District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Mission Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on January 28, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Logan James Fast Horse, age 22, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, $335.42 in restitution, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Fast Horse was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 14, 2019. He pled guilty on November 6, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on April 5, 2019, when Fast Horse 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.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.
Fast Horse was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Indicted for Involuntary Manslaughter and Threatening 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 Involuntary Manslaughter and Influencing a Federal Officer by Threat.
Steven Burning Breast, age 24, was indicted on November 13, 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 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 22, 2019, in Todd County, South Dakota, Burning Breast killed two individuals by operating a motor vehicle in a grossly negligent manner. The Indictment further alleges that on October 16, 2019, Burning Breast threatened to murder a law enforcement officer who was employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe.
The charges are merely accusations and Burning Breast is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bennett County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Burning Breast was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
McLaughlin Couple Indicted on Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, couple have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana, Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, Possession of an Unregistered Firearm, and Maintaining a Drug Involved Premises Near a Playground.
Brady James Claymore, age 32, was indicted on January 14, 2020, for Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana, Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, and Possession of an Unregistered Firearm. The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $1,000,000 fine, at least 3 years up to a lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Michelle Rose Helper, age 35, was indicted on January 14, 2020, for Maintaining a Drug Involved Premises Near a Playground. 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.
Claymore and Helper appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on January 30, 2020, and pled not guilty to the indictments.
Claymore’s Indictment alleges that beginning on the 1st day of January, 2010, and continuing to September 24, 2019, in South Dakota, Claymore, knowingly and intentionally, combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 kilograms or more of marijuana. It further alleges that he possessed several firearms, including an unregistered short-barreled shotgun, while knowingly being an unlawful user of and addicted to marijuana in McLaughlin, South Dakota.
Helper’s Indictment alleges that between 2011 and 2019, she intentionally and knowingly used and maintained a place in McLaughlin, South Dakota, for the purposes of distributing and using marijuana within 1,000 feet of a playground.
The charges are merely accusations and Claymore and Helper are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The investigation is being conducted by the Mobridge Police Department, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, 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.
Claymore and Helper were released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Lower Brule Man Sentenced for Retaliation Against a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man convicted of Retaliation against a Federal Officer by Threat was sentenced on January 28, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Jarraid Crazy Bull, a/k/a Jerraid Crazy Bull, age 34, was sentenced to approximately 9 months of imprisonment, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Crazy Bull was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 17, 2018. He pled guilty on November 6, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on July 31, 2017, when Bureau of Indian Affairs law enforcement officers responded to a call of Crazy Bull threatening an individual. When law enforcement arrived to the scene in Lower Brule, Crazy Bull fled from the officers. Law enforcement then pursued Crazy Bull and located him hiding in a yard where he was placed under arrest. Upon his arrest, Crazy Bull threatened to shoot the officers involved and further threatened one of the officers again while enroute to the correctional facility.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Crazy Bull was released on conditions following his sentencing hearing.
Kyle Man Charged with Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number.
Jesse Runnels, age 37, was charged on December 17, 2019. Runnels 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 Runnels, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, being in possession of a Smith & Wesson 9mm semi-automatic pistol, which had an obliterated serial number. The charges are merely an accusation and Runnels 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.
Runnels was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Jury Finds Wagner Man Guilty of Simple AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Francis Stanford Stricker, age 48, of Wagner, South Dakota, was found guilty of Simple Assault following a two-day jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on January 30, 2020.
The charge carries a maximum sentence of up to 6 months in prison and/or a $5,000 fine, and $10 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Stricker was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 12, 2019. The charge stems from an incident that occurred on August 7, 2018, in Mission, South Dakota. On that date, Stricker grabbed his girlfriend, knocked her down, and assaulted her with his hands while she attempted to fight him off and escape.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.
A sentencing date has been set for April 20, 2020. Stricker was released pending sentencing.
Colorado Man Sentenced to Ten Years for Trafficking of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Greeley, Colorado, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
John Schrum, age 47, was sentenced on January 27, 2020, to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Schrum was indicted by a federal grand jury in November 2018. The charge related to Schrum and another person obtaining and transporting at least 500 grams of methamphetamine from Colorado, for distribution in western South Dakota between 2017 and 2018. During a traffic stop on July 6, 2018, Schrum possessed a .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, which he is prohibited from possessing, and agreed to forfeit all interests in the firearm. The co-conspirator’s case is still pending.
