District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Mitchell Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mitchell, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on May 12, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Mason Means, age 23, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Means was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 21, 2021, and pleaded guilty on December 3, 2021. The charge stems from Means, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, illegally possessing a Cobra, model CA-380, .380 caliber, semi-automatic pistol, which was found after Means came into contact with law enforcement in March 2021 in Pine Ridge.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The investigation was 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 prosecuted the case.
Means was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Woman Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on May 10, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.
Aynjel Schumacher, age 27, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Schumacher was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on June 11, 2020. She pleaded guilty on December 9, 2020.
Schumacher was responsible for distributing between 15 and 45 kilograms of methamphetamine in western South Dakota. She brought methamphetamine from Nebraska and recruited others to transport the methamphetamine for her between September 2019 and April 2020. Schumacher also arranged for people to transport bulk cash as payment for the methamphetamine and to send money to the supplier via currency services such as Western Union. Schumacher possessed firearms on numerous occasions during the conspiracy and used a firearm to threaten a co-conspirator. At the time she was leading this conspiracy, Schumacher was on parole with the State of South Dakota. Others charged in the conspiracy have trial and sentencing dates pending.
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 the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Schumacher was immediately returned to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Harold Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Harold, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on May 10, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Richard Barela, age 31, 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.
Barela was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 11, 2020. He pled guilty on December 8, 2021.
In January 2020, Barela was an inmate at the Yankton Community Work Center (YCWC), a minimum security South Dakota Department of Corrections (DOC) facility in Yankton, South Dakota. At the time, Barela was serving a sentence for possession of a controlled substance based on a conviction in Hughes County, South Dakota. On January 3, 2020, Barela escaped from YCWC and stole a vehicle belonging to DOC. A warrant was subsequently issued for his arrest.
On January 14, 2020, law enforcement received information that Barela was at a residence in Pierre, South Dakota. Law enforcement personnel from the U.S. Marshals Service, Hughes County Sheriff’s Office, and Pierre Police Department proceeded to the residence to execute the arrest warrant. After receiving consent to search the residence, multiple law enforcement officers entered the residence to search for Barela. Barela was located in a basement bedroom, but he refused to surrender and barricaded himself in the bedroom.
Deputy U.S. Marshals engaged Barela in conversation in an attempt to convince him to surrender. Barela responded by telling the officers he would not go back to prison and that the officers would have to kill him to get him out of the basement. Barela also told the officers he had a knife, which he brandished, and he told them he would kill any law enforcement that attempted to take him into custody.
After approximately four hours, law enforcement deployed tear gas into the bedroom in an effort to end the standoff. Barela subsequently exited the bedroom and was immediately taken into custody.
This case was investigated by the Pierre Area Joint Fugitive Task Force, Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Marshals Service, Hughes County Sheriff’s Office, and the Pierre Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Barela was immediately turned over 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.
Chad Whitney, age 37, was indicted on April 21, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on May 9, 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, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge stems from Whitney, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, knowingly possessing a 30-30 Winchester single-shot break action rifle, a Smith & Wesson .22 long rifle caliber semi-automatic pistol, and a Sturm, Ruger & Company .22 long rifle caliber semi-automatic pistol in Rapid City in February 2022, which were found after Whitney came into contact with law enforcement.
The charge is merely an accusation and Whitney 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.
Whitney was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Norris Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Norris, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on May 9, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Harold White Hat, age 38, was sentenced to 30 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.
White Hat was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 10, 2021. He pled guilty on January 31, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred in the early morning hours of November 3, 2020, at a residence in Norris. The minor victim had gone to sleep in her bed the previous evening and subsequently awoke to find White Hat was groping her.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
White Hat was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on May 9, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Sherman Peneaux, age 51, was sentenced to 12 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.
Peneaux was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 1, 2020. He pled guilty on January 31, 2022.
Peneaux was convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child in December 2004. 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. On June 5, 2019, Peneaux updated his registration to reflect he was residing in Pierre, South Dakota. On or about August 30, 2019, Peneaux moved out of his residence and moved to Mission, but he did not update his registration until September 13, 2019.
This case was investigated by the Pierre Police Department and the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Peneaux was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Departments of the Interior and Justice Take Important Step in Addressing Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples CrisisRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that Gregg Peterman, Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA) for the District of South Dakota, has been named to the Not Invisible Act Commission. Of the 37 members named to the Commission, SAUSA Peterman is the sole individual to come from and represent the nation’s U.S. Attorneys’ offices. Also, among the members named was Don Hedrick, Chief of Police for the Rapid City Police Department.
Last week, Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland and Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco recognized National Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness Day with a virtual event that highlighted the Not Invisible Act Commission. The Commission was established as part of the Not Invisible Act, which Secretary Haaland sponsored during her time in Congress, and includes a cross jurisdictional advisory committee composed of law enforcement, Tribal leaders, federal partners, service providers, family members of missing and murdered individuals, and most importantly, survivors.
The Not Invisible Act Commission will make recommendations to the Departments of the Interior and Justice to improve intergovernmental coordination and establish best practices for state, Tribal, and federal law enforcement, to bolster resources for survivors and victim’s families, and to combat the epidemic of missing persons, murder, and trafficking of Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian people.
