District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Pine Ridge Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man who pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on June 1, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.
Shane Tyon, age 44, was sentenced to 19 ½ years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
From approximately November 2017 to September 2018, Tyon obtained multiple pounds of methamphetamine from a Colorado source on numerous occasions. During his involvement in the conspiracy, the defendant distributed the methamphetamine on the Pine Ridge Reservation, primarily from his residence. Other people would obtain methamphetamine from the defendant and would then distribute it further. The defendant also possessed a firearm in his home during the time he participated in this conspiracy.
This case was investigated by the Badlands Safe Trails Task Force, which includes the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigation, and the Martin, South Dakota, Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina S. Nelson prosecuted the case.
Tyon was immediately returned to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Former Tribal Chair Sentenced for Embezzlement SchemeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that a former Chairman of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe was sentenced for his role in a scheme involving the embezzlement of tribal funds by former elected tribal officials. Chief U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange presided over the sentencing hearing on June 16, 2020.
Brandon Sazue, age 46, the former elected chair of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, was sentenced to 3 months imprisonment, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $17,330 in restitution and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Five other defendants were previously sentenced for their respective roles in the embezzlement scheme. Roland Robert Hawk, Sr., 51, former elected treasurer of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, was sentenced to 42 months imprisonment and ordered to pay $325,762.50 in restitution. Francine Maria Middletent, 55, a former elected councilmember of the Tribe, was sentenced to 30 months imprisonment and ordered to pay $273,817.55 in restitution. Tina Grey Owl, age 64, a former elected councilmember of the Tribe, was sentenced to a split sentence of 10 months imprisonment and ordered to pay restitution in an approximate amount of $190,000. Roxanne Lynette Sazue, age 61, a former elected chair of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, was sentenced to a split sentence of 5 months imprisonment and ordered to pay $43,300 in restitution. Jacqueline Ernestine Pease, 34, was sentenced to 3 years of probation and ordered to pay $74,100 in restitution and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Pease was not an elected official, yet she worked in the Tribe’s Finance Office where Hawk was the overall supervisor and where Middletent worked as Chief Financial Officer.
According to court documents, in about March 2014 through February 2019, Roland Robert Hawk, Sr., Francine Maria Middletent, Roxanne Lynette Sazue, Jacquelyn Ernestine Pease, Tina Grey Owl, and Brandon Sazue embezzled, stole, willfully misapplied, willfully permitted to misapplied, and converted to their own use approximately $1,000,000 of monies, funds, credit, goods, assets, and other property belonging to the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe.
During times relevant to each defendant’s case, Brandon Sazue served as Chair of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, Hawk served as the elected Treasurer of the tribe, Roxanne Sazue was also chair, and Middletent and Grey Owl were elected councilpersons. When not serving in their respective leadership positions, all defendants, except for Brandon Sazue, worked for Hawk in the Tribe’s Finance Office. In their respective leadership roles and employment positions, the defendants had the access and opportunity to the funds that were embezzled from the tribe.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the cases.
The case was brought pursuant to The Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities. The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include: Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; and U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (605)330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
Box Elder Man Sentenced to Prison for Enticing a Minor Using the InternetRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Box Elder, South Dakota, man convicted of Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet by a Previously Registered Sex Offender was sentenced on June 4, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.
John Sanders, age 46, was sentenced to 293 months in federal prison, lifetime supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Sanders was arrested and federally indicted following a Cybertip from the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children. The Cybertip included the suspected images of child pornography and online communications between Sanders and an 11-year-old victim. Multiple illicit images where exchanged between the two. Sanders is a registered sex offender for offenses committed in Missouri in 2001 and 2013.
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 Collins prosecuted the case.
Sanders was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man who pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on June 15, 2020, by U.S. District Court Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.
Christopher Yellow Eagle, age 40, was sentenced to 300 months in federal prison. Yellow Eagle was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 22, 2017. He pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute 500 grams or more of Methamphetamine on December 18, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy beginning around the summer of 2014. Yellow Eagle obtained methamphetamine from multiple sources that he then distributed in Rapid City, Kyle, and Wanblee, South Dakota. In total, Yellow Eagle distributed between 1.5 to 5 kilograms of methamphetamine. Yellow Eagle frequently possessed firearms during his drug dealing activities. On August 24, 2017, Yellow Eagle was arrested after fleeing from law enforcement. Because he has prior felony convictions for drug distribution offenses, Yellow Eagle was deemed a “career offender.”
“This defendant was a major methamphetamine dealer both in Rapid City and the Pine Ridge Reservation for years,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “The Badlands Task Force is a model of true inter-governmental, law enforcement teamwork and all of its officers should be congratulated on this historic arrest, conviction, and sentence.”
This case was investigated by the Badlands Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The Badlands Task Force has agency members from the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Drug Enforcement, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Yellow Eagle was immediately returned to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rosebud Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on June 15, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Gabriel White Lance, age 20, was sentenced to 19 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.