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 federal, state and local agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (“UNET”), which is a local drug task force comprised of various agencies, including the South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigation, Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Rapid City Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman.
Schrum was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons Statement on Pending Expiration of Emergency Prohibition of Fentanyl AnaloguesRead the Press Release
“There is no legitimate reason for anyone to possess or distribute fentanyl analogues. They are weapons of mass destruction, capable of killing a human being almost immediately upon ingestion or contact in extremely minute amounts.”
The opioid crisis has impacted almost every community in South Dakota. In an effort to combat this deadly drug epidemic, the Drug Enforcement Administration used its statutory authority in February 2018 to issue a temporary emergency two-year order that made all fentanyl-related substances illegal. Working hand-in-hand with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement here in South Dakota, this office has vigorously prosecuted anyone caught trafficking in fentanyl or fentanyl-related substances. Nationally, as well as locally, we have seen a substantial supply impact from DEA’s temporary scheduling of fentanyl-related substances during the past two years, with a 50 percent decrease in fentanyl-related substances encountered across the United States.
However, the DEA’s emergency prohibition of fentanyl analogues expires at midnight on February 6, 2020, unless Congress acts to extend it. This is a looming catastrophe. Fentanyl and its analogues are responsible for dozens of overdoses and multiple deaths in South Dakota. Without action by Congress, law enforcement will not have all of the tools needed to protect South Dakotans from the onslaught of these extraordinarily dangerous substances.
Fentanyl and its chemical analogues are illegally distributed in the United States through two primary methods. Many are designed and manufactured in China, ordered over the Dark Web by drug dealers, and then shipped to them using the U.S. mail and private delivery companies. Increasingly, however, the Mexican cartels responsible for making most of the methamphetamine and heroin smuggled across our southern border and sold in the U.S. have begun making fentanyl and related substances themselves and selling them through their distribution networks.
There is no legitimate reason for anyone to possess or distribute fentanyl analogues. They are weapons of mass destruction, capable of killing almost immediately upon ingestion or contact in extremely minute amounts.
On behalf of the United States Department of Justice, I am urging Congress to give us the tools we need to continue our efforts against the distribution of fentanyl analogues here in South Dakota. This fight is far from over. We need every tool we have to target these fatally dangerous drugs. Congress must take action immediately to extend the scheduling of these dangerous substances.
White River Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a White River, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on January 28, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Andrea Ruth Barrera, age 32, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, a $500 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Barrera was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2019. She pled guilty on November 4, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy beginning on September 1, 2018, and continuing until July 16, 2019, wherein Barrera, knowingly and intentionally, combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine. On March 5, 2019, during the conspiracy, Barrera possessed a loaded handgun and approximately forty-one rounds of ammunition along with a small amount of methamphetamine and several items of drug paraphernalia near Mission, South Dakota.
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 Rosebud 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 prosecuted the case.
Barrera was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man and Woman Indicted on Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man and woman have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, Possession of a Firearm by a Person Convicted of a Misdemeanor Crime of Domestic Violence, and Transfer of a Firearm to a Prohibited Person.
David Charles Peters, age 40, and Molly Lynn Lorang, age 50, were indicted on January 7, 2020. They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on January 24, 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 for each Defendant. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about October 6, 2019, Peters, who had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and having previously been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, knowingly possessed two firearms which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
The Indictment also alleges that between July 5, 2019, and October 6, 2019, Lorang knowingly sold and otherwise disposed of a firearm to Peters, knowing that Peters had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and having previously been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The charges are merely accusations and Peters and Lorang are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Both Peters and Lorang were released on bond pending trial which has been set for March 31, 2020.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Fentanyl that Caused an Overdose and for Retaliating Against a WitnessRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of one count of distribution of a controlled substance resulting in serious bodily injury and one count of obstructing justice by retaliating against a witness, victim or informant and aiding and abetting was sentenced on January 28, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Jacob Francis Lottman, age 27, was sentenced to 300 months in federal prison for the distribution count and 60 months in federal prison for the obstruction count, to be served consecutively, followed by 3 years of supervised release on each count, to be served concurrently. He was also ordered to pay $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
According to the court documents, Lottman knowingly and intentionally distributed fentanyl, a controlled substance, resulting in the serious bodily injury of a victim in Sioux Falls, who overdosed on the fentanyl sold to him. The overdose victim was revived by first responders with a dose of Naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, which prevented his death.
