District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Rosebud Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on June 13, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Jesse James Leader Charge, age 27, was sentenced to 13 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.
Leader Charge was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 14, 2021. He pleaded guilty on March 10, 2022.
Leader Charge was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in October 2019. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender and to update his registration within three business days of relocation or changing employment. Between May 6, 2021, and September 14, 2021, Leader Charge failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler prosecuted the case.
Leader Charge was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Parmelee Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact by Force was sentenced on June 13, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Justis Running Bear, age 23, was sentenced to six years in federal prison, followed by six years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Running Bear was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 13, 2021. He pleaded guilty on March 14, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on March 28, 2021, in Todd County, South Dakota, when Running Bear did knowingly engage in sexual contact with the victim by use of force.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Running Bear was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
McLaughlin Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Assaulting Federal OfficersRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on June 13, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Theresa White Lightning, a/k/a, Theresa Red Fox, age 37, was sentenced to eight months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release.
White Lightning was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 8, 2021. She pleaded guilty on December 6, 2021.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on May 27, 2020, in McLaughlin in which White Lightning assaulted two Bureau of Indian Affairs police officers while they were performing a lawful arrest.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Office of Justice Services, Standing Rock Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
White Lightning was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Lower Brule Woman Sentenced for Voluntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, woman convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter was sentenced on June 13, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Esther Flute, a/k/a, Esther Flute-Rencountre, age 61, was sentenced to five years and 11 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.
Flute was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 14, 2021. She pled guilty on March 7, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on August 2, 2021, in Lower Brule. Flute used two weapons to cause multiple wounds to the victim in an extended assault, which resulted in the victim’s death.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Flute was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Ellsworth Air Force Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Aggravated Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a former Box Elder Police Department officer who resided at Ellsworth Air Force Base, near Rapid City, South Dakota, was sentenced on May 27, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Ricardo Edward Franc Olandez, age 35, was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2021 for numerous counts of sexual abuse. Olandez pleaded guilty to Aggravated Sexual Abuse on November 5, 2021. Olandez was sentenced to 13 years and four months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction relates to Olandez forcing a minor female to engage in sexual acts with him in 2021 on the Ellsworth Air Force Base.
This case was investigated by the Department of the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama prosecuted the case.
Olandez was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Colorado Man Indicted for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Colorado man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Preston Yankton, age 35, was indicted on December 14, 2021. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 13, 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, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on November 7, 2021, and November 8, 2021, in Todd County, South Dakota, Yankton did assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with a law enforcement officers who were employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and that such conduct involved physical contact.
The charges are merely accusations and Yankton 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.
Yankton was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Cavour Man Sentenced for Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the InternetRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Cavour, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet was sentenced on June 13, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
David Robert Farrell, age 40, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Farrell was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 4, 2021. He pled guilty on March 14, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between April 22 and April 27, 2021, when Farrell knowingly used his cell phone to persuade and entice a 15-year-old female to meet with him at a hotel in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for the purpose of having sexual activity. Farrell had been texting with a person he knew to be a 15-year-old female. Unknown to him, and before the criminal conduct occurred, an undercover law enforcement officer assumed the identity of the 15-year-old female online. Some of his communications were sexual in nature and he expressed his intent to meet with the 15-year-old at a hotel in Sioux Falls for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Farrell was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Wagner Man Charged with Sexual Abuse of a Minor and Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Wagner, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for two counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor and one count of Abusive Sexual Contact.
Zander Zephier, age 21, was indicted on May 3, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta L. Wollmann on June 8, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 15 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and up to $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about January 1, 2021, Zephier knowingly engaged, and attempted to engage, in a sexual act and sexual contact with a minor female who had not attained the age of 16 years and was at least four years younger than Zephier.
The charges are merely accusations and Zephier is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Yankton Sioux Law Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman is prosecuting the case.
Zephier was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial which has been set for August 16, 2022.
Rosebud Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Stanford Points At Him, age 55, was indicted on March 8, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 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, a mandatory minimum 5 years of supervised release, up to life, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between November 1, 2021 and February 8, 2022, Points At Him, 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 Points At Him is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler is prosecuting the case.
Points At Him was released on bond 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.