White Lance was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 10, 2019. He pled guilty on March 24, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on March 23, 2019, in Todd County, South Dakota. On that date, White Lance was consuming alcoholic beverages and socializing with a group of individuals that included the 14-year-old victim. White Lance subsequently engaged in sexual activity with the victim.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
White Lance was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Okreek Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Okreek, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault by Striking, Beating, or Wounding was sentenced on June 15, 2020, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.
Sheldon Denoyer, age 30, was sentenced to 9 months in federal prison, followed by 1 year of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $25.
Denoyer was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 11, 2020. He pled guilty on June 15, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred in Mission, South Dakota, on August 12, 2019, wherein Denoyer assaulted his girlfriend, causing bodily injury.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.
Denoyer was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual Contact and Failure to AppearRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact and Failure to Appear was sentenced on June 15, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Joseph Running, age 25, was sentenced to a total of 50 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.
Running was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 14, 2018. He pled guilty on March 24, 2020.
The conviction for Abusive Sexual Contact stemmed from an incident that occurred on September 10, 2017, in Parmelee, South Dakota. On that date, Running was consuming alcoholic beverages and socializing with a group of individuals that included the victim. The victim subsequently went to sleep on a bed. She awoke some time later to find Running was sexually assaulting her.
Following his Indictment, the Defendant was released on bond. He subsequently did not appear for the jury trial in his case and was charged with Failure to Appear.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Running was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on June 15, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Larry Black Lance, III, age 28, was sentenced to 36 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.
Black Lance was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 13, 2019. He pled guilty on March 24, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on May 25, 2019, in the Soldier Creek Community near Rosebud, South Dakota. On that date, Black Lance was consuming alcoholic beverages and socializing with a group of individuals that included the victim. The victim subsequently went to sleep in a bedroom. She awoke some time later to find Black Lance was sexually assaulting her.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Black Lance was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Woman Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on June 15, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Teri Daun Halfred, age 24, was sentenced to 38 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.
Halfred was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 16, 2019. She pled guilty on February 25, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident in March 2019, when Halfred approached another adult on a street in Eagle Butte and stabbed her in the chest with a knife. Halfred fled the scene after her attack.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Halfred was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Yankton Man Sentenced for Distributing Crystal MethRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Yankton, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on May 26, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Bobby Franklin Hendrix, age 50, was sentenced to 10 years in federal custody, followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Hendrix was indicted for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on September 4, 2019. He pled guilty on March 3, 2020.
On or about July 8, 2019, in the District of South Dakota, Bobby Franklin Hendrix, did knowingly and intentionally manufacture, distribute, or dispense, or possess with intent to manufacture, distribute, or dispense, a substance containing methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Yankton Police Department, Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.
Hendrix was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Tea Man Sentenced on Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Tea, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on June 1, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Bereket Yacob Emahazien, age 46, was sentenced to 135 months in custody, followed by 5 years supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Emahazien was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2019. He pled guilty on March 5, 2020.
Beginning on an unknown date and continuing until on or about January 14, 2019, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Emahazien, did knowingly and intentionally combine, conspire, confederate, and agree together, with others known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute a mixture and substance containing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Emahazien was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sturgis Man Sentenced on Meth Trafficking ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sturgis, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on June 9, 2020, by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.
Dustin Island, age 40, was sentenced to 7 and a half years in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stems from Island possessing 119 grams of methamphetamine and a firearm found during a search of Island’s residence in June 2019.
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/opa/pr/attorney-general-william-p-barr-announces-launch-project-guardian-nationwide-strategic-plan.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Sturgis Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Island was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
South Dakota Woman Sentenced for Meth Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Dimock, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on May 18, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Jacqueline Ann Muhs, age 45, was sentenced to 120 months in federal custody, followed by 5 years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Muhs was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on January 7, 2020. She pled guilty on February 24, 2020.
Beginning at an unknown date and continuing until on or about January 7, 2020, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Muhs, knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed together, with others known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute a mixture and substance containing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, Sioux Falls Police Department, Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, and the Department of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Muhs was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced on Federal Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by Prohibited Person was sentenced on June 1, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Awuar Tadeo Amaya, age 29, was sentenced to 27 months in federal custody, followed by 3 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Amaya was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury on September 4, 2019. He pled guilty on March 2, 2020.
On or about July 29, 2019, in the District of South Dakota, Awuar Tadeo Amaya, knowing he had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/attorney-general-william-p-barr-announces-launch-project-guardian-nationwide-strategic-plan.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.
Amaya was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Norris Man Sentenced for Domestic Assault by Habitual OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Norris, South Dakota, man convicted of Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender was sentenced on June 15, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Alvin Bear Heels, Jr., age 45, was sentenced to 36 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.
