which Hugs offered to sell various eagle feathers. On two separate occasions, Hugs knowingly sold golden eagle tails for several hundred dollars each. On a third occasion, Hugs sold a set of golden eagle wings and a gold eagle tail for $1,000. Hugs then shipped the golden eagle feathers to South Dakota. A search warrant was executed at Hugs’ Montana home on March 3, 2021, where multiple items, including additional eagle tails and wings, were seized. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Forensics Lab in Ashland, Oregon, was able to determine that items seized from Hugs’ home genetically matched items Hugs sold and shipped during this case.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
A sentencing date has not been set. The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing.
Lower Brule Woman Convicted by Federal Jury for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a jury has convicted Barbara McGhee, age 25, of Lower Brule, South Dakota, of Assaulting, Opposing, Resisting, Impeding, Intimidating, or Interfering with a Federal Officer as a result of a two-day federal jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on February 15, 2023.
The charge carries a maximum penalty of one year in federal prison and/or a $100,000 fine, one year of supervised release, and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
McGhee was indicted by a federal grand jury in April of 2021.
The evidence at trial showed that on March 29, 2021, in Lower Brule, McGhee forcibly opposed and resisted two Bureau of Indian Affairs correctional officers. The correctional officers entered McGhee’s jail pod to move McGhee to a different area of the jail. McGhee resisted their attempt to move her, throwing a cup of water, causing the liquid to come in contact with one of the correctional officers. As the officers attempted to restrain her following this incident, McGhee flailed her arms around, striking the other correctional officer on the nose.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services, Lower Brule Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation report was ordered and a sentencing date has not been set. McGhee remains out on bond pending sentencing.
Louisiana Man Sentenced in 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 a Shreveport, Louisiana, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on February 13, 2023.
Orlando Mandel Debrow, 49, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Debrow was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in May of 2022. He pleaded guilty on November 28, 2022.
Debrow, along with his co-conspirator, Joseph Dean McKinney, distributed 500 grams or more of cocaine in the State of South Dakota. Their involvement in this conspiracy ended when a South Dakota Highway Patrol Trooper stopped their vehicle and located over 500 grams of cocaine in a search.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Debrow was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
California Man Sentenced to 15 Years in South Dakota Meth and Money 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 Los Angeles, California, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments. The sentencing took place on February 6, 2023.
Daniel Fiero Navarrette, 54, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Navarrette was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments by a federal grand jury in September of 2022. He pleaded guilty on October 7, 2022.
In March of 2021, Navarrette reached an agreement to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine in the District of South Dakota.
During his involvement in the conspiracy, he reached an agreement to provide a co-conspirator in South Dakota with large amounts of methamphetamine, and also assisted his co-conspirator in meeting other individuals so that he could obtain multi-pound quantities of methamphetamine. As part of his conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in South Dakota, the defendant also engaged in Money Laundering.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, IRS Criminal Investigations, South Dakota Highway Patrol, Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Navarrette was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Woman Sentenced for False StatementRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. Circuit Judge Jonathan A. Kobes, sitting in federal district court, has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, woman convicted of False Statement to a Federal Officer. The sentencing took place on February 1, 2023.
Darla Thompson, 48, was sentenced to two years of probation, ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and $5,000 in restitution.
Thompson was indicted for False Statement to a Federal Officer by a federal grand jury in March of 2021. She pleaded guilty on October 7, 2022.
The conviction stems from Thompson, while employed as the Custer Branch Manager of Sentinel Federal Credit Union from January of 2018 until August of 2020, using her position at the bank to apply for and receive a loan in a friend’s name. Thompson altered the serial number on the collateral for the loan in order to conceal matters from the bank. The loan was ultimately discovered when the friend became delinquent on the loan. The friend did not know about the loan and Thompson had no permission to use the friend’s name or identity. When questioned about the loan and other matters, Thompson provided false information to a Special Agent with the FBI.
This case was investigated by the Custer County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on February 3, 2023.
Zahkim Vela, 23, was sentenced to three years in federal prison, follow by five years of supervised release. Vela was ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100 and $8,000 in restitution. Vela will be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Vela was indicted for Receipt of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography by a federal grand jury in December of 2021. He pleaded guilty on October 12, 2022.