“We are honored that a member of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in South Dakota has been selected to represent the USAO community on this Commission. Gregg’s extensive work in Indian Country has made him a trusted leader, both in the District and nationwide, and his knowledge and expertise will be instrumental to the Commission’s success,” said U.S. Attorney Ramsdell.
Peterman has been the SAUSA for the Rapid City office since January of 2012. He has been a prosecutor with the U.S. Department of Justice for 27 years. SAUSA Peterman has spent the majority of his career prosecuting violent crimes in Indian country on the Pine Ridge Reservation, including murder, sexual abuse, aggravated assault, child abuse, and robbery. In 2017, he was the recipient of the U.S. Attorney General’s Award for Exceptional Service in Indian Country, and received the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys’ Director’s Award for Superior Performance in Indian Country in 2013. In addition, SAUSA Peterman was a member of the U.S. Attorney General’s Advisory Task Force on Domestic Violence in Indian Country in 2011-2012, and previously served as a member of the DOJ Office for Victims of Crime Working Group addressing Alcohol Facilitated Sexual Assault in Indian Country.
SAUSA Peterman has also authored A Primer on the Prosecution of Child Sexual Abuse in Indian Country, published in USDOJ USA Book, and is currently co-authoring General Evidence in a Domestic Violence Prosecution in Indian Country, which will be published in the USDOJ Handbook.
The Departments announced the Not Invisible Act Commission members last week, along with the following mission:
- Identify, report and respond to instances of missing and murdered Indigenous peoples (MMIP) cases and human trafficking,
- Develop legislative and administrative changes necessary to use federal programs, properties, and resources to combat the crisis,
- Track and report data on MMIP and human trafficking cases,
- Consider issues related to the hiring and retention of law enforcement offices,
- Coordinate Tribal-state-federal resources to combat MMIP and human trafficking offices on Indian lands, and
- Increase information sharing with Tribal governments on violent crimes investigations and other prosecutions on Indian lands.
The Commission has the authority to hold hearings, gather testimony, and receive additional evidence and feedback from its members to develop recommendations to the Secretary and Attorney General.
Armour Man Sentenced for Threatening CommunicationsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison Ramsdell announced that an Armour, South Dakota, man convicted of threatening communications was sentenced on May 9, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Larry Lee Grueschow, age 65, was sentenced to two years of probation and ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Grueschow was indicted for threatening communications by a federal grand jury on August 3, 2021. He pled guilty on February 2, 2022.
On or about the 11th day of June 2020, Grueschow did transmit in interstate commerce, from the State of South Dakota to Washington, D.C., a telephone communication to a member of Congress. The telephone communication contained a threat to injure the member of Congress and others.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
Todd County Man Indicted for Aggravated Sexual Abuse and Abusive Sexual ContactRead 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 Minor and Abusive Sexual Contact of a Minor.
Fremont Menard, a/k/a Fremont Menard, Jr., age 19, was indicted on February 8, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 5, 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, 5 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 August 23, 2021, and September 4, 2021, in Todd County, South Dakota, Menard knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, sexual contact with a minor under the age of 16, by the use of force. The Indictment further alleges that on or about September 4, 2021, Menard knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, a sexual act with a different minor under the age of 16, by the use of force.
The charges are merely accusations and Menard 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.
Menard was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for June 28, 2022.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to 8 Years Imprisonment for Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, SD man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on May 2, 2022 by United States District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.
Patrick Greenfield, age 32, was sentenced to 8 years in federal prison, followed by 4 years' supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Greenfield was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on September 17, 2020. He pleaded guilty on December 6, 2021. Greenfield was responsible for distributing between 1.5 and 5 kilograms of methamphetamine in western South Dakota. Others charged in the conspiracy have been sentenced already and others have trial dates pending.
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, the Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the South Dakota National Guard and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Greenfield was immediately returned to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Man from the Ring Thunder Community Indicted for Sexual Abuse of a Minor and Aggravated IncestRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Ring Thunder, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Sexual Abuse of a Minor and Aggravated Incest.
Marshall Knife, age 38, was indicted on April 12, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 29, 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, up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between January 1, 2019, and November 30, 2021, near Ring Thunder, Knife knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, a sexual act with a minor female.
The charges are merely accusations and Knife is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler is prosecuting the case.
Knife was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Black Hawk Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Black Hawk, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on May 2, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Cole Younger, age 33, was sentenced to 37 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.
Younger was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 19, 2021, and pleaded guilty on December 3, 2021. The conviction stems from Younger, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, illegally possessing a loaded SCCY Industries, model CPX-2, 9x19mm Luger caliber, semi-automatic pistol, which were found after Younger came into contact with law enforcement in June 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.
Younger was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead 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 April 28, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Seth Noll, age 29, was sentenced to 42 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.
