District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Chicago Drug Dealer Sentenced to Life in Prison for Distribution of Heroin Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Chicago, Illinois, man was sentenced to life in prison by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Maurice Bellafonta Cathey, a/k/a “Short,” age 39, was convicted of two counts of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, one count of Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death, and two counts of Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in a November 2019 trial.
On February 24, 2020, U.S. District Court Judge Karen E. Schreier sentenced Cathey to 30 years in federal prison on each conspiracy count and life in prison for the death and serious bodily injury counts, all to run concurrently. Cathey was also ordered to pay $500 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
On January 5, 2018, first responders reported to a fatal overdose of a 22-year-old man at an apartment in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The victim was unresponsive and attempts to revive him were unsuccessful. A friend of the victim who was with him said that the victim had injected himself with heroin. The victim obtained heroin from his friend that had been distributed by Cathey. Minnehaha County Coroner Dr. Kenneth Snell ruled that the victim’s cause of death was heroin and cyclopropyl fentanyl toxicity.
On February 9, 2018, first responders were dispatched to a fast food restaurant on South Minnesota Avenue for a report of cardiac arrest, where they found a 20-year-old woman who was unconscious and not breathing due to a heroin overdose. The victim was revived by first responders with Narcan. Cathey sold the heroin to the victim minutes before her overdose.
On April 23, 2018, first responders were dispatched to an overdose call at an apartment in Sioux Falls. First responders encountered a 24-year-old man who had overdosed on heroin laced with tramadol, 4-ANPP, and fentanyl, ultimately distributed by Cathey and his co-conspirator, Corrod Phillips. The victim was unconscious and not breathing when first responders arrived, but was revived by Narcan.
On May 16, 2018, a 23-year-old man overdosed on heroin in the bathroom of a grocery store in Sioux Falls. First responders found him unconscious and breathing poorly, and were able to awaken him with Narcan. The victim said he purchased the heroin from Phillips less than an hour before his overdose.
Testimony at trial revealed that multiple other overdoses, including at least one additional death, were caused by heroin distributed by Cathey and Phillips.
The Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force executed multiple search warrants during the investigation at residences connected to Cathey and Phillips. During the execution of these warrants, SFADTF members located dozens of bindles of crack cocaine and heroin, thousands of dollars in U.S. Currency, and numerous items of drug distribution paraphernalia.
“The sentencing of this career felon to life in prison brings a fitting end to one of the saddest chapters in the history of Sioux Falls,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “But the story of how our community came together to defeat the opioid crisis is not yet finished, and we all have much more work to do.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, the Sioux Falls Police Department, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Cathey was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. Corrod Phillips awaits sentencing.
Tyndall Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Tyndall, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Jose Eduardo Rodriguez, age 44, was indicted on February 11, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 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, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Rodriguez was convicted of Fourth Degree Rape in July 1998. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. It is alleged between August 18, 2019, and December 26, 2019, Rodriguez, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under Federal Law, failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration.
The charge is merely an accusation and Rodriguez is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Rodriguez was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Man Charged for Possession of Firearm by Prohibited PersonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of possession of firearm by prohibited person was sentenced on February 14, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schrerer.
Peyton Michael Ledbetter, age 22, was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Ledbetter was indicted for felon in possession of a firearm by a federal grand jury on December 4, 2018. He pled guilty on October 22, 2019.
Law enforcement stopped the vehicle in which Ledbetter was driving on September 30, 2018, in Sioux Falls. During a search of his person and vehicle, law enforcement located a Winchester brand, 9xl9 mm Luger caliber round of ammunition, a Winchester brand 9xl9mm Luger caliber cartridge case, and a TulAmmo brand .380 AUTO caliber cartridge case.
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
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.
Ledbetter was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sicangu Village Man Indicted for Aggravated Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sicangu Village, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse.
Conrad Good Voice, Jr., age 24, was indicted on February 11, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 19, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on June 4, 2018, in Todd County, South Dakota, Good Voice knowingly engaged in a sexual act with the minor victim, by the use of force.
The charge is merely an accusation and Good Voice is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Good Voice was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a 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.
Richard Peneaux, age 26, was indicted on February 11, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 19, 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 up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Peneaux was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in March of 2014. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. It is alleged between December 22, 2019, and January 7, 2020, Peneaux, 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 Peneaux 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.
Peneaux was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Parmelee Woman Indicted for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.
