District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Jury finds Mission Man Guilty of Illegally Possessing Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that David D. Larvie, Jr., age 38, of Mission, South Dakota, was found guilty of Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition as a result of a federal jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota.
The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Larvie was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 13, 2019. The charge stems from an incident that occurred on October 25, 2019, in Mission. 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 in Mission, 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.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for December 14, 2020. Larvie was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.
White River Man Indicted on Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a White River, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
Anthony Black Wolf, age 33, was indicted on September 9, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 28, 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, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on January 12, 2020, in Mellette County, South Dakota, Black Wolf assaulted an individual with an axe with the intent to do bodily harm, and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury.
The charges are merely accusations and Black Wolf is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Black Wolf was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Todd County Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Todd County, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on September 28, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Edward Zane Roubideaux, Jr., age 30, was sentenced to 21 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.
Roubideaux was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 10, 2019. He pled guilty on July 20, 2020.
Roubideaux was convicted of Abuse of a Minor in May 2008. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender and to update his registration within three business days of relocation or changing employment. Between August 15, 2019, and September 19, 2019, Roubideaux failed to register and update his registration.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Roubideaux was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Parmelee Man Sentenced on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on September 28, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Justin Whiting, age 20, was sentenced to 6 months in federal prison, followed by 6 months of home confinement, 30 months of supervised release, forfeiture of firearm, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Whiting was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 14, 2020. He pled guilty on July 23, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on December 5, 2019, in St. Francis, South Dakota. On that date, Rosebud Sioux Falls Law Enforcement Services responded to a call for service from St. Francis Indian School regarding Whiting. The investigation revealed that Whiting had brought a handgun to school and that he was addicted to, and an unlawful user of, marijuana.
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.
Whiting was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Involuntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter was sentenced on September 28, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Steven Burning Breast, age 24, was sentenced to 37 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.
Burning Breast was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 13, 2019. He pled guilty on July 9, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on April 22, 2019, in Todd County, South Dakota. On that date, Burning Breast had been consuming alcohol, and was driving a car eastbound on US Highway 18. The victims, an adult male and an adult female, were passengers in the vehicle. As Burning Breast approached a curve at a high rate of speed, he lost control of the vehicle and left the roadway. The vehicle rolled multiple times, causing the victims to be ejected from the vehicle. The victims died as a result of injuries suffered in the wreck.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bennett County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Burning Breast was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
White Horse Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a White Horse, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury was sentenced on September 21, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Kip Blue Coat, age 29, was sentenced to 28 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.
Blue Coat was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 11, 2020. He pled guilty on June 29, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on October 26, 2019, in Eagle Butte, when Blue Coat assaulted an individual who was sleeping by repeatedly punching him in the face. The assault caused serious injury to the victim and surgery was required.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Blue Coat was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Indicted for Assault and Commission of a Crime of Violence While Failing 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 Assault With a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, Failure to Register as a Sex Offender, and Commission of a Crime of Violence While Failing to Register as a Sex Offender.
Patrick Luke Black Spotted Horse, age 31, was indicted on August 11, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 23, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 30 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on June 14, 2020, in Mellette County, South Dakota, Black Spotted Horse assaulted an individual with a sharp-edged instrument with the intent to do bodily harm and that the assault resulted in serious bodily injury. Black Spotted Horse is alleged to have committed the assault while having failed to Register as a Sex Offender. Black Spotted Horse was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in March 2010. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. The Indictment further alleges that between May 1, 2020, and June 14, 2020, and again between June 19, 2020, and August 11, 2020, Black Spotted Horse, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under Federal Law, failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration.
The charges are merely accusations and Black Spotted Horse is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Black Spotted Horse was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mission Man Indicted for Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Scirgio Iron Shell, age 28, was indicted on August 11, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 23, 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, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
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. The Indictment alleges between September 10, 2019, and August 11, 2020, Iron Shell, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under Federal Law, failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration.
The charge is merely an accusation and Iron Shell is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.
Iron Shell was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mission Man Indicted for Burglary and Theft of Government PropertyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Third Degree Burglary and Theft of Government Property.
Preston White Feather, age 24, was indicted on August 11, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 23, 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, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on multiple dates between April 8, 2020, and April 21, 2020, White Feather unlawfully entered multiple businesses and Government buildings in Mission, South Dakota, with the intent to commit the crime of larceny therein. The Indictment further alleges that on one of the occasions, the Defendant stole a pickup truck, the property of the United States.
