District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Box Elder Woman Sentenced to 10 Years for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Box Elder, South Dakota woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on September 7, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.
Alexandria Warner, 29, 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.
Alexandria Warner was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in February of 2022. She pleaded guilty on June 17, 2022.
Warner assisted a co-conspirator in distributing between 500 grams and 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine upon its arrival in the Rapid City area. The methamphetamine was distributed to others for use and further distribution. Warner also collected money for methamphetamine that she provided to her co-conspirator, who is currently awaiting trial.
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET), Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. 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. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Warner was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
St. Francis Woman Sentenced on Meth ChargesRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a St. Francis, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on September 23, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Iverina Crow Eagle, 44, was sentenced to seven years and six months in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Crow Eagle was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in October of 2020. She pleaded guilty to the offense on June 2, 2022.
From January 2018 to February 2021, Crow Eagle was involved in a conspiracy with several other individuals to distribute methamphetamine on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. Over 500 grams of methamphetamine was distributed by Crow Eagle during the course of the conspiracy.
This case was investigated by Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Crow Eagle was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
South Dakota Women Indicted for Meth and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that two South Dakota women have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, and Firearm charges.
Sarah Jahner Clifford, of Gettysburg, South Dakota, age 44, was indicted in September of 2022. She appeared before Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 21, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
Tara Roberts, of Ridgeview, South Dakota, age 45, was indicted in September of 2022. She appeared before Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 19, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in custody, and/or a $10,000,000 fine, lifetime of supervised release, and $400 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that the two women were involved in a conspiracy to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine in and around central South Dakota. The Indictment further alleges that Jahner-Clifford, who is a prohibited person, was illegally in possession of two firearms, including a short-barrel shotgun.
The charges are merely an accusation and Jahner-Clifford and Roberts are 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 Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Roberts was released on bond pending trial. Jahner-Clifford was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. A trial date has been sent for November 15, 2022.
Sioux Falls Man Arrested for Role in Bank Fraud & Money Laundering ConspiraciesRead 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 Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments.
Cameron Terrill Hardiman, age 42, was indicted in September of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 21, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Superseding Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to up to 30 years in custody for Bank Fraud Conspiracy, 20 years in custody for Money Laundering Conspiracy, 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 Superseding Indictment, in 2020 and continuing until April 2022, Hardiman and others conspired and agreed to knowingly conduct and attempt to conduct bank fraud and financial transactions affecting interstate commerce. Specifically, Hardiman and others knowingly conspired to defraud multiple financial institutions throughout the Sioux Falls area and elsewhere and to obtain funds by means of false or fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises.
After obtaining funds through fraud, it is alleged that Hardiman and others engaged in depositing, transferring, wiring, and withdrawing the funds at financial institutions. It is alleged they knew the transactions were designed in whole or in part to conceal and disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, or control of the proceeds of the fraud scheme and that the funds involved represented the proceeds of unlawful activity.
The charges are merely accusations and Hardiman is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the following agencies: IRS Criminal Investigation; DHS – HSI; SFPD; SD Highway Patrol; and USPS.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
Hardiman was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date of November 29, 2022, has been set.
Rapid City Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Benjamen T. Flute, a/k/a Benjamin T. Flute, age 43, was indicted in September of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 20, 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, five years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Flute was convicted of Second Degree Rape in December of 2007. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. It is alleged that between August 12, 2022, and August 25, 2022, Flute, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under State Law, and having traveled in interstate commerce, failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration.
The charge is merely an accusation and Flute 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. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Flute 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 Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Roy Brushbreaker, III, age 28, was indicted in September of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 20, 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, five years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Brushbreaker was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in April 2019. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. It is alleged that between July 20, 2022, and August 19, 2022, Brushbreaker a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under Federal Law, failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration.
The charge is merely an accusation and Brushbreaker 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 the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Brushbreaker was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Pierre Man Indicted for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm.
Cody Dewell, age 33, was indicted in July of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 20, 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 on May 25, 2022, Dewell, being a convicted felon and an unlawful user of a controlled substance, knowingly possessed a firearm.