Vela was federally indicted following a Cybertip from the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children regarding the download of child pornography using the application Kik Messenger. A search of Vela’s Kik Messenger account contained videos and images of child pornography including of infants and toddlers. The Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce executed a search warrant on Vela’s home and located multiple devices. Vela admitted to receiving, saving, and distributing images of child pornography on Kik Messenger.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.
Vela was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on February 3, 2023.
Michael Wilson, 37, was sentenced to four 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.
Wilson was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in April 2022. He pleaded guilty on October 21, 2022.
In February 2020, in Rapid City, Wilson, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, knowingly possessed a Taurus, 9mm caliber, semi-automatic pistol, which was found after Wilson came into contact with law enforcement.
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, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Wilson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. Circuit Judge Jonathan A. Kobes has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on February 1, 2023.
Bullman, 25, was sentenced to three years and one month in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Bullman was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in July 2022. He pleaded guilty on October 14, 2022.
In April 2022, in Rapid City, Bullman, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, was knowingly in possession of an Iberia Firearms Incorporated, model JS40, .40 caliber, semi-automatic pistol, which was found after Bullman came into contact with law enforcement.
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 Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Bullman was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for EscapeRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Escape from Custody was sentenced on January 31, 2023, by U.S. Circuit Judge Jonathan A. Kobes, sitting in district court.
Preston White Feather, 26, was sentenced to fifteen months in federal prison and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Preston White Feather was indicted for Escape from Custody by a federal grand jury in April of 2022. He pleaded guilty on October 7, 2022.
White Feather was in the Bureau of Prisons custody serving a sentence of 14 months, with three years of supervised release to follow, for Third Degree Burglary. In June of 2021 his supervised release was revoked and he was sentenced to 14 months’ imprisonment, as well as an additional 22 months’ imprisonment, and three years of supervised release to run concurrently in another criminal file. He was placed at the Community Education Center in Rapid City to finish serving his sentence as part of a re-entry process. He walked away and was found in Rosebud three months later.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
White Feather was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Black Hawk Man Sentenced to 17 ½ Years in Federal Prison for Sex CrimesRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken has sentenced a Black Hawk, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet, and Attempted Receipt of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on February 6, 2023.
Stephen Fontenot, Jr., 40, was sentenced to 17 ½ years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release for Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a Minor. Additionally, Fontenot was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet, and five years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for Attempted Receipt of Child Pornography. Fontenot’s sentences will run concurrently. Fontenot was also ordered to pay a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and will be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Fontenot was indicted by a federal grand jury in August of 2021. He was found guilty at trial on November 3, 2022.
Fontenot was arrested and federally indicted as a result of an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2021 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting internet predators. Following multiple sexually explicit chats and text messages with a person Fontenot believed to be a 12-year-old girl, but who was in fact an undercover agent, Fontenot proceeded to negotiate a time and place he would meet the minor to engage in unlawful sex acts. When Fontenot went to the pre-determined location to meet the minor, he was instead met by law enforcement agents and placed under arrest.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, Homeland Security Investigations, Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.
Fontenot was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Wentworth Man Sentenced for Receipt and Distribution 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 Wentworth, South Dakota, man convicted of Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on February 3, 2023.
Jordan Charles Opdahl, age 30, was sentenced to 12.5 years in federal prison, five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $5,100.
Opdahl was indicted by a federal grand jury in November of 2021. He pleaded guilty on November 14, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on October 20, 2020, when Opdahl used his Kik account to access and receive file containing child pornography from other Kik users. Opdahl downloaded the files containing child pornography from the internet and other Kik users to his cellular phone. Opdahl also distributed the files depicting child pornography to other Kik users.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and Homeland Security Investigations. 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.
Opdahl was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Wanblee Woman Sentenced for False StatementsRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken has sentenced a Wanblee, South Dakota, woman convicted of False Statements. The sentencing took place on January 30, 2023.
Talana Francine Standing Bear, a/k/a Talana Francine Sitting Up, 40, was sentenced to time already served, 2 years of supervised release, ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and $14,241.65 in restitution.