The charges are merely accusations and White Feather is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
White Feather was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Minnesota Man Indicted on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Ron Carlos Carter, age 43, was indicted on September 9, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on September 22, 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, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on April 9, 2020, Carter, then being an unlawful user of a controlled substance, and knowing he was an unlawful user of a controlled substance, knowingly possessed a firearm, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce and foreign commerce, on the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation.
The charge is merely an accusation and Carter 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, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency, and the Mobridge Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Carter was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Fort Thompson Man Sentenced for ManslaughterRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter was sentenced on September 21, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Antoine Medicine Crow, Jr., age 38, was sentenced to 30 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.
Medicine Crow was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 13, 2019. He pled guilty on June 29, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on April 26, 2019, in Buffalo County, on the Crow Creek Reservation, when Medicine Crow operated a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. Medicine Crow attempted to pass another vehicle, at a high rate of speed, and lost control of the car. The vehicle careened into the ditch and rolled over multiple times. Medicine Crow and another individual were both ejected from the car, with the ejected passenger ultimately dying from her injuries.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Crow Creek Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Medicine Crow was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced on Multiple ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child and Failure to Appear was sentenced on September 21, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Theodore Taylor, Jr. a/k/a “Tedder”, age 35, was sentenced to 11 years and 6 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 $200.
Taylor was indicted by a federal grand jury for the Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child on May 14, 2019, and on October 16, 2019, for the Failure to Appear. He pled guilty to both charges on July 7, 2020.
The Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child conviction stemmed from multiple incidents between 2013 and 2016, on the Cheyenne River Reservation, when Taylor knowingly engaged in and attempted to engage in sexual contact with a child who had not attainted the age of 12 years.
The Failure to Appear conviction stemmed from August 17, 2019, when Taylor was ordered to report to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service for violating the terms and conditions of his release on bond, and knowingly failed to do so.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Taylor was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Convicted by Federal Jury of Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Daniel Gray Eagle, age 39, of Eagle Butte, South Dakota, was found guilty of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute as a result of a three-day federal jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota.
The convictions carry a maximum sentence of at least 10 years up to life in federal prison, and/or a $10,000,000 fine, a lifetime of supervised release, and a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Gray Eagle was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 10, 2019, and a superseding indictment was filed on July 16, 2020.
The jury found that between January 1, 2017, and February 7, 2020, Gray Eagle knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine in South Dakota. Gray Eagle routinely traveled to Rapid City, South Dakota, to acquire methamphetamine, which he primarily distributed in Eagle Butte.
The jury also found Gray Eagle guilty of two counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute. The first count 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, Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, City of Faith Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Division of Drug Enforcement, and the South Dakota National Guard. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
A sentencing date was set for December 14, 2020. Gray Eagle was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Charged with Unlawful Possession of Firearm and Threats Against the PresidentRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Threats Against the President.
Lucian Celestine, age 29, was indicted on August 20, 2020, and September 17, 2020. Celestine appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on September 11, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the firearms charge. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Celestine, a person prohibited from possessing firearms, acquiring and possessing a Browning bolt-action rifle, scope, and ammunition in late June of 2020 at Rapid City. Celestine later threatened to shoot the President of the United States by climbing Mount Rushmore and shooting the President from the top of the memorial during the Independence Day celebration. The charges are merely accusations and Celestine 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’ssignature 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 Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, the Rapid City Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the United States Secret Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman is prosecuting the case.
Celestine was detained pending trial. A trial date has been set for November 17, 2020.
Tyndall Man Sentenced for Firearm Charge and Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Tyndall, South Dakota, man convicted of Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Failure to Register as a Sex Offender and was sentenced on September 21, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Jose Eduardo Rodriguez, age 44, was sentenced to 52 months in federal prison for each charge, followed by 3 years of supervised release for the firearm charge and 5 years of supervised release for the failure to register as a sex offender charge, to run concurrently, forfeiture of the firearm and all ammunition found in his possession, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Rodriguez was indicted on both charges by a federal grand jury on February 11, 2020. He pled guilty to both charges on June 30, 2020.