In addition, following his indictment and arrest on the fentanyl charge, Lottman, along with Reymundo Sauceda and Juan Chavez-Benitez, knowingly engaged and attempted to engage in conduct which caused bodily injury to a witness, with the intent to retaliate against that witness for information given by the witness to law enforcement relating to the commission of a federal offense. The witness was beaten while also in custody on federal charges.
In connection with the beating, Sauceda was sentenced on December 7, 2019, to 60 months in federal prison and Chavez-Benitez was sentenced on November 4, 2019, to 24 months in federal prison for their involvement.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, the Sioux Falls Police Department, and the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Haak and Connie Larson prosecuted the cases.
Lottman was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on January 27, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Marques Smith, a/k/a CC, age 37, was sentenced to 235 months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Smith was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 12, 2019, and a Superseding Indictment was filed on October 16, 2019. He was found guilty after a three-day jury trial commencing on October 22, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy beginning around January 1, 2011, and continuing to October 11, 2017. Smith knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine in South Dakota. The trial testimony showed the conspiracy involved distributing methamphetamine in Sioux Falls and on the Crow Creek, Lower Brule, and Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservations. Smith and his co-conspirators traveled to Kansas City, Missouri; Colorado Springs, Colorado; Minneapolis, Minnesota; and Grand Island, Nebraska, to acquire methamphetamine, which would be distributed in South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Division of Drug Enforcement, South Dakota Highway Patrol, Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, Sioux Falls Police Department, Minnehaha County Sherriff’s Office, Pierre Police Department, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Smith was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pierre Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on January 27, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Nicole Marie Hopkins, age 35, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Hopkins was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 14, 2019. She pled guilty on November 4, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy beginning in the fall of 2018 and continuing through May 2019, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, in which Hopkins, her boyfriend Nathan Thoe, and others, intentionally distributed and possessed with intent to distribute between 500 grams and 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
During the course of the conspiracy, Hopkins and Thoe made numerous trips to Colorado to obtain methamphetamine. Thoe routinely carried a firearm on these trips. On the last trip in January 2019, Thoe and Hopkins were pulled over at a rest stop on I-90 near White Lake, South Dakota. Thoe disregarded commands to comply and reached for a handgun on the back of his hip and was shot and killed by law enforcement officers. At her feet, Hopkins had two BB guns that resembled handguns, which she stated, were for going out “Bonnie and Clyde style.” As a result of the stop, officers recovered 18 grams of methamphetamine.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Pierre Police Department, the Stanley County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Hopkins was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Parmelee Man Indicted on Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Possession of a Firearm in a School Zone.
Justin Whiting, age 19, was indicted on January 14, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 27, 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.
The Indictment alleges that on December 5, 2019, Whiting, knowing he was an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, knowingly possessed a firearm. The Indictment further alleges that Whiting possessed the firearm on the grounds of St. Francis Indian School.
The charges are merely accusations and Whiting is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Whiting was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mitchell Man Sentenced for Conspiracy for Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mitchell, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy for Sex Trafficking was sentenced on January 27, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Timothy Allan Bingham, age 58, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Bingham also needs to register as a sex offender.
Bingham was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 6, 2018. He pled guilty on November 7, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between July 16, 2018, and July 23, 2018, when Bingham conspired with Walter Jandreau to knowingly and intentionally coerce a 16 year-old girl to engage in a commercial sex act. Bingham picked up Jandreau and the juvenile and took them back to his residence. Bingham provided methamphetamine to Jandreau in exchange for sexual contact with the minor.
Jandreau was sentenced on December 2, 2019, to 210 months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Mitchell Police Department, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Bingham was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Lake Andes Man Charged with Aggravated Sexual Abuse and Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Lake Andes, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse and Abusive Sexual Contact.