Dwight Black Spotted Horse, age 37, was indicted on May 10, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 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, a mandatory minimum term of 5 years of supervised release up to life, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between August 20, 2021 and April 13, 2022, Black Spotted Horse, 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 Black Spotted Horse is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler is prosecuting the case.
Black Spotted Horse was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Minnesota Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Federal Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Browns Valley, Minnesota man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on June 6, 2022, by Charles B. Kornmann.
Frank Stewart, age 62, was sentenced to twenty seven years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Stewart was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on April 6, 2021. He pled guilty on December 7, 2021.
In the summer of 2019 Stewart joined an agreement or understanding to distribute methamphetamine, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere. During his involvement, he obtained methamphetamine from a co-conspirator and sold it to other co-conspirators. He personally distributed more than 500 grams of methamphetamine during his involvement in the conspiracy.
This case was investigated by South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Stewart was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Fort Thompson Man Indicted for Assault, Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison Ramsdell announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number.
Roland Hawk, Jr., age 20, was indicted on December 14, 2021. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 6, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to ten 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 28, 2021, in Fort Thompson, South Dakota, Hawk assaulted a victim with a pistol as the victim was sleeping. The Indictment further alleges that the serial number on the pistol had been removed.
The charges are merely accusations and Hawk is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Office of Justice Services, Crow Creek Agency, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Hawk was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date been set for July 26, 2022.
Mobridge Man Sentenced for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mobridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on June 6, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Spencer Jacob Rinehart, age 29, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison, five years of supervised release, a fine in the amount of $1,000, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Rinehart was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 13, 2021. He pled guilty on December 7, 2021.
Between January 1, 2017, and April 29, 2020, Rinehart knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in Mobridge, South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the Mobridge Police Department, the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Corson County Sheriff’s Office, the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Rinehart was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals
Mobridge Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mobridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on June 6, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Justin Jerome Howard, age 39, was sentenced to 12 months in federal prison, five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Howard was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 13, 2021. He pled guilty on January 4, 2022.
Howard, a person required to register as a sex offender by reason of a conviction under federal law, knowingly failed to register and update his registration between August 17, 2021, and August 29, 2021, while living near Kenel, South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Mobridge Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Howard was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on June 6, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Elliot Robert Blue Coat, age 45, was sentenced to 20 months in federal prison, five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Blue Coat was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 9, 2021. He pled guilty on March 15, 2022.
Blue Coat, a person required to register as a sex offender by reason of a conviction under federal law, knowingly failed to register and update his registration between July 16, 2021, and September 16, 2021, while living in Mobridge, South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service, the Mobridge Police Department, the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office, the Walworth County Sheriff’s Office, the Corson County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Blue Coat was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Trio from South Dakota and Colorado Federally Indicted for Kidnapping, Carjacking, and Firearm Offense Against FBI EmployeeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that three individuals, one who resides in South Dakota and two who reside in Colorado, have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Kidnapping, Carjacking, and Using, Carrying, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.
Juan Francisco Alvarez-Soto, age 23 and originally from El Salvador; Deyvin Morales, age 27 and originally from Guatemala; and Lourdes Alondra Bonilla, age 23 and originally from Colorado, were indicted on May 19, 2022. The defendants appeared before a magistrate judge in the District of Colorado, and each defendant pleaded not guilty to the Indictment. The three defendants will be transported to the District of South Dakota for further court proceedings.
The maximum term of imprisonment upon conviction for each count is as follows: up to life for Kidnapping; up to fifteen (15) years for Carjacking; and a mandatory minimum of seven (7) years up to life for Using, Carrying, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Each count also has a maximum fine of $250,000.
According to the indictment, on or about May 6, 2022, near Red Shirt, in the District of South Dakota, the defendants, Juan Francisco Alvarez-Sorto, a/k/a Juan Francisco Alvarez, a/k/a “Juanito R.,” a/k/a “Juan Jr.,” Deyvin Morales, a/k/a Deyvin Eliabid Escriba Morales, a/k/a Deybi Eleabit Escriba Morales, a/k/a “Guate,” a/k/a “Watay,” a/k/a “Chapine,” and Lourdes Alondra Bonilla, a/k/a “Bhabie Doze,” a/k/a “Princess_Doze,” did willfully and knowingly kidnap and abduct a victim. At the time, the victim was engaged in the performance of their official duties as a professional support employee with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The defendants also took the victim’s vehicle, with force, violence, and intimidation, and brandished a rifle during the commission of the charged criminal conduct. It is alleged that the defendants aided and abetted each other in committing the charges set forth in the indictment.