The convictions stem from an incident that occurred on December 26, 2019, during a traffic stop, Rodriguez was found with an unregistered firearm and multiple rounds of ammunition. Rodriguez, knowingly possessed a firearm made from a rifle, with a barrel of less than sixteen inches in length, which was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Further, Rodriguez was convicted of Fourth Degree Rape in July 1998. As a result of his conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. Between August 18, 2019, and December 26, 2019, the date of the traffic stop, Rodriguez had failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration.
The firearm charge 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.
The firearm charge 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.
These cases were investigated by the Murdo Police Department, the Lyman County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Rodriguez was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Two Box Elder Men Indicted on Multiple Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two Box Elder, South Dakota, men has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, Wire Fraud, and Unauthorized Access to a Protected Computer to Defraud.
Jacob Sheldon LaFlash, age 25, and Bryan Bernhold, age 25, were indicted on January 22, 2020. LaFlash appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta L. Wollman on January 24, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment. Bernhold appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta L. Wollman on September 18, 2020, and also pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and up to $900 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Count 1 of the Indictment alleges that beginning on or about October 5, 2017, through on or about May 1, 2018, both LaFlash and Bernhold knowingly and intentionally conspired with each other, to commit wire fraud.
Counts 2 through 8 allege individual counts of wire fraud, and Count 9 alleges unauthorized access to a computer for the purpose of fraud.
The charges are merely accusations and LaFlash and Bernhold are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Department of Homeland Security. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
LaFlash and Bernhold were released on bond pending trial. LaFlash’s trial date has been set for May 31, 2021.
Ohio Man Indicted for Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Dayton, Ohio, man was charged in federal district court with Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Shawn Kerns, age 41, was indicted on September 9, 2020. Kerns appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on September 16, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Kerns was convicted of Gross Sexual Imposition in July 2012. As a result of the conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender for life. The Indictment alleges between November 11, 2019, and continuing through the date of Indictment, Kerns failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration. The charge is merely an accusation and Kerns is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service, the Rapid City Police Department, the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman is prosecuting the case.
Kerns was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Fort Thompson Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate Partner was sentenced on September 21, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Charles Grey Owl, a/k/a Raymond Keith Grey Owl, age 49, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Grey Owl was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 10, 2019. He pled guilty on June 25, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on July 30, 2019, where Grey Owl unlawfully committed a domestic assault upon his intimate partner, who he has assaulted multiple times in the past. Because of the assault, the victim suffered substantial bodily injury and extreme pain to her lower leg.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Grey Owl was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Fort Thompson Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate Partner was sentenced on September 21, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Thomas Drapeau, Sr., age 32, was sentenced to all time served, 6 months and 10 days, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Drapeau was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 9, 2020. He pled guilty on June 29, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on November 14, 2019, when Drapeau assaulted his intimate partner repeatedly about the head and face, causing severe bruising, lacerations, and two of the victim’s teeth to be displaced.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Drapeau was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Clark Man Charged with Receipt and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Clark, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography.
Anthony Dialo Holmes, age 36, was indicted on August 17, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on September 18, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on between September 1, 2019, and May 22, 2020, Holmes knowingly received and distributed and attempted to receive and distribute, any child pornography that had been mailed, shipped, and transported in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce by any means, including by computer.
The charge is merely an accusation and Holmes is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, Division of Criminal Investigation, Office of the Attorney General, Watertown Police Department, and the Clark Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Holmes was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Department of Justice and Oglala Sioux Tribe Announce New Partnership to Combat Domestic ViolenceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons and Oglala Sioux Tribe Attorney General Scott James are pleased to announce that the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), part of the U.S. Department of Justice, has awarded a three-year grant to the Oglala Sioux Tribe to combat domestic violence and other serious crimes. The Tribal Special Assistant United States Attorney (Tribal SAUSA) Initiative, financed through a partnership between OVW and the Bureau of Justice Assistance, funds and trains cross-deputized tribal prosecutors in federal law and procedure and investigative strategies so they can pursue domestic or sexual violence cases in tribal court, federal court, or both.
Under this initiative, the Oglala Sioux Tribe will receive funding to hire an additional tribal prosecutor, who will also be appointed as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in the District of South Dakota, to prosecute domestic abuse, sexual assault, and stalking cases in both tribal and federal court. This new position will enable the U.S. Attorney’s Office and OST Attorney General’s Office to increase their collaborative efforts to hold violent offenders accountable and bring justice to victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse living within the Pine Ridge Reservation.