Noll was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 22, 2021, and pleaded guilty on November 12, 2021. The charge stems from Noll, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, illegally possessing a Phoenix Arms, model HP22S, .22 Long Rifle caliber, semi-automatic pistol, a Davis Industries, model DM-22, .22 Long Rifle caliber, over-under derringer, and a Savage Arms Incorporated, .22 Long Rifle caliber, semi-automatic rifle, which were found after Noll came into contact with law enforcement in June 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.
Noll 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 Stolen Firearm.
Login Cook, age 19, was indicted on April 21, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on April 29, 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 Cook knowingly possessing a stolen Glock 9mm semi-automatic pistol in December 2021 in Rapid City. The charge is merely an accusation and Cook 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 Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Cook was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Fort Thompson Woman Indicted for Involuntary Manslaughter and Child AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Involuntary Manslaughter and Child Abuse.
Amber Touche, age 29, was indicted on April 12, 2022. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 28, 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, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund on each count. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on June 10, 2021, in Big Bend, South Dakota, Touche unlawfully killed a human being by asphyxiation. The Indictment further alleges that Touche abused, exposed, tortured, tormented, and cruelly punished a child under the age of seven.
The charges are merely accusations and Touche is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services, Crow Creek Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Touche was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Department of Justice Recognizes South Dakota Court-Appointed Special Advocate with Volunteer for Victims AwardRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON ― The Office for Victims of Crime, a component of the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs, presented the Volunteer for Victims Award to Linda Stambaugh, a Court-Appointed Special Advocate from Newell, South Dakota. The award honors individuals for their extraordinary and selfless efforts resulting in positive and lasting changes in the lives of crime victims.
“Ms. Stambaugh devoted countless hours to securing the safety and well-being of four young children, making the equivalent of a round-trip cross-country drive while their case was open to bring them to school, counseling, court proceedings and supervised visits with their parents,” said Amy L. Solomon, Principal Deputy Attorney General of OJP. “She demonstrated great compassion and incredible perseverance in her heroic work on behalf of these neglected siblings. It is a privilege to honor her volunteer service that went above and beyond.”
Ms. Stambaugh, a Court-Appointed Special Advocate for the Fourth Circuit Court of South Dakota, had only been working for nine days as a volunteer advocate when she received her first child abuse and neglect case. Four siblings between two and six years old had been found wandering the streets unsupervised on several occasions. They were placed in foster care while their parents tried to regain custody.
Ms. Stambaugh made 470 contacts on behalf of the children during the one-and-a-half years the case was open. She facilitated many visits, even transporting the children to sibling visits in two separate foster homes in two different communities so they could spend time together. She also drove the children to supervised visits with their parents, counseling sessions and school, logging more than 7,000 miles. She continued to work with the children and their parents to try to secure a successful reunification at the time of trial. When Stambaugh saw that the children were not thriving in the care of their parents, she effectively communicated this to the court, which ultimately found them a caring family, who adopted them together.
“Ms. Stambaugh was the one constant in these children’s lives during a period of tremendous change, loss, uncertainty and confusion,” said Kristina Rose, Director of OVC. “Her steadfast dedication and support helped stop the cycle of child abuse and neglect for these four children and put them in an environment where they can begin to safely heal and grow.”
Every April, OVC leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. President Ronald W. Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week in 1981, calling for greater sensitivity to the rights and needs of victims. This year’s observance is taking place April 24-30, and features the theme, “Rights, Access, Equity, for All Victims.”
Sioux Falls Man Charged with Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Jordan Tyler Traversie, age 31, was indicted on April 5, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on April 25, 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 Traversie, who had previously been convicted of a sex crime and required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, failed to do so between October 14, 2021, and February 16, 2022.
The charge is merely an accusation and Traversie 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.
Traversie 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 Possession of a 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 April 22, 2022, by Judge Karen E. Schreier, U.S. District Court.
Huya Smoke, age 20, was sentenced to 37 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.
Smoke was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 19, 2021, and pleaded guilty on December 3, 2021. The conviction stems from Smoke knowingly being in possession of a stolen 9mm semi-automatic pistol in Rapid City in April 2021. At the time, Smoke was also under indictment in Meade County, South Dakota.
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.
Smoke was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Colorado Man Sentenced for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited PersonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Canon City, Colorado, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on April 25, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Jeremiah Edward Haning, age 39, was sentenced to 30 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.
Haning was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 12, 2021. He pled guilty on January 31, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on May 18, 2020, when Haning got pulled over by police and a Taurus .38 Special caliber revolver, as well as 56 rounds of ammunition, were found in the vehicle he was driving. Haning had previously been convicted of a felony in Colorado and knew he could not possess firearms. Further, at the time he possessed the gun, he was addicted to methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Highway Patrol and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Haning was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Charged with Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Production of Child Pornography.
Amir Kalomo Mulamba, age 26, was indicted on November 9, 2021. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on April 19, 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 between May 30, 2021, and June 25, 2021, Mulamba 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 visual depictions would be transported in interstate or foreign commerce or mailed, and such visual depictions would 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 Mulamba is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations and the Salt Lake City, Utah, Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Mulamba was released on bond pending trial which has not been set.