The charges are merely accusations, and each defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
The defendants were all detained pending further court proceedings in South Dakota. A trial date has not been set.
Iowa Man Charged with Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Larchwood, Iowa, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Production of Child Pornography.
Shane Allan Nelson, age 36, was indicted on May 3, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 1, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 30 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about between March 13, 2020, and March 18, 2020, Nelson knowingly employed, used, persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced a minor female to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of such conduct, knowing that such depictions would be transported in interstate or foreign commerce or mailed. Such depictions would also be produced using materials that had been mailed, shipped, and transported in interstate and foreign commerce, including by computer.
The charge is merely an accusation and Nelson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Iowa Internet Against Children Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Nelson was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of 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 May 24, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Alexander Salway, age 38, was sentenced to 20 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Salway was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 18, 2021, and pleaded guilty on December 3, 2021. The conviction stems from Salway, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, illegally possessing a Taurus, model PT111 Millennium Pro, 9mm semi-automatic pistol, which was found after Salway came into contact with law enforcement in January 2021 in Rapid City.
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.
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.
Salway was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of 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 May 24, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Tyler Allen, age 28, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Allen was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 18, 2021, and pleaded guilty on July 23, 2021. The conviction stems from Allen, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, illegally possessing an FEG, model PA-63, 9x18mm Makarov caliber, semi-automatic pistol, which was found after Allen came into contact with law enforcement in January 2021 in Rapid City.
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.
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.
Allen was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Charged with Illegal Possession of FirearmRead 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 Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Michael Wilson, age 37, was indicted on May 19, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on May 24, 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 Wilson, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, knowingly possessing a Taurus 9mm semi-automatic pistol in February 2022 in Rapid City. The charge is merely an accusation and Wilson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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.
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.
Wilson was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Charged with Illegal Possession of FirearmRead 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 Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Julion Graham, age 26, was indicted on May 19, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on May 24, 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 Graham, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, knowingly possessing a Bersa, .380 ACP semi-automatic pistol in April 2022 in Rapid City. The charge is merely an accusation and Graham is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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.
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.
Graham was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Pine Ridge Man Sentenced to Ten Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted on two separate charges of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and a third charge of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on May 20, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Karen E. Schreier.
As to the conviction for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Nikki Joshua James Coomes, age 30, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Regarding the first conviction for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, Coomes was sentenced to serve 37 months in federal prison, and on the second conviction of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, Coomes was sentenced to serve 10 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. All three sentences are to be served concurrently. Coomes was also ordered to pay a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Coomes pleaded guilty to the Possession of Firearms charges on December 22, 2021. Coomes, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, was found to be in possession of a 20-gauge pump-action shotgun on December 5, 2020, at Pine Ridge. On September 15, 2021, Coomes was found in possession of a 9 mm caliber pistol, two .22 caliber rifles, two 12-gauge shotguns, a .380 caliber pistol, and a .38 caliber derringer on September 15, 2021, at Pine Ridge.
The firearms investigations were conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco, and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama prosecuted the cases.
Coomes also pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance on April 26, 2022. From approximately June 2018 through 2021, Coomes obtained methamphetamine from multiple sources and then distributed it primarily from his residence on the Pine Ridge Reservation. The Defendant would supply quantities of methamphetamine to other persons, who would in turn further distribute the methamphetamine.
The drug distribution case was investigated by the Badlands Safe Trails Task Force, which includes the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigation, and the Martin, South Dakota, Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina S. Nelson prosecuted the case.
Following the pronouncement of his sentences, Coomes was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
St. Francis Man Sentenced for Voluntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison Ramsdell announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter was sentenced on May 27, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Tanyan Wakita Iron, a/k/a Sonny Iron, age 20, was sentenced to 84 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.
Iron was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 9, 2020. He pled guilty on January 27, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on August 9, 2020, in St. Francis. Iron was at the victim’s home visiting, when he produced a handgun and attempted to get the victim to join him in a round of “Russian roulette” which the victim declined. A short time later, Iron shot the victim in the head, causing her death.