Bear Heels was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 9, 2020. He pled guilty on March 26, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on February 20, 2020, wherein Bear Heels assaulted his daughter at their home in Norris, by brandishing a knife at her. At the time of this incident, Bear Heels had two prior convictions in Rosebud Sioux Tribal Court for Domestic Abuse, and a prior conviction in U.S. District Court for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon against his spouse.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Bear Heels was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Man from Porcupine Sentenced for Assault on Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Porcupine, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault on a Federal Officer was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.
Frank Yellow Boy, age 43, was sentenced on June 9, 2020, to 6 months in federal prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Yellow Boy was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2019. The charge related to Yellow Boy physically resisting and punching an Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety officer after being arrested on March 24, 2019, at Porcupine. The assault resulted in the officer’s glasses being knocked from his face and his nose, and mouth being bloodied.
This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama prosecuted the case.
Yellow Boy was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Man from Porcupine Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Porcupine, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.
Julian Tail, age 22, was sentenced on June 5, 2020, to 2 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Tail was indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2019. The charge related to Tail engaging in sexual intercourse with a juvenile female over the course of a weekend in September 2018.
This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama prosecuted the case.
Tail was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Woman from Oglala, SD Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Oglala, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.
Essence Belt, age 37, was sentenced on June 1, 2020, to 5 years of probation, ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $4,000 in restitution.
Belt was indicted by a federal grand jury in February 2019. Belt consumed an excessive amount of alcohol and attempted to drive to Oelrichs to acquire additional beer. Due to alcohol consumption, Belt lost control of the vehicle she was driving and crashed shortly after 9:00 a.m. on December 12, 2018. Crash data revealed that Belt was driving 85 miles per hour in a residential area, with a posted speed limit of 25 miles per hour, 5 seconds prior to the crash. The passenger in the front seat was ejected approximately 100 feet from the vehicle and is now a quadriplegic. The back seat passenger was partially ejected and sustained a hip injury. Belt also sustained serious injuries requiring hospitalization.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Wagner Man Sentenced for Threatening CommunicationsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Wagner, South Dakota, man convicted of Threatening Communications was sentenced on June 8, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Kyle Gullikson, age 29, was sentenced to time served, 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Gullikson was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 3, 2019. He pled guilty on March 24, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on or about November 5, 2019, when Gullikson knowingly and willfully transmitted threatening messages on Facebook.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Veblen Woman Sentenced in Federal Court for Mail Fraud Involving Head Start ProgramRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Veblen, South Dakota, woman was sentenced on June 8, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Renee K. Olson, age 57, was sentenced to 8 months of home confinement, coupled with 5 years of probation as a result of her conviction for Mail Fraud. She was also ordered to pay $24,031.74 in restitution and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
According to court documents, Olson served as the Treasurer of the Region VIII Head Start Association. In September 2014 and continuing to June 2018, Olson devised and intended to devise a scheme and artifice to defraud the Region VIII Head Start Association of money and property, and obtained money and property from the Region VIII Head Start Association by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, omissions, and promises. In her working capacity, Olson sent out invoices to members of the Title VIII Region. Members then paid those invoices and sent those payments to Olson. Upon receipt, Olson converted those payments and used that money for personal expenses. The money was supposed to be used to train members of Region VIII Head Start, but instead Olson deposited those checks into her personal bank account. For the purpose of carrying out and executing the scheme to defraud, and in furtherance of the scheme and artifice to defraud, Olson knowingly caused items to be placed in an authorized depository for mail matter.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Jehangiri.
Two South Dakota Men Sentenced in Carjacking IncidentRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two South Dakota men were recently sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.
On May 11, 2020, Craig Hirschfeld, age 26, of Box Elder, was sentenced to 7 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 for Use and Brandishing of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence.
On June 5, 2020, Devin Byker, age 25, of Piedmont, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for Carjacking and an additional term of 7 years for Use and Brandishing of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence, both terms to run consecutively, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stems from Hirschfeld and Byker stealing a man’s vehicle, wallet, and cell phone at gunpoint after the man had given them a ride in June 2019 in Rapid City.
“Anyone who uses a gun to commit a crime in South Dakota is likely be charged federally and can look forward to spending a significant amount of time in federal prison somewhere outside of the state,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Hirschfeld and Byker were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on June 8, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Enoch Fields, age 38, was sentenced to 70 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.
Fields was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 4, 2019. He pled guilty on March 5, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between October 28, 2018, and June 18, 2019, when Fields knowingly possessed and attempted to possess images of child pornography. Fields admitted possessing child pornography images and video files on his cell phone and in his email account.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, the Sioux Falls Police Department, the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Fields was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Agency Village Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Involuntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Agency Village, South Dakota, man was sentenced on June 8, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Felix Duane Johnson, Jr., age 27, was sentenced to 30 months in federal custody, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. Johnson was also ordered to pay $4,373 in restitution to the victim’s family and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
According to court documents, on December 17, 2019, in Roberts County, Johnson unlawfully committed involuntary manslaughter, when a minor child in his care drowned in a bathtub. The victim was approximately 11 months old at the time of death.
