District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Martin Man Charged with Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Martin, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Steven Flood, age 37, was indicted in November of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on November 8, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that Flood, who had previously been convicted of a sex crime and required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, failed to do so between June 15, 2022, and August 4, 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.
The charge is merely an accusation and Flood is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Flood was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Lower Brule Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on November 7, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Russell Dean Wright, age 54, was sentenced to two and a half 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.
Wright was indicted by a federal grand jury in May of 2022. He pled guilty on August 15, 2022.
The conviction stems from Wright failing to register as a sex offender as required by federal law between November 1, 2021, and April 4, 2022. Wright had previously been convicted of a sex offense in federal court which requires him to register for 25 years upon his release from federal prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.
Wright was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Leader of Midwest Drug Ring Found Guilty of Drug Conspiracy and Money Laundering ChargesRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced announced that Ray Noel Camacho, a/k/a “Pato,” age 38, from Nebraska, but currently serving a 31 to 64-year prison sentence for terroristic threats and use of a firearm to commit a felony, was found guilty of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering, as a result of a federal jury trial in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on November 3, 2022.
The charges, due to sentencing guidelines in Camacho’s case, carry a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in custody and/or a $10 million fine, life of supervised release, and a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Camacho was indicted by a federal grand jury in August of 2021.
Ray Camacho, a/k/a “Pato”, was the leader of a large drug trafficking organization based in the Sioux Falls area, which 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.
Mr. 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.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date has not yet been set. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Huron Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Custody for Role in Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a Huron, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on November 7, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Jeffrey Pomerico, 27, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Pomerico was indicted for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance by a federal grand jury in December of 2021. He pleaded guilty on August 15, 2022.
Beginning on an unknown date and continuing until on or about December 7, 2021, Pomerico reached an agreement to distribute methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in the District of South Dakota. He voluntarily and intentionally joined the methamphetamine conspiracy sometime around the summer of 2021.
During his involvement, Pomerico personally participated in the handling and distribution of over 500 grams of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine. He had an agreement with a co-conspirator to obtain methamphetamine from him on a regular basis, for redistribution in South Dakota.
On October 27, 2021, Pomerico and another co-conspirator agreed to meet with Christopher Daniels, who is being sentenced for his role in this conspiracy on November 14, 2022, for the purpose of purchasing one pound of methamphetamine. After they purchased the pound of methamphetamine from Mr. Daniels at his home in Trent, South Dakota, law enforcement tried to stop their vehicle and his co-conspirator did not stop for the police. Eventually, they pulled into a cornfield, and threw the pound of methamphetamine out of the window. Pomerico then got out of the vehicle and tried to hide from law enforcement officers. Eventually, the officers found both him and the one pound of methamphetamine in the cornfield.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Pomerico was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Fort Pierre Woman Sentenced for Bank EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a Fort Pierre, South Dakota, woman convicted of Bank Embezzlement was sentenced on November 7, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Bailey Ricketts, age 27, was sentenced to one month in federal prison, followed by three months of home confinement, two years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $38,135.43, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Ricketts was indicted for Bank Embezzlement by a federal grand jury in November of 2021. She pleaded guilty on August 11, 2022.
From August 2019 to November 2020, while employed at a bank in Fort Pierre, Ricketts knowingly embezzled money from the bank by transferring money into her own account and accounts belonging to her family members.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Ricketts was ordered to report to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service by the end of the week.
Black Hawk Man Found Guilty of Sex CrimesRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a federal jury in Rapid City, South Dakota, has convicted Stephen Fontenot, Jr., age 40, of Black Hawk, South Dakota, of Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet, and Attempted Receipt of Child Pornography. The verdict was returned on November 3, 2022.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of 15 years up to life in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, five years up to lifetime of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Fontenot was indicted by a federal grand jury in August of 2021.
Evidence at trial established that Fontenot was arrested 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, the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, Homeland Security Investigations, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date will be set. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Two Men Convicted of Conspiracy Charges at TrialRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that Omar Perez-Ochoa, age 31, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, was found guilty of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments, and John Radermacher, age 41, of Couderay, Wisconsin, was found guilty of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, as a result of a federal jury trial in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on October 21, 2022.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of life in custody and/or a $10 million fine, five years of supervised release, and a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund to be paid by Perez-Ochoa, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund to be paid by Radermacher.
Perez-Ochoa and Radermacher were indicted by a federal grand jury in September of 2022.
Both Perez-Ochoa and Radermacher were involved in a large-scale methamphetamine distribution organization operating out of Sioux Falls and the surrounding areas. This organization was responsible for receiving and distributing multiple pounds of methamphetamine in South Dakota and elsewhere.
Radermacher obtained multiple pounds of methamphetamine from Canbie Thompson on multiple occasions and then returned to Wisconsin with that methamphetamine to further this drug conspiracy. Radermacher and Thompson originally met in federal prison, while both were serving federal sentences for drug distribution.
