District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Rosebud Man Indicted on Murder, Firearm, and Evidence Tampering ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Second Degree Murder, Discharge of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence, and Tampering With Evidence.
Tanyan Wakita Iron, a/k/a Sonny Iron, age 18, was indicted on September 9, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 7, 2021, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is any term of years up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, five years of supervised release, and $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on August 9, 2020, in St. Francis, South Dakota, Iron murdered a woman by shooting her in the head with a handgun. The Indictment further alleges that Iron attempted to hide the handgun from investigators following the fatal shooting.
The charges are merely accusations and Iron is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Elmore is prosecuting the case.
Iron was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Third Failure to Register as Sex Offender ConvictionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on January 11, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Joseph Blue Bird, age 33, was sentenced to 21 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.
Blue Bird was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 11, 2020. He pled guilty on November 6, 2020.
Blue Bird was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in February 2014. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. Blue Bird was convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender in 2017, and again in 2018. On March 6, 2020, Blue Bird was released from custody to begin a period of supervised release but did not subsequently update his sex offender registration. An arrest warrant was subsequently issued and on May 6, 2020, Blue Bird was arrested in Mobridge, South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Blue Bird was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pierre Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on January 11, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Sandy Mangelson, age 34, was sentenced to time served through April 12, 2021, equal to approximately 13 months in custody, five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Mangelson was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 1, 2020. He pled guilty on November 5, 2020.
Mangelson was convicted of Sexual Contact With a Child Under Sixteen in November 2005 and Gross Sexual Imposition (with a child) in 2007. As a result of those convictions, he is required to register as a sex offender and to update his registration within three business days of relocation or changing employment. Between December 5, 2019, and December 10, 2019, Mangelson failed to register and update his registration.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.
Mangelson was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Husband and Wife Sentenced for Meth Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a man and a woman from Brookings, South Dakota, convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, were sentenced on January 11, 2021 by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Jeremy Dean Riemersma, age 41, was sentenced to 70 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.
Jody Marie Riemersma, age 42, was sentenced to 12 months and a day months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
The Riemersmas were indicted by a federal grand jury on April 2, 2019. They both pled guilty on May 11, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning on an unknown date, until on or about April 1, 2019, in the District of South Dakota, when the Riemersmas knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed together with each other, and others known and unknown, to intentionally distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine. Methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance.
This case was investigated by the Division of Criminal Investigation and various law enforcement agencies in Minnesota. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.
Jeremy and Jody Riemersma were ordered to self-surrender to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service by February 16, 2021.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Heroin that Led to Fatal OverdoseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man charged with Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death pled guilty and was sentenced on January 5, 2021, by District Judge Lawrence L. Piersol.
Aaron Anthony Wodzinski, age 24, was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Wodzinski was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 10, 2020.
The conviction stems from an incident that took place in November 2018, when Wodzinski knowingly and intentionally distributed heroin to an individual in Sioux Falls who used that heroin, overdosed, and died.
The investigation was conducted by the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, United States Customs and Border Patrol, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga.
Wodzinski was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on January 5, 2021, by U.S. District Judge Lawrence L. Piersol.
Matthew Edmond Donegan, age 23, was sentenced to 120 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.
Donegan was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 4, 2020. He pled guilty on October 21, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on December 16, 2019, when Donegan was arrested in possession of 144 grams of methamphetamine, which was tested and found to be 97% pure. Donegan intended for some, or all, of that methamphetamine to be distributed.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department, the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Donegan was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Woman Sentenced on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman convicted of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm was sentenced on January 4, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Bonnie Jean Estes, age 25, was sentenced to time served through January 19, 2021, equal to approximately eight months in custody, three years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Estes was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 11, 2020. She pled guilty on November 5, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on December 26, 2019, in Jones County, South Dakota. On that date, Estes was a passenger in a vehicle driven by Jose Rodriguez. While driving through Murdo, South Dakota, Rodriguez attracted the attention of a Murdo Police Officer, who attempted to initiate a traffic stop. Rather than stop, Rodriguez led officers on a high-speed chase that ended when Rodriguez’s vehicle became stuck in a field in Lyman County. Rodriguez and Estes fled the vehicle on foot, but were apprehended after a short pursuit. Multiple firearms, including an illegal short-barrel rifle, were located in the vehicle, along with multiple rounds of ammunition.
