District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Pennsylvania Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Claysville, Pennsylvania, man convicted of Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet was sentenced on April 1, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.
Kevin William Clements, age 24, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Clements will also be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Clements was arrested and federally indicted as a result of an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2020 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting internet predators. Clements initiated sexual chats with what he believed to be a 13-year-old prostitute, but who was in fact an undercover agent. Clements then negotiated a time and place he would meet the minor to engage in unlawful sex acts. When Clements went to the pre-determined location to meet the minor’s pimp, he was met by law enforcement. Clements attempted to flee by driving his motorcycle away and fought with agents until he was tased and placed under arrest.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.
Clements was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Man Pleads Not Guilty to Involuntary Manslaughter and AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a South Dakota man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for two counts of Involuntary Manslaughter and one count of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
Moses Runs Against, age 38, was indicted on February 17, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on April 8, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction for each Involuntary Manslaughter charge is eight years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. As to the charge of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, the maximum penalty is 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Runs Against killing two females by operating a motor vehicle while under the intoxicating influence of alcohol on January 22, 2022, near Manderson, South Dakota. Two other females were also seriously injured in the accident.
The charges are merely accusations and Runs Against is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen is prosecuting the case.
Runs Against was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for June 14, 2022.
Wakonda Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison After Drug ConvictionRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Wakonda, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute and Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on April 4, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Larry Dean Rederick, 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.
Rederick was indicted for Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute and Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on July 20, 2020. His case went before a jury on January 4, 2022, wherein Rederick was convicted of both crimes.
On or about January 9, 2020, in the District of South Dakota, Rederick knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), a Schedule II controlled substance.
Beginning at an unknown date and continuing to on or about July 20, 2020, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Rederick knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed together, with others known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Yankton Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Rederick was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Oglala Man Found Guilty of Possession of Body Armor by a Violent FelonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that Kane Youngman, age 26, of Oglala, South Dakota, was found guilty of Possession of Body Armor by a Violent Felon following a federal jury trial in Rapid City. The verdict was returned on April 7, 2022.
The charge carries a maximum penalty of three years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, one year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Youngman was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 17, 2022. The conviction stems from Youngman, having been previously convicted of a crime of violence, being in possession of a ballistic vest on January 22, 2022, at Oglala.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date will be set. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on April 1, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Will LaClaire, age 37, was sentenced to four years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
LaClaire was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 20, 2018, and pleaded guilty on November 12, 2021. The conviction stems from LaClaire, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, illegally possessing a Glock, model 36, .45 caliber pistol, which was found after LaClaire came into contact with law enforcement in January 2018 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.
LaClaire was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Miller Woman Sentenced for Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Miller, South Dakota, woman convicted of Money Laundering was sentenced on April 4, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Marietta Ravnaas, age 52, was sentenced to two years of probation, restitution in the amount of $8,200 to Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Unemployment Assistance, and restitution in the amount of $12,100 to Washington State, Employment Security Department, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Ravnaas was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 3, 2021. She pled guilty on January 6, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning on or about May 20, 2020, and continuing through November 18, 2020, when Ravnaas knowingly participated in a wire fraud scheme to fraudulently obtain CARES Act unemployment benefits.
On March 27, 2020, the CARES Act was enacted. It authorized approximately $2 trillion in aid to American workers, families, and businesses to mitigate the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act funded and authorized each state to administer new unemployment benefits. CARES Act unemployment benefits are funded by the U.S. government through the Department of Labor and administered at the state level by state agencies known as state workforce agencies.
As part of the scheme and artifice, other participants in the scheme unlawfully obtained, possessed, and shared with one another the personal identifying information (PII) of various individuals. The PII was used to falsely and fraudulently apply for unemployment benefits from various states.
On multiple occasions during the relevant time period, Ravnaas knowingly allowed the fraudulently obtained unemployment benefits payments to be deposited into her bank account. Ravnaas also transferred the fraudulently obtained unemployment benefits payments at the direction of other participants in the scheme. Ravnaas frequently transferred the funds to other participants using WorldRemit, an international money transfer service. Ravnaas kept some of the funds as well to use for her own purposes.