Perez-Ochoa was involved with this methamphetamine conspiracy by becoming a drop location for multiple pounds of methamphetamine, along with multiple payments of thousands of dollars for methamphetamine, to ultimately be wired or otherwise transferred down to Mexican sources.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Beth Ebert prosecuted the case.
Presentence investigations were ordered and sentencing dates will be set in the near future. The defendants were both remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sisseton Man Arrested for Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Sisseton, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child and Abusive Sexual Contact.
Thomas Avery Drum, age 58, was indicted in October of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on October 31, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, five years up to life of supervised release, and $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
According to the Indictment, between on or about August 26, 2014, and August 25, 2015, in Roberts County, Indian Country, in the District of South Dakota, Drum did knowingly engage in, and attempt to engage in, a sexual act with a child under the age of twelve years.
The charge is merely an accusation and Drum is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
Drum was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Woman Indicted for Theft from an Indian Tribal OrganizationRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Theft From an Indian Tribal Organization.
Tiffany LaClaire, age 35, was indicted in July of 2022. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on October 31, 2022, 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.
The Indictment alleges that between July 17, 2021, and March 23, 2022, LaClaire did knowingly steal, embezzle, willfully misapply, and convert to her use, the moneys, funds, and assets belonging to the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, an Indian Tribal Organization, in an amount greater than $1,000.
The charge is merely an accusation and LaClaire is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI and Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
LaClaire was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for January 3, 2023.
Peever Man Arrested for Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Peever, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Sexual Abuse of a Minor.
Larry Levi Finley III, age 25, was indicted in October of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on October 31, 2022, 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, five years up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
According to the Indictment, between on or about July 1, 2021, and October 31, 2021, in Roberts County, Indian Country, in the District of South Dakota, Finley did knowingly engage in and attempt to engage in a sexual act with a minor who had attained the age of twelve years, but had not attained the age of sixteen years, and was at least four years younger than Finley.
The charge is merely an accusation and Finley is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
Finley was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sully County Men Convicted of Crop Insurance FraudRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that James Garrett, age 68, and Levi Garrett, age 44, of Sully County, South Dakota, were found guilty of three counts of False Statement in Connection with Federal Crop Insurance, as a result of a federal jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota. The defendants were found not guilty on four other crop insurance fraud charges and two charges of Major Fraud Against the United States. The verdict was returned on October 31, 2022.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of 30 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, five years of supervised release, and a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury in October of 2021.
In 2018, the defendants falsely certified to a crop insurance company that they planted 2,200 acres of sunflowers in Sully County. In fact, the defendants did not plant sunflowers, and they wrongfully received a total indemnity from the insurance company of $495,048. In 2019, James Garrett falsely certified he planted 47.5 acres of corn in Sully County. In fact, no corn was planted, and he wrongfully received a total indemnity from the insurance company of $484,405.
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.
A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date has not been set. The defendants were released pending sentencing.
Pine Ridge Man Found Guilty of First Degree MurderRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that Colton Bagola, age 29, of Pine Ridge, South Dakota, was found guilty of First Degree Murder and Discharge of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence following a federal jury trial in Rapid City, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on October 28, 2022.
The murder charge carries a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine.
Bagola was indicted by a federal grand jury in January of 2020.
The conviction stems from Bagola shooting a 30-year-old male in the back of the head and killing him, on December 17, 2019, at Pine Ridge.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan Poppen and Gina Nelson prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date will be set. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mobridge Man Indicted for Distribution and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mobridge, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Distribution of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography.
Charles Evyn Russell, age 35, was indicted in October of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on October 28, 2022, 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, a lifetime of supervised release, and $400 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between July of 2021 and April of 2022, in Mobridge, Russell knowingly distributed and possessed child pornography.
The charges are merely accusations and Russell is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Mobridge Police Department, and the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Russell was released on bond pending trial. A trial date was set for January 3, 2022.
Mission Man Indicted for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a ChildRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child and Abusive Sexual Contact With a Child.
David Paxton, age 69, was indicted in May of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Moreno on October 27, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between August 24, 2017, and July 31, 2021, in Todd County, South Dakota, Paxton knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, a sexual act with a child under the age of 12. The indictment further alleges that between May 29, 1988, and March 19, 1992, in Todd County, Paxton knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, sexual acts or sexual contact with three other children, who were under the age of 12.
The charges are merely accusations and Paxton is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Paxton was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has been set for December 13, 2022.
McLaughlin Man Found Not Guilty of Assault and Threatening Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man was acquitted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, and Threatening a Federal Law Enforcement Officer.
Richard Todd Steele, age 42, was indicted by a federal grand jury in September of 2021.
The charges related to an alleged incident that occurred on June 13, 2021, in Corson County, South Dakota.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, Standing Rock Agency, and the U.S. Attorney's Office prosecuted the case.