McLaughlin Man Sentenced for BurglaryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man convicted of Third Degree Burglary was sentenced on April 21, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Christopher Aaron Miller, age 42, was sentenced to three years of probation, a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100, and restitution in the amount of $3,000.
Miller was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 14, 2021. He pled guilty on December 6, 2021.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on September 30, 2019, in McLaughlin, wherein Miller entered a garage at night and broke several windows on a vehicle.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Corson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Miller released from the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service following the sentencing.
Alison J. Ramsdell Selected as the 44th U.S. Attorney for the District of South DakotaRead the Press Release
Alison J. Ramsdell has taken the oath of office to become the 44th United States Attorney for the District of South Dakota. Ms. Ramsdell was sworn in by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange on April 21, 2022, and her appointment took effect on April 22, 2022.
As U.S. Attorney, Ms. Ramsdell leads an office responsible for prosecuting federal crimes and defending the interests of the United States in the District of South Dakota. Ms. Ramsdell was appointed by the U.S. District Court for the District of South Dakota, and she will serve in this capacity until the vacancy is filled by a Presidentially appointed, Senate-confirmed nominee.
Ms. Ramsdell has served the U.S. Attorney’s Office since September 2014, when she joined the District’s Civil Division as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. In 2016, Ms. Ramsdell was selected to lead the District’s Civil Rights Section. Ms. Ramsdell received her B.A. from Valparaiso University and her J.D. from the University of Iowa School of Law. Following law school, she clerked for the Honorable Karen E. Schreier, District Court Judge, U.S. District Court for the District of South Dakota, and served as the U.S. District Court’s pro se law clerk.
“It is a profound honor to serve the District of South Dakota in this capacity, and I am deeply grateful to be doing the work alongside such exceptional colleagues,” said Ramsdell.
Ms. Ramsdell lives in Flandreau with her husband and two sons.
Las Vegas Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Las Vegas, Nevada, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance - Methamphetamine was sentenced on March 18, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Jesse Stewart, age 47, was sentenced to 15 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 – Methamphetamine by a federal grand jury in January 2020. He pleaded guilty on December 10, 2021.
In September 2019, law enforcement became aware of a group of people distributing methamphetamine in the Rapid City, South Dakota area, led by Edward Martin. Through the investigation, law enforcement confirmed a methamphetamine source for the conspiracy in Las Vegas, Nevada. Between the summer of 2019 and December 2019, at least five to 15 kilograms of methamphetamine was sent to Rapid City. Stewart sold the methamphetamine in Rapid City and arranged for Martin to come and expand those efforts. Co-conspirators in Rapid City and Las Vegas tracked mailed packages of methamphetamine and also received money wire transfers paying for the shipped methamphetamine. On December 19, 2019, law enforcement searched Martin’s hotel room and located Stewart, eight ounces of methamphetamine, a firearm, $5,066 cash, and other items indicative of drug distribution.
Edward Martin, Sara Skinner, Carmen Dillon, Keeler Stands, Melanie Vance, Tyler Olson, Christopher James, and Kirbesha Bailey have all previously been sentenced for their roles in this same conspiracy.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Agency, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Postal Inspector, and 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. Attorneys Kathryn N. Rich and Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Stewart was immediately returned to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Lantry Man Sentenced on Multiple ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Lantry, South Dakota, man convicted of Sexual Exploitation of a Child, Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child, and Sexual Abuse of a Minor, was sentenced on April 18, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Mato Dyda, age 21, was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100, and restitution in the amount of $893.80.
Dyda was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 14, 2021. He pled guilty on January 13, 2022.
The conviction stems from incidences on June 26, 2020, and November 8, 2020, in Ziebach County, South Dakota, when Dyda engaged in and attempted to engage in sexual acts with two underage victims. Dyda also made videos of this sexually explicit conduct.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and the Ziebach County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Dyda was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Yankton Man Sentenced for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Yankton, South Dakota, man convicted at a jury trial of Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on April 18, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Matthew Carter, age 31, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, $13,000 in restitution, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Carter was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 4, 2021.
The conviction stemmed from an incident in January 2021, when Carter was in jail and called his dad and directed him to retrieve some property that Carter hid above the ceiling tile in his bathroom. An officer listening to the jail call went to Carter’s residence and found a computer hard drive above the ceiling tile. Forensic examination of the hard drive revealed 60 video files containing child pornography.
This case was investigated the Yankton Police Department, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Carter was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Two Charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Fort Pierre, South Dakota, woman and an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Regina Maynard, age 30, and Larry Chavez, age 25, were indicted on April 12, 2022. Maynard appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 14, 2022, and Chavez appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 15, 2022. Both pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is a minimum of 10 years and up to life in custody and/or a $10,000,000 fine, a minimum of five years and up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The indictment alleges that on February 7, 2022, in Stanley County, South Dakota, Maynard and Chavez knowingly and intentionally possessed with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
The charge is merely an accusation and Maynard and Chavez are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Stanley County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Chavez was released on conditions and Maynard was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Three Sioux Falls Men Charged for Roles in Bank Fraud & Money Laundering ConspiraciesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced today that three men from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in bank fraud and money laundering conspiracies.