Rodriguez was also indicted based on his involvement in the incident. On June 30, 2020, he pled guilty to Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and was sentenced on September 21, 2020, to 52 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
This case was investigated by the Murdo Police Department, the Lyman County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Estes was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Woman Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assault by Striking, Beating, or Wounding was sentenced on January 4, 2021, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.
Thomasine Noela Charging Bear, age 35, was sentenced to time served through July 21, 2021, equal to approximately 12 months in custody, one year of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Charging Bear was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 11, 2020. She pled guilty on October 15, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on June 19, 2020, in Mission. On that date, Charging Bear stabbed her domestic partner in the neck with a razor blade.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.
Charging Bear was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced on Meth Trafficking and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on January 4, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Colt Shaw, age 31, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison on each count to run concurrent, four years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200. Forfeiture of firearms was also ordered.
Shaw was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 10, 2020. He pled guilty on October 19, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy that began in at least January 2019, wherein Shaw was involved with others to distribute over 300 grams of methamphetamine in and around the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Further, on November 8, 2019, at Mission, Shaw was in possession of two firearms, while being a regular user of methamphetamine.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Shaw was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition was sentenced on January 4, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
David D. Larvie, Jr., age 38, 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.
Larvie was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 13, 2019. He was convicted on September 30, 2020, following a two-day jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota.
The charge stems from an incident that occurred on October 25, 2019. On that evening, law enforcement responded to a report that a shot had been fired from a vehicle driven by Larvie in the South Antelope Community, near Mission. Law enforcement subsequently located the suspect vehicle and arrested Larvie. Larvie had a plastic bag containing .22 caliber ammunition in his pants pocket and a search of the vehicle revealed a .22 caliber revolver.
Larvie has three prior felony convictions. He was convicted of Third Degree Burglary and Failure to Appear in U.S. District Court in 2003. He was convicted of Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence in U.S. District Court in 2008. As a result of these convictions, it is illegal for Larvie to possess firearms or ammunition. Larvie will forfeit ownership of the firearm and ammunition to the United States.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
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.
Larvie was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on January 4, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Scirgio Iron Shell, age 28, was sentenced to time served through May 3, 2021, equal to ten months in custody, five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Iron Shell was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 11, 2020. He pled guilty on October 19, 2020.
Iron Shell was convicted of Attempted Possession of Child Pornography in June 2017. As a result of the conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender for a period of 15 years. Between September 10, 2019, and August 11, 2020, Iron Shell failed to properly update his registration.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.
Iron Shell was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on January 4, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Dayton Thin Elk, a/k/a Dayton Haukaas, age 25, was sentenced to 15 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.
Thin Elk was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2020. He pled guilty on October 19, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on April 27, 2020, in Todd County, South Dakota. On that date, he was arrested for driving under the influence. After being transported to the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Adult Correctional Facility, Thin Elk was combative and spit on a corrections officer.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Thin Elk was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Indicted on Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm.
Patrick Medearis, age 36, was indicted on July 16, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 29, 2020, 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 April 22, 2020, at Mission, Medearis being an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, and having previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed a firearm.
The charge is merely an accusation and Medearis is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Medearis was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, which has been set for March 2, 2021.
Summerset Man Sentenced to One Year for Meth Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man who pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on December 17, 2020, by U.S. District Court Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.
Richard Nowell, age 59, was sentenced to one year, plus one day, in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
From approximately April 2019 to late August 2019, Nowell brought methamphetamine to South Dakota while working as an over the road truck driver. Nowell then dispersed the methamphetamine to others for use or additional distribution.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Agency and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Nowell was immediately returned to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on December 28, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Charles Little Bear, Jr., age 54, was sentenced to six 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.
Little Bear was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 20, 2020. He pled guilty on November 9, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from Little Bear failing to register as a sex offender as required by federal law between July 19, 2019, and April 9, 2020. Little Bear had previously been convicted of a sex offense in federal court, which requires him to register for 25 years after his release from custody.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.