Lower Brule Woman Sentenced for Assault of a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assaulting a Federal Officer was sentenced on November 1, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Chassidy Crazy Bull, age 20, was sentenced to seven months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, $7,968.10 in restitution, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Crazy Bull was indicted for Assaulting a Federal Officer by a federal grand jury in March of 2022. She pleaded guilty on July 19, 2022.
On September 21, 2021, Crazy Bull went on a 15-minute-high speed chase with Bureau of Indian Affairs law enforcement through the communities of Lower Brule and West Brule, South Dakota. At the end of the pursuit, Crazy Bull rammed her vehicle into the patrol vehicle of one of the officers involved in the pursuit. The officer suffered a knee injury.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Lower Brule Agency and Crow Creek Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Crazy Bull was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Brothers from Pine Ridge Reservation Found Guilty of KidnappingRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a federal trial jury has convicted Jesse Sierra, a/k/a Jesse Sierro, age 37, of Oglala, South Dakota, of Kidnapping, two counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force, Interstate Domestic Violence, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, and Assault by Strangulation of a Dating Partner following a five-day federal trial in Rapid City, South Dakota. The jury also convicted Jesse Sierra’s brother, Dustin Sierra, a/k/a Dustin Sierro, age 38, also of Oglala, of Kidnapping and Interstate Domestic Violence. The verdicts were returned on October 28, 2022.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for each count of conviction.
The Sierras were indicted by a federal grand jury in August of 2019.
Evidence at the trial established Jesse Sierra traveled to the female victim’s place of employment in July 2019, and convinced her to leave with him and his brother, Dustin. When the Sierra brothers began driving the female to the Pine Ridge Reservation, then against her will, the female attempted to jump out of the vehicle. Jesse Sierra wrapped his arm around her neck and strangled her to a point of unconsciousness. Each time the female regained consciousness, Sierra strangled her again. Between July 13, 2019, and July 17, 2019, the Sierra brothers 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 drove Jesse and the female to Chadron, Nebraska, and hid her in a motel. On July 21, 2019, Jesse dropped her off at the hospital 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, Box Elder Police Department, Dawes County Sheriff’s Office, Chadron Police Department, and Nebraska State Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Heather Sazama and Kelsey Blair prosecuted the case.
Presentence investigations were ordered and sentencing dates were set for January 27, 2023. The defendants were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
U.S. Attorney Alison Ramsdell Appoints District Election Officer to Oversee Election Day ComplaintsRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) Ann Hoffman will lead the efforts of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 8, 2022, general election. AUSA Hoffman has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the District of South Dakota and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
“Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said U.S. Attorney Ramsdell. “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process, and we ask that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to our office.”
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals, and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
AUSA/DEO Hoffman will be on duty in the District of South Dakota while the polls are open. She can be reached by the public at (605) 357-2363. In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (605) 334-6881.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ .
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
Two Defendants Arrested for Role in Aggravated AssaultRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that two South Dakotan men have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
Cody Nicolas Gill, age 32, and Jesse Burton Robert Hopkins, Sr., a/k/a JJ, age 35, were indicted in October of 2022. Each appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on October 25, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction for each count 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 and forfeiture may also be ordered.
According to the Indictment, in late July of 2022, in Day County, South Dakota, Gill and Hopkins committed an aggravated assault against the victim. The victim sustained serious bodily injuries as a result of the assault.
The charges are merely accusations, and Gill and Hopkins are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI and the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Sioux Tribe’s Law Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
Both defendants were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date of December 27, 2022, has been set.
Three Individuals Charged in MurderRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that three Pine Ridge, South Dakota, men have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Second Degree Murder – Aiding and Abetting.
Lance Wahokiza Red Cloud, age 27, Vine Phillipe Hayes, age 47, and Michael Red Cloud, age 30, were indicted in September of 2022. All three men appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is life in prison 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 charges relate to Lance Red Cloud, Vine Hayes, and Michael Red Cloud beating a man to death in November of 2021, at Pine Ridge, South Dakota.
The charge is merely an accusation, and all three men are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins is prosecuting the case.
Lance Red Cloud, Vine Hayes, and Michael Red Cloud were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mobridge Man Charged with Using the Mail to Import Controlled Substances to Distribute in a Drug Conspiracy and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mobridge, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances, Use of a Communication Facility in the Commission of a Drug Trafficking Crime, Importation of a Controlled Substance, and Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm.
Dana Aman, age 53, was indicted in October of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on October 24, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in custody and/or a $1,000,000 fine, at least three years up to life of supervised release, and $500 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges between January of 2020 and March of 2021, Aman used the U.S. Postal Service to illegally import various controlled substances that he then helped distribute. The Indictment further alleges that Aman, a drug user, illegally possessed firearms.
The charges are merely accusations and Aman is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Services, Homeland Security Investigations, and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Aman was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Kentucky Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a Elizabethtown, Kentucky, man convicted of Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on October 25, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Michael Ray Wilkes, 64, was sentenced to three years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Wilkes was also 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. Wilkes will be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Wilkes was indicted for Transportation of Child Pornography, Receipt of Child Pornography, and Possession of Child Pornography by a federal grand jury in March of 2022. He pleaded guilty on August 1, 2022.