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 Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Iron was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Manderson Man Indicted on Assault and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Manderson, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Discharging, Brandishing, or Possessing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence, Possession of Ammunition by a Prohibited Person, and Assault on a Federal Officer.
Elijah West, age 24, was indicted on May 19, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on May 25, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is life 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.
The charges stem from West, a previously convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms, discharging a firearm multiple times in December 2021 in Manderson. West also assaulted two individuals and an Oglala Sioux Tribe police officer during the same time period. The charges are merely an accusation and West is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
West was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Florida Man Indicted for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a North Miami Beach, Florida, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Wire Fraud.
Tyler Vandenhoek, age 34, was indicted on February 8, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 26, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 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 beginning on or about January 14, 2020, and continuing through on or about February 18, 2020, in South Dakota and elsewhere, Vandenhoek devised a scheme and artifice to defraud by forging multiple stolen checks, and that he caused interstate wire communications to be transmitted for the purpose of executing the scheme.
The charges are merely accusations and Vandenhoek is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Vandenhoek was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Winner Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Winner, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for three counts of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Glenford Old Lodge, a/k/a Glenford Old Lodge, Jr., age 32, was indicted on March 8, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 19, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to ten 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.
The Indictment alleges that Old Lodge, a person required to register as a sex offender by reason of conviction under federal law, knowingly failed to register and update his registration. The allegations include various dates beginning on or about April 22, 2021, and ending on or about September 5, 2021, while living in the District of South Dakota.
The charges are merely accusations and Old Lodge is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler is prosecuting the case.
Old Lodge was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Todd County Man Indicted for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a ChildRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Todd County, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child.
Kevin Sharkey, age 45, was indicted on May 10, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 23, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in prison 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.
The Indictment alleges that between on or about March 1, 2017, and August 31, 2017, in Todd County, Sharkey knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, a sexual act with a child under the age of 12.
The charge is merely an accusation and Sharkey is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Sharkey was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
St. Francis Man Charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited PersonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Justin Eagle Pipe, age 38, was indicted on April 12, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 23, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, followed by three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on January 1, 2022, in Todd County, South Dakota, Eagle Pipe, who had previously been convicted of crime punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year, and being an unlawful user of a controlled substance, knowingly possessed a firearm, which had been previously shipped and transported in interstate and foreign commerce.
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.
The charge is merely an accusation and Eagle Pipe is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Eagle Pipe was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of Drugs and FirearmsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on May 20, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Jquann Jackson, age 28, was sentenced to four years in federal prison on each charge, sentences to run concurrently, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Jackson was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 22, 2021, and pleaded guilty on January 28, 2022. The charges stem from Jackson distributing cocaine in Rapid City between January and July 2021. During the execution of a search warrant at Jackson’s residence in July 2021, law enforcement discovered Jackson, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, to be in possession of a Mossberg International Incorporated, model 715T, .22 Long Rifle caliber, semi-automatic rifle, and a Sarsilmaz Arms, (SAR), model SAR9, 9x19mm Luger caliber, semi-automatic pistol.
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.
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.
Jackson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
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.
Richard Peneaux, age 28, was indicted on May 10, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 19, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to ten 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.
The Indictment alleges that Peneaux, a person required to register as a sex offender by reason of conviction under federal law, knowingly failed to register and update his registration between February 11, 2022, and April 7, 2022, while living in the District of South Dakota.
The charge is merely an accusation and Peneaux is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler is prosecuting the case.
Peneaux was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Pine Ridge Man Found Guilty of Eight Federal ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that Isaac Roubideaux, age 30, of Pine Ridge, South Dakota, was found guilty of Discharge and Brandishing a Firearm During a Crime of Violence, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, three charges of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender, and two charges of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person following a federal jury trial in Rapid City, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on May 20, 2022.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine on each charge, up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund on each charge. Restitution may also be ordered.
Roubideaux was indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2021. The assault and firearms charges relate to Roubideaux shooting another man in the back on November 18, 2021, resulting in the victim suffering permanent paralysis below his waistline.
The case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan Poppen and Heather Sazama 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.
Mississippi Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Pascagoula, Mississippi, man convicted of Distribution of Child Pornography was sentenced on May 16, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Javier Valenzuela, age 46, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Valenzuela was ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100 and $3,000 in restitution. Valenzuela will be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Valenzuela was arrested and federally indicted following two Cybertips from Facebook where images were being distributed. The Cybertips included images of very young children and were found within the contents of Valenzuela’s Facebook account. In an interview, Valenzuela admitted to distributing, receiving, and possessing child pornography.