Little Bear was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Indicted on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Bud Theus, II, age 68, was indicted on October 14, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on December 29, 2020, 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 May 8, 2020, Theus, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and then knowing he had been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and being an unlawful user of a controlled substance, and then knowing he was an unlawful user of a controlled substance, knowingly did possess a revolver, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce and foreign commerce, in Corson County, South Dakota.
The charge is merely an accusation and Theus is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Corson County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Theus was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Receipt of Child Pornography was sentenced on December 10, 2020, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Michael Hanson, age 63, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, $3,000 in restitution, and a $5,000 special assessment to the Victims of Trafficking Fund. Hanson will also be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
The conviction stems from Hanson receiving computer images of child pornography, as well as obscene matter, at Rapid City between September 2010 and June 2019.
The investigation was conducted by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.
Hanson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Porcupine Man Indicted on Carjacking and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Porcupine, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Carjacking, Use and Brandishing of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence, and Possession of a Stolen Firearm.
Curtis Horse, age 29, was indicted on December 8, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on December 16, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The penalty upon conviction is 15 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, followed by three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Horse stealing a motor vehicle and firearm at gunpoint at Rapid City, South Dakota, in November 2020. The charges are merely an accusation and Horse is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/attorney-general-william-p-barr-announces-launch-project-guardian-nationwide-strategic-plan
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman is prosecuting the case.
Horse was detained pending trial. A trial has been set for February 23, 2021.
Minnesota Man Sentenced for Attempted Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rushford Village, Minnesota, man convicted of Attempted Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on December 18, 2020, by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court Judge.
Josef Pettit, age 24, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Pettit will also be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
The conviction stemmed from an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2019 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting internet predators. Pettit was arrested and federally indicted following multiple text messages he exchanged with a person Pettit believed to be a 15-year-old girl, but who was in fact an undercover agent. Pettit requested sexually explicit images from the 15-year-old undercover persona and proceeded to negotiate the time and place he would meet the minor. When Pettit went to the pre-determined location, he was met by law enforcement agents and placed under arrest.
The investigation was conducted by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.
Pettit was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Woman Indicted on Witness Tampering ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Tampering with a Witness and Retaliation Against a Witness.
Whitney Bagola, age 26, was indicted on December 8, 2020. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 23, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in prison and/or a $250,000 fine, five years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on April 20, 2020, in South Dakota, Bagola physically assaulted a potential witness, by punching and kicking, in order to intimidate and retaliate against the potential witness.
The charges are merely accusations and Bagola is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Bagola was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Box Elder Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for RobberyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Box Elder, South Dakota, man convicted of Interference with Commerce by Robbery and Use and Brandishing of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence was sentenced on December 14, 2020, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Johnathan Adkins, age 21, was sentenced to 9 ½ years in federal prison. As to the Robbery conviction, Adkins was sentenced to 2 ½ years in federal prison and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. As to the Firearm conviction, Adkins was sentenced to 7 years in federal prison, to be served consecutively to the Robbery sentence, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The convictions relate to Adkins and two other individuals robbing the Quality Inn and Big D at Rapid City in January 2020, and brandishing a pistol at an employee at each establishment.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/attorney-general-william-p-barr-announces-launch-project-guardian-nationwide-strategic-plan
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Adkins was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on December 21, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Kevin Bordeaux, age 22, was sentenced to time served through September 3, 2021, in federal prison, three years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Bordeaux was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 3, 2020. He pled guilty on December 21, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on March 3, 2020, wherein Bordeaux was involved in a traffic stop in Todd County. A K9 was deployed and alerted to the vehicle and officers searched it. The officers located 6.54 grams of methamphetamine in the vehicle. On March 4, 2020, a search warrant was executed on Bordeaux’s residence wherein several rounds of ammunition were seized.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Bordeaux was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on December 21, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Arlyn Keckler, age 39, was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Keckler was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 13, 2019. He pled guilty on October 9, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy beginning in at least May 2015, wherein Keckler was involved with others to distribute methamphetamine in and around the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation in South Dakota. Keckler distributed 200 grams of methamphetamine during the course of the conspiracy.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Keckler was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Brandon Woman Sentenced for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Brandon, South Dakota, woman convicted of Wire Fraud was sentenced on December 21, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Sheila Verbrugge, age 50, was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $577,577.63, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Verbrugge was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 17, 2020. She pled guilty on September 28, 2020.