Wilkes was arrested and federally indicted following an online investigation on the BitTorrent networks looking for offenders sharing child pornography. Videos located were linked to Wilkes IP address. Forensic examination of Wilkes’ devices found images of child pornography, which he knowingly downloaded off the BitTorrent networks.
This case was investigated by the Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.
Wilkes was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Four Defendants Arrested in Virginia and Texas for Role in ATM LarcenyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that four Houston, Texas- based men have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Bank Larceny and Transportation of Stolen Property or Money.
Kytorrion Young, age 30, Keivon Jones, age 25, Kendrick Kennedy, age 23, and Alton Himes, age 24, were indicted in September of 2022. Young, Kennedy, and Himes were arrested in Virginia and appeared there before a U.S. Magistrate Judge on October 7, 2022, pleading not guilty to the Indictment. Jones was arrested in Texas and appeared there before a U.S. Magistrate Judge on October 25, 2022, pleading not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction for each count 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 and forfeiture may also be ordered.
According to the Indictment, in early December of 2021, Young, Jones, Kennedy, and Himes took and carried away money exceeding $1,000 in value belonging to and in the care, custody, control, management, and possession of the Dakotaland Federal Credit Union. Dakotaland Federal Credit Union’s deposits are insured by the National Credit Union Administration. After the larceny, the defendants then transported the stolen money across state lines.
The charges are merely accusations, and each defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
Each defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service for transport to and for further court appearance in the District of South Dakota. A trial date has not been set.
Watertown Woman Charged with Wire FraudRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Watertown, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for 13 counts of Wire Fraud.
Reva Plunkett, age 36, was indicted in October of 2022. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on October 20, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and up to $1,300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about January 2015 and continuing through February 2022, Reva Plunkett, who was the bookkeeper for Doug’s Anchor Marine, Inc., and for Brotherhood Arms, businesses located in Watertown, South Dakota, devised and intended to devise a scheme and artifice to defraud and to obtain money and property from others by means of false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises.
In Plunkett’s capacity as bookkeeper for each business, she was responsible for managing and reconciling various business accounts. Plunkett’s duties included writing checks to pay for business expenses, such as payroll and vendor payments.
On multiple occasions during the relevant time periods, Plunkett falsely and fraudulently wrote checks payable to herself that were drawn on business accounts belonging to Doug’s Anchor Marine, Inc. and Brotherhood Arms. These checks were not for her wages or salary, nor were they for any other legitimate purpose. Plunkett also deposited the checks into her account and used the funds for her own purposes. Plunkett disguised her theft by falsely and fraudulently recording in the businesses’ accounting system that the checks were payable to vendors, which made the checks appear to be legitimate business expenses. She also falsely and fraudulently adjusted the business inventory to make it appear that the money was actually spent on products for the businesses.
The charges are merely accusations and Plunkett is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI and the Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman is prosecuting the case.
Plunkett was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Yankton Man Sentenced to over 12 1/2 Years on Fentanyl Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a Yankton, South Dakota man convicted of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance was sentenced on October 17, 2022, by District Court Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Ronald D. Minniefield, a/k/a “Zareef Al-amin,” a/k/a “Chicago,” a/k/a “Black,” a/k/a “King,” a/k/a “KO,” 52, was sentenced to 12 years and 7 months in federal prison followed by 5 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Minniefield was indicted for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance by a federal grand jury in June of 2021. He pleaded guilty on April 15, 2022.
Minniefield and his co-conspirators knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed together, with others known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Minniefield was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Indicted for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failing to Register as a Sex Offender.
Gary Lewis Halfe, a/k/a Gary Redstone, age 66, was indicted in August of 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on October 19, 2022, 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, a minimum of five years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Between February 2020 and May 2020, in Rapid City, Halfe failed to register as a sex offender as required of him under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
The charge is merely an accusation and Halfe is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the United States Marshal Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Halfe was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mission Man Sentenced for EscapeRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a Mission, South Dakota man convicted of Escape from Custody was sentenced on October 14, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.
Steven Burning Breast, 26, was sentenced to four months in federal prison and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Steven Burning Breast was indicted for Escape from Custody by a federal grand jury in August 2022. He pleaded guilty on September 2, 2022.
Burning Breast was in Bureau of Prisons custody serving a sentence for Involuntary Manslaughter. 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 from the facility without permission and was found in Rapid City a few days later. His sentence in this case will be served consecutively to the time remaining on his Involuntary Manslaughter sentence.