“Working closely with the Oglala Sioux Tribe to protect victims and prosecute violent offenders for crimes committed on tribal land is a top priority for my office,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “This new position will help the Oglala Sioux Tribe take an even more robust approach to safeguarding domestic and sexual abuse victims and their families. We look forward to partnering with Attorney General James and his team in this critically important initiative.”
"These additional resources to combat domestic violence crimes on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation were desperately needed,” said Attorney General James. “We thank the U.S. Attorney's Office for helping the tribe to acquire this grant. The Tribal Attorney General's Office looks forward to working with this new Special Assistant U.S. Attorney to hold offenders accountable and to bring justice to victims of domestic violence crimes."
The Oglala Sioux Tribe is one of only five Indian tribes in the country to receive a Tribal SAUSA award this year.
Man from Oglala, South Dakota, Charged with Involuntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Oglala, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Involuntary Manslaughter.
Clifford Running Hawk, age 44, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on September 11, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 8 years in a 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.
Running Hawk is alleged to have operated a motor vehicle in a negligent manner, including driving while under the influence of alcohol and speeding, which caused a crash with an oncoming vehicle. One of the passengers in that vehicle died from the injuries she sustained in the crash.
The charge is merely an accusation and Running Hawk 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 Heather Sazama is prosecuting the case.
Running Hawk was released on bond pending trail. A trial date has been set for November 17, 2020.
Bullhead Man Indicted on Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Bullhead, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting In Serious Bodily Injury.
Leland Brown, age 44, was indicted on September 9, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 18, 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, 3 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, Brown assaulted an individual with shod feet with the intent to do bodily harm and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury.
The charges are merely accusations and Brown is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe Bureau of Indian Affairs Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirsten E. Jasper is prosecuting the case.
Brown was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Man Charged with Possession of a Firearm While Under IndictmentRead 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 While Under Indictment.
Judah Conrad Wainscoat, age 29, was indicted on September 1, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on September 17, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 5 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 or about April 27, 2020, Wainscoat, while subject to an indictment filed in state court in South Dakota that charged a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, received a 9mm Luger caliber, semi-automatic pistol, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
The charge is merely an accusation and Wainscoat is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Wainscoat was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, which has been set for November 24, 2020.
Rosebud Man Charged with Assaulting Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Adam Moran, a/k/a Cante Moran, age 26, was indicted on September 9, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 16, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on May 19, 2020, in Todd County, South Dakota, Moran did forcibly assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with multiple law enforcement officers who were employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe.
The charges are merely accusations and Moran is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Moran was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has been set for November 17, 2020.
Mission Man Indicted for Failure to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Sandy Mangelson, age 49, was indicted on September 1, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 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, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
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 the convictions, Mangelson is required to register as a sex offender. The Indictment alleges between December 5, 2019, and December 10, 2019, between December 20, 2019, and February 27, 2020, and between June 22, 2020, and June 25, 2020, Mangelson, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under Federal Law, failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration.
The charge is merely an accusation and Mangelson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.
Mangelson was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. Trial is currently set for November 17, 2020.
Sioux Falls Woman Charged with Theft of Government Funds, False Statement, and Concealment of Information from SSI ProgramRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Theft of Government Funds, False Statement, and Concealment of Information from SSI Program.
Amber Lynn Roggenkamp, age 40, was indicted on September 1, 2020. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on September 15, 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, 3 years of supervised release, and up to $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
On the Theft of Government charge, the Indictment alleges that between on or about February 6, 2017, and September 30, 2019, Roggenkamp willfully and knowingly embezzled, stole, and purloined money from Title XVI Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Roggenkamp lied to the Social Security Administration in order to obtain SSI benefits for her son.
On the False Statement charge, the Indictment alleges that on or about July 12, 2019, Roggenkamp knowingly and willfully made false, fictitious, and fraudulent statement and representations during a SSI non-medical review. Roggenkamp did not accurately report her household resources, including the balance of her savings account.