The charge is merely an accusation and Dewell 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 Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Dewell was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mission Man Sentenced on Cocaine and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a Mission, South Dakota man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine, Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm, and Failure to Appear was sentenced on September 23, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Blade Ryan Marshall, 25, was sentenced to 10 years and 10 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and ordered to pay a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Marshall was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm by a federal grand jury in October of 2020. Marshall was released on bond and then failed to appear for his jury trial in January of 2022. Marshall was indicted for Failure to Appear by a federal grand jury in February 2022. He pleaded guilty to all the offenses on June 21, 2022.
From January 2017 to March 2018, Marshall was involved in a conspiracy with at least seven other individuals to distribute cocaine, marijuana, and other drugs Marshall received in Colorado to individuals on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. As part of that conspiracy Marshall possessed firearms. Being a drug user, Marshall was prohibited from possessing firearms.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Marshall was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Frank White Thunder, age 35, was indicted in September of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 20, 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, five years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
White Thunder was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in April 2008. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. It is alleged that between April 12, 2022, and August 13, 2022, White Thunder, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under Federal Law, failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration.
The charge is merely an accusation and White Thunder 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 the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
White Thunder was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury was sentenced on September 22, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Melvin Semon, age 55, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Semon was indicted by a federal grand jury in April of 2022. He pleaded guilty on June 16, 2022.
On the evening of January 3, 2022, Semon became angry with the victim in their Eagle Butte home. He hit her and threw her against the kitchen chairs or table, breaking her right arm. Rather than assisting her, he departed. Responding officers found the victim sitting on the kitchen floor, crying and clutching her right arm. She required extensive reconstructive surgery to reset the bone and will likely never regain full function of her arm.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
Semon was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Indicted for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
Dominic Houston, age 24, was indicted in September of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 20, 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 on August 17, 2022, Houston, being a convicted felon, knowingly possessed a firearm.
The charge is merely an accusation and Houston 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 Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Houston was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Lower Brule Man Returns to Federal Prison for over 33 Years for Leading a Meth and Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering was sentenced on July 25, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Canbie Ryan Thompson, age 45, was sentenced to 400 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Thompson was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering by a federal grand jury in July of 2021. He pleaded guilty on May 5, 2022.
From December 2020 until on or about March 2021, Thompson reached an agreement to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere. On March 23, 2021, Thompson was transporting 4,989 grams of methamphetamine and was lawfully stopped and searched by police. During the search the police located and seized the 4,989 grams of methamphetamine. Thompson was also responsible for transporting and delivering other quantities of methamphetamine for further distribution.
Additionally, beginning in January of 2018, Thompson intentionally conspired to knowingly conduct and attempt to conduct financial transactions affecting interstate and foreign commerce, to wit: depositing U.S Currency at financial institutions and conducting wire/money transfers, which involved the proceeds of a specified unlawful activity, that is, conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, with the intent to promote the carrying on of the unlawful activity, and that while conducting and attempting to conduct such financial transactions knew that the property involved in the financial transactions represented the proceeds of some form of unlawful activity. In that manner, Thompson, along with his co-conspirators, wired funds derived from the sale of methamphetamine by utilizing various financial institutions on behalf of the conspiracy. Thompson had bulk currency deposited into his Wells Fargo account, wired/sent thousands of dollars to co-conspirators, and sent money across state lines from South Dakota to California. Thompson attempted to conceal the fact that the money was acquired from the sale of methamphetamine.
Thompson had an obstruction of justice sentencing enhancement because after being indicted, he obtained discovery information from the case and disseminated it to an unauthorized individual. The dissemination of that discovery impeded the investigation and prosecution of the case by making the name of a cooperating witness public.
Thompson was previously convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance in South Dakota in 2010, for which he was sentenced to 63 months.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, IRS Criminal Investigation, 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.
Thompson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Former Tribal IT Director Sentenced in Federal Court for Roles in Bribery SchemeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Florida man convicted of Bribery Concerning Programs Receiving Federal Funds, was sentenced on September 12, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Sven Schreiber, age 54, was sentenced to 12 months and one day in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and a $15,000 fine. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Schreiber was indicted for Bribery Concerning Programs Receiving Federal Funds by a federal grand jury in May of 2021. Schreiber pled guilty on May 23, 2022.
Schreiber’s co-defendant, Arnaldo Piccinelli, was also charged, and he pled guilty to Embezzlement from an Indian Tribal Organization on May 19, 2022. Piccinelli was sentenced to two years of probation.