Verbrugge was the billing and payroll clerk for Blachowske Truck Line, Inc., located in Brandon. Verbrugge’s duties included managing the company’s T-Chek account. T-Chek is a system used to pay for various job-related expenses incurred by truck drivers, such as fuel and truck maintenance. Each week, T-Chek e-mailed an invoice to the company for that week’s charges. The invoices were paid electronically using an automated clearing house (ACH) payment.
Between approximately January 2010 and continuing through April 8, 2020, Verbrugge falsely and fraudulently issued T-Cheks payable to herself, deposited them into her personal account, and then used the money for her own purposes. Verbrugge disguised her theft by altering the weekly T-Chek report; she deleted her name and location and replaced it with names of Blachowske truck drivers and locations she knew to be associated with those truck drivers. Because of the false information entered by her, Blachowske paid the T-Chek invoices.
“This investigation demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to assisting law enforcement partners with investigations of costly financial crimes,” said Michael Paul, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Minneapolis field office which covers South Dakota. “As evidenced by this case, the FBI, South Dakota’s U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Brandon Police Department worked together to hold Ms. Verbrugge accountable for her actions, and recover the illegal gains. Along with our law enforcement partners, the FBI will continue to allocate expert resources to investigate and prosecute all those who take advantage of a position of trust to defraud American businesses.”
This case was investigated by the Brandon Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.
Verbrugge has been allowed to self-surrender to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service by January 5, 2021.
Rosebud Man Indicted on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Prohibited Person.
Phillip Gene Beck, Jr., age 24, was indicted on August 11, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 16, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to ten years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and forfeiture of any firearms or ammunition involved in the offense. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about October 21, 2017, Beck, then being an unlawful user of methamphetamine, and knowing he was an unlawful user of methamphetamine, knowingly did possess a pistol and ammunition in St. Francis, South Dakota.
The charge is merely an accusation and Beck is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Beck was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Indicted for Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Benjamen T. Flute, a/k/a Benjamin T. Flute, age 41, was indicted on December 8, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 16, 2020 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.
Flute was convicted of 2nd-Degree Rape in December 2007. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. It is alleged that between August 11, 2020, and November 25, 2020, Flute failed to properly register as a sex offender as required by law.
The charge is merely an accusation and Flute 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.
Flute was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Pierre Man Indicted for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.
Daniel James Boe, age 35, was indicted on December 8, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 16, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum five years, up to 40 years in prison and/or a $5,000,000 fine, at least 4 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for each Count. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that Boe was involved in a conspiracy beginning in 2017, wherein Boe did knowingly and intentionally, combine, conspire, confederate, and agree with persons known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in central South Dakota.
The charge is merely an accusation and Boe is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Pierre Police Department, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Boe was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Yankton Woman Sentenced for Meth Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Yankton, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance (methamphetamine) was sentenced on December 15, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Lawrence L. Piersol.
Morgan Rae Grant, a/k/a Morgan Ray Grant, a/k/a Sway, age 41, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Grant was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 3, 2020. She pled guilty on September 22, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning on an unknown date and continuing until approximately February 2020.
On October 21, 2019, a vehicle Grant was driving in was stopped for illegal tint. A K-9 dog was brought in and alerted to the presence of drugs. Law enforcement then searched the vehicle and located more than 50 grams of methamphetamine and several items of paraphernalia.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.
Grant was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sisseton Foursome Charged with Assault with Intent to Commit Murder and Related CrimesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that four Sisseton, South Dakota, people have been indicted by a federal grand jury for aggravated assault and robbery.
Brendon Javon Jacob Rodlund, age 32, and Andrew Renville, age 31, were indicted on November 3, 2020. Each appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on December 14, 2020, and pled not guilty to the superseding indictment.
Tiffany Bernard, age 28, and Randall Delbert Pumpkinseed, age 31, were charged on October 6, 2020. Each appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on October 15, 2020, and pled not guilty.
The Indictment alleges that between November 16, and November 17, 2015, Rodlund, Bernard, Pumpkinseed, and Renville, while aiding and abetting each other, assaulted, with intent to commit murder; unlawfully cut, cut off and disabled a limb with the intent to maim; did by force, violence and intimidation take and attempt to take things of value from the victim; assaulted with a dangerous weapon, with the intent to do bodily harm; and unlawfully assaulted the victim, and said assault resulted in serious bodily injury.