Standing Bear was indicted for False Statements by a federal grand jury in February of 2021. She pleaded guilty on July 20, 2022.
The charge related to Standing Bear making materially false statements on documentation relating to her minor child’s Social Security disability income. Standing Bear received $13,695.65 in Title XVI Supplemental Security Income and $546 under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program because of these false statements and put those funds to use for her own benefit, rather than her minor child’s benefit.
This case was investigated by the Office of the Inspector General – Social Security Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama prosecuted the case.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 10 Years and 10 Months in Federal Prison for Firearm & Drug CrimesRead 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 Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on February 2, 2023.
For the firearm conviction, Olson received the statutory maximum penalty of 10 years in custody. For the controlled substance (methamphetamine) conviction, Olson was sentenced to 10 years and 10 months of imprisonment. The sentences will run concurrently for a total of 10 years and 10 months. Olson also was sentenced to four years of supervised release following his prison term and ordered to pay $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and to forfeit the firearm and ammunition involved in the case.
Olson 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 2022. He was convicted at a jury trial in November of 2022.
According to evidence presented during trial, in June of 2021, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Olson, having been convicted of a felony and being an unlawful user of a controlled substance, possessed a loaded semi-automatic handgun and ammunition. Olson also possessed with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), a Schedule II controlled substance.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department and the ATF. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Beth Ebert prosecuted the case.
The defendant was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
North Dakota Man Sentenced 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 Jonathan A. Kobes, sitting in federal district court in Rapid City, has sentenced a Bismarck, North Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on February 1, 2023.
Dorian Lester, age 26, was sentenced to two years and four months in federal prison, five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Lester was indicted by a federal grand jury in July of 2022. He pleaded guilty on October 7, 2022.
The conviction stems from Lester failing to register as a sex offender as required by federal law between May 20, 2022 and July 6, 2022. Lester had previously been convicted of a sex offense in federal court which requires him to register for the rest of his life.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. 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.
Lester was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
New York Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. Circuit Judge Jonathan A. Kobes has sentenced a Wolcott, New York, man convicted of Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet. The sentencing took place on January 31, 2023.
Christopher Thomas Dahl, 29, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and a $5,000 special assessment to the Victims of Trafficking Fund. Dahl will also be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Dahl was indicted for Attempted Commercial Sex Trafficking of a Minor and Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet by a federal grand jury in August of 2021. He pleaded guilty on August 19, 2022.
Dahl was arrested and federally indicted as a result of an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2021 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting internet predators. Following multiple text messages with an undercover persona, Dahl negotiated a time and place he would meet a 14-year-old girl to have sex. Additionally, Dahl agreed to pay the undercover persona $250 for the unlawful sex acts with the minor. When Dahl went to the pre-determined location to meet the undercover persona, he was instead met by law enforcement agents and placed under arrest.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.
Dahl was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Box Elder Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. Circuit Judge Jonathan A. Kobes, sitting in federal district court in Rapid City, has sentenced a Box Elder, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm. The sentencing took place on February 1, 2023.
Toby Acevedo, 52, was sentenced to 22 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.
Acevedo was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Possession of an Unregistered Firearm by a federal grand jury in March 2021. He pleaded guilty on October 14, 2022.
In July 2020, in Rapid City, Acevedo knowingly possessed an illegal shortened rifle, namely a Mossberg International, model 702 Plinkster, .22 Long Rifle caliber, semi-automatic rifle, having a barrel less than 16 inches in length, which was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record as required.
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 Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Acevedo was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Man Convicted of Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on January 25, 2023.
Charles Schrader, 56, 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.
Charles Schrader was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in June of 2022. He pleaded guilty on September 23, 2022.
During his involvement in the conspiracy, Schrader obtained distributable quantities of methamphetamine from his sources and then would sell the methamphetamine, primarily on the Pine Ridge Reservation. He did so knowing that the methamphetamine he sold would be further distributed by others. During the sentencing, evidence was presented that at times Schrader possessed firearms in relation to his methamphetamine distribution.
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, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina S. Nelson prosecuted the case.