According to court documents, in or around December 2015, Schreiber became the Director of the Information Technology Department of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. Schreiber’s duties included serving as the Tribe’s primary contact with outside vendors and generating bids, contracts, and agreements relating to the work of the Tribe’s Information Technology Department.
On behalf of the Tribe, Schreiber contracted with Piccinelli to provide information technology services on a contract basis with the Tribe. Schreiber served as Piccinelli’s point of contact regarding all of the contracts with the Tribe. The Tribe paid Piccinelli or his company, Hexagon Code, Incorporated, at the direction of Schreiber. At some time after Piccinelli entered into the contract, Schreiber solicited Defendant Piccinelli for money. As a result, Defendant Schreiber received cash payments of approximately $15,000.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
Schreiber must self-report to the institution designated or the U.S. Marshals Office by 2:00pm on November 15, 2022.
This case was brought pursuant to the Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities. The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include: the FBI; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; IRS Criminal Investigation; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and the U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
For additional information about the Guardians Project, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (605) 330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
Tabor Man Pleads Guilty in Federal Court to Wire FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that Steven Joseph Bares, age 53, of Tabor, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier on September 13, 2022, and pleaded guilty to an Information that charged him with wire fraud.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine; three years of supervised release, a violation of any condition of release could result in two years of additional custody on any such revocation; $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund; and restitution.
Bares willfully and unlawfully devised and intended to devise a scheme and artifice to defraud and obtain money and property from two parishes by false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises.
Saint Wenceslaus Parish in Tabor, South Dakota, and Saint John the Baptist Parish in Lesterville, South Dakota, are two small Catholic parishes located in rural South Dakota towns. The churches shared a single priest. The only administrative staff at the churches was Bares, who primarily worked as the bookkeeper. In that capacity, Bares wrote checks to pay bills and entered checks in the general ledges.
In May 2021, the Sioux Falls Catholic Diocese, on behalf of the above-named parishes, hired an accounting firm to conduct a forensic audit. The audit uncovered multiple checks made out to companies belonging to Bares that did not correspond to any service or equipment purchased from those companies. Furthermore, these checks were neither entered in the general ledger nor entered as a legitimate expense.
Between January 2013 and March 2020, Bares embezzled money from two Parishes, totaling $324,001.37. The investigation confirmed that the checks identified in the audit report were deposited into accounts held by Bares.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for December 12, 2022. The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced in Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on September 12, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Oleg Vasiliyvich Manuylo, age 30, was sentenced to 10 years and one month in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Manuylo was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in December of 2021. He pleaded guilty on June 27, 2022.
Manuylo knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed together, with others known and unknown, to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in the state of South Dakota and elsewhere.
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.
Manuylo was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Production of Child Pornography was sentenced on September 12, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Jeremy James Konda, age 49, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Konda was indicted by a federal grand jury in September of 2021. He pleaded guilty on July 5, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between May 27, 2020, and July 26, 2020, when Konda used a hidden camera placed in his bathroom to record videos of a minor female while she was using the toilet and the shower. The minor female was living there at the time.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigation, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Konda was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Three Years and One Month for Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on August 24, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Isiah Hunter, age 29, was sentenced to three years and one month in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Hunter was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in May of 2019. He pleaded guilty on March 16, 2022. Hunter was responsible for distributing between 100 grams and 400 grams of heroin during his involvement in the conspiracy. Hunter obtained distributable amounts of heroin and then distributed it to others primarily in the Rapid City area. Oftentimes he would set up deals between the source and other parties obtaining heroin. Four other co-defendants have already been sentenced.
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET), Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. 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. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina Nelson prosecuted the case.
Hunter was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Six Years for Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on August 19, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Mark Twogood, age 57, was sentenced to six years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Twogood was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in January of 2020. He pleaded guilty on May 18, 2022.
During his involvement in the conspiracy, Twogood and other co-conspirators obtained and transported methamphetamine between Colorado and South Dakota. The methamphetamine was then distributed in western South Dakota for use and distribution by others. Two co-defendants have previously been sentenced.
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET). 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. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina S. Nelson prosecuted the case.
Twogood was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to 16 Years and Eight Months in Federal Prison for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on September 9, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Jay Paul Gallego, age 37, was sentenced to 16 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.