The maximum penalty upon conviction for each offense is 10 years up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and up to $500 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges are merely accusation and Rodlund, Bernard, Pumpkinseed, and Renville are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
Rodlund is currently serving a federal prison sentence and remains in custody. Renville is currently serving a state prison sentence and remains in custody. Bernard was detained pending trial. Pumpkinseed was released pending trial. A trial date has been set for February 16, 2020.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to Prison for Possession of Firearm by Prohibited PersonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on December 15, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Vasiliy Vasilyevic Manuylo, age 26, was sentenced to 34 months in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Manuylo was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 3, 2020. He pled guilty on September 17, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on or about January 26, 2020, when the Sioux Falls Police Department came into contact with Manuylo who knowingly possessed of a Smith & Wesson, model 640 Centennial, .38 Special caliber, double-action revolver, bearing serial number BRP3384 and 5 rounds of Hornady brand ammunition. Manuylo knew he had been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year and being an unlawful use of and addicted to a controlled substance, and consequently could not possess firearms.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.
Manuylo was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced on False Statement, Drug, and Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of False Statement During Purchase of a Firearm, Assault on a Federal Officer, and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.
Uriah Lafferty, age 35, was sentenced on December 11, 2020, to seven years in federal prison on each charge, to run concurrently, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, $3,563.05 in restitution to the South Dakota Highway Patrol, $21,765.87 in restitution to the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, and $564.45 in restitution to a local property owner for damages incurred while law enforcement was attempting to arrest Lafferty.
The charges relate to Lafferty knowingly making a false written statement when attempting to purchase a firearm in October 2019 at Rapid City. When law enforcement attempted to arrest Lafferty on the federal warrant related to that false statement, he fled and engaged law enforcement in a high-speed pursuit lasting nearly an hour. The pursuit began on the Pine Ridge Reservation, and Lafferty was ultimately arrested near Hermosa, South Dakota. During the pursuit, Lafferty assaulted three Oglala Sioux Tribe police officers, a deputy U.S. Marshal, and a South Dakota Highway Patrol trooper by crashing his vehicle into law enforcement vehicles, swatting at the officers attempting to arrest him, and refusing to comply with orders to stop resisting. Following his arrest, Lafferty was found to be in possession of more than 17 grams of methamphetamine, which he intended to distribute to others.
“These crimes are gut-wrenching and there is no question that this sentencing is just," said Robert Perry, Assistant Special Agent In Charge of the FBI's Minneapolis field office stationed in Rapid City. "The FBI is responsible for investigating the most serious crimes in Indian Country and we, along with our federal state, local and tribal partners, will continue to work together to pursue people like Mr. Lafferty. The FBI and our partners are committed to protecting all of our communities, helping victims, and ensuring that justice is served.”
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Marshal Service, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Lafferty was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Martin Man Sentenced for Assault with Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Martin, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Jonathan Bad Wound, age 54, was sentenced on December 7, 2020, to time served, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Bad Wound was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2017. The charge related to Bad Wound and the victim engaging in a verbal argument that escalated into a physical altercation in May 2016. After throwing Bad Wound to the ground, the victim got into his truck to leave Bad Wound’s driveway. Bad Wound went to the back of his house, grabbed a rifle, loaded it, and fired three rounds at the victim’s truck. Bullet fragments landed in the victim’s back causing bodily injury.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Lake Traverse Man Charged with Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a ChildRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Lake Traverse, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for aggravated sexual abuse of a child and sexual abuse of a minor.
Okokipe Jones, age 46, was indicted on September 1, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on December 10, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
According to the indictment, in July 2010, Jones engaged in or attempted to engage in a sexual act with a child under 12 years of age. Then again in or about 2016, Jones engaged or attempted to engage in a sexual act with the same victim. The sexual abuse took place at a residence in Roberts County, South Dakota.
Jones faces three charges. The maximum penalties upon conviction for Counts 1 and 2 is up to life imprisonment; Count 3 carries a maximum of up to 15 years. Each count also carries a maximum $250,000 fine, or both fine and imprisonment; a mandatory minimum term of five (5) years, up to life, of supervised release; $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund; $5,000 assessment to the domestic trafficking fund; and restitution may be ordered.