Ravnaas received items in the mail that pertained to fraudulent unemployment benefits, including a fraudulent check from the State of New York and a fraudulently obtained debit card from the State of Michigan.
Ravnaas also knowingly conducted multiple financial transactions that affected interstate and foreign commerce and that involved the proceeds of the wire fraud scheme, as described above. Ravnaas conducted financial transactions using WorldRemit, knowing that the financial transactions were designed in whole or in part to conceal or disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, or control of the proceeds of the wire fraud scheme. Ravnaas knew that the money involved in these financial transactions represented the proceeds of the wire fraud scheme. This includes a WorldRemit transaction on or about May 28, 2020, in the amount of $400.99 from Ravnaas to an individual in Accra, Ghana.
This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration-Office of the Inspector General, the Department of Labor-Office of the Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Porcupine Man Sentenced to Ten Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Porcupine, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on April 1, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Duane Cross, age 52, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Cross was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2020. He pleaded guilty on November 5, 2021.
The conviction stems from Cross using force to engage in sexual contact with a juvenile female between 2015 and 2016 at Porcupine.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Cross was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Woman Pleads Not Guilty to Embezzlement and Theft from Indian Tribal OrganizationRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Theft of Money from Federal Program and Embezzlement and Theft from Indian Tribal Organization.
Darcel Pourier, age 37, was indicted on March 17, 2022. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on March 18, 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 a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Pourier, an agent of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, embezzling at least $5,000 in 2021 from the OST Health Administration Department.
The investigation is being conducted by the Department of Health and Human Services – Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen is prosecuting the case.
Pourier was released from custody pending trial. A trial date has been set for May 24, 2022.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on March 28, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Harold Dooley, age 32, was sentenced to four years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Dooley was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 17, 2019, and pleaded guilty on October 15, 2021. The conviction stems from Dooley, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, illegally possessing a Phoenix Arms, model HP22A, .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol, which was found after Dooley came into contact with law enforcement in November 2019 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.
Dooley was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Found Guilty of Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was convicted of Illegal Possession of a Firearm following a two-day federal jury trial held in Rapid City. The guilty verdict was returned on March 30, 2022.
Montgomery Lebeau, age 42, was charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The conviction stems from Lebeau, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, knowingly possessing a Hi-Point, model JCP, .40 Smith & Wesson caliber, semi-automatic pistol, which was found after Lebeau came into contact with law enforcement in October 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. A sentencing date has not been set.
Wakpala Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Wakpala, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on March 29, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Fabian Carlo Rodriguez, age 30, was sentenced to 18 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.
Rodriguez was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 9, 2021. He pled guilty on January 4, 2022.
Between February 6, 2021, and July 28, 2021, Rodriguez, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under federal law, knowingly failed to register as a sex offender while living in Wakpala and numerous cities in Minnesota and North Dakota.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Rodriguez was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Spearfish Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Spearfish, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet was sentenced on March 28, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.
Bernard Andrew Wagner, Jr., age 59, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Wagner will also be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Wagner was federally indicted and arrested after attempting to sexually entice an undercover law enforcement agent posing as a minor after Wagner started sending inappropriate messages to a 15-year-old female he knew personally.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, Spearfish Police Department, Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.
Wagner 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 March 28, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Cephas Joseph Wood, age 38, 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.
Wood was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 7, 2021. He pled guilty on December 9, 2021.
The conviction stems from Wood failing to register as a sex offender as required by federal law between September 17, 2021, and November 13, 2021. Wood had previously been convicted of a sex offense in federal court which requires him to register for the rest of his life.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Wood 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 Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Production of Child Pornography.