Jeni May Pearl Arcoren, age 32, was indicted on February 11, 2020. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 21, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in prison and/or a $10,000,000 fine, a lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for each Count. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that beginning on January 1, 2015, and continuing through February 11, 2020, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Arcoren, knowingly and intentionally, combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
The charge is merely an accusation and Arcoren is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Arcoren was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Nebraska Woman Indicted for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Valentine, Nebraska, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.
Mareca Rodriquez, age 28, was indicted on February 11, 2020. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 14, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in prison and/or a $10,000,000 fine, a lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that beginning on November 1, 2019, and continuing through February 4, 2020, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Rodriquez, knowingly and intentionally, combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
The charge is merely an accusation and Rodriquez 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 Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Rodriquez was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mission Man Charged with Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Patrick Red Bird, age 36, was indicted on February 11, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 20, 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 December 27, 2019, Red Bird did forcibly assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with a law enforcement officer who was employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and inflicted bodily injury upon the officer.
The charge is merely an accusation and Red Bird 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.
Red Bird was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Lower Brule Woman Charged with Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Kristy Andrews, age 27, was indicted on February 11, 2020. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 19, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 8 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 23, 2019, Andrews assaulted two federal law enforcement officers while they were engaged in the performance of their official duties, and the assaults did involve physical contact.
The charge is merely an accusation and Andrews is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Lower Brule Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Andrews was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Fort Thompson Man Charged with Failure to RegisterRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Stuart Dion, age 36, was indicted on February 11, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 19, 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, up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between December 30, 2019, and February 11, 2020, Dion, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, knowingly failed to register and update his registration as required by law.
The charge is merely an accusation and Dion is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Dion was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Florida Man Charged with Organic Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Bradenton, Florida, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for one count of Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, twelve counts of Wire Fraud, and twenty-nine counts of Money Laundering.
Kent Duane Anderson, age 49, was indicted on February 4, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Danita Wollmann on February 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 $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and up to $4,200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between 2012 and 2017, Anderson, aided by others, operated a group of inter-related business entities he formed in South Dakota that claimed to sell organic commodities. Operating as Green Leaf Trading, and other businesses with the Green Leaf name, Anderson purchased thousands of tons of small grain and seed products from non-organic suppliers and re-sold those products to wholesale distributors, brokers, and other buyers at marked-up prices, and falsely represented the products were organic. The Indictment alleges one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, 12 counts of wire fraud, 12 counts of using the proceeds of the wire fraud to promote the unlawful activity, and 17 counts of purchases made from criminally derived proceeds.
“Falsely labeling products as organic violates federal law,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “It cheats American consumers and unfairly punishes true organic farmers and producers who follow the rules. We will prosecute this kind of fraud wherever it is found.”
“This investigation and prosecution should send a strong zero-tolerance message to those individuals engaged in the practice of defrauding the National Organic Program,” said Anthony Mohatt, Special Agent-in-Charge, USDA-Office of Inspector General. “It should also serve as a warning to all that participate in the organic supply chain, that fraud will be vigorously investigated and prosecuted by the USDA-OIG, the U.S. Attorney's Office, and all its federal, state, and local partners that have a stake in ensuring that fraud is eliminated from taxpayer funded programs.”
“Honest and law abiding citizens are fed up with those who use deceit and fraud to line their pockets,” said Karl Stiften, Special Agent-in-Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation. “We are committed to 'following the money trail.' We will continue to pursue the evidence wherever it leads, leaving no financial stone unturned.”
The charges are merely accusations and Anderson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Internal Revenue Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Anderson was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Eagle Butte Man Indicted on Wildlife and Larceny 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 a Lacey Act Violation and Larceny.
Dugan Traversie, age 39, was indicted on February 12, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 18, 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 for each Count. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that sometime between October 28, 2019, and November 4, 2019, 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. The white-tailed deer had a value of more than $1,000.
The charges are merely accusations and Traversie is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted 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 is prosecuting the case.
Traversie was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Eagle Butte Man Indicted for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead 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 Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.
Daniel Gray Eagle, age 38, was indicted on December 10, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 19, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in prison and/or a $10,000,000 fine, up to lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that beginning on January 1, 2016, and continuing through December 10, 2019, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Gray Eagle, knowingly and intentionally, combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
The charge is merely an accusation and Gray Eagle is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Gray Eagle was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Eagle Butte Man Charged with AssaultRead 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 Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
Kip Blue Coat, age 28, was indicted on February 11, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 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 October 26, 2019, in Eagle Butte, Blue Coat unlawfully assaulted an individual and said assault resulted in serious bodily injury.