This case was investigated by the Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, Homeland Security Investigations, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.
Valenzuela was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Minnesota Man Sentenced to 16 Years in Federal Prison for Abusive Sexual Contact with ChildrenRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Browns Valley, Minnesota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on May 16, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Ernest Duane Barse, Jr., age 43, was sentenced to 16 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Barse was indicted for aggravated sexual abuse of a child and abusive sexual contact by a federal grand jury on August 17, 2020. He pled guilty on September 10, 2021.
Between on or about April 2016 and continuing through April 2019, Barse knowingly engaged in and attempted to engage in sexual contact with Child Victim #1, a child known to Barse. Barse engaged in the sexual abuse by using force against the victim. The sexual abuse of Child Victim #1 occurred when she was under 12 years of age.
Between July 2007 and continuing through July 2008, Barse knowingly engaged in and attempted to engage in sexual contact with Child Victim #2, a child known to Barse. The sexual abuse of Child Victim #2 occurred when she was under 12 years of age, and Barse used threats or placed Child Victim #2 in fear at the time of the sexual contact.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Sioux Tribe’s Law Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
Barse was immediately returned to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to serve his sentence.
Minnesota Man Convicted on Two Counts of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that Jerry Jerome Wise, age 36, of Moorhead, Minnesota, was found guilty on both counts of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl as a result of a federal jury trial in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on May 18, 2022.
The charge of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine carries a maximum penalty of up to life in custody and/or a $10,000,000 fine, up to life of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. The charge of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl carries a maximum penalty of up to 40 years in custody and/or a $5,000,000 fine, up to life of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Wise was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 6, 2021, with his co-conspirator Damara Needham. Needham pled guilty to the same offenses on December 6, 2021, and was sentenced on March 7, 2022, to 121 months in custody and five years of supervised release, along with a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Beginning on an unknown date and continuing until on or about July 27, 2020, Wise and his co-conspirator obtained methamphetamine and fentanyl in Arizona and transported it through the District of South Dakota. On July 27, 2020, a South Dakota Highway Patrol trooper stopped the vehicle they were driving and found approximately 655.3 grams of methamphetamine and over 700 fentanyl pills in the vehicle. They intended to distribute the methamphetamine and fentanyl to others.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Paige Petersen prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date was set for August 8, 2022. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
McLaughlin Woman Sentenced for Assaulting Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on May 23, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Valerie Red Fish, age 44, was sentenced to eight months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Red Fish was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 8, 2021. She pled guilty on December 6, 2021.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on May 27, 2020, in McLaughlin, in which Red Fish assaulted a Bureau of Indian Affairs officer by spitting on the officer while she was performing her official duties.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services, Standing Rock Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Red Fish was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Lower Brule Man Charged with Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead 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 Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Russell Dean Wright, age 54, was indicted on May 3, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 17, 2022, and pled 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 between on or about November 1, 2021, and April 4, 2022, Wright, 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 Wright is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman is prosecuting the case.
Wright was remanded to state custody pending trial, which has been set for July 26, 2022.
Little Eagle Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual Contact with a ChildRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Little Eagle, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact with a Child was sentenced on May 16, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Holden Cole Thompson, age 31, was sentenced to 180 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.
Thompson was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 8, 2021. He pled guilty on October 18, 2021.
The conviction stemmed from conduct that occurred between 2015 and 2016 at Little Eagle, in which Thompson engaged in sexual contact with a child who had not attained the age of 12 years.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Thompson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Little Eagle Man Indicted for Domestic Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Little Eagle, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, and Aggravated Sexual Abuse.
Yukon Oris Henry, age 45, was indicted on May 10, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 18, 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 on supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that in Little Eagle between 2020 and 2022, Henry unlawfully committed three domestic assaults against an intimate partner while having previously been convicted of crimes of domestic violence on at least two prior occasions. The Indictment further alleges that in October of 2020 in Little Eagle, Henry caused another person to engage in a sex act by the use of force.
The charges are merely accusations and Henry is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Henry was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has been set for July 19, 2022.