Jayden Kusiek Wolf, age 22, was indicted on March 17, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta L. Wollmann on March 25, 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 on or about May 25, 2021, and July 7, 2021, Kusiek Wolf knowingly employed, used, persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced two minor females in Sioux Falls to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions, and knowing that such visual depictions would be transported in interstate and foreign commerce or mailed, and such visual depictions would be produced by any means, including by computer.
The charges are merely accusations and Kusiek Wolf is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, Sioux Falls Police Department, Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, and the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Kusiek Wolf was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, which has not been set.
Minnesota Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Marshall, Minnesota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on March 29, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Brody Lee Chase Hancock, age 29, was sentenced to 10 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Hancock was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 7, 2021. He pled guilty on January 4, 2022.
The conviction stems from Hancock failing to register as a sex offender as required by federal law between December 1, 2020, and July 7, 2021. Hancock had previously been convicted of a sex offense in the state of Minnesota, which requires him to register for 15 years upon his release from prison.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Hancock was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Oglala Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that an Oglala, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Aric Singing Goose, a/k/a Eric Sharpfish, age 34, was indicted on March 8, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta L. Wollmann on March 25, 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 Singing Goose, 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 May 27, 2021, and ending on or about December 1, 2021, while living in the District of South Dakota.
The charges are merely accusations and Singing Goose 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.
Singing Goose was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Manderson Man Pleads Not Guilty to Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Manderson, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for one count of Sexual Abuse and two counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor.
John Joseph White Plume, Sr., age 50, was indicted on October 21, 2021. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on February 23, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is lifetime imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, up to life of supervised release, and a $300 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to White Plume knowingly engaging in and attempting to engage in sexual acts with a minor female at Manderson in March 2021.
The charges are merely accusations and White Plume is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen is prosecuting the case.
White Plume was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for May 3, 2022.
Rosebud Man Sentenced for Assault with a Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault With a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on March 22, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Mason Drew Reddy, age 26, was sentenced to 40 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Reddy was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 12, 2021. He pled guilty on November 15, 2021.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on the evening of December 4, 2020, in Rosebud, South Dakota. On that date, Reddy went to the victim’s residence and asked the victim to join him in a fight or confrontation down the street. When the victim refused, Reddy assaulted the victim with a sharp instrument, inflicting a deep laceration on the victim’s neck.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Reddy was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Prohibited Person in Possession of a FirearmRead 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 March 21, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Kerry Browning, age 36, was sentenced to about six and half months of custody through April 14, 2022, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Browning was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 8, 2021. He pled guilty on December 30, 2021.
The conviction stems from an incident on April 11, 2021, in Todd County, South Dakota, when law enforcement received a call that Browning was driving recklessly. When law enforcement made contact with Browning, they observed a rifle in plain view in his vehicle. Browning is 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 and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.
Browning was detained following his sentencing hearing.
Lower Brule Man Indicted for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Jade LaRoche, age 41, was indicted on January 11, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta L. Wollmann on March 23, 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 on October 31, 2021, in Lower Brule, South Dakota, LaRoche struck and injured a federal law enforcement officer.
The charge is merely an accusation and LaRoche 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.
LaRoche was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Winner Man Sentenced for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Winner, South Dakota, man convicted of Receipt of Child Pornography was sentenced on March 22, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Clayton Spotted Calf, age 27, was sentenced to 121 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release. Spotted Calf was ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100 and to pay $54,000 in restitution.
Spotted Calf was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 9, 2021. He pled guilty on November 22, 2021.
Between December 2020 and February 2021, Spotted Calf searched for and downloaded child pornography via the internet. He saved multiple images and videos of child pornography to his Google account and to two cellular phones. Law enforcement began investigating Spotted Calf in January 2021, based on a CyberTip received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which indicated Spotted Calf was storing child pornography in his Google account. In February 2021, Spotted Calf was contacted by law enforcement agents with the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. Spotted Calf admitted to intentionally searching for child pornography and storing it in his Google account and on his cellular phones, which were seized. A forensic examination of Spotted Calf’s Google account and his devices revealed thousands of images and videos of child pornography. Spotted Calf will forfeit ownership of the cellular phones to the United States. He will also be required as a sex offender pursuant to the Sex Offender and Registration and Notification Act.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Spotted Calf was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Latvian Citizen Extradited from Norway Made Appearance in Federal Court for Role in Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced today that a Latvian woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for her role in a money laundering conspiracy. She was recently extradited from Norway to face the federal charge and forfeiture allegations in South Dakota.