Frank Sanchez, age 65, was indicted on December 3, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on January 24, 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 $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between June 1, 1996, and September 1, 1996, Sanchez knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, a sexual act with a child who had not attained the age of 12 years. The Indictment also alleges that between June 1, 1996, and September 1, 1996, Sanchez knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, sexual contacts with the same child who had not attained the age of 12 years.
The Indictment also alleges that between June 1, 2006, and September 1, 2006, Sanchez knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, sexual contact with a second child who had not attained the age of 12 years.
The charges are merely accusations and Sanchez is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman is prosecuting the case.
Sanchez was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, which has been set for March 31, 2020.
Iowa Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux City, Iowa, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on January 28, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Veronica Arciniega, age 42, was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Arciniega was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2019. She pled guilty on November 7, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from a methamphetamine conspiracy beginning in at least February 2019, where Arciniega, who had the source of methamphetamine in Iowa, brought ounces of methamphetamine to a home in the Sicangu Village. Arciniega and others distributed the methamphetamine in and around the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation in South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Valentine, Nebraska Police Department, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Arciniega was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Todd County Man Indicted for Felon in Possession of a Firearm and AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Todd County, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Assault by Striking, Beating, and Wounding.
Tyler Reagle, age 37, was indicted on January 22, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 24, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on January 8, 2020, in Todd County, Reagle, having previously been convicted of a felony, knowingly possessed multiple firearms. The Indictment further alleges that, on the same date, Reagle assaulted his domestic partner.
The charges are merely accusations and Reagle is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Todd County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Reagle was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has been set for March 23, 2020.
Sioux Falls Man Indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Adam Michael Tanner, age 46, was indicted on September 10, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 23, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $10,000,000 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 March 1, 2018, and September 10, 2019, Tanner knowingly and intentionally, combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, a schedule II controlled substance.
The charge is merely an accusation and Tanner 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 Pierre Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Tanner was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rosebud Man Indicted for Threatening a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Influencing a Federal Officer by Threat.
Anthony One Star, Jr., a/k/a Tony One Star, a/k/a Sonny One Star, age 32, was indicted on January 22, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 24, 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 December 15, 2019, One Star threatened to murder a law enforcement officer who was employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe.
The charge is merely an accusation and One Star 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.
One Star was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Men Sentenced for Armed RobberyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two Rapid City, South Dakota, men convicted of Interference with Commerce by Robbery and Conspiracy were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Corbin Conroy, age 41, was sentenced on January 23, 2020, to 7 years in federal prison on each count, to run concurrent, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Wesley Dillon, age 19, was sentenced on November 22, 2019, to 4 years in federal prison on each count, to run concurrent, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The convictions stem from Conroy and Dillon brandishing a firearm and forcibly taking money from a casino employee at Rapid City in March 2019.
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 Charged with Illegal Possession of 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.
Knel-Philip Chery, age 38, was charged on December 17, 2019. Chery appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on January 22, 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 Chery, a previously convicted felon, being in possession of a Smith & Wesson 9mm semi-automatic pistol in October 2019 at Rapid City. The charge is merely an accusation and Chery 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. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Chery was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Hartford Man Sentenced for Unlicensed Receipt of Explosive MaterialsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Hartford, South Dakota, man convicted of Unlicensed Receipt of Explosive Materials was sentenced on January 7, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Gerald “Jerry” Eldon Gosmire, age 60, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Gosmire was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 9, 2019. He pled guilty on November 1, 2019.
On November, 27, 2018, law enforcement officers searched Gosmire's property pursuant to a search warrant. During the search, 37 explosive devices were found. A permit was required to possess explosive devices of that nature and Gosmire did not have one.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office, and the U.S. Secret Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Gosmire was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Flandreau Man Charged with Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a ChildRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Flandreau, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child.
Cecil Long, age 67, was indicted on January 7, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on January 10, 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 $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between August 31, 2010, and August 30, 2013, and between August 31, 2015, and August 30, 2016, Long knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, sexual acts with a child who had not attained the age of 12.
The charges are merely accusations and Long is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman is prosecuting the case.
Long was released on bond pending trial, which has been set for March 17, 2020.
Eagle Butte Woman Indicted on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Carlee Lucia Condon, age 22, was indicted on January 14, 2020. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 16, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on July 2, 2019, Condon, being an unlawful user of and addicted to methamphetamine, knowingly possessed a handgun.