Deadwood Man Indicted on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Deadwood, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Receipt of Child Pornography, Obscene Visual Representations of the Sexual Abuse of Children, and Possession of Child Pornography.
Dean Russell Schallenkamp, age 60, was indicted on April 22, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on May 20, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of five up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, mandatory minimum of five years up to lifetime supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Schallenkamp was federally indicted following a Cybertip from the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children generated by Microsoft. The charges relate to Schallenkamp receiving and possessing child pornography between March 2011 and September 2021, at Deadwood. The charges are merely an accusation and Schallenkamp is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is a joint effort between the Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, 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 is prosecuting the case.
Schallenkamp was released on conditions pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Little Eagle Man Sentenced to Life on Multiple CountsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Little Eagle, South Dakota, man convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child, Felony Sex Offense Against a Minor While Required to Register as a Sex Offender, and Tampering with a Witness, was sentenced on May 23, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Kimo John Little Bird, Sr., age 40, was sentenced to life in federal prison on the Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child conviction. An additional consecutive sentence of 10 years in prison was imposed for the Felony Sex Offense Against a Minor While Required to Register as a Sex Offender. Five years in prison was imposed for the witness tampering count, to be served concurrently to the other counts. The Court also imposed a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $300.
Little Bird was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 9, 2020. He was found guilty by a jury on November 18, 2021.
Little Bird was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in September 2006. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. In 2016, Little Bird sexually abused an 11-year-old girl with whom he was residing. Prior to trial, Little Bird contacted multiple potential witnesses in an effort to manipulate and corruptly persuade the girl to recant her statement.
“The criminal actions by this defendant were egregious. The federal penalties for child sexual abuse offenses are severe for a reason, and the district court’s sentence ensures that this defendant will never again have the opportunity to victimize children or otherwise harass vulnerable citizens,” said U.S. Attorney Ramsdell.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services – Standing Rock Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jay Miller and Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Little Bird was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Winner Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Winner, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on May 16, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Arvin Brave Bird, age 53, was sentenced to 16 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.
Brave Bird was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 11, 2022. He pled guilty on February 24, 2022.
Brave Bird was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in April 2017. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. On November 4, 2021, Brave Bird updated his registration to reflect that he was residing in Rapid City, South Dakota. In November 2021, Brave Bird was directed by his supervising probation officer to relocate to Yankton, South Dakota, for purposes of attending a treatment program. Brave Bird thereafter moved out of his Rapid City residence, but he did not report to treatment in Yankton and did not update his registration. An arrest warrant was subsequently issued and on December 16, 2021, Brave Bird was arrested at a residence in Winner.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Brave Bird was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
White River Man Sentenced for ArsonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a White River, South Dakota, man convicted of Arson was sentenced on May 16, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Gabriel Roubideaux, age 34, was sentenced to 26 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, $22,675 in restitution, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Roubideaux was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 8, 2021. He pled guilty on February 1, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred in March 2021, in Mellette County, South Dakota. In the early morning hours of March 16, 2021, Roubideaux intentionally set fire to a shed that was next to an occupied residence in the Upper Swift Bear community. The shed subsequently collapsed against the residence, setting it on fire. Both the shed and the residence were destroyed in the fire.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Roubideaux was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Todd County Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Todd County, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on May 16, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Eugene Hollow Horn Bear, age 62, was sentenced to 24 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.
Hollow Horn Bear was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 14, 2021. He pled guilty on February 28, 2022.
Hollow Horn Bear was convicted of Assault with Intent to Commit Rape in April 1982 and Sexual Abuse of a Minor in August 1989. As a result of these convictions, he is required to register as a sex offender and to update his registration within three business days of relocation or changing employment. Between November 2, 2020, and April 23, 2021, Hollow Horn Bear failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler prosecuted the case.
Hollow Horn Bear was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sisseton Man Sentenced to 85 Months in Federal Prison for Domestic Violence AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Sisseton, South Dakota, man convicted of assault of an intimate and dating partner by strangling, suffocating, or attempting to strangle or suffocate was sentenced on May 16, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Christopher J. Keeble, age 33, was sentenced to 85 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Keeble pled guilty on November 21, 2021.