The charge is merely an accusation and Blue Coat is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
Blue Coat was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Tyndall Man Charged with Receipt and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Tyndall, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography.
Paul Hovorka, age 24, was indicted on February 4, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on February 12, 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 years of supervised release, and up to $5,100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between June 15, 2019, and November 21, 2019, Hovorka knowingly received and attempted to receive 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 Hovorka is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Hovorka was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Former Indian Health Services Doctor Indicted on Multiple Counts of Sexual Abuse and Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Wagner, South Dakota, man formerly employed as a physician for Indian Health Services at the Wagner Indian Health Service Clinic has been indicted by a federal grand jury for four Counts of Sexual Abuse and four Counts of Abusive Sexual Contact involving his patients.
Pedro Ibarra-Perocier, age 58, was indicted on February 4, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on February 13, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and up to $800 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Count 1 of the Indictment alleges that on or about between approximately January 2017, and August 2018, Ibarra-Perocier knowingly caused and attempt to cause Adult Victim #1 to engage in a sexual act by threatening and placing Adult Victim #1 in fear.
Count 2 of the Indictment alleges that on or about between approximately January 2014, and February 2017, Ibarra-Perocier knowingly caused and attempt to cause Adult Victim #2 to engage in a sexual act by threatening and placing Adult Victim #2 in fear.
Count 3 of the Indictment alleges that on or about between approximately April 2018, and August 2018, Ibarra-Perocier knowingly caused and attempt to cause Adult Victim #3 to engage in a sexual act by threatening and placing Adult Victim #3 in fear.
Count 4 of the Indictment alleges that on or about between approximately April 2018, and June 2018, Ibarra-Perocier knowingly caused and attempt to cause Adult Victim #4 to engage in a sexual act by threatening and placing Adult Victim #4 in fear.
Count 5 of the Indictment alleges that on or about between approximately January 2017, and August 2018, Ibarra-Perocier knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, sexual contact with Adult Victim #1 by threatening and placing Adult Victim #1 in fear.
Count 6 of the Indictment alleges that on or about between approximately January 2014, and February 2017, Ibarra-Perocier knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, sexual contact with Adult Victim #2 by threatening and placing Adult Victim #2 in fear.
Count 7 of the Indictment alleges that on or about between approximately April 2018, and August 2018, Ibarra-Perocier knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, sexual contact with Adult Victim #3 by threatening and placing Adult Victim #3 in fear.
Count 8 of the Indictment alleges that on or about between approximately August 2016, and June 2018, Ibarra-Perocier knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, sexual contact with Adult Victim #4 by threatening and placing Adult Victim #4 in fear.
The charges are merely accusations and Ibarra-Perocier is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ann M. Hoffman and Jeffrey C. Clapper are prosecuting the case.
Ibarra-Perocier was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Alcester Man Charged with Wire Fraud and Mail FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Alcerster, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for 12 Counts of Wire Fraud and 8 Counts of Mail Fraud.
Christopher Day, age 31, was indicted on February 4, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on February 12, 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 up to $2,000 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between 2015 and 2019, Day, who worked for Pedersen Machine located in Beresford, South Dakota, knowingly and unlawfully devised a scheme and artifice to defraud and to obtain money and property by means of false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises.
The Indictment also alleges that between 2018 and 2019, Day knowingly caused to be sent and delivered by the U.S. Postal Service invoices for transactions involving Day’s shell business, which were sent to Day from his employer.
Day would order parts for himself, which he would resell online. Day would make it appear as though those parts were ordered on behalf of his employer’s customers. He would then cancel the orders, but still keep the parts.
The charges are merely accusation and Day is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Division of Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Day was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Three Oklahoma Residents Sentenced for Passing Counterfeit Money in South DakotaRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two men and a woman from Oklahoma, convicted of Passing Counterfeit U.S. Currency, have been sentenced by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Michael Glenn Ogden, age 38, was sentenced on December 18, 2019, to 41 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.
Marcus Paul Franklin, age 46, was sentenced on January 27, 2020, to 41 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.
Mary Allen Autry, age 42, was sentenced on February 7, 2020, to 30 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. The amount of restitution owing has been deferred for 90 days.