Finally, on the Concealment of Information from SSI Program charge, the Indictment alleges that on or about September 28, 2017, Roggenkamp, having knowledge of the occurrence of an event affecting the initial and continued right to receive payment of Title XVI SSI benefits payments on behalf of another individual, concealed and failed to disclose such event with the intent to fraudulently secure such benefits in a greater amount and quantity than was due, and when no such benefit was authorized. Specifically, Roggenkamp failed to disclose the reactivation of her savings account with a large deposit in order to continue to receive and spend SSI benefits payments made by the Social Security Administration for the benefit of the minor child for whom she served as representative payee.
The charges are merely accusations and Roggenkamp is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Social Security Administration, Cooperative Disability Investigation Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman is prosecuting the case.
Roggenkamp was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rosebud Man Sentenced on Assault and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and False Statements During Purchase of a Firearm was sentenced on September 14, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
John Larvie, age 30, was sentenced to 38 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for each charge, running concurrently to each other, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Larvie was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 11, 2019, for the Assault charge and again on October 16, 2019, for the Firearm charge. He pled guilty on May 5, 2020, to both charges.
The conviction stemmed from incidents that occurred on November 20, 2018, and July 22, 2019. On November 20, 2018, after an argument escalated between Larvie and his dating partner, Larvie stomped on his dating partner’s chest, while wearing boots, with the intent to do bodily harm to her. On July 22, 2019, shortly after being prosecuted and convicted in Tribal court for sexually assaulting his dating partner, Larvie attempted to purchase an AR15-style rifle. While filling out the ATF Form 4473, Larvie, knowing he had been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, falsely represented that he had not been convicted of a domestic violence crime, in an effort to obtain the weapon.
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 Michael Elmore prosecuted the case.
Larvie remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rosebud Man Indicted on Theft and Drug 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 Theft in Connection with Health Care, Theft From a Tribal Organization, and Obtaining Controlled Substances by Deception.
Michael Brian Whirlwind Soldier, age 47, was indicted on September 9, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on September 15, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in 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 between December 17, 2019, and July 28, 2020, Whirlwind Soldier, a paramedic and the director of the Crow Creek Ambulance Service, did knowingly and willfully embezzle, steal, and convert without authority to his own use hundreds of vials of fentanyl, morphine, and hydromorphone belonging to the Crow Creek Ambulance Service.
The charges are merely accusations and Whirlwind Soldier is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Whirlwind Soldier was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Parker Man Sentenced on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Parker, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on September 15, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Rollin Lee Dollens, age 52, was sentenced to 3 years of probation with 8 months of house arrest, a $1,000 fine, a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100, and forfeiture of a handgun.
Dollens was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 11, 2020. He pled guilty on September 15, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on September 16, 2019, wherein Dollens, an unlawful user of methamphetamine, knowingly possessed a handgun while driving in Corson County, South Dakota.
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 Corson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Norris Man Indicted on Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Norris, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting In Serious Bodily Injury.
Nicholas Miles Ten Fingers, age 27, was indicted on September 9, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 14, 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, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on July 25, 2019, Ten Fingers assaulted an individual with a sharp edged instrument with the intent to do bodily harm and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury.
The charges are merely accusations and Ten Fingers is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.
Ten Fingers was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Eagle Butte Man Indicted on Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number.
Neil Blue Coat, age 35, was indicted on August 11, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 14, 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, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on July 14, 2017, and September 26, 2019, Blue Coat, then being an unlawful user of a controlled substance, and knowing he was an unlawful user of a controlled substance, did knowingly possess three firearms in Eagle Butte. Further, the manufacturer’s serial number had been removed, altered, or obliterated from one of the firearms.
The charges are merely accusations and Blue Coat 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 Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Blue Coat was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Eagle Butte Man Indicted on Drug Trafficking and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Samuel Rufus Swift Bird, age 30, was indicted on September 9, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 14, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $1,000,000 fine, at least 3 years, up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on August 30, 2019, and May 8, 2020, Swift Bird knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute methamphetamine on the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation. Further, Swift Bird 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, did knowingly possess three firearms.
The charges are merely accusations and Swift Bird is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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.
The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Swift Bird was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Man Indicted for AssaultRead 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 Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation.
Daniel James Farmer, age 24, was indicted on October 16, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 11, 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, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on July 5, 2017, and again on December 10, 2017, in Todd County, South Dakota, Farmer unlawfully committed a domestic assault against his intimate partner by strangling and suffocating her.
The charges are merely accusations and Farmer is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Farmer was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rosebud Women Indicted on Child Abuse ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two Rosebud, South Dakota, women have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Child Abuse, and one of the women additionally charged for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon.