Gallego was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in June of 2021. He pleaded guilty on May 9, 2022.
Gallego, who resided in Rapid City, was a primary supplier of methamphetamine for multiple people in Rapid City and the Pine Ridge Reservation. He supplied methamphetamine to multiple individuals and coordinated and conspired with others as part of this drug trafficking conspiracy. At times, Gallego was also involved in possessing and selling firearms as part of this 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, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina Nelson prosecuted the case.
Gallego was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Woman Sentenced to Three Years and 10 Months for Meth Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on September 9, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Shiotah Buckman, age 22, was sentenced to three years and 10 months in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Buckman was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in February of 2021. She pleaded guilty to the indictment on May 20, 2022. Buckman obtained methamphetamine brought to South Dakota by others and then distributed that methamphetamine to others for use and additional distribution. It was reasonably foreseeable that between 350-500 grams would be distributed during the course of the conspiracy, primarily in the Pine Ridge area.
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.
Buckman was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Man Sentenced to over 36 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Discharge and Brandishing of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, three counts of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender, and two counts of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on August 31, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken,
Isaac Roubideaux, age 30, was sentenced to a total of 442 months in federal prison on the eight charges of which he was convicted by a federal jury in May of 2022. This time is to be followed by five years of supervised release. Roubideaux was also ordered to pay $800 in special assessments to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $900 in restitution.
Roubideaux was indicted by a federal grand jury in December of 2021. He was found guilty of the charges following a jury trial in Rapid City, South Dakota on May 20, 2022.
The conviction stems from Roubideaux using a Savage rifle to shoot a male individual in the back as he attempted to leave Roubideaux’s residence at Pine Ridge on November 18, 2021. The victim was paralyzed from the waist down as a result of the assault. Roubideaux was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in 2016 and was required to register as a sex offender. On three separate occasions between 2020 and 2021, Roubideaux failed to update and register his address consistent with the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. Roubideaux, a convicted felon, who is prohibited by law from possessing firearms, possessed a KEL-TEC, .22 caliber handgun on September 26, 2021, and the Savage rifle that was used in the November 18, 2021, shooting.
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 Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, Oglala Sioux Tribe Criminal Investigations Unit, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Rapid City Police Department, U.S. Marshals Service, and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan Poppen and Heather Sazama prosecuted the case.
Roubideaux was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Piedmont Woman Sentenced to 10 years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Piedmont, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on August 5, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Billi American Horse, age 33, was sentenced to 10 years custody in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
American Horse was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in October of 2021. She pleaded guilty on May 13, 2022.
During her involvement in the conspiracy, American Horse obtained methamphetamine and distributed it primarily in western South Dakota. American Horse was involved in a pursuit with law enforcement in July 2021, in which she was transporting large amounts of methamphetamine and other illegal drugs. During the pursuit, she threw illegal substances out the window in an effort to discard the drugs. Once officers were able to stop her, they located methamphetamine and other drugs in American Horse’s vehicle, as well as locating a significant amount of methamphetamine that had been thrown from the vehicle.
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET). 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. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina S. Nelson prosecuted the case.
American Horse was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Ohio Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Toledo, Ohio, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on September 12, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Maurice Anthony Streater, age 32, was sentenced to 12 months and a day 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.
Streater was indicted by a federal grand jury in September of 2021. He pleaded guilty on June 15, 2022.
The conviction stems from Streater failing to register as a sex offender as required by state law between January 1, 2021, and September 9, 2021. Streater had previously been convicted of a sex offense in state court which requires him to register for the rest of his life.
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.
Streater was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Nebraska Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Newcastle, Nebraska, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on September 9, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Joseph Ross Burks, age 41, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Burks was indicted by a federal grand jury in February of 2022. He pleaded guilty on June 23, 2022.
The conviction stems from Burks failing to register as a sex offender as required by state law between May 22, 2021, and July 27, 2021. Burks had previously been convicted of a sex offense in state court which requires him to register for the period of 25 years.
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.
Burks was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sturgis Man Indicted for Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Sturgis, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Dallas Ford, age 28, was indicted in March of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on August 31, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction 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 charge stems from Ford illegal possessing a .22 caliber, semi-automatic pistol in December 2021 in Sturgis. The charge is merely an accusation and Ford is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives, and the Sturgis Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Ford was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Man Convicted of Dealing Meth and Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that Willie Gene Murphy, Jr., age 51, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, was found guilty of Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute and Distribution of a Controlled Substance, as a result of a federal court trial in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on September 7, 2022.