The three were indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2018. The charges related to the trio using printers, paper, and chemicals to convert legitimate $10 U.S. currency bills into counterfeit $100 U.S. currency bills. Using this equipment, they manufactured and passed thousands of dollars of counterfeit U.S. $100 bills in South Dakota and other states.
This case was investigated by the Rapid City, South Dakota, Police Department and the U.S. Secret Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Ogden, Franklin, and Autry were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service after their respective sentencings.
Seven South Dakota Residents Sentenced in Meth Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that seven South Dakotans have been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier for their roles in a large-scale methamphetamine conspiracy.
Justin Robert Christensen (age 31) of Sioux Falls; Nicholas Scott Flier (age 26) of Valley Springs; Paris Bryn Koller (age 26) of Pierre; Brandon Alan Watters (age 25) of Sioux Falls; Kasie Mae Vogt (age 31) of Armour; Amanda Leigh Wieman (age 32) of Sioux Falls; and Tanya Jeanette Andrews (age 44) of Pierre, were indicted for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2019. Christensen was also indicted for being a felon in possession of a firearm and conspiracy to launder monetary instruments. Each defendant was charged for their role in conspiring to distribute a mixture and substance containing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Flier, Koller, Watters, Vogt, Wieman, and Andrews entered guilty pleas to conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and were each sentenced in late 2019 to 120 months in custody, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Christensen pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and conspiracy to launder monetary instruments in September 2019. On February 10, 2020, Christensen was sentenced to 280 months in custody, followed by 10 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The investigation revealed that Christensen received over ten pounds of methamphetamine in the U.S. Mail that he had ordered from the Dark Web. Christensen distributed the methamphetamine to his co-defendants and others, so they could sell the drugs to their own customers. Christensen utilized various bank accounts and Bitcoin accounts to conceal the nearly $200,000 he amassed from the sale of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
All defendants have been remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Woman Charged with Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Theft of Government Funds, False Statement, and Misuse by a Representative Payee.
Jolenta Apodaca, f/k/a Jolenta American Horse, age 42, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for the Theft of Government Funds charge. The maximum penalty upon conviction for the other charges is 5 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 charges relate to Apodaca knowingly converting to her own use money of the U.S. Social Security Administration and making false statements on non-medical review forms on February 13, 2018, and February 28, 2019, as Representative Payee for her minor child’s Supplemental Security Income benefits. Apodaca stated that her minor child resided with her, when in fact the child had not resided with her since 2016. Apodaca received benefits, intended for the child, totaling approximately $26,920 from these false statements.
The charges are merely accusations and Apodaca is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Office of the Inspector General – Social Security Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama is prosecuting the case.
Apodaca was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for April 14, 2020.
Rapid City Man Found Guilty of Firearm and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Jonathan Andrew Blacksmith, a/k/a Jon Andrew Blacksmith, age 44, was found guilty of 2 counts of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, 2 counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, and 1 count of Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime following a federal jury trial in Rapid City, South Dakota.
Each Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person charge carries a maximum sentence 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. The first Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years to not more than 40 years in federal prison. The second charge of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance carries a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison. The charge of Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime carries a minimum of 5 years up to life in prison.
Evidence at trial established Blacksmith, knowing he was a convicted felon, possessed a Glock 9mm pistol in Kyle, South Dakota, on February 17, 2017, and a .40 caliber pistol in Rapid City in January 2017. Blacksmith distributed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in Kyle in February 2017. In January 2017, Blacksmith distributed methamphetamine in Rapid City while in possession of the .40 caliber pistol.
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.
This case was investigated by federal, state and local agencies, including the Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Drug Enforcement, the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, the Rapid City Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (“UNET”), which is a local drug task force comprised of various agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted and tried the case.
A sentencing date has been set for June 22, 2020. Blacksmith was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Rapid City Man Charged for Assaulting Federal Officers and Conspiring to Sell MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Assault on a Federal Officer and Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Uriah Lafferty, age 34, was charged on January 22, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on February 7, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the charges. The penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Lafferty assaulting three Oglala Sioux Tribe police officers, a deputy U.S. Marshal, and a South Dakota Highway Patrol trooper by trying to run them over with his vehicle in December 2019 near Hermosa, South Dakota, while they were attempting to arrest him on a federal warrant related to another case.