Lubova Burkute, age 40, was indicted on June 17, 2021. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on March 21, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution and forfeiture may also be ordered.
According to the indictment, in approximately 2015 and continuing until 2021, Burkute conspired and agreed with others to knowingly conduct and attempt to conduct financial transactions affecting interstate and foreign commerce. Specifically, Burkute and her co-conspirators engaged in depositing, transferring, wiring, and withdrawing U.S. Currency, foreign currency, and funds at financial institutions, which involved the proceeds of specified unlawful activity – wire fraud. Burkute and her co-conspirators 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 Burkute knew that the property involved in the financial transactions represented the proceeds of some form of unlawful activity. Burkute resided in and operated from Norway, among other places, she is a citizen of Latvia.
The charge is merely an accusation and Burkute is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the following agencies:
- 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
- South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeremy R. Jehangiri and Ann M. Hoffman are prosecuting the case.
Burkute was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending further proceedings and trial. A trial date of May 31, 2022, has been set.
Colorado Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute Meth and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited PersonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Boulder, Colorado, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on March 21, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
James Ruttledge, age 50, was sentenced to 168 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Ruttledge was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 11, 2020. He pled guilty on December 30, 2021.
The convictions stem from a conspiracy which began in March, 2020, in which Ruttledge conspired with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute methamphetamine in and around central South Dakota. Rutledge brought large amounts of methamphetamine from Denver, Colorado, to the Winner, South Dakota, area to be distributed. As part of the conspiracy, Ruttledge was involved in a traffic stop on August 28, 2020, in Tripp County, South Dakota, wherein 200 grams of pure methamphetamine and a firearm were found in Ruttledge’s possession. Ruttledge is 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 Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the Tripp County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.
Ruttledge was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Washington Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Vancouver, Washington, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on March 21, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Aidan Gianni Carl Bratt, age 21, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Bratt was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 3, 2021. He pled guilty on December 21, 2021.
The conviction stems from Bratt failing to register as a sex offender as required by federal law between October 11, 2020 and January 12, 2021. Bratt had previously been convicted of a sex offense in the State of Washington. On October 8, 2021, Bratt traveled to South Dakota from Washington State and began to reside in South Dakota. He knowingly failed to register his change of residence in either South Dakota and/or Washington, within three business days of his relocation, as required by law.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Bratt was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Todd County Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Todd County, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on March 21, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Alejandro Santistevan, age 21, was sentenced to 4 months in federal prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, with the first 4 months to be served on home confinement, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Santistevan was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 9, 2020. He pled guilty on December 30, 2021.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred in the early morning hours of May 18, 2020, in Todd County, South Dakota. On that date, Rosebud Sioux Tribe law enforcement officers responded to a report that Santistevan was drunk and causing a disturbance at a residence in the Okreek Community. Upon arrival to the residence, the officers found Santistevan lying under a tree. Santistevan did not respond to commands to show his hands, so one of the officers grabbed Santistevan’s foot to see if he was awake. Santistevan then became combative and assaulted one of the officers.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Department of Natural Resources and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Santistevan was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on March 21, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Cassius Farmer, age 28, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Farmer was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 9, 2021. He pled guilty on December 30, 2021.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on October 21, 2021, in Mission, South Dakota. On that date, United States Marshals Service personnel and Federal Bureau of Investigation personnel were searching for Farmer, who had an arrest warrant for a violation of federal supervised release. Farmer was located at an apartment building in Mission, but gave a false name. Farmer was detained, at which point he informed the officers he was carrying a handgun. The firearm was seized, and Farmer then properly identified himself.