Samantha Taylor Jones, age 27, and Valarie Jean Crazy Bull, age 63, were both indicted on September 9, 2020. They both appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 11, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction for Child Abuse is up to 15 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 maximum penalty upon conviction for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon 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 August 11, 2019, Jones and Crazy Bull abused, exposed, tortured, tormented, and cruelly punished a child. The Indictment further alleges that Crazy Bull assaulted an individual with an umbrella with intent to due bodily harm.
The charges are merely accusations and Jones and Crazy Bull are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.
Jones and Crazy Bull were released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Porcupine Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for ManslaughterRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Porcupine, South Dakota, man convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.
Lawrence Pourier, a/k/a Larry Pourier, age 52, was sentenced on September 4, 2020, to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stems from Pourier repeatedly striking another man in the head with a pipe-like object, causing his death, in January 2020 near Porcupine.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Pourier was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to being serving his sentence.
Pine Ridge Man Charged with Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead 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 Aggravated Sexual Abuse, Sexual Abuse, and Sexual Abuse of a Minor.
Carl Francis Martin, a/k/a Roy Martin, age 20, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is any term of imprisonment up to life in a federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Martin sexually abusing a female by force and at a time when she was incapable of declining participation in a sexual act, in January 2020 near Pine Ridge. Martin also sexually abused a minor, who was between the ages of 12 and 16, in September 2019 near Pine Ridge.
The charges are merely accusations and Martin 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 Heather Sazama is prosecuting the case.
Martin was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for November 10, 2020.
California Man Sentenced to more than 24 Years for Nationwide Fentanyl Trafficking and Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Huntington Beach, California, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Fentanyl Analogue and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering was sentenced on September 14, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Damon Vincent Jobin, age 35, was sentenced to 292 months in federal prison, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, for Conspiracy to Distribute a Fentanyl Analogue, and 240 months in prison, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, for Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering, all to run concurrently. Jobin was also ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Jobin was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 28, 2018. He was arrested in Los Angeles on November 29, 2018. Jobin was ordered to appear before the magistrate court in the District of South Dakota on February 11, 2019, but in an apparent attempt to evade prosecution, fled to Thailand. A federal warrant was issued for his arrest. He eventually was apprehended in Thailand, taken into the custody of the Royal Thai Police on June 7, 2019, and transported back to the United States from Thailand by U.S. Marshals from the District of South Dakota.
Jobin pled guilty to the charges in the Indictment on June 24, 2020.
Jobin, along with other co-conspirators, utilized the Dark Web to distribute approximately 100,000 pills that they had manufactured containing fentanyl or a fentanyl analogue in 2017 to South Dakota drug dealers either suspected or convicted of distributing the pills in Chamberlain, Mitchell, and Sioux Falls. Twenty thousand of these pills were seized from the U.S. Mail by law enforcement in South Dakota. The pills tested positive for cyclopropyl fentanyl, a fentanyl analogue or derivative.
The investigation revealed that, in all, Jobin manufactured and mailed approximately 200 packages containing over 2.6 million fentanyl or fentanyl analogue pills to addresses in 32 different states. Jobin himself would press over 16,000 pills per hour at the height of the organization’s manufacturing. Based on records kept by Jobin, the total weight of the pills he and other co-conspirators made and distributed exceeded 259 kilograms. Experts estimate that one kilogram of fentanyl has the potential to produce approximately one million fatal doses. Fentanyl is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine.
“This defendant was selling millions of poisonous, home-pressed fentanyl pills to people all over the country,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “He was caught because of some great police work done right here in South Dakota. This case demonstrates the dramatic, national impact that federal, state, and local law enforcement, working together, can have in getting these poisons off the streets. The detective work done by these law enforcement officers saved a lot of lives.”
Jobin and his coconspirators also used online cryptocurrency exchanges to launder the funds derived from the sale of the cyclopropyl fentanyl on the Dark Web. Jobin was estimated to be making between $25,000 and $35,000 per week for his involvement in the conspiracy. Judge Schreier noted that this was the largest fentanyl conspiracy case she has seen in her courtroom to date.