Johnson was the only adult in the residence at the time the child drowned. He was the person responsible for taking care of the children in the home because his girlfriend, the victim’s mother, was working at the time the child drowned. Johnson admitted that the death of the child was his responsibility and was a result of his gross neglect and lack of due caution and circumspection. Johnson further admitted that while the child was in the bathtub unattended, he became distracted with his mobile phone and didn’t check on the child, which ultimately led to the drowning.
The investigation was conducted by Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Law Enforcement and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
Johnson was remanded to custody to serve his sentence.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Importation of Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man who pleaded guilty to two counts of Importation of Controlled Substances, heroin and fentanyl, was sentenced on June 4, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.
Nathan Reuer, age 26, was sentenced to time served (approximately 16 months), 3 years of supervised release, restitution costs for drug testing, and a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Beginning on or about February 2018 through early February 2019, the defendant utilized the internet and “darkweb” to order many types of both legal and controlled substances, including heroin and fentanyl. The packages were sent from outside the United States through the mail system.
This case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations and UNET (a Rapid City based drug task force comprised of members from the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Rapid City Police Department, Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, and SD National Guard). Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced on Wildlife ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Violating the Lacey Act was sentenced on June 4, 2020, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.
Dugan Traversie, age 39, was sentenced to 1 year probation, loss of his hunting privileges for one year, ordered to pay $9,000 restitution to Timberlake Elk Ranch, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $25.
Traversie was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 12, 2020. He pled guilty on June 4, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred sometime between October 28, 2019, and November 4, 2019, when Traversie harvested a white-tailed deer outside of the tribal hunting season, in violation of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe hunting laws and regulations. After Traversie shot the deer, he left and returned the next day to remove the head and left the carcass behind.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, Game, Fish and Parks Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Kyle Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for First Degree MurderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man convicted of First Degree Murder was sentenced on June 2, 2020, by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.
Clarence Yellow Hawk, age 30, was sentenced to a term of the remainder of his life in federal prison, a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and ordered to pay restitution in an amount to be determined at a later date based on evidence presented at Tuesday’s hearing.
Yellow Hawk was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 14, 2017. He was found guilty of First Degree Murder and Discharge of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence following a jury trial in federal court which concluded on May 3, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from a homicide that occurred on May 27, 2017, on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Scott Benson, Jamie Shoulders, and Clarence Yellow Hawk travelled to a driveway approach off the highway, just north of Sharps Corner where Benson was planning on meeting a man named Christopher Janis and another person. While Benson was in Janis’ vehicle speaking with him, Shoulders approached the driver’s side door and fired several bullets at Christopher Janis. Yellow Hawk then took the same gun and fired additional shots at Janis, killing him, before fleeing the scene.
Scott Benson later pleaded guilty to Accessory After the Fact and was sentenced on May 24, 2018, to 10 years in federal prison. Jamie Shoulders later pleaded guilty to Second Degree Murder and was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kathryn N. Rich and Gregg Peterman prosecuted the case.
Statement of U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons on Retirement of Rapid City Police Chief Karl JegerisRead the Press Release
Chief Jegeris represents the ideal of law enforcement excellence. Always professional, ever vigilant, always looking out for the safety, security, and best interests of the community and everyone in it. Rapid City will be benefiting from his positive vision and forward-thinking initiatives for years to come. It has been a true pleasure to work with him and to call him my friend. He will be greatly missed.
Department of Justice Awards Nearly $400 Million for Law Enforcement Hiring to Advance Community PolicingRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice announced nearly $400 million in grant funding through the Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program (CHP). United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced $2,352,745 in grant funding for twelve law enforcement agencies in South Dakota. These monies will pay for 19 new law enforcement officers in South Dakota.
The Attorney General announced funding awards to 596 law enforcement agencies across the nation, which allows those agencies to hire 2,732 additional full-time law enforcement professionals. The awards announced today are inclusive of the $51 million announced in May as part of Operation Relentless Pursuit.
“From Box Elder to Yankton, these well-timed DOJ grants will go a long way toward increasing the number of police officers protecting and serving communities across South Dakota,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.
“The Department of Justice is committed to providing the police chiefs and sheriffs of our great nation with needed resources, tools, and support. The funding announced today will bolster their ranks and contribute to expanding community policing efforts nationwide,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “A law enforcement agency’s most valuable assets are the men and women who put their lives on the line every day in the name of protecting and serving their communities.”
The COPS Hiring Program is a competitive award program intended to reduce crime and advance public safety through community policing by providing direct funding for the hiring of career law enforcement officers. In addition to providing financial support for hiring, CHP provides funding to state, local, and tribal law enforcement to enhance local community policing strategies and tactics. In a changing economic climate, CHP funding helps law enforcement agencies maintain sufficient sworn personnel levels to promote safe communities. Funding through this program had been on hold since the spring of 2018 due to a nationwide injunction that was lifted earlier this year.