Antyon Hamilton Hogan Jr., age 24, Marvin Antuon Williams, age 31, and Giovanni Hamilton, age 23, were indicted on April 5, 2022. Each initially appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on April 7, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 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 Indictment, in 2020 and continuing until April 2022, Hogan, Williams, and Hamilton conspired and agreed with others to knowingly conduct and attempt to conduct bank fraud and financial transactions affecting interstate and foreign commerce. Specifically, the three co-conspirators knowingly conspired to execute and attempt to execute a scheme and artifice to defraud financial institutions throughout the Sioux Falls area and elsewhere, including, but not limited to, First Premier Bank, Wells Fargo Bank, Levo Credit Union, First National Bank, First Bank and Trust, U.S. Bank, American Bank and Trust, American State Bank, Navy Federal Credit Union, Pima Federal Credit Union, JP Morgan Chase, and Security National Bank of South Dakota. These defendants, as alleged, schemed to obtain money, funds, and other property owned by, and under the custody and control of, the aforementioned financial institutions, by means of false or fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises.
After obtaining funds through fraud, the three co-conspirators and others engaged in depositing, transferring, wiring, and withdrawing currency and funds at financial institutions, which involved the proceeds of specified unlawful activity – that is, the bank fraud identified above. These defendants knew that 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. While conducting and attempting to conduct such financial transactions, it is alleged that Hogan, Williams, and Hamilton knew that the property involved in the financial transactions represented the proceeds of some form of unlawful activity.
The charges are merely accusations, and Hogan, Williams, and Hamilton are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, Sioux Falls Police Department, U.S. Postal Service, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
Hogan and Williams were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending further proceedings and trial. Hamilton was released on bond. A trial date of June 14, 2022, has been set.
Summerset Man Indicted on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Summerset, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Receipt of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography.
Caleb Cook, age 23, was indicted on March 17, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on April 13, 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.
Cook was federally indicted following a Cybertip from the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children. The charges relate to Cook receiving and possessing child pornography between September 2016 and December 2021, at Summerset. The charges are merely an accusation and Cook 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.
Cook was detained pending trial. A trial date has been set for June 21, 2022.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Prohibited Person in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm was sentenced on April 18, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Benny Bacon, age 56, was sentenced to 26 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.
Bacon was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 8, 2021. He pled guilty on January 27, 2022.
The conviction stems from an incident on November 19, 2020, in Todd County, South Dakota, during a traffic stop when law enforcement located a pistol, ammunition, and drug paraphernalia in Bacon’s vehicle. Bacon is a felon and an unlawful user of a controlled substance making him a prohibited person.
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, Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.
Bacon was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Man Charged with Three MurdersRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for three counts of First Degree Murder, three counts of Discharge of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence, and one count of Possession of Ammunition by a Prohibited Person.
Elijah West, age 24, was indicted on January 20, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on April 15, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The penalty upon conviction is mandatory life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges stem from West killing three people by shooting them near Wounded Knee, South Dakota, in January 2022. The charges are merely an accusation and West is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
West was detained pending trial. A trial date has been set for June 21, 2022.
Pine Ridge Brothers Found Not Guilty in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that two Pine Ridge, South Dakota, men were acquitted of Second Degree Murder following a federal jury trial in Rapid City, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on April 15, 2022.
Antoine Joey Makes Good, a/k/a Joey Makes Good, age 35, and Vinnie Makes Good, age 33, were indicted by a federal grand jury on December 8, 2020.
The charge related to the murder of a male individual at Kyle, South Dakota, on November 1, 2020. The investigation was conducted by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The U.S. Attorney's Office prosecuted the case.
Pierre Woman Indicted for Assaulting Federal OfficersRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Barbara McGhee, age 24, was indicted on April 13, 2021. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 15, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to eight years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on March 29, 2021, in Lower Brule, South Dakota, McGhee physically assaulted correctional officers as they were attempting to relocate her to another area of the jail.
The charge is merely an accusation and McGhee is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, Lower Brule Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
McGhee was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
New Mexico Man Sentenced to Nearly 22 Years in Federal Prison for Fraud, Money Laundering, and Obstruction ConspiraciesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that John Rick Winer, age 68, of New Mexico, convicted for his role in fraud, money laundering, and obstruction of justice conspiracies, was sentenced on Monday April 18, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Winer was sentenced to 262 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, nearly $11 million in restitution, and forfeiture of a residence in Norway, a luxury vehicle, approximately $4 million in silver coins, and a laptop. He was also ordered to pay $1,200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Defendants John Rick Winer, Nathan Peachey, and others were originally indicted by a federal grand jury on November 5, 2019. A Second Superseding Indictment was filed on October 6, 2020. Peachey and Winer proceeded to trial in November 2021, and the jury returned guilty verdicts on all counts against both defendants. Peachey was sentenced on February 14, 2022, to 300 months in federal prison and ordered to pay approximately $11 million in restitution. Winer was originally scheduled for sentencing that same day but failed to appear.