“Today’s sentencing is another step towards combating the opioid epidemic fueled by the distribution of illicitly manufactured fentanyl,” said Ryan L. Korner, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation. “The financial expertise of IRS-CI plays a vital role in capturing offenders by following the money that facilitates the drug trade. We are proud to work alongside our law enforcement partners to protect America’s taxpayers by taking traffickers of dangerous drugs off the streets.”
“This investigation reflects the successful teamwork between the United States Postal Inspection Service and our law enforcement partners with bringing to justice those who use the dark net and the U.S. mail to distribute illegal narcotics. Postal Inspectors have been at the forefront of dark net investigations for years, bringing to justice those who use the U.S. mail to distribute illegal narcotics behind the dark net’s false veil of anonymity. We continue to challenge the anonymous nature of the dark net, proving you are never truly anonymous,” stated Ruth Mendonça, Inspector in Charge of the Denver Division, of the United States Postal Inspection Service, covering the State of South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations Western Cyber Crimes Unit, U.S. Marshals Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Department of State, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Costa Mesa Police Department, and the Chamberlain Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Jobin was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Wire Fraud and Theft of Government PropertyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of 2 counts of Wire Fraud and 1 count of Theft of Government Property was sentenced by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Robert Rodney Bland, age 52, was sentenced on September 4, 2020, to 12 months in federal prison, and was ordered to pay a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $75,000 in restitution to the General Services Administration (GSA).
Between January 2010 and May 2018, Bland, while sole owner and operator of Motive Magic Mobile Windshield Repair, fraudulently billed GSA for hundreds of rock chip repairs he did not perform on dozens of vehicles leased to various federal agencies. On 1 vehicle, Bland claimed to have repaired 71 rock chips, but in reality only completed 2 repairs. On another vehicle, Bland claimed to have repaired 44 rock chips, but in actuality repaired none. The majority of the time, the agency which leased the GSA vehicle was unaware that the claimed repair had been billed to GSA because Bland would not notify the agency representative or provide invoices to the agency before or after billing for a claimed repair. In total, Bland fraudulently billed and was paid $75,000 by GSA for work he had not performed. Bland used the fraudulent proceeds to purchase and/or pay for a pontoon boat, boat trailer, Harley Davidson motorcycle, 5th wheel camper, and a van, all for his personal use. Each of these vehicles were seized and forfeited to the United States.
"GSA relies on vendors across the United States to maintain its large fleet of government vehicles. The judgment in this case proves that GSA OIG, along with our investigative partners, will pursue vendors who defraud the Government and take advantage of the trust that is placed in them,” said Special Agent in Charge Jamie Willemin, General Services Administration, Office of Inspector General.
The investigation was conducted by the General Services Administration - Office of Inspector General, the Department of Health and Human Services -Office of Inspector General, and the Department of Defense - Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Bland was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to begin serving his sentence.
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.
Rydell Iron Rope, age 47, was indicted on September 1, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 9, 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, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Iron Rope was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in September 1996. As a result of the conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. The Indictment alleges between June 1, 2019, and August 1, 2019, and between December 1, 2019, and February 1, 2020, as well as, March 16, 2020, and May 8, 2020, Iron Rope, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration.
The charge is merely an accusation and Iron Rope is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service, Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
Iron Rope was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Nevada Woman Indicted for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sparks, Nevada, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.
Dawn Eagle Feather Floyd, age 42, was indicted on August 11, 2020. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on September 9, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum 5 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 beginning at a time unknown but no later than on or about January 1, 2019, and continuing to on or about January 1, 2020, Floyd, 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 on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation.
The charge is merely an accusation and Floyd is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Floyd was released pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Man Charged with Receipt, Distribution, and Transportation of Child PornographyRead 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 Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography and Transportation of Child Pornography.
Joshua Lynn Lugert, age 37, was indicted on September 1, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on September 8, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and up to $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about between December 1, 2018, and July 30, 2020, Lugert knowingly received and distributed, and attempted to receive and distribute child pornography that had been mailed, shipped, and transported in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce by any means, including by computer.
The Indictment also alleges that on or about March 12, 2019, and March 6, 2020, Lugert knowingly transported child pornography using the internet. Lugert uploaded graphic image and video files depicting one or more minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct into a Google e-mail account.