CHP applicants were required to identify a specific crime and disorder problem focus area and explain how the funding will be used to implement community policing approaches to that problem focus area. Forty three percent of the awards announced will focus on violent crime, while the remainder of the awards will focus on a variety of issues including school-based policing to fund school resource officer positions, building trust and respect, and opioid education, prevention, and intervention. The COPS Office received nearly 1,100 applications requesting more than 4,000 law enforcement positions.
The South Dakota awards include:
South Dakota Police Department Award Amount Box Elder Police Department $125,000 Butte County Sheriff's Department $125,000 City of Sioux Falls Police Department $250,000 Codington County Sheriff's Department $125,000 Rapid City Police Department $375,000 Sisseton Wahpeton Law Enforcement $125,000 Stanley County Sheriff's Office $125,000 Sturgis Police Department $125,000 Summerset Police Department $374,998 Turner County Sheriff's Department $102,747 Watertown Police Department $375,000 Yankton Police Department $125,000The complete list of awards can be found here (COPS Grant list). To learn more about CHP, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/chp. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Pierre Man Sentenced for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on June 1, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Charles Olson, a/k/a Chip Olson, age 48, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Olson was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 16, 2019. He pled guilty on March 9, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy that occurred between December 1, 2018, and October 16, 2019, in which Olson, knowingly and intentionally, conspired and agreed with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine in and around the Pierre and Ft. Pierre Communities. As part of the conspiracy, Olson and his co-defendants traveled to Denver, Colorado to pick up methamphetamine. On June 23, 2019, Olson was involved in a traffic stop, wherein 236 grams of methamphetamine, a scale, pipes, and other items of distribution were found.
This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Pierre Police Department, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Olson was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Ft. Pierre Woman Sentenced for Federal Program TheftRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Pierre, South Dakota, woman convicted of Theft from a Program Receiving Federal Funds was sentenced on June 1, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Pamela Duncan, age 53, was sentenced to 1 year of probation, restitution in the amount of $4,000, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Duncan was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 17, 2019. She pled guilty on February 27, 2020.
Between January 2017 and August 2018, in the District of South Dakota, while employed as an agent of the United Sioux Tribes of South Dakota Development Corporation (USTDC), Duncan, not the rightful owner, did embezzle, steal, obtain by fraud, and intentionally misapply property worth at least $5,000, from USTDC, an organization receiving Federal funds. Duncan removed property and applied funds for personal use, such as laptop computers, gym memberships, attorney services, payroll advances, and travel reimbursement.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.
The case was brought as part of The Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities. The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include: Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (605) 330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
California Woman Sentenced for South Dakota Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Huntington Beach, California, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on May 11, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Erin M. Hinkle, age 35, was sentenced to 10 years in federal custody, followed by 5 years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Hinkle was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on February 5, 2019. She pled guilty on January 6, 2020.
Beginning on an unknown date, until on or about February 5, 2019, in the District of South Dakota, Hinkle, knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed together, with others known and unknown, to intentionally distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Department of Criminal Investigation, and the Brookings, South Dakota, Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Hinkle was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Man from Oglala, South Dakota Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Oglala, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to a Spouse, Intimate Partner, or Dating Partner was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.
Eric Anduja, age 48, was sentenced on May 18, 2020, to 17 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Anduja was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2019. The charge related to Anduja antagonizing and pulling the hair of the victim on March 3, 2019, at Pine Ridge. When the victim defended herself, Anduja was angered and struck the victim repeatedly with a closed fist as she cowered. As a result of the beating, the victim incurred injuries to include extensive bruising, a black eye, severe facial swelling, and a dislodged tooth filling. Anduja and the victim had been in a dating relationship since approximately June of 2018.
This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama prosecuted the case.
Anduja was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Justice Department Reaches Agreement with Chamberlain School District, South Dakota, under the Voting Rights ActRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that it has entered into an agreement to settle a voting rights lawsuit with the Chamberlain School District in South Dakota. The department’s lawsuit challenges the method of electing the Chamberlain School Board under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. Under this agreement, subject to the approval of the federal district court in South Dakota, the School District will change its method of electing its School Board to ensure compliance with the protections of the Voting Rights Act.
The parties’ agreement was filed with the court in conjunction with a lawsuit filed by the department. The department’s complaint alleges that the current at-large method of election for the Chamberlain School Board results in American Indian citizens in the School District having less opportunity than white citizens to participate in the political process and to elect candidates of their choice to the School Board, in violation of Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. The department’s complaint is based on the well-established case law that follows the Supreme Court’s decision in Thornburg v. Gingles, 478 U.S. 30 (1986). The department’s complaint does not allege that the current method of election was adopted or maintained with discriminatory intent.
The department gave notice to the Chamberlain School District of its intent to bring suit under the Voting Rights Act on December 2, 2019, and the parties worked collaboratively to achieve this agreement. Under the agreement, the District will discontinue use of its current at-large method of electing its School Board. Starting in the 2021 election cycle, the seven members of the School Board will be elected from three two-member districts with one at-large position.