Farmer was convicted of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in 2018, making it illegal for him to possess firearms and ammunition. Farmer will forfeit ownership of the handgun and ammunition 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 Dakota Territory Fugitive Task Force, the United States Marshals Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Farmer was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Martin Woman Sentenced for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Martin, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on March 21, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Carly Rae Shott, age 23, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison, four years of supervised release, a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100, and forfeiture of a handgun and ammunition.
Shott was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 9, 2020. She pled guilty on December 20, 2021.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred between August 2018 and August 2019, wherein Shott conspired with others to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine in South Dakota. Further, on August 30, 2019, Shott was arrested in Eagle Butte, South Dakota, with approximately ten grams of methamphetamine, $6,166 in United States currency, and a loaded handgun.
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 Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Shott was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Fort Thompson Man Indicted for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
Jonathon Coleman, age 31, was indicted on March 8, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on March 18, 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, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on July 5, 2021, in Fort Thompson, South Dakota, Coleman assaulted a man, which resulted in serious bodily injury.
The charge is merely an accusation and Coleman is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services, Crow Creek Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Coleman 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 MinorRead 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 charged by Criminal Complaint on March 17, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on the same, 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, life years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between March 7, 2022, and March 16, 2022, Herrera, using his cellular phone, attempted to knowingly persuade, induce, entice, and coerce, an individual, who had not attained the age of 18, namely an undercover law enforcement officer posing as a 15-year-old female, to engage in sexual activity for which Herrera could be charged.
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, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Sioux Falls Police Department, the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the 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 not been set yet.
Elk Point Man Charged with Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that an Elk Point, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Production of Child Pornography.
Hector Paulin-Torres, age 33, was indicted on March 1, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on March 16, 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 September 18, 2021, Paulin-Torres knowingly employed, used, persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced a minor female to engaged in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions, knowing such depictions would be transported in interstate or foreign commerce or mailed, and such visual depictions would be produced by any means, including by computer
The charge is merely an accusation and Paulin-Torres is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigation, the Elk Point Police Department, and the Vermillion Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Paulin-Torres was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial which has not been set yet.
Watertown Man Sentenced for Receipt, Distribution, and Transportation of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Watertown, South Dakota, man convicted at a jury trial of one count of Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography and one count of Transportation of Child Pornography was sentenced on March 15, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Vincent Michael Perez, age 37, was sentenced to 262 months in federal prison for each count to be served concurrently, 10 years of supervised release on each count to run concurrently, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Perez was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 17, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between August 7 and August 17, 2019, when Perez knowingly received and distributed child pornography using a MeWe social media account. Perez also uploaded pornographic images of children to the same social media account. Law enforcement investigated the case after receiving a cybertip generated by MeWe. A detective with the Watertown Police Department tracked the history of internet use to Perez. The MeWe account contained numerous files of child pornography that Perez shared with other MeWe users.
This case was investigated by the Watertown Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Perez was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Charged with Possession of Child PornographyRead 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 Possession of Child Pornography.
Nathan Bushee, age 21, was indicted on March 1, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on March 15, 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, 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 April 13, 2021, and December 20, 2021, Bushee knowingly possessed and attempted to possess materials which contain an images of child pornography.
The charge is merely an accusation and Bushee is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Bushee was released on bond pending trial which has not been set yet.
Eagle Butte Man Found Guilty for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that Joseph Elsey, age 27, of Eagle Butte, South Dakota, was found guilty of Assaulting, Impeding or Resisting a Federal Officer as a result of a federal jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on March 16, 2022.
The charge carries a maximum penalty of 1 year in custody and/or a $100,000 fine, 1 year of supervised release, and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Elsey was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 9, 2021.