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Burning Breast was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Justice Department Files Lawsuit Challenging Policy Barring Native Americans from Accessing South Dakota Hotel and Sports LoungeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Justice Department filed a lawsuit today against the owners and operators of the Grand Gateway Hotel, and the Cheers Sports Lounge and Casino, a sports bar that operates within the hotel, located in Rapid City, South Dakota. The lawsuit alleges that the defendants discriminated against Native American customers in violation of Title II of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion or national origin in places of public accommodation, such as hotels and other places of entertainment. The suit is brought against the corporate owner, Retsel Corporation, and two of the company’s directors, Connie Uhre and her son, Nicholas Uhre.
“Policies prohibiting Native Americans from accessing public establishments are both racially discriminatory and unlawful,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department will continue to vigorously protect the rights of all people to go about their daily lives free from discrimination at hotels, restaurants, and other public accommodations around the country.”
“Restricting access to a hotel based on a person’s race is prohibited by federal law,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell for the District of South Dakota. “At the U.S. Attorney’s Office, we are called to ensure that individuals are treated equally at public accommodations in South Dakota. We are committed to protecting that fundamental right for Native Americans.”
The lawsuit, filed today in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Dakota, alleges that, since at least March 20, the Retsel Corporation, Connie Uhre and Nicholas Uhre discriminated against Native American customers through policies and practices that denied Native Americans the full and equal enjoyment of access to the services, accommodations and privileges at the Grand Gateway Hotel and the Cheers Sports Lounge and Casino.
Specifically, the complaint alleges that on March 20, Connie Uhre told other Rapid City hotel owners and managers that she did “not want to allow Natives on property. . . . The problem is we do not know the nice ones from the bad natives…so we just have to say no to them!” That same day, the complaint alleges, Ms. Uhre posted a statement in a comment thread from her Facebook account announcing that “we will no longer allow any Native American [sic]” in the Grand Gateway or in the Cheers Sports Lounge and Casino. The complaint further alleges that on at least two occasions on March 21 and March 22, respectively, the defendants turned away Native Americans who sought to book a room in the Grand Gateway.
Under Title II, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division can obtain injunctive relief that changes policies and practices to remedy the discriminatory conduct. Title II does not authorize the division to obtain monetary damages for customers who are victims of discrimination.
More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at http://www.justice.gov/crt. Individuals may report discrimination in places of public accommodation that violates Title II by calling the Justice Department at 1-833-591-0291, or submitting a report online.
The complaint contains allegations of unlawful conduct, and the allegations must be proven in federal court.
Eagle Butte Man Indicted for Prohibited Person in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm.
Anthony Lawrence Collins, Sr., age 39, was indicted in October of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on October 13, 2022 and pleaded not guilty.
The maximum penalty upon conviction for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm is 10 years in federal prison 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 Collins unlawfully possessed a firearm on March 12, 2021 and on July 23, 2022. Both incidents occurred in Dewey County, South Dakota.
These charges are merely accusations and Collins is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem is prosecuting the case.
Collins has been remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending further hearing
Mission Man Found Not Guilty of Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man was acquitted of Sexual Abuse as a result of a federal jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota, on October 14, 2022.
Buddy Robert Poor Bear, a/k/a Bud Poor Bear, age 56, was indicted by a federal grand jury in July of 2021.
The charge related to an alleged incident that occurred on April 15, 2021, in Todd County, South Dakota.
The investigation was conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the U.S. Attorney's Office prosecuted the case.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on October 11, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Jordan Traversie, 32, was sentenced to two years and three 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.
Traversie was indicted for Failing to Register as a Sex Offender by a federal grand jury in April of 2022. He pleaded guilty on June 24, 2022.
Traversie was previously convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor. As a result of this conviction, Traversie is required to register his address in accordance with the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. Traversie was living in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and failed to properly register his address as required.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Traversie was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Adrian Fast Dog, age 42, was indicted in August of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Moreno on October 14, 2022, 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, up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about between June 21, 2022, and July 26, 2022, in the District of South Dakota, Adrian Fast Dog, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of a conviction under federal law, knowingly failed to register and update his registration.
The charge is merely an accusation and Fast Dog is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service and Sioux Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler is prosecuting the case.
Fast Dog was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Indicted on Drug and Firearm Ammunition ChargesRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of Ammunition by a Prohibited Person and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Travis Maho, age 34, was indicted in September of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on October 7, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in custody and/or a $1,000,000 fine, lifetime supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
In June of 2022, in Rapid City, Maho, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition, possessed several types of firearm ammunition as well as methamphetamine, which was found after Maho 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.
The charges are merely an accusation and Maho is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Maho was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Yankton Woman Charged with Tampering with Consumer Products and Obtaining a Controlled Substance by FraudRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Yankton, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for two counts of Tampering with Consumer Products and two counts of Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Misrepresentation, Fraud, Forgery, Deception, and Subterfuge.
Lisa Merrigan, age 54, was indicted in October of 2022. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on October 6, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and up to $400 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Counts one and two of the Indictment allege that on August 23, 2021, and September 7, 2021, Merrigan, who was working as a registered nurse in a hospital, tampered with vials of fentanyl citrate for injection stored inside the hospital’s Omnicell machine by removing the fentanyl citrate from the vials and replacing them with another liquid, knowing that the diluted fentanyl citrate could be dispensed to patients at the hospital.