“This agreement reflects the department’s continued and resolute commitment to vigorous enforcement of the Voting Rights Act to protect the right to vote for our citizens in all elections,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Civil Rights Division. “We appreciate that the Chamberlain School District has worked very cooperatively with the department to adopt a solution that safeguards the right to vote.”
“This agreement is a victory for good government,” said U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons for the District of South Dakota. “It upholds two of our most important constitutional pillars: representative democracy and equal protection under the law.”
More information about the Voting Rights Act and other federal voting rights laws is available on the Department of Justice website at https://www.justice.gov/crt/voting-section.
Justice Department Reaches Agreement with Chamberlain School District, South Dakota, Under the Voting Rights ActRead the Press Release
NOTE: The complaint can be found here, and the consent decree can be found here.
WASHINGTON- The Justice Department announced today that it has entered into an agreement to settle a voting rights lawsuit with the Chamberlain School District in South Dakota. The department’s lawsuit challenges the method of electing the Chamberlain School Board under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. Under this agreement, subject to the approval of the federal district court in South Dakota, the School District will change its method of electing its School Board to ensure compliance with the protections of the Voting Rights Act.
The parties’ agreement was filed with the court in conjunction with a lawsuit filed by the department. The department’s complaint alleges that the current at-large method of election for the Chamberlain School Board results in American Indian citizens in the School District having less opportunity than white citizens to participate in the political process and to elect candidates of their choice to the School Board, in violation of Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. The department’s complaint is based on the well-established case law that follows the Supreme Court’s decision in Thornburg v. Gingles, 478 U.S. 30 (1986). The department’s complaint does not allege that the current method of election was adopted or maintained with discriminatory intent.
The department gave notice to the Chamberlain School District of its intent to bring suit under the Voting Rights Act on December 2, 2019, and the parties worked collaboratively to achieve this agreement. Under the agreement, the District will discontinue use of its current at-large method of electing its School Board. Starting in the 2021 election cycle, the seven members of the School Board will be elected from three two-member districts with one at-large position.
“This agreement reflects the department’s continued and resolute commitment to vigorous enforcement of the Voting Rights Act to protect the right to vote for our citizens in all elections,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Civil Rights Division. “We appreciate that the Chamberlain School District has worked very cooperatively with the department to adopt a solution that safeguards the right to vote.”
“This agreement is a victory for good government,” said U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons for the District of South Dakota. “It upholds two of our most important constitutional pillars: representative democracy and equal protection under the law.”
More information about the Voting Rights Act and other federal voting rights laws is available on the Department of Justice website at https://www.justice.gov/crt/voting-section.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Mission Man Indicted on Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm and Possession of an Unregistered Firearm.
Wayne Kills Enemy, III, age 29, was indicted on February 11, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 21, 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 November 4, 2019, at Mission, Kills Enemy, being an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, and having previously been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, knowingly possessed a firearm. The Indictment further alleges that at the same location and date, Kills Enemy knowingly possessed a weapon made from a shotgun, with a barrel of less than eighteen inches in length, which was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
The charges are merely accusations and Kills Enemy 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 the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Kills Enemy was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Sentenced on Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.
Jerry Gorisek, age 49, was sentenced on May 11, 2020, to 7 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 charge relates to Gorisek possessing nearly 80 grams of methamphetamine and a loaded firearm while intending to distribute methamphetamine in Rapid City, which was found after Gorisek came into contact with a Pennington County Sheriff Deputy in July 2019.
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.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Gorisek was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man, convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on May 18, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Louie Thunderhawk, age 33, was sentenced to 26 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Thunderhawk was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2019. He pled guilty on February 24, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy beginning in at least February 2019, where Thunderhawk and others distributed between 200 and 350 grams of methamphetamine in and around the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation in South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Valentine, Nebraska Police Department, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Thunderhawk will self-report to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service on May 26, 2020.
Former Tribal Chair & Former Councilmember Sentenced for Embezzlement SchemeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that two former Crow Creek Sioux Tribe councilmembers were sentenced for their roles in an embezzlement scheme involving tribal funds. Chief U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange presided over the sentencing hearings.
Tina Grey Owl, age 64, a former elected councilperson of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, was sentenced to a split sentence of ten months of custody, with five months to be served at a facility designated by the Bureau of Prisons and five months to be served on home confinement. Grey Owl was ordered to pay restitution, although the total will be determined at a later date, and to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. The total loss associated with Grey Owl’s embezzlement, which was accepted by the court, was approximately $192,300. Following the term of custody, she will serve two years of supervised release.
Roxanne Lynette Sazue, age 63, the former elected chair of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, was sentenced to a split sentence of five months custody, with one month to be served at a facility designated by the Bureau of Prisons and four months to be served on home confinement. She was also ordered to pay $43,300 in restitution and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Following the term of custody, she will serve two years of supervised release.