The charges are merely accusations and Jones is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Sioux Tribe’s Law Enforcement and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
Jones was detained pending trial. A trial date of February 16, 2021 has been set.
Enemy Swim Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal Prison for Transfer of Obscene Material to a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Enemy Swim, South Dakota, man was sentenced in federal court on December 14, 2020, for transferring obscene material to a minor. The sentence was imposed by United States District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Francis Scott Cadotte, age 40, was sentenced to 30 months of imprisonment, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. Cadotte was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
According to court documents, between May 2018 and March 2019, Cadotte knowingly used a social media platform on a computer connected to the internet and a mobile phone to transfer and attempt to transfer obscene matter to another individual who was 14 years old. At the time of the transfer, Cadotte knew the nature of the content of the material, specifically discussing sexual acts that he wanted to perform on the minor, knowing that the minor was 14 years old.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
Cadotte was remanded to custody to serve his sentence.
Aberdeen Man Sentenced for Being Felon in Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Aberdeen, South Dakota, man convicted of Felon in Possession of a Firearm as a result of a federal jury trial in Aberdeen, South Dakota, on October 13, 2020, was sentenced on December 15, 2020 by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Darrell Two Hearts, age 41, was sentenced to 71 months in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Two Hearts was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 20, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on or about April 25, 2020, when Two Hearts was arrested in Aberdeen. Officers had been searching for Two Hearts to arrest him on outstanding warrants. When they found him, Two Hearts had a loaded handgun in his backpack, along with syringes, a pot pipe, and a marijuana grinder. He also had a small amount of methamphetamine in his pants pocket. He had previously been convicted of felony crimes that prohibited him from possessing any firearms. At trial, a jury unanimously found that he illegally possessed a 9mm handgun.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
This case was investigated by the Aberdeen Police Department, the Brown County Sheriff's Office, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Two Hearts was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Three Men and Two Women Sentenced for Meth Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that five defendants convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, have been sentenced to federal prison terms by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Luis Padilla-Ambriz, a/k/a Jose Ramirez, age 24, from Glendale, AZ, was sentenced on December 14, 2020, to 210 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.
Kevin Lee Jenson, age 32, from Carver, MN, was sentenced on June 17, 2019, to 235 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.
Heidi Ann Austin, age 39, from Rice, MN, was sentenced on June 6, 2019, to 188 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.
Anthony Lovell Laws, Jr., age 39, from Buckeye, AZ, was sentenced on September 23, 2019, to 46 months of federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Erin M. Hinkle, age 35, from Huntington Beach, California was sentenced on May 11, 2020, to 120 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.
Jenson, Austin, Padilla-Ambriz, Laws, and Hinkle were indicted by a federal grand jury on February 5, 2019. Jenson pled guilty on April 3, 2019, Austin pled guilty on March 25, 2019, Padilla-Ambriz pled guilty on September 23, 2020, Laws pled guilty on July 1, 2019, and Hinkle pled guilty on January 6, 2020.
Beginning on an unknown date, until on or about February 5, 2019, in the District of South Dakota, all defendants, knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed together, with others known and unknown, to intentionally distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine. Methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Department of Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Lakes to River Drug Task Force, and the Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
All defendants were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service following their sentencing.
St. Francis Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation was sentenced on December 14, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Michael T. Farmer, age 29, was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison, three 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 13, 2019. He pled guilty on September 21, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred October 8, 2019, in St. Francis. On that date, Farmer assaulted his girlfriend by grabbing her and put her in a headlock her until she began to lose consciousness.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Farmer was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to 12.5 Years for Meth Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man who pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on December 1, 2020, by U.S. District Court Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.
Keeler Stands, age 24, was sentenced to 12.5 years in federal prison, five years’ supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. From approximately July 2019 to late December 2019, methamphetamine was brought to South Dakota from Nevada by others. Stands then dispersed the methamphetamine to others for use or additional distribution.
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET), Drug Enforcement Agency, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, 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 and the South Dakota National Guard.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Stands was immediately returned to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Man Indicted on Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting In Serious Bodily Injury, and Discharge of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence.