Counts three and four of the Indictment allege that on August 23, 2021, and September 7, 2021, Merrigan knowingly and intentionally acquired and obtained fentanyl citrate, a Schedule II controlled substance, for injections by misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, deception, and subterfuge.
The charges are merely accusations and Merrigan is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman is prosecuting the case.
Merrigan was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Wakonda Man Charged with Theft in Connection with Health Care and Obtaining a Controlled Substance by MisrepresentationRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Wakonda, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for one count of Theft in Connection with Health Care and three counts of Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Misrepresentation, Fraud, Forgery, Deception, and Subterfuge.
Cody Carstensen, age 46, was indicted in October of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on October 5, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and up to $400 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Count one of the Indictment alleges that between June 2019 and February 2022, Carstensen knowingly and willfully embezzled, stole, and converted without authority to the use of any person other than the rightful owner hydrocodone, oxymorphone, oxycontin, oxycodone, and morphine valued at more than $100.
Count two of the Indictment alleges that between June 13, 2020, and May 22, 2021, Carstensen knowingly and intentionally acquired and obtained hydrocodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, by misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, deception, and subterfuge.
Count three of the Indictment alleges that between July 22, 2020, and December 15, 2020, Carstensen knowingly and intentionally acquired and obtained morphine, a Schedule II controlled substance, by misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, deception, and subterfuge.
Count four of the Indictment alleges that between April 2, 2020, and December 16, 2021, Carstensen knowingly and intentionally acquired and obtained oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, by misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, deception, and subterfuge.
The charges are merely accusations and Carstensen is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by DEA and DCI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman is prosecuting the case.
Carstensen was released on bond pending trial which has been set for December 13, 2022.
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Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Making False StatementsRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of two counts of Making False Statements in Connection with the Purchases of Firearms was sentenced on September 28, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Lawrence L. Piersol.
Jayden Guenther, age 20, was sentenced to five years of probation on each count to run concurrently and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Guenther was indicted by a federal grand jury in March of 2022. He pled guilty on July 27, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from incidents on May 6, 2021 and again on August 27, 2021, when Guenther asked two individuals to purchase two new Glock 9mm handguns for him. Guenther was not old enough to purchase the pistols, so he paid both individuals to purchase the guns for him.
Each firearm had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce before Guenther possessed them.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Rapid City Man Indicted on Firearm and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, and False Statement During Purchase of a Firearm.
Marshall Gibbons, age 22, was indicted in September of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on October 5, 2022, 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.
Between January 2021 and January 2022, in Rapid City, Gibbons, while conspiring to distribute marijuana, was in possession of a Glock 9mm pistol. Gibbons also made a false written statement while trying to purchase another firearm.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The charges are merely an accusation and Gibbons is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Gibbons was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Indicted for Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Dustin Huseby, age 24, was indicted in September of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on October 5, 2022, 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.
In May of 2022, in Rapid City, Huseby, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, possessed a Smith & Wesson, model M&P 9 M2.0, 9x19mm Luger caliber, which was found after Huseby 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.
The charge is merely an accusation and Huseby is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Huseby was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Greenwood Man Charged with Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Greenwood, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
Noah One Star, age 62, was indicted in September of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on October 4, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison 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 between March 30, 2021, and April 3, 2021, One Star, who had been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding a year, knowingly possessed a High Standard Sporting Firearms, model Sentinel Mark IV, .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) caliber, double-action revolver, bearing serial number S31420 and rounds of Western brand .22 WMR ammunition. All had previously been shipped and transported in interstate and foreign commerce.
The charge is merely an accusation and One Star is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI, the Yankton Sioux Law Enforcement, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman is prosecuting the case.
One Star was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
South Dakota Takes Part in the United States Department of Justice’s Wide-Ranging Efforts to Protect Older AdultsRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS – The Justice Department has announced the results of its efforts over the past year to protect older adults from fraud and exploitation. During the past year, the Department and its law enforcement partners tackled matters that ranged from mass-marketing scams that impacted thousands of victims to bad actors scamming their neighbors. Substantial efforts were also made over the last year to return money to fraud victims. This week, the Department also announced it is expanding its Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force to amplify efforts to combat scams originating overseas.
“We are intensifying our efforts nationwide to protect older adults, including by more than tripling the number of U.S. Attorneys’ offices participating in our Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force dedicated to disrupting, dismantling and prosecuting foreign-based fraud schemes that target American seniors,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “This expansion builds on the Justice Department’s existing work to hold accountable those who steal funds from older adults, including by returning those funds to the victims where possible.”