On September 1, 2022, Murphy pleaded guilty to the charge of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person in the same case pursuant to a Petition to Plead Guilty.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of life in custody and/or a $1,000,000 fine, five years of supervised release, and a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Murphy was indicted by a federal grand jury in February of 2022.
On December 17, 2019, Murphy knowingly and intentionally possessed with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of pure methamphetamine. Additionally, Murphy was a convicted felon and knowingly and intentionally possessed firearms, to wit: a Ruger, model AR-556, .5.56 x 45 mm, semi-automatic rifle, a Smith and Wesson, model SD40VE, .40 caliber handgun and a Smith and Wesson SD 9, 9-millimeter handgun.
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 Drug Enforcement Administration, South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigation and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered and the sentencing date has not been set. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pierre Man Sentenced for Failure to AppearRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Appear was sentenced on September 6, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Michael Pomani, age 44, was sentenced to time served of two months in federal prison, one year of supervised release with a condition that he be placed on home confinement for two months, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Pomani was also ordered to pay $16,800 in restitution to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in the care of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation as a result of his illegal sale of bald eagle feathers, hawk wings, and owl feathers.
Pomani was indicted by a federal grand jury in May 10 of 2022. He pleaded guilty on June 6, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on December 12, 2017, when Pomani failed to appear for his pretrial conference and jury trial. Pomani had previously been charged with violating the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and was released on bond in October 2017. Pomani knowingly failed to appear for his jury trial on the wildlife charges.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Pomani was released to begin serving his term of supervision.
Lower Brule Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison Ramsdell announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man convicted at trial of Assaulting a Federal Law Enforcement Officer was sentenced on September 6, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Jade LaRoche, age 42, was sentenced to three years and eight months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
LaRoche was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 11, 2022. He was found guilty by a federal jury, following a two-day jury trial, on September 6, 2022.
The evidence at trial showed that on October 31, 2021, in Lower Brule, LaRoche forcibly opposed and resisted a federal law enforcement officer. The officer was called to a residence to remove LaRoche. Upon learning that he was going to be placed under arrest, LaRoche ran from the officer into a back bedroom of the home. As the officer approached the back bedroom, the defendant charged out from his hiding spot, striking the officer and knocking him backwards into a table. The victim suffered injuries to his neck, back, and shoulder.
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.
LaRoche was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Lower Brule Man Charged with Assault with Intent to Commit Murder, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily InjuryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with Intent to Commit Murder, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
Rain LaRoche, age 31, was indicted in August of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on August 10, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 40 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on July 19, 2022, at Fort Thompson, South Dakota, LaRoche assaulted another person with a dangerous weapon, causing serious bodily injury. The Indictment further alleges that LaRoche committed the acts with the intent to murder the victim.
The charges are merely accusations and Ducheneaux is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services, Crow Creek Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
LaRoche was detained pending trial. A trial date has been set for October 11, 2022.
Kyle Man Sentenced to 18 Years in Federal Prison for MurderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man convicted of Second-Degree Murder was sentenced on August 31, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Stetson Eagle Elk, age 29, was sentenced to 18 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.
Eagle Elk was indicted by a federal grand jury in January of 2022 and pleaded guilty on June 3, 2022. The conviction stems from Eagle Elk, along with Gary Little Bull, shooting and killing Todd Little Bull in August 2016 in Kyle.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Eagle Elk was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Kyle Man Sentenced for Drug DistributionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on August 31, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Severt Shon Young Bear, III, a/k/a Yamni Young Bear, age 40, was sentenced to eight years in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Young Bear was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury in February of 2021, and pleaded guilty in March of 2022. The conviction stems from Young Bear conspiring with at least five other persons to distribute methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in South Dakota between November 2015 and February 2021.
The case was investigated by the Badlands Safe Trails Task Force, which includes the FBI, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigation, and the Department of Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama prosecuted the case.
Young Bear was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Kenel Man Indicted for Aggravated Sexual Abuse and AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Kenel, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force, Assault of an Intimate Partner by Strangulation and Suffocation, and Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate Partner.