Charles Schrader, age 54, was indicted on December 8, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta L. Wollmann on December 9, 2020, and pleadded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on November 10, 2020, Schrader shot an individual with a firearm with the intent to do bodily harm and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury. The charges are merely accusations and Schrader 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 Eric Kelderman is prosecuting the case.
Schrader was detained pending trial. A trial has been set for February 16, 2020.
McLaughlin Woman Sentenced for Maintaining Drug Involved PremisesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, woman convicted of Maintaining a Drug Involved Premises was sentenced on December 14, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Michelle Rose Helper, age 36, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, three years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Helper was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 14, 2020. She pled guilty on August 17, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy beginning in 2011 and continuing through 2019, wherein Helper unlawfully and knowingly used her residence located in McLaughlin, South Dakota, for the purpose of distributing and using marijuana with Brady Claymore. Helper and Claymore distributed between 40 and 60 kilograms of marijuana at the residence. Claymore was sentenced on October 19, 2020, to 50 months in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Mobridge Police Department, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Helper will self-report to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service on December 29, 2020.
Bullhead Man Sentenced for Child AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Bullhead, South Dakota, man convicted of three counts of Child Abuse was sentenced on December 14, 2020, by Judge Charles B. Kornmann, U.S. District Court.
Tyson Keepseagle, age 33, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison on each count, to run concurrently, three years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $300.
Keepseagle was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 14, 2019. He was convicted on July 10, 2020, following a three-day jury trial in Aberdeen, South Dakota.
The convictions stem from incidents between June 1, 2018, and August 12, 2018, when three child victims were living with Keepseagle and he abused them, leaving them with bruises and swelling. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kirsten Jasper and Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Keepseagle was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Wyoming Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Attempted Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Casper, Wyoming, man convicted of Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet following a federal jury trial was sentenced on November 20, 2020, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Japher Rajab, age 43, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Rajab also will be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Rajab was one of eleven men who were arrested and federally indicted as a result of an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2019 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally targeting internet predators. The conviction stemmed from Rajab communicating with someone he believed to be a 15 year-old girl, but who was in fact an undercover agent. Following multiple chats and text messages Rajab proceeded to negotiate a time and place he would meet the minor to engage in unlawful sex acts.
The undercover operation and arrests were a joint effort between the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins prosecuted the case.
Rajab was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man and Woman Sentenced for Meth Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man and woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance were sentenced on November 16, 2020, and December 7, 2020, respectively, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Darren Anthony Hendrix, age 29, was sentenced to 196 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Rachel Anne Cooke, age 38, was sentenced to 60 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.
Hendrix and Cooke were indicted by a federal grand jury on March 10, 2020. Hendrix pled guilty on August 26, 2020. Cooke pled guilty on September 15, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning at an unknown date and continuing until about January 9, 2020, when Hendrix, Cooke, and other co-conspirators intentionally conspired and obtained 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and distributed it to others in the District of South Dakota. Methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, the Department of Homeland Security, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Hendrix was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Cooke has been allowed to self-report to the designated BOP facility by January 28, 2021.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Felon in Possession of a Firearm was sentenced on December 7, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Curtis Ronald Rabenberg, age 39, was sentenced to 33 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.
Rabenberg was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 20, 2020. He pled guilty on September 14, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on or about November 19, 2019, when Rabenberg sold a stolen handgun to a pawn shop in Sioux Falls. Rabenburg had previously been convicted of a felony and was prohibited from possessing any firearms. He stole the firearm from a girlfriend and sold it for cash to pay a debt he owed for drugs.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Rabenberg was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman who pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on December 7, 2020, by U.S. District Court Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.
Melanie Vance, age 37, was sentenced to seven years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
From approximately July 2019 to late December 2019, methamphetamine was brought to South Dakota from Nevada by others. Vance then dispersed the methamphetamine to others for use or distribution.
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET), Drug Enforcement Agency, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Vance was immediately returned to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and two counts of Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute was sentenced on December 14, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Daniel Gray Eagle, age 39, was sentenced to 188 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 $300.
Gray Eagle was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 10, 2019. He was found guilty after a three-day federal jury trial on September 24, 2020.