According to evidence presented at trial and court documents, Peachey resided in and operated from the State of Pennsylvania and from a suburb of Oslo, Norway. Peachey aided in soliciting millions of dollars from investors in the United States, and he received funds from others who were involved in the fraud scheme. Funds obtained by and through Peachey were, in part, laundered through and into domestic and international bank accounts. After his receipt of funds, Peachey would transfer or wire funds to his co-conspirators, and he also would use funds on personal expenditures.
Winer resided and operated from the State of New Mexico, among other places. Winer recruited individuals from South Dakota and elsewhere to invest in various projects, and he solicited funds that were obtained through the fraud scheme. After his receipt of funds, Winer would transfer or wire funds to his co-conspirators and others known and unknown to the Grand Jury, and he also would use funds on personal expenditures.
As to the scheme to defraud the victims across the country, Peachey and Winer, along with their co-conspirators, informed investors that the monies provided to one or more of the co-conspirators would be used for charitable or humanitarian projects, oftentimes using religion to entice and induce victims into investing money in the scheme. They also made promises that there would be a return on investments. Peachey and Winer informed investors that the monies provided to one or more of the co-conspirators would not be expended on personal expenses. Investor money was not used for charitable or for humanitarian projects, and investors never received a return on investments relating to the monies provided to Peachey, Winer, or their co-conspirators. The purpose of the conspiracy was to enrich the co-conspirators, all of whom amassed nearly $13 million, and then spent the fraud proceeds on a luxury residence located in a suburb of Oslo, Norway, renovation costs on the house, a Mercedes Benz, nearly $4 million in silver, travel, and personal expenses. This fraud scheme impacted victims from around the United States, including South Dakota, Minnesota, Arizona, New Mexico, Florida, Colorado, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina.
While espousing sovereign-citizen and religiously-based ideologies and employing such tactics, Peachey, Winer, and their co-conspirators utilized, independently or jointly, entities to perpetrate the fraud scheme, including, but not limited to: AG Enterprises, L.L.C.; House of Winer; Jacobs Provision Trust; The Joseph Project; Jericho Outreach; Jericho Outreach – Norway; Christian Charity Foundation; and G47 Initiative. These entities were fake and used to receive fraud proceeds and launder money.
Once Peachey and Winer learned about the investigation in South Dakota and elsewhere, they also conspired to obstruct justice. Peachey and Winer conspired to corruptly obstruct, influence, and impede the investigation of the below-listed agencies and various court proceedings.
This case was investigated by the following entities: Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation; Federal Bureau of Investigation; ØKOKRIM, the Norwegian National Authority for Prosecution and Investigation of Economic and Environmental Crime, Oslo, Norway; Oslo, Norway Police Department; Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs; and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeremy R. Jehangiri and Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.
Winer was immediately returned to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to begin serving his sentence of imprisonment.
Huron Man Sentenced for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited PersonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Huron, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on April 11, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Yeh Thwin, age 23, was sentenced to 60 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.
Thwin was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 6, 2021. He pled guilty on January 19, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on November 12, 2020, when the Huron Police Department came to Thwin’s residence to conduct a follow-up on a stolen firearm. They found the stolen firearm, a Glock GmbH, model 22C Gen 3, .40 Smith and Wesson caliber, semi-automatic pistol in Thwin’s bedroom. Thwin had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. On that same date, Thwin knew that he had previously been convicted of a felony and also knew that he was prohibited from possessing any firearms.
The firearm had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce before he possessed it.
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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Huron Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Thwin was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Charged with AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Domestic Violence by an Habitual Offender, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
Melvin Semon, age 55, was indicted on April 12, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 14, 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, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on April 30, 2019, and January 3, 2022, in Eagle Butte, Semon committed domestic assault. Semon committed the first assault with a dangerous weapon; the second assault resulted in serious bodily injury to his intimate partner. At the time of the assault, Semon had at least two prior convictions of offenses that would have been, if subject to federal jurisdiction, assaults against a spouse or intimate partner.
The charges are merely accusations and Semon is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem is prosecuting the case.
Semon was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending hearing. A trial date has not been set.
Brookings Man Charged with Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the InternetRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Brookings, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet.
Zachary Scott Murray, age 35, was indicted on April 5, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on April 15, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The mandatory minimum penalty upon conviction is 10 years and a maximum of life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, five years minimum of supervised release, up to life, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about March 6, 2022, Murray attempted to use a cell phone to knowingly persuade, induce, entice, and coerce an undercover agent posing as a 14-year-old female, to engage in sexual activity.
The charge is merely an accusation and Murray is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Sioux Falls Police Department, Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, South Dakota Highway Patrol, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Murray was released on bond pending trial which has been set for August 9, 2022.
Arizona Man Found Guilty of Multiple Pound Methamphetamine Conspiracy and Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that William Stevenson, age 56, of Phoenix, Arizona, was found guilty of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance as a result of a federal jury trial in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on April 14, 2022.
The Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance charge carries a maximum penalty of life in custody and/or a $10 million fine, life of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. The Obstruction of Justice by Retaliating Against a Witness, Victim or Informant charge carries a maximum penalty of twenty years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crimes Victims Fund.