Rodd Rankeen Rough Surface, age 45, was indicted in August of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 7, 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, five years of supervised release, and a $300 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on May 29, 2021, in Kenel, Rough Surface assaulted and strangled an intimate partner and then sexually abused her through the use of force. Rough Surface caused the victim to suffer substantial bodily harm.
The charges are merely accusations and Rough Surface is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, Standing Rock Agency and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Rough Surface was released pending trial. A trial date was set for November 1, 2022.
St. Francis Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on September 1, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Tanner Kills Enemy, age 24, was sentenced to 10 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.
Kills Enemy was indicted by a federal grand jury in January of 2022. He pleadedd guilty on June 16, 2022.
Kills Enemy, a person required to register as a sex offender by reason of a conviction under tribal law, knowingly failed to register and update his registration between November 12, 2021, and December 16, 2021, while living in St. Francis on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Kills Enemy was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Third Failure to Register as a Sex Offender ConvictionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on September 1, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Trevor Red Bird, age 34, was sentenced to 26 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.
Red Bird was indicted by a federal grand jury in March of 2022. He pleaded guilty on June 2, 2022.
Red Bird was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in May of 2008. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. Red Bird was convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender in 2017 and again in 2019. In March 2021, Red Bird was released from prison and began supervised release in Rapid City. Initially, Red Bird properly updated his registration. In December 2021, however, he moved from his registered address but did not update his registration. An arrest warrant was subsequently issued and on February 1, 2022, Red Bird was arrested in Rapid City.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Red Bird was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Indicted for Sexual Abuse, Distribution of a Controlled Substance, and Assault by Strangulation and SuffocationRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Sexual Abuse, Distribution of a Controlled Substance to a Person Under Age Twenty-One and Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation.
Alexander Brave, age 29, was indicted in August of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 2, 2022, and pled 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 in August of 2021, in Todd County, South Dakota, Brave distributed methamphetamine to a victim who was under the age of 21, and that he engaged in a sexual act with that victim while she was incapable of declining participation in the sexual act. The Indictment further alleges that between June of 2021 and October of 2021, in Todd County, Brave engaged in a sexual act with a second victim who had attained the age of 12 years but had not attained the age of 16 years, and that he assaulted the victim by strangling, suffocating, and attempting to do so.
The charges are merely accusations and Brave 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.
Brave was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mission Man Indicted for Sexual Abuse and Distribution of a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Sexual Abuse and Distribution of a Controlled Substance to a Person Under Age Twenty-One.
Jeremy Richards, age 28, was indicted in August of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 2, 2022, and pled 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 in August of 2021, in Todd County, South Dakota, Richards distributed methamphetamine to a victim who was under the age of 21, and that he engaged in a sexual act with that victim while she was incapable of declining participation in the sexual act. The indictment further alleges that between January 1, 2021, and January 1, 2022, in Todd County, Richards distributed methamphetamine to two other individuals who were under the age of 21.
The charges are merely accusations and Richards 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.
Richards was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Receipt of Child Pornography was sentenced on August 16, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Javier Clark Moreno, age 41, was sentenced to 17 ½ years in federal prison, followed by eight years of supervised release. Moreno was ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100 and will be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Moreno, formerly the Captain of the Salvation Army of the Black Hills, was arrested and federally indicted following two Cybertips from Kik Messenger. An examination of Moreno’s Kik account revealed over 10,000 recordings and images of child pornography including sadism and penetration of infants and toddlers. Moreno later admitted to viewing and collecting child pornography since the early 2000’s.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.
Moreno was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on August 29, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Travis Spotted Wolf, age 30, was sentenced to six 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.
Spotted Wolf was indicted by a federal grand jury in December of 2021 and pleaded guilty in April 2022. The conviction stems from Spotted Wolf, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, knowingly possessing a Taurus, model PT111 Millennium Pro G2, 9mm caliber, semi-automatic pistol, which was found after Spotted Wolf came into contact with law enforcement in August of 2021.
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 was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Spotted Wolf was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pennsylvania Man Found Guilty of Attempting to Entice a Minor Using the InternetRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that Cody Wayne Hopkins, age 31, of Montgomery, Pennsylvania, was found guilty of Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet following a federal jury trial in Rapid City, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on August 25, 2022.
The charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, a mandatory minimum of five years up to lifetime supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Evidence at trial established that Hopkins was arrested and federally indicted as a result of an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2020 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally targeting internet predators. Following multiple text messages with a person Hopkins believed to be a 13-year-old girl, but who was in fact an undercover agent, he proceeded to negotiate the time and place he would meet the minor to engage in unlawful sex acts. When Hopkins went to the pre-determined location to meet the minor, he instead was met by law enforcement agents and placed under arrest.
The undercover operation was a joint effort between the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins and Kelsey Blair tried the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered. A sentencing date has not been set. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Manderson Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Involuntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Manderson, South Dakota, man convicted of two counts of Involuntary Manslaughter was sentenced on August 23, 2022, by Judge Karen E. Schreier, U.S. District Court.
Moses Runs Against, age 39, was sentenced to seven years in federal prison on both counts of Involuntary Manslaughter, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund on each count. The prison sentences are to be served consecutively and the time of supervised release is to be served concurrently.
Runs Against was indicted by a federal grand jury in February of 2022. He pleaded guilty on May 13, 2022. The conviction stems from Runs Against, while intoxicated, crashing head-on into another vehicle on January 22, 2022, just north of Manderson. The collision resulted in the death of two females and serious injuries to two other females.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Runs Against was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Kansas Man Sentenced in Fentanyl ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that an Overland Park, Kansas, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on August 29, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Sylvester Mitchell, III, age 31, was sentenced to 13 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Mitchell was indicted for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance by a federal grand jury in September of 2021. He pleaded guilty on June 7, 2022.
Beginning on an unknown date and continuing until on or about December 2021, Mitchell reached an agreement to distribute fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, in the District of South Dakota.
During his involvement, Mitchell obtained pills containing fentanyl from a co-conspirator and distributed them to drug customers in South Dakota. On July 27, 2021, law enforcement executed a search warrant at an apartment where Mitchell was staying. When the officers searched the apartment, they found approximately 73 grams of blue M-30 pills that were later tested and found to contain fentanyl. Mitchell posted bail after that arrest and was released. As Mitchell was leaving Sioux Falls, a South Dakota Highway Patrol Trooper followed him. Mitchell pulled off the interstate and abandoned a safe at a business near the exit of the interstate. The trooper eventually found the safe and discovered approximately 454 grams of pills containing fentanyl inside of it. Through Mitchell’s involvement in the conspiracy, he personally distributed over 400 grams of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Paige Petersen prosecuted the case.
Mitchell was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Box Elder Man Sentenced for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Box Elder, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on August 19, 2022, by U.S. District Karen E. Schreier.
John Cody Klingman, age 31, was sentenced to three years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Klingman was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $5,000 in restitution. Klingman will also be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Klingman was arrested and federally indicted following several Cybertips from the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children. The Internet Crimes Against Children taskforce executed a search warrant on Klingman’s home and seized multiple devices. Forensic examination of those devices rendered searches for child and teen pornography, as well as computer-generated child pornography and age difficult images.
This case was investigated by the Internet Crimes Against Children taskforce, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.
Klingman was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Six Years and Six Months in Federal Prison for Threatening a WitnessRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Obstructing Justice by Retaliating Against a Witness was sentenced on August 19, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Edward Martin, age 50, was sentenced to six years and six months in federal prison and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. All but 18 months of the sentence are concurrent to a 20-year sentence Martin received for his conviction for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine.
Martin was indicted for Obstructing Justice by Retaliating Against a Witness by a federal grand jury in December of 2021. He was found guilty following a federal court trial held on August 1, 2022. Martin threatened an individual who had provided information to law enforcement about a drug conspiracy in which Martin was involved. Martin made threatening comments to the individual in an attempt to dissuade the individual from testifying against Martin’s co-conspirators in pending federal criminal proceedings.
The investigation was conducted by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Martin was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals.
Summerset Woman Indicted for Sexual Exploitation of a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Summerset, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Attempted Exploitation of a Minor, Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity, Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet, and Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Activity.
Emily Nicole Yeary, age 24, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on August 22, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of 10 years up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, lifetime supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Yeary attempting to sexually exploit a 14-year-old and transporting the minor across state lines for sexual activity. The charges are merely an accusation and Yeary is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the South Dakota Highway Patrol, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, Rapid City Police Department, Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Galena Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins is prosecuting the case.