The conviction stems from an incident on October 26, 2020, in Ziebach County, South Dakota, when law enforcement was called to the residence where Elsey was staying to have him removed. When law enforcement arrived, Elsey was detained but then became upset and attempted to get away from the officer. While the officer was trying further detain Elsey, he struck the officer in the leg.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carl Thunem and Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date is to be set. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Larceny of Police VehicleRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Larceny was sentenced on March 14, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Derrick One Star, a/k/a Derek One Star, age 34, was sentenced to eight months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, $12,775 in restitution, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
One Star was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 10, 2021. He pled guilty on October 7, 2021.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on March 28, 2021, near Mission. On that date, Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services officers responded to a report that One Star was causing a disturbance at a residence in the South Antelope Housing Community. Officers made contact with One Star outside the residence and attempted to place him under arrest. One Star pulled away from the officers and fled the scene on foot, with the officers pursuing him. He then returned to the residence and stole a police patrol vehicle. One Star was arrested following a short vehicle pursuit, during which he damaged the vehicle.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
One Star was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Indicted on Assault ChargesRead 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 Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding a Federal Officer, and Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender.
Anthony Kitteaux, Sr., age 29, was indicted on March 8, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on March 14, 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 January 24, 2022, in Todd County, South Dakota, Kitteaux did forcibly assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with a law enforcement officer who was employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, and that such conduct involved physical contact. The Indictment further alleges that, at the same place and date, Kitteaux unlawfully committed a domestic assault against a spouse or intimate partner and that, at the time of the domestic assault, Kitteaux had at least two prior convictions for offenses that would have been, if subject to federal jurisdiction, an assault against a spouse or intimate partner.
The charges are merely accusations and Kitteaux is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Kitteaux was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mission Man Indicted for AssaultRead 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 Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation.
Talon Bettelyoun, Sr., age 30, was indicted on March 8, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on March 14, 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, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on October 22, 2021, in Todd County, South Dakota, Bettelyoun unlawfully assaulted an intimate partner by strangling and suffocating her.
The charge is merely an accusation and Bettelyoun is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Bettelyoun was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Eagle Butte Woman Sentenced for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on March 14, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Frances Sioux Montero, age 40, was sentenced to seven months in federal prison, followed by three 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.
Montero was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 10, 2021. She pled guilty on September 30, 2021.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on May 12, 2021, in Eagle Butte. Montero knowingly and intentionally possessed methamphetamine with intent to distribute the drug.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Montero was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Wagner Man Charged with Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Wagner, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Harold Dean Johnson, Jr., age 42, was indicted on March 1, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on March 11, 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 Johnson, 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 10, 2021, and March 1, 2022.
The charge is merely an accusation and Johnson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Johnson was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Individuals Charged with Making a False Statement in Connection with a Purchase of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that two Sioux Falls, South Dakota, men and a Sioux Falls, South Dakota woman have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Making a False Statement in Connection with a Purchase of a Firearm.
Shyene Marie Clemens, age 25, Matthew Lebahn, age 23, and Jayden Guenther, age 20, were indicted on March 1, 2022. Clemens appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on March 7, 2022. Lebahn and Guenther appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on March 11, 2022. All three defendants 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, three years of supervised release, and up to $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about May 6, 2021, Clemens knowingly made a false and fictitious written statement to Gary’s Gun Shop. Clemens falsely indicated that she was purchasing a firearm for herself, when, in fact, she was purchasing it for Guenther.
The Count 2 of the Indictment alleges that on or about August 27, 2021, Lebahn knowingly made a false and fictitious written statement to Scheels. Lebahn falsely indicated that he was purchasing a firearm for himself, when, in fact, he was purchasing it for Guenther.
The charges are merely accusations and Clemens, Lebahn, and Guenther are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, the Sioux Falls Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
All three defendants were released on bond pending trial which has not been set yet.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on March 7, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Marcos Bear Shield, age 26, was sentenced to two years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Bear Shield was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 18, 2021, and pleaded guilty on November 5, 2021. The conviction stems from Bear Shield, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, knowingly possessing a Smith & Wesson, model 442 Centennial Airweight, .38 Smith & Wesson Special caliber, double-action revolver and .38 Special caliber ammunition, which was found after Bear Shield came into contact with law enforcement in May 2020 at 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.