Additionally, between August 2014 and December 2019, Lafferty conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine.
The charges are merely an accusation and Lafferty 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Marshals Service, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Lafferty was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mission Woman Indicted on Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Brandi King, age 30, was indicted on January 14, 2020. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 11, 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 December 7, 2019, King did forcibly assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with a law enforcement officer who was employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and that such conduct involved the use of a dangerous weapon.
The charges are merely accusations and King 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.
King was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Wagner Man Charged with Threatening CommunicationsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Wagner, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Threatening Communications.
Kyle Gullikson, age 29, was indicted on December 3, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on February 7, 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 November 5, 2019, Gullikson knowingly and willfully transmitted threatening messages on Facebook.
The charge is merely an accusation and Gullikson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Gullikson was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Pierre Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on February 10, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Andrew Bunch, age 30, was sentenced to 324 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 $100.
Bunch was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 14, 2019. He pled guilty on November 19, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy beginning in the spring of 2018 and continuing through May 2019, in which Bunch, his friend Nathan Thoe (deceased), Nikki Hopkins and others, intentionally distributed and possessed with intent to distribute 2.2 kilograms of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance in and around the Pierre and Ft. Pierre areas.
During the course of the conspiracy, Bunch, Thoe, and Hopkins made numerous trips to Colorado to obtain methamphetamine. Bunch and Thoe routinely carried firearms on these trips and used firearms to protect their product. Hopkins was sentenced on January 27, 2020, to 10 years in federal prison.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Pierre Police Department, the Stanley County Sheriff’s Office, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Bunch was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pierre Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on February 10, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Loren Goodlow, age 30, was sentenced to 6 months in federal prison, followed by 6 months of home confinement, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Goodlow was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 16, 2018. He pled guilty on November 19, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident in Lower Brule, South Dakota, on August 28, 2018, after Goodlow was arrested on tribal charges. During the booking process, Goodlow struck a correctional officer.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Lower Brule Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Goodlow was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Parmelee Couple Sentenced in Involuntary Manslaughter CaseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, couple has been sentenced by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, based on their convictions in an Involuntary Manslaughter and Child Abuse case.
Dakota Horned Eagle, age 29, pled guilty on November 4, 2019, to Involuntary Manslaughter and Operating a Motor Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol Causing Serious Bodily Injury to a Minor. On January 27, 2020, he was sentenced to 52 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.
Ashley Stoneman, age 25, pled guilty on November 18, 2019, to Child Abuse. On February 10, 2020, she was sentenced to 18 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.
The couple was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 23, 2019.
The convictions stemmed from an incident that occurred on July 12, 2019, in Todd County, South Dakota. On that date, Horned Eagle and Stoneman were consuming alcoholic beverages and socializing at a residence in the He Dog Community. At approximately 1:00 p.m., they decided to drive back to their residence in nearby Parmelee. They loaded six children into their vehicle and departed the residence, with Horned Eagle driving and Stoneman riding in the front passenger seat. None of the children, who ranged in age from two months old to twelve years old, were secured with car seats or seat belts. Horned Eagle was intoxicated. A short time later, they were traveling on a gravel road between He Dog and Parmelee, when their vehicle left the roadway and wrecked. At the time of the wreck, Horned Eagle was driving at least 50 miles per hour (mph) in an area where the posted speed limit is 35 mph.
Two of the children in the vehicle suffered fatal injuries as a result of the wreck. The other four children in the vehicle sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Horned Eagle and Stoneman were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Domestic Assault by an Habitual OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender was sentenced on February 10, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Hunter Ritter, age 20, 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.