Yeary was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sisseton Foursome Sentenced in Robbery CaseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that four individuals from Sisseton, South Dakota, who were all convicted of Robbery and Aiding and Abetting, have been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Tiffany Bernard, age 30, was sentenced on August 22, 2022, to 15 years in federal prison – the maximum possible sentence – followed by three years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution was also ordered for $300,358.89, relating to the victim’s medical expenses and lost wages.
In late 2021, Bernard’s three co-defendants were sentenced for their respective roles in the robbery and assault. On October 4, 2021, Brendon Javon Jacob Rodlund, age 32, was also sentenced to the maximum of 15 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Rodlund is also serving a separate federal sentence of approximately 13 years in federal prison for sexual assault. His robbery sentence will be served consecutively to his prior sentence for sexual assault.
Andrew David Renville, age 34, was sentenced on November 1, 2021, to the maximum of 15 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Renville was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Randall Delbert Pumpkinseed, age 33, was also sentenced on November 1, 2021, to 13 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Pumpkinseed was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
According to court documents, between November 16 and 17, 2015, Bernard, Rodlund, Pumpkinseed, and Renville assaulted by force, violence, and intimidation, and did take and attempt to take things of value from the victim. The robbery and assault took place at Dry Wood Lake near Sisseton, and all defendants aided and abetted each other in perpetrating these crimes.
This case was investigated by the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Sioux Tribe’s Law Enforcement, the FBI, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
All defendants are in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Cherry Creek Man Sentenced for BurglaryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Cherry Creek, South Dakota, man convicted of First Degree Burglary was sentenced on August 22, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Timothy Red Elk, age 42, was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Red Elk was indicted by a federal grand jury in February of 2022. He pled guilty on May 19, 2022.
Shortly before 3:00 a.m. on September 11, 2021, Timothy Red Elk went to the home of the victim in Cherry Creek and knocked on her door. When the victim opened the door, Red Elk asked for her son. The victim explained that her son was sleeping and began to close the door. Red Elk started punching the victim in the face inside the home with a closed fist. Red Elk stopped only when the victim’s daughter pushed him out the door and his sister pulled Red Elk away. The assault was unprovoked. The victim sustained several fractures to her facial bones from the assault.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
Red Elk was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Red Scaffold Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Red Scaffold, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Daniel Red Horse, Jr., age 52, was indicted in August of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on August 23, 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, a mandatory minimum period of supervised release of at least five years, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between May 2, 2022, and June 3, 2022, Red Horse Jr., 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, did knowingly fail to register and update his registration.
The charge is merely an accusation and Red Horse Jr. is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service and Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
Red Horse Jr. was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on August 19, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Justin Coyle, age 36, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Coyle was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in September of 2020. He pleaded guilty on May 20, 2022. Coyle was part of a conspiracy responsible for distributing between 1.5 and 5 kilograms of methamphetamine in western South Dakota. Several times he wired money for methamphetamine to Mexico for the conspiracy to receive additional methamphetamine. He also helped facilitate the transport of the drugs to South Dakota, which he assisted in selling.
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET), Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. 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 National Guard, and South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Coyle was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Parmelee Man Indicted for Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Sexual Abuse.
Kyle Black Bull, age 32, was indicted in June of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on August 22, 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, with a mandatory minimum of five years, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about April 17, 2022, at Parmelee, Black Bull knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, a sexual act with an adult female, who at the time was incapable of appraising the nature of the conduct, and was physically incapable of declining participation in and communicating an unwillingness to engage in the sexual act.
The charges are merely accusations and Black Bull 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.
Black Bull was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
McLaughlin Man Convicted for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of Children and Witness TamperingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that Jerome Moses Goodhouse, Jr., age 30, of McLaughlin, South Dakota, was found guilty of two counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child and one count of Witness Tampering as a result of a federal jury trial in Aberdeen, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on August 24, 2022.
The charges carry a mandatory minimum of 30 years up to life in prison and/or a $250,000 fine, up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Goodhouse was indicted by a federal grand jury in January of 2022.
In 2017, Goodhouse sexually abused two minor children in McLaughlin on the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation. After abusing one minor, he threatened her and told her to remain quiet about what he did to her.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, Standing Rock Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cameron J. Cook and Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date was set for November 14, 2022. The defendant was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.