Schrader was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Woman Sentenced for Illegal Possession of Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. Circuit Judge Jonathan A. Kobes has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman convicted of Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on January 31, 2023.
Sabione Bettelyoun, 38, was sentenced to three years and one month in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Bettelyoun was indicted for Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in March of 2022. She pleaded guilty on October 14, 2022.
In February of 2022, in Rapid City, Bettelyoun, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, was found in possession of a SCCY, model CPX-1, 9mm Luger caliber, semi-automatic pistol, ARMSCOR .22 Long Rifle caliber ammunition, and Winchester 9mm Luger caliber ammunition, which was found after Bettelyoun came into contact with law enforcement. Bettelyoun also possessed methamphetamine and other drug 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 Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Bettelyoun was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. Circuit Judge Jonathan A. Kobes has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm. The sentencing took place on January 31, 2023.
Majestic Fairbanks, 28, 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.
Fairbanks was indicted for Possession of an Unregistered Firearm by a federal grand jury in March of 2022. He pleaded guilty on October 14, 2022.
Between December of 2019 and January of 2020, in Rapid City, Fairbanks possessed a destructive device, described as a metal aerosol canister with CO2 cartridges and a commercial grade firework containing explosives. Fairbanks broke out the front door of a local business and threw the canister inside. The firework then went off inside the business causing damage. Fairbanks was later found by law enforcement in possession of another identical device and admitted to manufacturing the destructive devices.
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, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Fairbanks was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. Circuit Judge Jonathan A. Kobes has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm. The sentencing took place on January 31, 2023.
Shane McCloskey, 23, was sentenced to 18 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.
McCloskey was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in February of 2022. He pleaded guilty on October 7, 2022.
In October of 2021, in Rapid City, McCloskey, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, was knowingly in possession of a SCCY, model CPX-2, 9mm Luger caliber, semi-automatic pistol, which was found after McCloskey came into contact with law enforcement.
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 Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
McCloskey was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Charged with Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a federal grand jury has indicted a Rapid City, South Dakota, man for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Cory Debruyckere, age 31, was indicted in January of 2023. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on January 27, 2023, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge stems from Debruyckere knowingly possessing a semi-automatic pistol in Rapid City in March of 2022. Debruyckere has two prior felony convictions and, as a result, cannot legally possess firearms.
The charge is merely an accusation and Debruyckere is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama is prosecuting the case.
Debruyckere was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has been set for April 4, 2023.
Pine Ridge Woman Sentenced for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken has sentenced a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on January 30, 2023.
Misty Bradford, 48, was sentenced to 15 years and eight 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. She also forfeited $23,979.00.
Misty Bradford was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in June of 2022. She pleaded guilty on September 23, 2022.
Bradford obtained methamphetamine and distributed it to others for use and further distribution in the Pine Ridge area. In June of 2022, a search warrant was executed at Bradford’s residence in Pine Ridge. Drug paraphernalia and two safes were discovered. One of the safes contained multiple bags of methamphetamine totaling 1.53 kilograms and $23,979.00 in cash. Bradford and others were responsible for distributing between 1.5 and 5 kilograms of methamphetamine during the course of the conspiracy.
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 Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Bradford was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Minnesota Man Sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. Circuit Judge Jonathan A. Kobes has sentenced an Orr, Minnesota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on January 31, 2023.
Jeremy Morris, 44, was sentenced to 10 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.
Jeremy Morris was indicted for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in July of 2022. He pleaded guilty on October 14, 2022.
Morris was traveling near Sturgis, South Dakota, when law enforcement stopped his vehicle. Upon a search of the vehicle, 4.985 kilograms of methamphetamine and a firearm were found. Morris admitted that he intended to further distribute the methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET), Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team – North (UNET-N, which covers the Northern Black Hills) and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. UNET is comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the South Dakota National Guard. UNET-N is comprised of law enforcement from Spearfish Police Department, Deadwood Police Department, Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, and South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Morris was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Elk Point Man Sentenced for Possession 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 an Elk Point, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on January 30, 2023.
Hector Paulin-Torres, age 34, was sentenced to 2.5 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.