The charge is merely an accusation and Condon 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 and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Condon was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Man Charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Dayton Charles Nordstrom, age 30, was indicted on January 7, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on January 16, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $10,000,000 fine, life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about December 9, 2019, Nordstrom possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a substance containing methamphetamine, which is a Schedule II controlled substance.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The charge is merely an accusation and Nordstrom is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga is prosecuting the case.
Nordstrom was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to 4 Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on January 6, 2020, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Paul Heib, age 51, was sentenced to 4 years in federal prison and 5 years of supervised release and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Heib was one of seven men who were arrested and federally indicted as a result of an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2018 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting persons willing to pay to have sex with minors obtained through the Internet. The conviction stemmed from Heib communicating with someone he believed to be a 15-year-old boy, but who was in fact an undercover agent, for the purpose of arranging a meeting to engage in sexual acts with the minor.
The undercover operation and arrests were a joint effort between the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins prosecuted the case.Heib was immediately remanded to the custody of the United States Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Indicted for Sexual Exploitation of a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Sexual Exploitation of a Minor and Possession of Child Pornography.
Vance Allan Warthen, age 29, was charged on January 15, 2020. Warthen appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on January 17, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the charges. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of 15 up to 30 years 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 Warthen sexually exploiting an underage female in August 2019 at Rapid City by producing images of child pornography. He remained in possession of the images thereafter. The charges are merely an accusation and Warthen is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s office Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins is prosecuting the case.
Warthen was detained pending trial. A trial date has not yet been set.
Fort Thompson Man Charged with Carjacking, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, and RobberyRead 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 Carjacking, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, and Robbery.
AbuBarker Shabbaz-Evans, a/k/a Abu Barker Evans, age 24, was indicted on January 14, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 17, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 40 years in federal prison and/or a $750,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on September 15, 2019, Shabbaz-Evans took a motor vehicle from an individual with the intent to cause death and serious bodily injury and further assaulted the victim with a metal object shaped like a pistol. The indictment further alleges that on January 1, 2020, Shabbaz-Evans attempted to take pre-paid gasoline and United States Currency from the presence of 2 individuals.
The charges are merely accusations and Shabbaz-Evans is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Shabbaz-Evans was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Eagle Butte Man Indicted on Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Calvin Edwards, Jr., age 41, was indicted on January 14, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 21, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in prison and/or a $1,000,000 fine, at least 3 years, up to 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 on or about July 1, 2019, Edwards knowingly and intentionally possessed with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, a schedule II controlled substance
The charge is merely an accusation and Edwards 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.
Edwards 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 Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that am Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Silas Condon, age 24, was indicted on January 14, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 16, 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 December 6, 2019, Condon forcibly assaulted, resisted, opposed, impeded, intimidated, and interfered with a federal officer while the officer was in the performance of his official duties and said contact did involve physical contact with the officer.
The charge is merely an accusation and Condon 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.
Condon was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Cherry Creek Woman Indicted on Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Chery Creek, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Kate Doreen Condon, age 44, was indicted on January 14, 2020. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 16, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in prison and/or a $1,000,000 fine, at least 3 years, up to 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 on or about July 1, 2019, Condon knowingly and intentionally possessed with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, a schedule II controlled substance
The charge is merely an accusation and Condon 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.
Condon was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Indicted on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Receipt of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography.
Nikolas John Larson, age 39, was charged on December 17, 2019. Larson appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on January 8, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the charges. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of 5 up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, up to lifetime supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Larson receiving and possessing child pornography between January 2009 and October 2019 at Rapid City. The charges are merely an accusation and Larson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is a joint effort between the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins is prosecuting the case.
Larson was released pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Indicted for Kidnapping of a MinorRead 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 N. Reid Neureiter in Denver, Colorado, on December 31, 2019, and pleaded not guilty to the charges. The penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of 25 years up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, a 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 unlawfully transporting a minor female from Pine Ridge, South Dakota, to Colorado in December 2019, with the intent to engage in illegal sexual activity. The charges are merely an accusation and Bald Eagle is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Denver Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins is prosecuting the case.