The conspiracy conviction stemmed from a plot between January 1, 2017, and February 7, 2020, wherein Gray Eagle knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine in South Dakota. Gray Eagle routinely traveled to Rapid City to acquire large amounts of methamphetamine, which he distributed in Eagle Butte, South Dakota.
The first count of Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute arose from a high-speed car chase with law enforcement in the southwest corner of the Cheyenne River Sioux Indian Reservation on January 22, 2018. During the chase, Gray Eagle instructed a passenger to throw a pill bottle containing 22 grams of methamphetamine out of the car. The methamphetamine was recovered, and Gray Eagle was taken into custody after crashing the car in a field. The second count arose from a foot pursuit and arrest of Gray Eagle on March 1, 2018, in Eagle Butte. After Gray Eagle was arrested on a tribal warrant, a search of his person revealed three baggies containing a small amount of methamphetamine in his pants pocket as well as a cell phone containing drug-related messages.
This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force; the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services; the Rapid City Police Department; the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; the City of Faith Police Department; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Division of Drug Enforcement; and the South Dakota National Guard. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Gray Eagle was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Woman Charged with Twenty FeloniesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for seven counts of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, seven counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, four counts of Maiming, one count of Health Care Fraud, and one count of Obtaining Controlled Substances by Fraud.
Frenchone One Horn, a/k/a Frenchone Kills In Water, age 40, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on December 2, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in prison, and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for each of the Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Maiming charges. The maximum penalty upon conviction for the Health Care Fraud charge is 5 years in prison, and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. The maximum penalty upon conviction for the Obtaining Controlled Substances by Fraud charge is 4 years in prison, and/or a $250,000 fine, 1 year of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to One Horn assaulting five individuals with rocks in 2018 and 2019 at Pine Ridge for the purpose of committing health care fraud. These assaults resulted in serious bodily injury and required three of the victims to suffer finger amputations. One Horn also committed health care fraud by giving fraudulent information concerning the intentional assaults in order to obtain services and controlled substances, namely Hydrocodone.
The charges are merely accusations and One Horn is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the US Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen is prosecuting the case.
One Horn was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for February 9, 2021.
Pierre Woman Sentenced for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on December 14, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Tiffany Kay Frazier, n/k/a Tiffany Kay Castiglione, age 27, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Castiglione was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 10, 2019. She pled guilty on September 28, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy beginning in at least January 2017, continuing to September 10, 2019, wherein Frazier was involved with several others to distribute between 50 and 200 grams of methamphetamine in and around the Gettysburg and Pierre and Ft. Pierre communities in South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the Pierre Police Department, the Mobridge Police Department, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Frazier will self-report to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service on January 5, 2021.
Fort Pierre Man Indicted on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Pierre, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Sexual Exploitation of a Child; Distribution of Material Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors; and Possession of Child Pornography.
James Cadwell, age 39, was indicted on November 10, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 9, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of 15 years up to 30 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years up to life of supervised release years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on October 26, 2020, Cadwell knowingly produced, distributed, and possessed child pornography.
The charges are merely accusations and Cadwell is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pierre Police Department, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.
Cadwell was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Convicted Embezzler Charged with Illegal Sexual Conduct and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Marcin Stanislaw Garbacz of Rapid City, South Dakota, who was convicted in March of 2020 on 65 counts of wire fraud, money laundering, transfer of stolen money, and filing false tax returns, has now been charged in federal district court with Engaging in Illicit Sexual Conduct in a Foreign Place and Possession of Child Pornography.
Garbacz, age 41, was charged on February 19, 2020, in a sealed indictment. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on November 24, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the new charges.
The maximum federal prison time upon conviction for Engaging in Illicit Sexual Conduct in a Foreign Place is 30 years, and the maximum federal prison time upon conviction of Possession of Child Pornography is 10 years. Both charges also include a penalty of a potential $250,000 fine, a mandatory minimum of 5 years up to lifetime supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Garbacz, while traveling in Poland, video recording an unclothed minor. Additionally, Garbacz possessed child pornography on an electronic device.
The charges are merely an accusation and Garbacz is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Garbacz was sentenced on November 23, 2020, to 7 years and 9 months in custody on the previous charges.
Garbacz was detained pending trial.