Ritter was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 16, 2019. He pled guilty on November 19, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on August 9, 2019, wherein Ritter assaulted his domestic partner at their home in Mission, by striking her face with his hand and knocking her down. At the time of this incident, Ritter had two prior convictions in Rosebud Sioux Tribal Court for Domestic Abuse.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Ritter 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 February 10, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Elliot Brave, a/k/a Elliot Ladeaux, age 39, was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison, followed by 7 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Brave was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 11, 2018. He pled guilty on November 19, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from conduct that occurred in Mission between December 2017 and January 2018. During that period, Brave was staying at a residence in Mission with a relative and her six children, including the six-year-old victim. While staying at the residence, Brave would often watch the children while their mother was at work. On at least one occasion, Brave engaged in sexual contact with the victim.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Brave was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Convicted Former Pine Ridge Indian Health Service Pediatrician Sentenced to Five Consecutive Life Sentences for Multiple Sex Offenses Against ChildrenRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Spearfish, South Dakota, man convicted of five counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse and three counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor following a week-long jury trial in September 2019 in Rapid City, South Dakota, was sentenced on February 10, 2020, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Stanley Patrick Weber, age 71, was sentenced to five consecutive life sentences in federal prison for the five Aggravated Sexual Abuse charges, and 15 years on each of the three counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor. All of these sentences are to be served consecutively to each other, and also consecutive to his previous sentence in the District of Montana of 18 years in federal prison. Weber was also ordered to pay $800,000 in criminal fines and an $800 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Evidence at trial established that Weber, while employed as a pediatrician with the Indian Health Service at Pine Ridge, South Dakota, sexually abused multiple Native American children between 1999 and 2011.
“The district court’s sentence ensures that Stanley Patrick Weber will never roam free again and his remaining days will be spent behind concrete and steel in a federal prison cell,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “Our focus today is on the courage and dignity of Weber’s victims, the men who stared down their worst nightmare to come forward and testify about the horrible abuse by him they suffered when they were boys. Their bravery brought this predator to justice. They have our gratitude, and our hope is that the finality of this sentence will bring them some measure of peace. Now, as one nation, one community, and one family, we must come together and do everything in our power to ensure that nothing like this can ever be done to any of our precious children again.”
“As a pediatrician, Dr. Weber took advantage of Native American children enrolled with the Oglala Sioux Tribe and the Blackfeet Nation, and betrayed their innocent trust in him. The sentencing of Dr. Weber today sends a strong and powerful message that those who sexually abuse children will be held accountable and that we will continue to seek justice for all victims of our programs,” said Curt L. Muller, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “We will continue working with our State, Federal, and Tribal law enforcement partners as we investigate and seek justice against those who would victimize our programs and their beneficiaries.”
The investigation was conducted by the Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, Rapid City Police Department, and the Spearfish Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah B. Collins and Eric Kelderman prosecuted and tried the case.
Weber was immediately remanded back to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
White Horse Man Sentenced for Domestic AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a White Horse, South Dakota, man convicted of Domestic Assault by Striking, Beating, and Wounding, was sentenced on February 6, 2020, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.
Shawn Traversie, age 35, was sentenced to 12 months in federal prison, followed by 12 months of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $25.
Traversie was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 9, 2019. He pled guilty on December 5, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on January 27, 2019, when Traversie had been drinking and got into an argument with his spouse. Traversie left the residence and when he returned, he discovered the door to his residence was locked and became aggravated. Traversie then kicked the door open, entered the residence, and began assaulting his spouse.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Traversie was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Veblin Woman Pleads Guilty in Federal Court to Mail Fraud Involving Head Start ProgramRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Renee K. Olson, age 57, of Veblin, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. Magistrate William D. Gerdes on February 7, 2020, and pled guilty to an Information that charged her with Mail Fraud.
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, who 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 intended to be used to train members of Region VIII Head Start. 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, Defendant knowingly caused the items to be placed in an authorized depository for mail matter.
Mail Fraud carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and/or a $250,000 fine, and a period of supervised release of 3 years. There is also a $100.00 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution will also be ordered.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Jehangiri.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date of June 9, 2020, has been set. The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing.
Two Colorado Men Sentenced on Firearm and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two Colorado Springs, Colorado, men were sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court Judge.
On November 14, 2019, Joshua Cruz, age 30, was sentenced to 7 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, for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
On January 31, 2020, Billy Torrez, age 24, was sentenced to 18 months 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 Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm.
The charges related to Torrez, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, having a GSG, .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol in his vehicle, found when Torrez and Cruz came into contact with Rapid City police officers. Also found in the vehicle was methamphetamine, which Cruz admitted to being his.
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 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.
Torrez and Cruz were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
St. Francis Man Indicted on Kidnapping and Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Kidnapping, Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation, Child Abuse, Assault With a Dangerous Weapon, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
Michael T. Farmer, age 28, was indicted on November 13, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 6, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between October 6, 2019, and October 8, 2019, Farmer kidnapped and held a woman against her will, unlawfully assaulted her by strangling and suffocating her, unlawfully assaulted her with a dangerous weapon, and unlawfully assaulted her resulting in bodily injury. The Indictment further alleges Farmer did abuse, expose, torture, torment, and cruelly punish a child.