Stevenson was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 4, 2022.
Beginning on an unknown date, and continuing until on or about January 2021, Stevenson, along with at least one other person reached an agreement or came to an understanding to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of a substance containing methamphetamine in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere.
During Stevenson’s involvement, he and other co-conspirators brought multiple pounds of methamphetamine into South Dakota for redistribution.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered. The sentencing date has not been scheduled. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Allen Man Pleads Not Guilty to Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that an Allen, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Sexual Abuse of a Minor.
Duane Long Pumpkin, age 23, was indicted on March 17, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on April 15, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 15 years in a federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, up to life of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to Long Pumpkin knowingly engaging in and attempting to engage in sexual acts with a minor female at Allen in 2021.
The charge is merely an accusation and Long Pumpkin is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama is prosecuting the case.
Long Pumpkin was released from custody pending trial. A trial date has been set for June 21, 2022.
U.S. Attorney Dennis R. Holmes Announces RetirementRead the Press Release
After serving over 43 years as a prosecutor in South Dakota, United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced today that he intends to retire. Holmes, a Custer, South Dakota native, began his career as a prosecutor in 1978 as a clinical law intern in the Pennington County States Attorney’s Office while still in Law School at the University of South Dakota. The following spring Holmes was offered a position by then newly elected South Dakota Attorney General Mark Meierhenry to serve as an Assistant Attorney General in the litigation division. He spent nine years in the Attorney General’s office handling a broad variety of criminal cases ranging from homicides to drug conspiracies. He also represented the State of South Dakota in civil litigation, including jurisdictional challenges on Indian country issues. While in the Attorney General’s Office Holmes held the positions of head of the litigation division, Deputy Attorney General, and Chief Deputy Attorney General. Holmes said, “I was very fortunate to begin my legal career under the tutelage of Mark Meierhenry. Mark was a great lawyer and a mentor to so many South Dakota attorneys.”
In 1988 Holmes joined the United States Attorney’s Office in Pierre where he handled primarily Indian country criminal cases and drug prosecutions. In 1995 Holmes moved to the Sioux Falls U.S. Attorney’s office to become the lead Drug Task Force prosecutor for the District of South Dakota. During his 34 years as a federal prosecutor Holmes prosecuted a wide array of federal criminal cases, including large scale drug conspiracies, violent crimes, tax fraud, federal program fraud, and environmental crimes. He received several awards for his work in the U.S. Attorney’s office, including the Director’s Award for Superior Performance by an Assistant U.S. Attorney, Outstanding Performance Award from the Environment Natural Resources Division of the Department of Justice, the Bronze Medal Award from the Environmental Protection Agency, West Central Region Organized Crime Drug Taskforce Award for Outstanding Achievement, National Department of Justice Organized Crime Drug Taskforce Award for Outstanding Achievement, and Midwest High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Prosecutor of the year Award. Holmes has served three times as Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota. Holmes also held the position of First Assistant U.S. Attorney for four different U.S. Attorneys. He has been the Criminal Chief for the office for over 19 years.
Holmes said, “It has been an honor to work with so many dedicated law enforcement officials from state, local, tribal, and federal law enforcement agencies who toil every day to keep our communities safe. In my career I also have had the privilege of serving alongside many talented and devoted attorneys. I have always admired their professionalism and their dedication to public service.”
Holmes began serving as Acting U.S. Attorney under the Vacancies Reform Act on February 26, 2021, following the resignation of U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons. On December 23, 2021, Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed Holmes U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota for 120 days under the provisions of 28 U.S.C. § 546. The U.S. District Court will appoint an interim U.S. Attorney on April 22, 2022. Holmes has agreed to remain with the office for a period of time to assist with the transition.
Tea Man Charged with Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the InternetRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Tea, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet.
Sky Thomas Roubideaux, age 22, was indicted on April 5, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on April 11, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The mandatory minimum penalty upon conviction is 10 years and a maximum of life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, five years minimum of supervised release, up to life, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about March 7, 2022, Roubideaux attempted to use a cell phone to knowingly persuade, induce, entice, and coerce an undercover agent posing as a 15-year-old male, to engage in sexual activity.
The charge is merely an accusation and Roubideaux is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Sioux Falls Police Department, Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, South Dakota Highway Patrol, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Roubideaux was released on bond pending trial which has been set for August 9, 2022.
St. Francis Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on April 11, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
John Burgess Bad Hand, age 37, was sentenced to time served from his arrest November 30, 2021, through April 20, 2022, equal to approximately five months in custody, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Bad Hand was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 9, 2021. He pled guilty on January 26, 2022.
Bad Hand was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in August 2007 and again in December 2008. 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. On July 30, 2021, Bad Hand updated his sex offender registration to reflect that he was residing at an address in Rosebud. On October 21, it was discovered that Bad Hand was not residing at his registered address. Through investigation, it was determined that between September 15, 2021, and October 21, 2021, Bad Hand 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.
Bad Hand was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on April 11, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Eugene Leon Featherman, age 33, 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.
Featherman was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 14, 2021. He pled guilty on January 20, 2022.