Three other defendants were previously sentenced for their respective roles in the embezzlement scheme. Roland Robert Hawk, Sr., 51, the former elected treasurer of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, was sentenced to forty-two months of imprisonment and ordered to pay $325,762.50 in restitution. Francine Maria Middletent, 55, a former elected councilmember of the Tribe, was sentenced to thirty months of imprisonment, and ordered to pay $273,817.55 in restitution and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Jacqueline Ernestine Pease, 34, was sentenced to three years of probation, and ordered to pay $74,100 in restitution and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Pease was not an elected official, yet she worked in the Tribe’s Finance Office, where Hawk was the overall supervisor and where Middletent worked as Chief Financial Officer.
According to court documents, in about March 2014 through February 2019, Roland Robert Hawk, Sr., Francine Maria Middletent, Roxanne Lynette Sazue, Jacquelyn Ernestine Pease, Tina Grey Owl, and Brandon Sazue embezzled, stole, willfully misapplied, willfully permitted to misapplied, and converted to their own use approximately $1,000,000 of monies, funds, credit, goods, assets, and other property belonging to the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe.
During times relevant to each defendant’s case, Brandon Sazue served as Chair of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, Hawk served as the elected Treasurer of the tribe, Roxanne Sazue was also chair, and Middletent and Grey Owl were elected councilpersons. When not serving in their respective leadership positions, all defendants, except for Brandon Sazue, worked for Hawk in the Tribe’s Finance Office. In their respective leadership roles and employment positions, the defendants had the access and opportunity to the funds that were embezzled from the tribe.
Brandon Sazue, the sixth and final defendant pending sentencing, will be sentenced on June 16, 2020.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
The case was brought pursuant to The Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities. The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include: Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (605)330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on May 19, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Ryan Dupris, age 24, was sentenced to 36 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.
Dupris was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 10, 2019. He pled guilty on February 25, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on January 2, 2019, in Eagle Butte, where Dupris knowingly caused a female victim to engage in sexual contact with him by threatening her.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Dupris was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Bullhead Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Bullhead, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate Partner was sentenced on May 18, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Mario Crow Ghost, age 49, was sentenced to 92 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 $200.
Crow Ghost was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 13, 2019. He pled guilty on December 4, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on June 3, 2019, when Crow Ghost had been drinking and assaulted two individuals with a sharp object. The first victim was punctured in the neck with the sharp object, and the second victim received injuries to the back of her leg. Both victims received medical attention for their injuries.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirsten Jasper prosecuted the case.
Crow Ghost was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rosebud Man Sentenced for Meth Trafficking and Witness TamperingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Tampering with a Witness was sentenced on May 18, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Clinton Haukaas, a/k/a Fuddy Haukaas, age 40, was sentenced to 138 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200. Haukaas was also ordered to forfeit ownership of a rifle seized during the investigation.
Haukaas was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 11, 2018. Multiple superseding indictments were filed with the last being on December 10, 2019. He pled guilty on February 18, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from a methamphetamine conspiracy that began on or about January 1, 2014, and continued to December 10, 2018, where Haukaas conspired with others to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Further, while in custody awaiting trial, Haukaas possessed a list containing the names of twenty-eight potential witnesses against him. He coordinated the publication of the list on a social media website in an attempt to intimidate the witnesses to prevent their testimony at trial.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services; the Bureau of Indian Affairs; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; the City of Pierre, South Dakota, Police Department; the South Dakota Highway Patrol; and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Haukaas was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Tyndall Man and Rapid City Woman Indicted for Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Tyndall, South Dakota, man and a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of an Unregistered Firearm. The man has further been indicted for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
Jose Eduardo Rodriguez, age 44, and Bonnie Jean Estes, age 24, were indicted on February 11, 2020. Rodriguez appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 14, 2020, and Estes appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 13, 2020. Both 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 or about December 26, 2019, Rodriguez and Estes knowingly possessed a weapon made from a rifle, with a barrel of less than sixteen inches in length, which was not registered to them in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. The Indictment further alleges that on or about December 26, 2019, Rodriguez, having previously been convicted of a felony, did knowingly possess a firearm.
The charges are merely accusations and Rodriguez and Estes are 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 Murdo Police Department, the Lyman County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Rodriguez and Estes were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for July 21, 2020.
Faulkton Man Charged and Sentenced for Wildlife Violations Involving Bald Eagle DeathsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Faulkton, South Dakota, man convicted of Unlawful Taking of Bald Eagles, Unlawful Taking of Migratory Birds, and Unlawful Use of Restricted Use Pesticide was charged by information on May 7, 2020, and was sentenced on May 13, 2020, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.
Kevin Deiter, age 43, appeared on May 13, 2020, pled guilty to the Information, and was ordered to pay a total of $29,400 in restitution, $9,800 per eagle, a $5,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $40.