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.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man was convicted of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and was sentenced on February 3, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Kok Put Kach, a/k/a “Cookie”, age 35, was sentenced to 10 years in custody, followed by 5 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Kach was indicted for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance by a federal grand jury on November 6, 2018. He pled guilty on July 2, 2019.
Beginning on an unknown date and continuing through on or about October 2018, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Kach and James Ayur Garang, a/k/a “Ayur,” and a/k/a “Mike”, did knowingly and intentionally combine, conspire, confederate, and agree together, with others known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
Co-defendant, James Ayur Garang, a/k/a “Ayur,” and a/k/a “Mike”, was sentenced to 10 years in custody and 5 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Garang was indicted for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance by a federal grand jury on November 6, 2018. He pled guilty on September 5, 2019.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.
Kach was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Man Sentenced to 5 Years 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 February 6, 2020, by U.S. District Court Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.
Vance Hayes, age 29, was sentenced to a total of 5 years in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stems from Hayes distributing methamphetamine in the Pine Ridge, South Dakota, area during the timeframe of approximately March 2016 to May 2019. Hayes obtained the methamphetamine from a source in Rapid City.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Badlands Safe Trails Drug Task Force, which includes agents from the FBI, Bureau of Indian Affairs – Division of Drug Enforcement, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, Martin Police Department, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case. Additional co-conspirators have been sentenced and others are pending trial.
Hayes was immediately returned to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Possession of a Firearm by a FelonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Gary D. Bledsoe, age 36, was sentenced on January 31, 2020, to 46 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.
Bledsoe was indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2018. The case related to Bledsoe, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully possessing a 9 mm semi-automatic pistol on July 2, 2018, at Rapid City. A Rapid City Police officer was dispatched to Bledsoe’s residence for a report of intentional damage to property. When the officer approached the residence, Bledsoe approached the officer with his right hand behind his back. Bledsoe ignored commands to show his hands and continued approaching the officer to within a distance of mere feet. Bledsoe swung his arm forward, brandishing the silver pistol and pointing it at the officer, who was able to successfully disarm Bledsoe and arrest him.
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. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama.
Bledsoe was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Man Charged with Aggravated Sexual AbuseRead 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 of a Minor.
Charles Richards, Jr., age 49, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 60 years 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 charge relates to Richards sexually abusing a female less than 12 years old at Pine Ridge, between June 15, 2019, and July 2, 2019.
The charge is merely an accusation and Richards 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.
Richards was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for April 7, 2020.
Hill City Woman Sentenced for Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Hill City, South Dakota, woman convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court Judge.
Julie Cagle, a/k/a Julie Davis, a/k/a Julie Dzuirman, was sentenced on January 31, 2020, to time served, 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The charge related to Cagle, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully possessing a Raven Arms, .25 ACP caliber semi-automatic pistol and a Smith & Wesson, .38 Special caliber revolver at Rapid City in June 2019, which were found after Cagle came into contact with Rapid City police officers.
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.
Rapid City Man Indicted in Kidnapping of JuvenileRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Kidnapping of a Minor by a Registered Sex Offender and Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity by a Registered Sex Offender.
Christopher Bald Eagle, age 65, was charged on January 7, 2020. Bald Eagle appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on January 29, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the charges. The penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of 35 years up to a maximum of life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, a mandatory minimum of 5 years up to lifetime supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Bald Eagle, a previously registered sex offender, transporting a minor female from Pine Ridge, South Dakota, to Denver, Colorado, against her will in December 2019 and sexually assaulting her. The charges are merely an accusation and Bald Eagle is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Denver Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins is prosecuting the case.
Bald Eagle was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Meth Distribution 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 January 29, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen Schreier.
Fredrick Green, a/k/a Frederick Green, age 47, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Fredrick Green was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on March 5, 2019. He pled guilty on November 7, 2019.
From an unknown date, until on or about January 15, 2019, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Fredrick Green 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 Drug Enforcement Administration and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Taskforce. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Green was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Ridgeview Man Indicted on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Ridgeview, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Shilo Phillip Hill, age 24, was indicted on July 16, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 31, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 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 18, 2019, Hill, having been knowingly convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year and knowingly being an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, knowingly possessed a handgun near Eagle Butte, South Dakota.