Featherman was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in October 2011. 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. On February 26, 2021, Featherman updated his sex offender registration to reflect that he was residing at an address in Sioux Falls. On May 30, 2021, Featherman subsequently failed to reside at his registered address. Between June 3, 2021, and June 14, 2021, Featherman 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.
Featherman was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Charged with Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the InternetRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet.
Kent Mews, age 55, was indicted on April 5, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on April 11, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The mandatory minimum penalty upon conviction is 10 years and a maximum of life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, five years minimum of supervised release, up to life, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about March 6, 2022, Mews attempted to use a cell phone to knowingly persuade, induce, entice, and coerce an undercover agent posing as a 15-year-old male, to engage in sexual activity.
The charge is merely an accusation and Mews is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Sioux Falls Police Department, Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, South Dakota Highway Patrol, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Mews was released on bond pending trial which has been set for July 19, 2022.
Sioux Falls Man Charged with Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the InternetRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet.
Jordan Matthew Hermanson, age 31, was indicted on April 5, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on April 11, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The mandatory minimum penalty upon conviction is 10 years and a maximum of life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, five years minimum of supervised release, up to life, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between on or about March 8, 2022, and March 9, 2022, Hermanson attempted to use a cell phone to knowingly persuade, induce, entice, and coerce an undercover agent posing as a 14-year-old female, to engage in sexual activity.
The charge is merely an accusation and Hermanson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Sioux Falls Police Department, Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, South Dakota Highway Patrol, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Hermanson was released on bond pending trial which has been set for August 30, 2022.
Sioux Falls Man Charged with Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the InternetRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet.
Elliott Anderson, age 25, was indicted on April 5, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on April 11, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The mandatory minimum penalty upon conviction is 10 years and a maximum of life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, five years minimum of supervised release, up to life, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between on or about March 7, 2022, and March 8, 2022, Anderson attempted to use a cell phone to knowingly persuade, induce, entice, and coerce an undercover agent posing as a 15-year-old female, to engage in sexual activity.
The charge is merely an accusation and Anderson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Sioux Falls Police Department, Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, South Dakota Highway Patrol, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Anderson was released on bond pending trial which has been set for July 12, 2022.
Pine Ridge Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of three counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor was sentenced on April 1, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Garrett Waters, age 40, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for each count with the time to be served concurrently. The custody time is to be followed by five years of supervised release for each count. Waters was also ordered to pay a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Waters was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2021. He was found guilty of the charges following a jury trial in Rapid City, South Dakota, on September 3, 2021.
The conviction stems from Waters sexually abusing a female child, who was under the age of 12, between 2018 and 2020 at Pine Ridge.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Waters was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm was sentenced on April 11, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Patrick Medearis, age 38, was sentenced to 96 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.
Medearis was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2020. He was convicted on January 20, 2022, following a three-day jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota.
The conviction stems from an incident that occurred on April 22, 2020, in Todd County, South Dakota. On that date, law enforcement was searching for Medearis based on an alleged domestic violence incident that occurred the previous day wherein he was suspected of possessing a firearm. Medearis was located at a residence south of Mission. When law enforcement arrived, Medearis attempted to flee in a vehicle. He was subsequently apprehended, and a .22 caliber long rifle and a 12-gauge shotgun were located in the passenger seat of the vehicle.
Medearis has three prior felony convictions. He was convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess With Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance in U.S. District Court in 2006. He was convicted of Child Abuse and Neglect in U.S. District Court in 2010. He was convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer in U.S. District Court in 2017. As a result of these convictions, it is illegal for Medearis to possess firearms or ammunition. Medearis will forfeit ownership of the firearms to the United States.
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 Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Medearis was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Charged with BurglaryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Third Degree Burglary.
Justice James White Horse, age 20, was indicted on April 12, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 13, 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 $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on February 8, 2022, in Mission, White Horse unlawfully entered two businesses and stole property from both businesses.
The charges are merely accusations and White Horse 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.
White Horse was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Brandon Man Charged with Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the InternetRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Brandon, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet.
Gatlin Wayne Herrera, age 29, was indicted on April 5, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on April 11, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The mandatory minimum penalty upon conviction is 10 years and a maximum of life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, five years minimum of supervised release, up to life, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between on or about March 7, 2022, and March 16, 2022, Herrera attempted to use a cell phone to knowingly persuade, induce, entice, and coerce an undercover agent posing as a 14-year-old female, to engage in sexual activity.
The charge is merely an accusation and Herrera is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Sioux Falls Police Department, Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, South Dakota Highway Patrol, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Herrera was released on bond pending trial which has been set for May 24, 2022.
Black Hawk Man Sentenced for Criminal ContemptRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Black Hawk, South Dakota, man convicted of Criminal Contempt was sentenced on April 12, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Alan Frederick Dillon, age 56, was sentenced to six months in federal prison and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $10.
Dillon was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2019. He pled guilty on April 12, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on May 16, 2019, in Pierre, South Dakota, in which Dillon willfully and unlawfully failed to appear for a court hearing to which he was summoned.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Dillon was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.