On March 21, 2017, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service received notification from the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department that three dead bald eagles were recovered in Faulk County. In the area where the bald eagles were recovered, law enforcement noted impression marks from silage bags that had been removed, a dead skunk, a dead mink, two partially intact chicken eggs, and a collection of chicken egg shell fragments. During the investigation Dieter admitted to injecting the chicken eggs with carbamate carbofuran and placing them near the silage bags in order to keep skunks and mink from destroying the silage bags. It was determined that the three bald eagles and the skunk and mink that were recovered had each died of carbamate carbofuran poisoning.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Meth Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on May 11, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Alex Geoffery Lang, age 25, was sentenced to 114 months in federal custody, followed by 5 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Lang was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on January 7, 2020. He pled guilty on January 28, 2020.
Beginning at an unknown date and continuing until on or about January 7, 2020, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Lang, knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed together, with others known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute a mixture and substance containing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, Sioux Falls Police Department, Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Lang was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mobridge Man Sentenced for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mobridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on May 11, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Jeremy Wyatt Bearsheart, age 44, was sentenced to 5 years of probation, a $3,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Bearsheart was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 14, 2019. He pled guilty on November 4, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy beginning on or about August 1, 2014, and continuing to on or about March 1, 2015, wherein Bearsheart knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine around Mobridge.
This case was investigated by the Mobridge Police Department and Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Little Eagle Woman Sentenced for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Little Eagle, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on May 11, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Lucenda Layetta Bobtail Bear, age 38, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Bobtail Bear was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2019. She pled guilty on November 5, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy in 2018, wherein Bobtail Bear conspired with others to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation in South Dakota. In exchange for drugs and money, Bobtail Bear allowed her home to be used for the distribution of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Mobridge Police Department, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the Corson County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Bobtail Bear was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Former Contractor Sentenced to 24 Months in Federal Prison for Embezzlement SchemeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that a former contractor was sentenced for an embezzlement scheme involving tribal funds, which he pleaded guilty to on September 23, 2019. Dustin Martin Kirk, age 48, of Sisseton, South Dakota, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, and ordered to pay $384,289 in restitution and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Following his release from custody, Kirk will serve 3 years of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann presided over the sentencing hearing.
According to court documents, between August 2016 and December 2018, Kirk and his now-defunct business, Siouxland Lumber & Materials, LLC, embezzled, stole, and converted nearly $400,000 of monies, funds, credits, goods, assets, and other property belonging to Dakota Nation Development Corporation and the Sisseton-Wahpeton Housing Authority, both of which are entities of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Sioux Tribe and Indian Tribal Organizations.
At times material to this case, the Dakota Nations Development Corporation (“DNDC”) and the Sisseton-Wahpeton Housing Authority (“SWHA”) were separate agencies of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Sioux Tribe, a tribal government that received federal assistance in excess of $10,000 during each calendar year of 2016, 2017, and 2018. On behalf of the tribe, DNDC administered tax credit housing. DNDC was a legal entity and it filed the incorporating documents with the South Dakota Secretary of State. SWHA administered federal housing programs, and it is governed by a tribal board.
Kirk established Siouxland Lumber & Materials, LLC, on April 29, 2016. The company dissolved on May 4, 2018. Defendant was the sole owner of Siouxland Lumber, and he used his company and its bank account for personal expenses and to withdraw money for non-business related purchases, including gambling.
Kirk was ordered to self-report to the U.S. Marshal’s Service or Bureau of Prisons to begin serving his term of imprisonment on June 2, 2020.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
The case was brought pursuant to The Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities. The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include: Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (605)330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
U.s. Attorney’s Office Honors Law Enforcement During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS — In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“The men and women of law enforcement are heroes,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “They serve on the front lines of public safety, risking their lives on a daily basis to protect the innocent and safeguard our communities. They have our enduring gratitude.”
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
Spearfish Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Attempting to Entice a Minor Using the InternetRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Spearfish, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet was sentenced on April 23, 2020, by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court Judge.
Michael Carlson, age 58, was sentenced to 10 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. Carlson also will be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Carlson was arrested and federally indicted following multiple chats and text messages with a person Carlson believed to be a 14/15 year-old girl, but who was in fact an undercover agent. Carlson proceeded to negotiate the time and place he would meet the minor to engage in unlawful sex acts. When Carlson went to the pre-determined location to meet the minor, 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 Spearfish Police Department, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins prosecuted the case.
Carlson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
South Dakota Man Sentenced for Possession of MethRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Lake Andes, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Controlled Substance was sentenced on May 4, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Winston Houseman, age 25, was sentenced to three months in custody, followed by one year of supervised release, and a $5,000 fine. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Houseman was indicted for Possession of a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on September 5, 2018. He pled guilty on January 6, 2020.
On or about July 29, 2017, in Indian country, in the District of South Dakota, Houseman, did knowingly and intentionally possess a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.
Houseman was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.