Bald Eagle was detained and will be transported to South Dakota at a future date. A trial date has not been set.
Eagle Butte Woman Sentenced for Maintaining a Drug Involved PremisesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman convicted of Maintaining a Drug Involved Premises was sentenced on January 14, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Andrea Circle Bear, a/k/a Andrea High Bear, age 29, was sentenced to 26 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.
Circle Bear was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 12, 2019. She pled guilty on October 7, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from several incidents in April of 2018, when Circle Bear unlawfully and knowingly used and maintained a place for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine on the Cheyenne River Sioux Indian Reservation.
“It is federal crime to knowingly allow a drug dealer to operate out of your home, apartment, or place of business,” said U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons. “Don’t let yourself or your property get mixed up in the world of illegal drugs. It ends badly.”
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Circle Bear was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual Contact of a ChildRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child was sentenced on January 13, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Lawrence Richard Oakie, a/k/a “LBJ”, age 38, was sentenced to 96 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.
Oakie was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 13, 2018. He was found guilty by a jury trial on September 5, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on September 2, 2017, when Oakie was at the residence of the victim and entered her room in the middle of the night, and engaged in sexual contact with the minor child who had not attained the age of 12 years.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Oakie was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rosebud Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on January 13, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Franki Lee Zephier, age 33, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Zephier was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 14, 2018. She pled guilty on October 21, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from Zephier’s involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy in 2016. Zephier conspired with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. In exchange for drugs and money, Zephier allowed her home to be used for the sale of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Chamberlain Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Zephier was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 30 years for Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possessing, Distributing, and Producing Child Pornography as a result of a federal jury trial in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, on October 30, 2019, was sentenced on January 13, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Kevin Allen Lamm, a/k/a Kevin Malone, age 35, was sentenced to 360 months on each count to be served concurrently in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release on each count to be served concurrently, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $300.
Lamm was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 9, 2017.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between January 12, 2017, and April 27, 2017, when Lamm knowingly received and possessed child pornography. The investigation also revealed that Lamm created a fake Facebook account and used it to persuade a 14 year-old girl in another state to send sexually explicit photographs to him using Facebook Messenger. When law enforcement searched his Sioux Falls apartment, they found child pornography images and videos on a digital memory card. Lamm's sentence was enhanced because he had previously been convicted of a child pornography offense in Lake County, South Dakota, in 2006
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Lamm was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Attempted Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Receipt of Child Pornography was sentenced on January 13, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Timothy Tyler Segich, age 38, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $5,100.
Segich was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 8, 2019. He pled guilty on November 1, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from text messages Segich sent to a 14 year-old girl in April 2018. In the texts, Segich requested the girl send nude photos of herself to him on his cell phone. His attempt to obtain child pornography was discovered when law enforcement searched the girl's phone with her parents' consent.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Task Force in David County, Utah. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Segich was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rosebud Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on January 13, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Jacqueline Roberta Little Sack, age 41, was sentenced to 20 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.
Little Sack was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2019. She pled guilty on October 21, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy between Little Sack and others during the early part of 2019, where Little Sack used her home on the Rosebud Indian Reservation as a place where methamphetamine was distributed. The conspiracy involved over 50 grams of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, and the Valentine, Nebraska Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Little Sack was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Aggravated Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse was sentenced on October 21, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Shawn Iron Hawk, age 25, was sentenced to 132 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.
Iron Hawk was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 21, 2019. He pled guilty on July 31, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on December 30, 2018, when Iron Hawk entered the victim’s residence while she was sleeping and sexually assaulted her by use of force.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Iron Hawk was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Woman Sentenced on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court Judge.
Esmeralda Stands, age 38, was sentenced on January 6, 2020, to time served and 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $972.37 in restitution.
The charge related to Stands being in possession of a stolen .45 caliber revolver in January 2019 at Rapid City, which was found after Stands came into contact with a Rapid City police officer.
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.
Pine Ridge Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault on a Federal Officer was sentenced by U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann.
Jourdan Brown, age 23, was sentenced on December 23, 2019, to 10 months in a federal prison, followed by 1 year of supervised release, and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The charge related to Brown lowering his shoulder and striking the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety officer in the chest, after the officer responded to a theft call at a business in Pine Ridge.