Bear Shield 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 Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on March 4, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Joshua Clark, age 34, was sentenced to two years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Clark was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 18, 2021, and pleaded guilty on October 13, 2021. The conviction stems from Clark, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, knowingly possessing an O.F. Mossberg & Sons Incorporated, model M590A1, 12 Gauge, pump-action shotgun, and a Sturm, Ruger & Company Incorporated, model New Model Single-Six, .22 Long Rifle caliber, single-action revolver, which he had taken from a residence in New Underwood, South Dakota, in November 2020.
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 Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Clark 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 Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Trevor Red Bird, age 33, was indicted on March 8, 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on March 11, 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, five years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Red Bird was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in May 2008. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. It is alleged that between December 7, 2021, and February 1, 2022, Red Bird a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under Federal Law, failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration.
The charge is merely an accusation and Red Bird is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Red Bird was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Multiple Co-Conspirators Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that six members of a drug conspiracy based out of the Martin, South Dakota, area and the Pine Ridge Reservation have been convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Four of the members have been sentenced in U.S. District Court by District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, while two more await sentencing. One additional person will stand trial in May.
Shadow Jensen, age 32, Wanblee, South Dakota, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release; Beau Imitates Dog, age 40, Martin, South Dakota, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release; Frank Milk, age 44, Wanblee, South Dakota, was sentenced to 13 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release; and Paul Moore, age 38, Kyle, South Dakota, was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release.
Brett Schrum and Richard Bettelyoun have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
Co-defendant Tracy Jones has pleaded not guilty and will stand trial in May 2022. She is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The seven co-defendants were indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on November 10, 2020.
During the course of the conspiracy, pounds of methamphetamine were trafficked into South Dakota, primarily from Colorado. Schrum, of Ft. Morgan, Colorado, brought the methamphetamine to various locations in South Dakota, primarily on the Pine Ridge reservation. The other six co-defendants are from South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the Badlands Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, which is comprised of agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Drug Enforcement, and the Martin Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina S. Nelson prosecuted the case.
Jensen, Imitates Dog, Milk, and Moore were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man and Mellette County Woman Indicted for Burglary, Assault, and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man and a Mellette County, South Dakota, woman have been indicted by a federal grand jury for First Degree Burglary, Assault With a Dangerous Weapon, and Using and Carrying a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.
Stephen Fallis, age 29, and Sativa Looking Cloud, age 20, were indicted on March 8, 2022. They both appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on March 10, 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, five years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on February 16, 2022, in Mellette County, Fallis and Looking Cloud unlawfully entered and remained in a residence, and assaulted two victims with handguns.
The charges are merely accusations and Fallis and Looking Cloud are 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 Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Fallis and Looking Cloud were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for April 26, 2022.
Mission Man Sentenced for Assault with a Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on March 14, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Wamblee One Star, a/k/a Wamblee Kane, age 40, was sentenced to 24 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.
One Star was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 8, 2020. He pled guilty on December 2, 2021.
The conviction stems from an incident on November 28, 2020, in Todd County, South Dakota, when One Star entered a convenience store and took the keys to a car from an individual. When the victim attempted to get his keys back, One Star assaulted him with a knife causing a laceration to his hand.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
One Star was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Lower Brule Woman Indicted for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Chassidy Crazy Bull, age 19, was indicted on March 8, 2022. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on March 11, 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 on September 21, 2021, in Lyman County, South Dakota, Crazy Bull did assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with a law enforcement officer who was employed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Lower Brule Agency, and that such conduct involved the use of motor vehicle as a dangerous weapon.
The charge is merely an accusation and Crazy Bull is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Lower Brule Agency, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Crazy Bull was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Iowa Man Sentenced for Production of Child Pornography and South Dakota Woman Sentenced for Sex Trafficking of a ChildRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Spencer, Iowa, man convicted of Production of Child Pornography was sentenced on March 11, 2022, and a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, woman convicted of Sex Trafficking of a Child was sentenced on January 31, 2022. Both were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Ronald Dean Johnson, age 39, was sentenced to 240 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.