The charge is merely an accusation and Hill 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 Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Hill was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Woman Charged with Theft of Government Property and FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Theft of Government Property, Supplemental Security Income Benefits Fraud, and two counts of False Statement.
Holli Lundahl, a/k/a Holli Telford, age 63, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in prison, and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for the Theft of Government Property charge. The maximum penalty upon conviction for the other charges is 5 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 charges relate to Lundahl knowingly converting to her own use money of the U.S. Social Security Administration, namely Title XVI Social Security Supplemental Income payments in excess of $1,000, between 2014 and 2019. Lundahl also falsely reported her resources and assets, and concealed and failed to disclose her resources and assets in order to continue to receive and spend SSI benefit payments made by the Social Security Administration. On March 28, 2019, Lundahl failed to disclose to a Social Security Administration Claims Specialist that she had joint access to a checking account that contained in excess of $25,000, and that she had an ownership interest in property located in Texas, which she knew would affect her right to ongoing SSI payments. In December 2018, Lundahl filed a Notice of Appeal with a document that contained a forged date stamp with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit.
The charges are merely accusations and Lundahl is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Office of the Inspector General – Social Security Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman is prosecuting the case.
Lundahl was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has been set for April 7, 2020.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced by Karen E. Schreier, U.S. District Court Judge.
Louis Bettelyoun, age 32, was sentenced on January 23, 2020, to 21 months 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 charge related to Bettelyoun, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully possessing a Bersa S.A., Thunder 380, .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol in March 2019 at Rapid City.
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.
Bettelyoun was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court Judge.
Cory Myers, age 45, was sentenced on January 30, 2020, 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.
The conviction stems from Myers, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully possessing a stolen Taurus, model PT92 AF, 9mm semi-automatic pistol, and 18 other stolen firearms in January 2019 at Rapid City, which were found after Myers came into contact with Rapid City police officers.
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.
Myers was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Charged with Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead 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.
Moses Montileaux Jr. was charged on September 10, 2019. Montileaux appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on January 27, 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 of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to Montileaux, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, being in possession of a 9x19mm Luger caliber semi-automatic pistol. The charge is merely an accusation and Montileaux 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.
Montileaux was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Charged with Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Manufacturing an Unregistered Firearm and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Christopher Bittner, age 25, was charged on January 22, 2020. Bittner appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on January 27, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Bittner making an unregistered shortened 12-gauge pump-action shotgun, as well as possessing other firearms and marijuana in November 2019 at Rapid City. The charges are merely an accusation and Bittner 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 reduceviolent 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.
Bittner was released pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Pine Ridge Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Aggravated Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court Judge.
Isadore White Calf, age 56, was sentenced on January 29, 2020, to 20 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
White Calf was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury in July 2018. The charge related to White Calf forcibly sexually assaulting a female in February 2017 at Pine Ridge.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
White Calf was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Parmelee Man Charged with Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Aaron Brian James Neck, age 43, was indicted on October 16, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 31, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 8 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 21, 2019, Neck did forcibly assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with a law enforcement officer who was employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and that such conduct involved physical contact.
The charge is merely an accusation and Neck 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.
Neck was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
North Dakota Man Pleads Guilty to Wildlife Violations Involving Bald Eagle DeathsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Flasher, North Dakota, man has been charged by information for Unlawful Taking of Bald Eagle, Unlawful Taking of Migratory Birds, and Unlawful Use of Restricted Use Pesticide.
David Alan Meyer, age 58, was charged on January 16, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on January 30, 2020, and pled guilty to the Information.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 1 year in federal prison, a $100,000 fine, 1 year of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may be ordered.
In March and April 2016, a joint U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Environmental Protection Agency investigation revealed that David Meyer, owner of Meyer Buffalo Ranch on the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation, had supervised the misapplication of 39,000 pounds of Rozol prairie dog bait, a restricted use pesticide, on over 5,400 acres of his property.
Over a dozen workers were interviewed and confirmed they were supposed to put the poison in the holes, but due to the high demand on the amount of poison that needed to be dispensed and the large land tract, workers got sloppy and the poison was not dispensed as required by the label. Because of the misapplication, the EPA emergency response team was dispatched to oversee the cleanup of the ranch land by Meyer. During the course of the investigation six bald eagles were recovered and confirmed to have died as a result of the poison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case. Meyer was released on bond pending sentencing, scheduled for April 2, 2020.