“Crimes that target older Americans are among the most deplorable. We take very seriously any allegations that older South Dakotans have been targeted. These crimes take many forms, often through mass-marketing scams, lottery schemes, or other false claims designed to gain access to financial accounts,” South Dakota U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell said. “Our office, in conjunction with our partner investigating agencies, is committed to finding these criminals and bringing them to justice.”
During the past year, Department personnel and its law enforcement partners pursued approximately 260 cases involving more than 600 defendants across the nation, both bringing new cases and advancing those previously charged.
This past year, the South Dakota U.S. Attorney’s Office has prosecuted and civilly pursued various cases in which older Americans were targeted. In one, Nathan Peachey and John Rick Winer were prosecuted along with several co-conspirators for a sophisticated scheme that robbed victims of their life savings, retirement income, and other funds. They lied to their victims with claims that they were investing funds that were to be used for charitable and humanitarian projects. Instead, the money was stolen and laundered through a network of entities and banks around the world. Peachey was sentenced to 25 years, and Winer was sentenced to nearly 22 years in federal prison. They were also ordered to pay approximately $11 million in restitution.
In another case, the South Dakota U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted Robert “Larry” Lytle and two conspirators for marketing and selling fraudulent medical devices, often to older Americans, falsely promising that they were cure-alls for virtually every ailment. Lytle was sentenced to 12 years, Ronald D. Weir, Jr., was sentenced to 2 years, and Irina Kossovskaia was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison. They were ordered to pay millions in restitution to hundreds of victims. Those prison sentences were handed down in 2018, and the South Dakota U.S. Attorney’s Office has continued to vigorously pursue collection efforts. In recent months, $1,222,075 was received from various members of Lytle’s family after litigation commenced targeting assets that were transferred by Lytle to his family or their business entities. To date, $2,305,893.52 has been recovered to repay victims.
As part of the South Dakota U.S. Attorney’s Office’s elder fraud efforts, it engages in outreach to the community and industry to raise awareness about scams and exploitation and preventing victimization.
Nationally, the Department has highlighted three other efforts: the expansion of the Transnational Elder Fraud Task Force, success in returning money to victims, and efforts to combat grandparent scams. With regard to the Department’s continuing efforts to protect older adults and bring perpetrators of fraud schemes to justice, the Department is expanding the Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force by adding 14 new U.S. Attorney’s Offices to the effort. Expansion of the Strike Force will help to coordinate the Department’s ongoing efforts to combat largest and most harmful fraud schemes that target or disproportionately impact older adults.
In the past year, the Department hs notified over 550,000 people that they may be eligible for remission payments. Notifications were made to consumers whose information was sold by one of three data companies prosecuted by the Department and were later victims of “sweepstakes” or “astrology” solicitations that falsely promised prizes or individualized services in return for a fee. More than 150,000 of those victims cashed checks totaling $52 million, and thousands more are eligible to receive checks. Also notified were consumers who paid fraudsters perpetrating person-in-need scams and job scams via Western Union. In the past year, the Department has identified and contacted over 300,000 consumers who may be eligible for remission. Since March of 2020 more than 148,000 victims have received more than $366 million as a result of a 2017 criminal resolution with Western Union for the company’s willful failure to maintain an effective anti-money laundering program and its aiding and abetting of wire fraud.
Over the past year, the Department pursued cases against the perpetrators of “grandparent scams,” otherwise known as “person-in-need scams.” These scams typically begin when a fraudster, often based overseas, contacts an older adult and poses as either a grandchild, other family member, or someone calling on behalf of a family member. Call recipients are told that their family member is in jeopardy and is urgently in need of money. When recently sentencing one of eight perpetrators of a grandparent scam indicted under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, a federal judge described such scams “heartbreakingly evil.” The Department is working with government partners and others to raise awareness about these schemes.
Reporting from consumers about fraud and fraud attempts is critical to law enforcement’s efforts to investigate and prosecute schemes targeting older adults. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is available at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833 FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Department of Justice Hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting or connect them with agencies, and provide resources and referrals on a case-by-case basis. The hotline is staffed seven days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. [ET]. English, Spanish, and other languages are available. More information about the Department’s elder justice efforts can be found on the Department’s Elder Justice website, www.elderjustice.gov.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for EscapeRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Escape from Custody was sentenced on September 27, 2022, by 8th Circuit Judge Jonathan A. Kobes, sitting in U.S. District Court.
James Charger, 25, was sentenced to eight months in federal prison and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Charger was indicted for Escape from Custody by a federal grand jury in April of 2022. He pleaded guilty on June 21, 2022
Charger was in Bureau of Prisons custody serving a sentence for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. 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 outside of Rapid City a few weeks later.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Charger was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Indicted for Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
William Scott, age 31, was indicted in September of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on October 3, 2022, 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.
In February of 2022, at Rapid City, Scott, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, did knowingly possess an Iberia Firearms Incorporated, Hi-Point brand name, model JCP, .40 Smith & Wesson caliber, semi-automatic pistol, which was found after Scott 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.