On or about May 21, 2021, Keeble’s intimate and dating partner was at her home when Keeble arrived unannounced. Keeble asked her to come outside alone, to which she complied. When she came outside and was alone with Keeble, he immediately threatened her with harm if she screamed or yelled. Keeble then assaulted her by chocking her to a point of closely losing consciousness and by punching her in the face. As a result of the assault, the victim sustained bodily injuries. Keeble’s conduct was unprovoked and also violated a tribal court order of protections involving the same victim.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Sioux Tribe’s Law Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
Keeble was immediately returned to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to serve his sentence.
Rosebud Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on May 16, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Edward Zane Roubideaux, Jr., age 31, was sentenced to 24 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.
Roubideaux was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 14, 2021. He pled guilty on February 10, 2022.
Roubideaux was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in November 2011. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. On May 7, 2021, Roubideaux updated his sex offender registration to reflect that he was residing at an address in Sioux Falls. Roubideaux moved out of his registered address on June 30, 2021, and thereafter did not update his registration. On August 6, 2021, Roubideaux was arrested in Sioux Falls. Between July 3, 2021, and August 6, 2021, Roubideaux failed to properly resister as a sex offender and update his registration.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Roubideaux was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Stolen Firearm was sentenced on May 16, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Hank Dubray, age 36, was sentenced to 14 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Dubray was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 18, 2018, and pleaded guilty on July 12, 2021. The conviction stems from Dubray knowingly possessing a stolen Ruger, model SR40, .40 caliber pistol with an obliterated serial number. The Ruger pistol was among the 24 firearms that were stolen by two other individuals from The Rooster sporting goods store in Rapid City in August 2018. During the investigation, 22 of the 24 stolen guns were recovered by law enforcement.
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.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Dubray was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Involuntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter was sentenced on May 16, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Joshua Walking Eagle, age 32, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, $7,215.50 in restitution, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Walking Eagle was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 9, 2020. He pled guilty on February 25, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on May 29, 2020, in Rosebud, South Dakota. On that date, a group of individuals that included Walking Eagle and the victim were consuming alcoholic beverages and socializing at a residence in Rosebud. A man driving by in a vehicle stopped in front of the residence and brandished a firearm at Walking Eagle. Walking Eagle and the victim approached the vehicle and confronted the driver. According to Walking Eagle, Walking Eagle struggled with the driver for control of the firearm and it discharged, striking the victim in the head and killing him.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Walking Eagle was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced 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 convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on May 16, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Gregory Kent Davis, age 62, was sentenced to 17 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.
Davis was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 7, 2021. He pled guilty on February 24, 2022.
The conviction stems from Davis failing to register as a sex offender as required by state law between June 22, 2021, and July 21, 2021. Davis left South Dakota on a bus for Pennsylvania without notifying officials in either location. He was apprehended a month later. Davis had previously been convicted of a sex offense in state court which requires him to register for 15 years from the time of his release.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Davis was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Found Guilty of Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in the Death of Two Victims and a Drug Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that Jeffrey Darnell Moore, age 53, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, was found guilty of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance (heroin) and two counts of Distribution of a Controlled Substance (fentanyl) Resulting in Death, as a result of a federal jury trial in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on May 13, 2022.
Each charge of Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison and/or a $1 million fine, three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, per charge.
The charge of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and/or a $1 million fine, three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Moore was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 20, 2020.
On or about November 2, 2018, in the District of South Dakota, Jeffery Darnell Moore, did knowingly and intentionally distribute fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, and the distribution of said fentanyl resulted in the death of Victim #1.
On or about June 15, 2019, in the District of South Dakota, Jeffery Darnell Moore, did knowingly and intentionally distribute fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, and the distribution of said fentanyl resulted in the death of Victim #2.
Beginning on a date unknown and continuing until on or about July 20, 2020, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Jeffery Darnell Moore, did knowingly and intentionally combine, conspire, confederate, and agree together, with others known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.
Moore was also charged with conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine, but was found not guilty of that charge.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered, and sentencing will take place August 1, 2022. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rosebud Man Charged with Escape from CustodyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Escape from Custody.
Marlow Poor Thunder, age 27, was indicted on May 10, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 12, 2022, and pled 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 $250,000 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The indictment alleges that on March 29, 2022, following a furlough to attend a medical appointment, Poor Thunder failed to report to the Winner City Jail as ordered by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.
The charge is merely an accusation and Poor Thunder is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem is prosecuting the case.
Poor Thunder was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.