The charges are merely accusation and Lugert is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security, the Division of Criminal Investigation, Office of the Attorney General, the Sioux Falls Police Department, and the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Lugerg was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mitchell Man Sentenced with Being Felon in Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mitchell, South Dakota, man convicted of Felon in Possession of a Firearm was sentenced on August 31, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
David Edward Petersdorf, age 51, was sentenced to 3 years of probation and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Petersdorf was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 6, 2019. He pled guilty on June 8, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on May 7, 2019, when Petersdorf allowed law enforcement officers to search his residence. Petersdorf advised the officers that they would find a Springfield Armory, Model XD-9 Sub-Compact, 9mm handgun, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce. Petersdorf had a prior conviction of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and he knew he could not possess any 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 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.
Whitewood Man Charged with Unlawful Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Whitewood, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Travis Longfox, age 28, was charged on February 19, 2020. Longfox appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on September 2, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to Longfox, previously convicted of a felony and prohibited from possessing firearms, possessing a Kel-Tec .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol in July 2019 at Rapid City. The charge is merely an accusation and Longfox 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Longfox was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Man and Woman Sentenced in Methamphetamine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two Sioux Falls, South Dakota, individuals convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance were sentenced on August 25, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Lawrence L. Piersol.
Tyler Justin Hausten, a/k/a “Red”, age 40, was sentenced to 126 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.
Tara Lynn Clark, age 35, was sentenced to 110 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.
Hausten and Clark were indicted by a federal grand jury on March 3, 2020. Hausten pled guilty on May 21, 2020, and Clark pled guilty on June 3, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning on an unknown date and continuing until on or about March 2020, when both Hausten and Clark reached an agreement or came to an understanding to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine in the District of South Dakota. Methamphetamine is a Scheduled II controlled substance. They voluntarily joined in the agreement and knew the purpose of the understanding.
Law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on Hausten’s and Clark’s vehicle on November 3, 2019. A search of the vehicle took place and law enforcement located in excess of 500 grams of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Sioux Falls Police Department, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.
Hausten and Clark was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man and Woman Sentenced in Fentanyl Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two Sioux Falls, South Dakota, individuals convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance were sentenced on June 8, 2020, and August 31, 2020 respectively, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Randi Nicole Sterud, a/k/a Randi Gunn, age 20, and Cade Marcus Wignes, age 21, were both sentenced to 37 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.
Sterud and Wignes were indicted by a federal grand jury on November 5, 2019. Sterud pled guilty on March 19, 2020, and Wignes pled guilty on June 8, 2020.
The convictions stemmed from conduct in 2019, when Sterud and Wignes conspired to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl in the District of South Dakota. Fentanyl is a Scheduled II controlled substance.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Sterud and Wignes were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced 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 August 31, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Apiemi Kebaso, Jr., age 31, was sentenced to 120 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.
Kebaso was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2018. He pled guilty on June 15, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from on or about March 19, 2018, when Kebaso knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) in the District of South Dakota. On that date, he had in his possession 150.1 grams of methamphetamine, which was 97 percent pure, resulting in him possessing 145.5 grams of pure methamphetamine. Kebaso intended to distribute some or all of this methamphetamine to others.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Kebaso was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Charged with Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead 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 Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Charles Little Bear, Jr., age 54, was indicted on July 20, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on September 2, 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, life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between on or about July 19, 2019, and April 9, 2020, Little Bear, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, failed to register and update his registration.
The charge is merely an accusation and Little Bear is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman is prosecuting the case.
Little Bear 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 Attempted Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Receipt of Child Pornography was sentenced on August 28, 2020, by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court Judge.
Logan Gienger, age 26, was sentenced to 5 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stemmed from an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2018 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting internet predators. Gienger was arrested and federally indicted following multiple text messages with a person Gienger believed to be a 14-year-old prostitute, but who was in fact an undercover agent. Gienger requested sexually explicit images from the 14-year-old undercover persona and proceeded to negotiate the time and place he would meet the minor to engage in unlawful sex acts. When Gienger went to the pre-determined location to meet the minor’s pimp, he was instead 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.
Gienger was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Kyle Man Indicted for Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for two counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor.
Verlin Old Horse, age 19, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum term of 30 years in federal prison up to life, and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Old Horse engaging in sexual acts with a female, who had not attained the age of 12 years, between October 12, 2019, and December 9, 2019, at Kyle.
The charges are merely accusations and Old Horse is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen is prosecuting the case.
Old Horse was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.