The charge is merely an accusation and Scott is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by ATF and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Scott was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Box Elder Man Indicted for Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Box Elder, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Mario Moran, age 19, was indicted in September of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on October 3, 2022, 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.
In July of 2022, near Sturgis, South Dakota, Moran, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, possessed a Hi-Point, model CF380, .380 AUTO caliber, semi-automatic pistol, which was found after Moran 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.
The charge is merely an accusation and Moran is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the ATF and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Moran was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
North Carolina Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Defraud the United States and Attempts to Interfere with Administration of Internal Revenue LawsRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a Burgaw, North Carolina, man convicted of Conspiracy to Defraud the United States and Attempts to Interfere with Administration of Internal Revenue Laws was sentenced on September 26, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Lawrence L. Piersol.
Randy L. Garriss, age 68, was sentenced to three years on Count one, and 12 months and a day on Count two, in federal prison, to be served concurrently. Garriss was also sentenced to three years of supervised release on Count one and one year of supervised release on Count two, also to be served concurrently. A special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund was ordered in the amount of $200.
Garriss was indicted by a federal grand jury in July of 2017. A jury trial in June of 2022 convicted Garriss on both Counts.
The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning in April of 2004 when Theodore Nelson and his son, Steven Nelson, created over 25 sham trusts to hide their income and assets from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), thus evading the assessment and payment of federal income taxes. The Nelsons used forms created by Garriss’ co-defendant Loren Brown. The trusts were designed, in part, to make it difficult for the IRS to determine the Nelsons’ federal income tax liability. The Nelsons appointed John Sheridan and Loren Brown as trustees and successor trustees for the trusts until Sheridan’s death in 2011. Garriss then took over after Sheridan passed away. In this manner, the Nelsons were able to put many layers between themselves and their assets/income. Garriss’ and Brown’s agreement to act as successor trustees helped the Nelsons hide their income and assets from the IRS.
The Nelsons reside in Letcher, South Dakota. Garriss and Brown acted as signors for South Dakota bank accounts associated with the Nelson trusts and performed most of their actions on behalf of the Nelsons’ tax evasion in South Dakota.
Among other acts, Garriss and Brown corruptly endeavored to obstruct and impede the due administration of the internal revenue laws by mailing to the IRS a Protest and Demand for Administrative Review on behalf of the Nelsons. Garriss signed on his own behalf and that of Brown as trustees for Steve Nelson and the Nelsons’ trusts. The letter was received by the IRS on January 5, 2016.
This case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.
Garriss has been allowed to self-report by October 17, 2022.
Minnesota Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Marshall, Minnesota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on September 26, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Jeremy Allan Anspach, age 46, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, followed by life on supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Anspach was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in September of 2021. He pleaded guilty on June 27, 2022.
Anspach knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed together, with others, to knowingly and intentionally distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine in the state of South Dakota and elsewhere. During his involvement in this conspiracy, he assisted in the transportation of multiple pounds of methamphetamine from Arizona, California, and other states, into South Dakota. Anspach sold multiple of ounces of methamphetamine to undercover agents during this investigation.
This case was investigated by the FBI, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the Brown-Lyon-Redwood-Renville Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Anspach was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rosebud Woman Indicted for Second Degree MurderRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Second Degree Murder.
Lucy Medicine Eagle, age 31, was indicted in June of 2022. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollman on September 27, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life 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 March 28, 2022, at Rosebud, in Todd County, South Dakota, Medicine Eagle killed a man by assaulting him and striking him in the head.
The charge is merely an accusation and Medicine Eagle is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler is prosecuting the case.
Medicine Eagle was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for 17 Years for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on September 12, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.
Amber Ashlin, age 33, was sentenced to 17 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.
Ashlin was indicted by a federal grand jury in January of 2022 and pleaded guilty in June of 2022. The conviction stems from Ashlin conspiring with others to distribute multiple pounds of methamphetamine in and around Rapid City between January 2018 and December 2021.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team, the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, the South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigation, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Ashlin was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Indicted for LarcenyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Larceny.
Dustin Gallegos, Jr., age 25, was indicted in May of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on September 27, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to five years in federal prison 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 March 7, 2022, in Todd County, South Dakota, Gallegos stole personal property with a value of more than $1,000.
The charge is merely an accusation and Gallegos 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 Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Gallegos was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Chadron Man Found Guilty of Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that William Bear Robe, age 39, of Chadron, Nebraska, was found guilty of Abusive Sexual Contact following a federal jury trial in Rapid City, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on September 22, 2022.
The charge carries a maximum penalty of life in custody, a $250,000 fine, and a lifetime term of supervised release.
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.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date will be set. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Bullhead Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a Bullhead, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on September 26, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Eric Paul Archambault, age 33, was sentenced to 40 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Archambault was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in October of 2021. He pleaded guilty on June 27, 2022.
Between 2018 and 2020, Archambault knowingly conspired with others to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation in South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the FBI, the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Corson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, Standing Rock Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Archambault was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.