Melanie Joyce Hollingsworth, age 36, was sentenced to 210 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.
Johnson and Hollingsworth were indicted by a federal grand jury on February 2, 2021. Johnson pled guilty on December 9, 2021, and Hollingsworth pled guilty on October 15, 2021.
The convictions stemmed from multiple incidents between on or about January 11, 2020, and October 10, 2020, when Johnson and Hollingsworth knowingly and intentionally recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided, obtained, and maintained by any means a juvenile female who had not attained the age of 18, to knowingly engage in commercial sexual acts.
Hollingsworth used texts, telephone calls, and apps on her phone to communicate with Johnson to set up commercial sexual acts. The commercial sexual acts were followed by wire transmission of funds via Western Union. Hollingsworth benefited financially from the commercial sexual acts by receiving funds, some of which were sent via Western Union.
Johnson videorecorded some of the sexual encounters with the minor female.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Both Johnson and Hollingsworth were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Fort Thompson Man Sentenced for Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault by Striking, Beating, or Wounding, was sentenced on March 14, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Donald Big Eagle, Jr., age 37, was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, and eight months in federal prison for Assault by Striking, Beating, or Wounding, with the sentences to be served consecutively, followed by three years of supervised release. Big Eagle was also ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, totalling $125, and to pay restitution in the amount of $400.
Big Eagle was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 8, 2020, and he pled guilty on October 4, 2021, for the charge of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. For the charge of Assault by Striking, Beating, or Wounding, Big Eagle was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 8, 2021, and pled guilty on October 4, 2021.
The Assault with a Dangerous Weapon conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on November 23, 2018, in Fort Thompson, in which Big Eagle repeatedly stomped and kicked an intimate partner, while wearing steel-toed boots. As a result of the assault, the victim sustained serious bodily injury to her torso, including multiple broken ribs and a collapsed lung.
The Assault by Striking, Beating, or Wounding conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on June 10, 2020, in Fort Thompson. While sleeping in his vehicle, the victim was drug out of his truck and was beaten by a group of people. An investigation in an unrelated matter led to DNA evidence and a confession from Big Eagle that he was a member of the group that assaulted the victim.
These cases were investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services, Crow Creek Agency, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Big Eagle was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Former Rapid City Priest Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Sexual ConductRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a former Rapid City, South Dakota, priest convicted of Engaging in Illicit Sexual Conduct in a Foreign Place was sentenced on March 11, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Marcin Stanislaw Garbarcz, age 43, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. This sentence was ordered to be served after Garbacz completes his sentence of seven years and nine months, which was handed down in November 2020 for his financial fraud and tax convictions following a March 2020 jury trial.
Garbacz was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 19, 2020, and pleaded guilty on November 8, 2021. The charge stems from Garbacz, while traveling in Poland, video recording an unclothed minor. The videos constituted production of child pornography. The videos were later found on Garbacz’s computer following his arrest on the financial fraud charges.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Garbacz was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Assaulting an Intimate PartnerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate Partner was sentenced on March 14, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Walter Hanson, Jr., age 37, 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.
Hanson was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 8, 2021. He pled guilty on December 2, 2021.
The conviction stems from an incident on September 10, 2020, in Cherry Creek, South Dakota, when Hanson accused his intimate partner of losing his EBT card and assaulted her causing serious bodily. Hanson got out of the car they were in, drug the female out of the vehicle, and shoved her to the ground. He then punched her, pulled her hair, kicked her in the stomach and chest area, and stomped on her left shoulder, breaking her left clavicle. After the assault ended, Hanson found the EBT card in his own jacket pocket. Hanson was classified as a Career Offender based upon a 2005 conviction for Voluntary Manslaughter and a conviction in 2016 for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon.
This case was investigated by Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Hanson was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.