Paulin-Torres was indicted by a federal grand jury in March of 2022. He pleaded guilty on September 23, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on September 18, 2021, when Paulin-Torres knowingly possessed digital files that contained child pornography. Paulin-Torres used his cellular phone to save the digital files containing images of a minor female engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Elk Point Police Department, and the Vermillion Police Department. 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.
Paulin-Torres was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sully County Men Sentenced for Crop Insurance FraudRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced two Sully County, South Dakota, men convicted of False Statements in Connection with Federal Crop Insurance. The sentencing took place on January 30, 2023.
James Garrett, age 68, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $1,045,544 in restitution to the United States. Levi Garrett, age 44, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $279,396 in restitution to the United States.
The defendants were indicted for several counts of False Statement in Connection with Federal Crop Insurance by a federal grand jury in October of 2021. A jury convicted James Garrett of two counts and Levi Garrett of one count following a six-day trial on October 31, 2022.
James Garrett and his son Levi Garrett operated a family farm and ranch in Sully County. In 2018, the defendants falsely certified to a crop insurance company that they planted 2,200 total acres of sunflowers. In fact, the defendants did not plant any sunflowers, and they wrongfully received indemnity from the insurance company as if their entire crop failed. In 2019, James Garrett falsely certified he planted 47.5 acres of corn as part of a larger claim. In fact, no corn was planted, and he wrongfully received indemnity from the insurance company that year. The defendants fraudulently obtained over $1.3 million in total benefits from their crimes.
“The federal crop insurance program is a vital risk management tool designed to help honest farmers sustain their agricultural productions under difficult circumstances. James and Levi Garrett unlawfully exploited that program and lined their pockets at the expense of taxpayers,” said U.S. Attorney Ramsdell. “Our office is committed to prosecuting any South Dakotan who dishonestly takes advantage of government programs, and we do so in partnership with hard-working investigators like those individuals at the U.S. Department of Agriculture who pursued this case.”
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Risk Management Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cameron J. Cook and Alexis A. Warner prosecuted the case.
The defendants were ordered to report to their prison facility as designated by the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on January 27, 2023.
Brian Jackson, 64, was sentenced to ten 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.
Jackson was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in January of 2020. He pleaded guilty on September 23, 2022.
During the conspiracy, Jackson obtained and transported methamphetamine between California and South Dakota on multiple occasions, with the purpose of distributing the methamphetamine in Western South Dakota. On one return trip from California, Jackson was stopped by South Dakota Highway Patrol troopers and was found to be in possession of approximately two pounds of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET), which is a local drug task force comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the South Dakota National Guard. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina S. Nelson prosecuted the case.
Jackson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Nebraska Man Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken has sentenced a Chadron, Nebraska, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact. The sentencing took place on January 27, 2023.
William Bear Robe, 39, was sentenced to four 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.
Bear Robe was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury in June of 2019. He was found guilty following a federal jury trial in Rapid City in September of 2022.
The conviction stems from Bear Robe engaging in sexual contact with a child under the age of 12 in 2012, at Oglala, South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Bear Robe was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Current Inmate Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that U.S. District Judge Lawrence L. Piersol has sentenced a current inmate from a Nebraska prison convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering. The sentencing took place on January 20, 2023.
Ray Noel Camacho, Sr., a/k/a “Pato,” age 38, was sentenced to 31 years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200. Camacho is already serving a 31 to 64-year prison sentence for terroristic threats and use of a firearm to commit a felony. His federal sentence will be served consecutively to his state sentence.
Camacho was indicted by a federal grand jury in March of 2021. He was found guilty on all charges as a result of a federal jury trial in November of 2022.
The conviction stemmed from incidents when Camacho, who was the leader of a large drug trafficking organization based in the Sioux Falls, South Dakota area, was responsible for the distribution of at least 120 pounds of methamphetamine. This consisted of approximately 70 lbs. of methamphetamine seized in South Dakota alone. In May of 2019, one traffic stop led to a search and seizure of 50 pounds of methamphetamine, which was stored within a spare tire and hidden compartments within the vehicle.