This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Brown was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
North Dakota Man Sentenced for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child and IncestRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mandan, North Dakota, man convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child and Aggravated Incest was sentenced on January 9, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Ronnie White Mountain, age 51, was sentenced to 360 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
White Mountain was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 11, 2019. He was found guilty by a jury trial on September 5, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident, which occurred sometime between January 2010 and December 2012, when White Mountain was visiting relatives in McLaughlin, South Dakota, on the Standing Rock Reservation. Following a night of drinking, White Mountain returned to a family members home and knowingly engaged in a sexual act with a minor victim who had not attained the age of 12 years old.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirsten Jasper prosecuted the case.
White Mountain was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
U.S. Attorney's Office Collects over $3.7 Million in Civil and Criminal Actions for U.S. Taxpayers in Fiscal Year 2019Read the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that the District of South Dakota collected $3,725,183.70 in criminal and civil actions in FY 2019. Of this amount, $3,378,146.19 was collected in criminal actions and $347,037.51 was collected in civil actions. The overall 2019 collections figure reflects a 72% increase over the FY 2018 total of $2,163,413.53.
As a whole, the Department of Justice collected over 9 billion in civil and criminal actions in the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2019.
Additionally, the District of South Dakota, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $69,526 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2019. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.
“The recovery of these funds is a critical component of our mission,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “The impressive increase in recovered dollars in 2019 is testament to the excellent work of our Civil Division and Financial Litigation Unit under the leadership of our Civil Chief Diana Ryan. These recovered dollars continue to play a vital role in helping crime victims and preventing losses to the American taxpayer.”
In addition to collecting $3.38 million in FY 2019, the District of South Dakota has already collected $20,250,000 in FY 2020 in a false claims act settlement.
The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.
Two People Sentenced for Aiding and Abetting Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Julia Pease, Ft. Thompson, South Dakota, and Chad Pease, Chamberlain, South Dakota, were convicted of Aiding and Abetting Sexual Abuse of a Minor, and sentenced by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Julia Pease, age 25, was sentenced on November 18, 2019, to 24 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Chad Pease, age 25, was sentenced on January 2, 2020, to 34 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Julia Pease and Chad Pease were indicted by a federal grand jury on March 12, 2019. Julia pled guilty on August 27, 2019, and Chad pled guilty on October 9, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on July 6, 2015, where both defendants engaged in and attempted to engage in a sexual act with a minor under the age of 16.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Julia Pease and Chad Pease were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
St. Francis Man Sentenced for Assault by Striking, Beating, or WoundingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault by Striking, Beating, or Wounding was sentenced on January 6, 2020, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.
Jason Corey Poorman, Sr., age 43, was sentenced to 12 months in federal prison, followed by 1 year of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $25.
Poorman was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 14, 2019. He pled guilty on January 6, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred in St. Francis between December 20, 2018, and December 21, 2018, wherein Poorman assaulted his girlfriend, causing bodily injury.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Poorman was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rosebud Man Sentenced for Assault by Striking, Beating, and WoundingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault by Striking, Beating, and Wounding was sentenced on January 6, 2020, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.
Mario Lopez, Jr., age 18, was sentenced to 2 years of probation and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $25.
Lopez was charged by criminal complaint on September 10, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on September 10, 2019, when Lopez bit his girlfriend on her arm.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.
Lopez was released following sentencing.
Pukwana Man Sentenced for Assault with a Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pukwana, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on January 2, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Sidney Dubray, age 25, 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.
Dubray was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 14, 2019. He pled guilty on September 25, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on December 20, 2018, when Dubray and the victim were drinking and got into a shouting match. When the victim left the argument to sit on the couch, Dubray grabbed a kitchen knife in anger and stabbed the victim in the back of his head.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Dubray was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Lower Brule Man Sentenced on Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault of Spouse by Strangulation was sentenced on January 2, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Boyer Thomas LaForge, Jr., age 31, was sentenced to 24 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.
LaForge was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 9, 2019. He pled guilty on September 23, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on February 4, 2019, wherein LaForge and his intimate partner were drinking and LaForge accused her of stealing money from him. LaForge continually asked the victim where his money was, and then ultimately grabbed the victim by the throat and began to strangle her.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
LaForge was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.