Camacho arranged and strategically orchestrated multi-pound deliveries of methamphetamine from Mexico, and payment for said deliveries, through three-way phone calls made from the South Dakota State Penitentiary. Said calls were recorded by the prison and used as key evidence in his trial. Camacho recruited numerous co-conspirators to aid him in his organization, which included current and former inmates and individuals known to them from the outside community. Camacho is the last of 22 defendants involved in this drug trafficking organization to be found guilty.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigation, Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, and the IRS Criminal Investigation team. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Hodges and Paige Petersen prosecuted the case.
Camacho was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
California Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken has sentenced a Modesto, California, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on January 30, 2023.
Zachery Moore, 29, was sentenced to four 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.
Moore was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in October of 2021. He pleaded guilty on September 23, 2022.
In July of 2021, in Rapid City, South Dakota, Moore, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, was found in possession of a stolen Kimber, model Micro 9, 9mm, semi-automatic pistol, which was found after Moore came into contact with law enforcement. Moore was also found in possession of heroin and other drug distribution materials.
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 Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Moore was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Three Dewey County Men Indicted on Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a federal grand jury has indicted three Dewey County men for Theft of Firearms From a Federal Firearm Licensee, Possession of Stolen Firearms, Burglary and Larceny
Weston Clausen, age 24, Ford Traversie, age 22, and Jalen Ducheneaux, age 23, were indicted in January of 2023. Clausen appeared before Magistrate Judge Mark Moreno on January 18, 2023, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment. Traversie and Ducheneaux both appeared before Magistrate Judge Moreno on January 25, 2023, and both men pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $400 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between August 13-15, 2022, in Dewey County, in the District of South Dakota, the three men burglarized Reloaders Corner, a Federal Firearms Licensee, and stole multiple firearms, ammunition, and other things of value from the business.
The charges are merely an accusation and Clausen, Traversie, and Ducheneaux are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Law Enforcement, Dewey County Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Clausen and Traversie were released on bond pending trial. Ducheneaux was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Man Charged with Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a federal grand jury has indicted a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Nathaniel Antonio Hernandez, age 22, was indicted in January of 2023. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on January 25, 2023, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 15 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge stems from Hernandez knowingly possessing a semi-automatic rifle in Rapid City in November of 2022. Hernandez has multiple prior felony convictions and as a result, cannot legally possess firearms.
The charge is merely an accusation and Hernandez is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama is prosecuting the case.
Hernandez was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for April 4, 2023.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead 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 Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on January 25, 2023.
Richard Peneaux, 29, was sentenced to two 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.
Peneaux was indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender by a federal grand jury in May of 2022. He pleaded guilty on October 13, 2022.
Peneaux was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor on March 4, 2014. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender and update his registration within three business days of relocation or changing employment or student status. Peneaux last registered in February of 2022, providing an address for the Cornerstone Mission in Rapid City, South Dakota, as his address. On February 14, 2022, contact was made with Cornerstone Mission and Peneaux had not been staying there. Peneaux’s whereabouts were unknown until he was arrested in Sioux Falls on unrelated charges on April 8, 2022.
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 Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler prosecuted the case.
Peneaux was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Indicted for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a federal grand jury has indicted a Mission, South Dakota, man for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Dylan Blue Bird, age 29, was indicted in November of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 19, 2023, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, five years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on September 30, 2022, in Todd County, Blue Bird did assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with a law enforcement officer who was employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and that such conduct involved the use of a dangerous weapon, specifically, a vehicle.
The charge is merely an accusation and Blue Bird is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler is prosecuting the case.
Blue Bird was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for March 14, 2023.
Rosebud Man Indicted on Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a federal grand jury has indicted a Rosebud, South Dakota, man for Possession of an Unregistered Firearm and Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm.
Isaiah Beck, age 19, was indicted in September of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 19, 2023, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on May 9, 2021, and June 25, 2022, in Todd County, Beck, an unlawful user of a controlled substance, possessed a firearm with a barrel length of less than 18 inches and the firearm was not registered to him.
The charge is merely an accusation and Beck is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler is prosecuting the case.
Beck was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for March 28, 2023.