District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Nearly 2 Years in Federal Prison for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a man from Rapid City, South Dakota, convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on January 5, 2026.
Jose Eduardo Rodriguez, age 50, was sentenced to one year and nine months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Rodriguez was indicted by a federal grand jury in May 2025. He pleaded guilty on October 1, 2025.
Rodriguez was convicted of Fourth Degree Rape in Butte County, South Dakota, in 1998. Consequently, he is required to register as a sex offender and update his registration within three business days of relocation or changing employment or student status. In October 2023, Rodriguez began a period of supervised release residing in Rapid City, and he appropriately updated his sex offender registration. Rodriguez moved from South Dakota to Texas in February 2024, but did not update his sex offender registration. An arrest warrant was subsequently issued, and on April 29, 2025, Rodriguez was arrested in Rapid City.
This case was brought as a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Rodriguez was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mitchell Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Mitchell, South Dakota, man convicted of Production of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on January 5, 2026.
Mark Stephen Gullings, age 44, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Once released from federal prison, Gullings must register as a sex offender.
Gullings was indicted by a federal grand jury in February 2025. He pleaded guilty on October 8, 2025.
The conviction stemmed from Gullings using his cell phone in October 2022 to take surreptitious photos of a minor female living in his home and under his care while she was in the bathroom. Gullings would put his phone under the bathroom door or over the shower curtain to take pictures of the juvenile’s genital area for his own sexual gratification.
This case was investigated by the Brandon Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Ebert-Webb prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Gullings was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Manderson Man Sentenced to 1 Year and a Day in Federal Prison for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier sentenced a Manderson, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on January 2, 2026.
Victor Afraid Of Hawk, age 41, was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Afraid Of Hawk was indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2025. He pleaded guilty on September 29, 2025.
Based upon his 2006 federal conviction for Abusive Sexual Contact, Afraid Of Hawk is required to register as a sex offender for life. He last updated his address on September 26, 2024, at Manderson. He then began living in Rapid City in November 2024. Afraid of Hawk had over 175 contacts with the Rapid City Police between November 2024 and July 2025 but never updated his address. Afraid Of Hawk was aware of his obligations to register and knowingly failed to do so.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
The U.S. Marshals Service investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Lindrooth handled the prosecution.
Afraid Of Hawk was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Harrisburg Man Sentenced for Illegal Structuring of Financial TransactionsRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Harrisburg, South Dakota, man convicted of Structuring in violation of federal banking laws. The federal crime of structuring is a practice designed to evade anti-money laundering laws and typically consists of intentionally breaking large sums of cash into smaller deposits or transactions to avoid triggering mandatory reporting by financial institutions.
Richard Kamolvathin, a/k/a Danuj Richard Kamolvathin, d/b/a Zolvent Pro, LLC, age 59, was sentenced on December 29, 2025, to five years of probation, restitution in the amount of $363,800, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Kamolvathin was indicted by a federal grand jury in August of 2023. He pleaded guilty on September 22, 2025.
The convictions stemmed from two incidents in 2021. Between April 26, 2021, and May 17, 2021, Kamolvathin made a cash withdrawal and wire transfers from one of his American Bank and Trust accounts and Bank of America accounts. Again, between June 1, 2021, and July 1, 2021, Kamolvathin also made cash and check withdrawals and transferred money from one of his ABT accounts to his BOA account via check.
Kamolvathin knew that both American Bank and Trust and Bank of America were obliged to file a report to the United States Government for depository transactions involving currency in the excess of $10,000. Kamolvathin knew that if he were to conduct a currency transaction exceeding $10,000, that would trigger the filing of a report by the bank to the United States Government.
During the above-mentioned time frames, Kamolvathin intended to transact an amount in currency greater than $10,000. Rather than withdrawing or transferring the entire amount in a single transaction, Kamolvathin made multiple cash withdrawals and transfers via check in amounts less than $10,000, on the same day, on consecutive days or within a short time period. He did so in an attempt to avoid drawing the suspicion of the bank and triggering the bank to file a report on his irregular banking activity.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Connie Larson prosecuted the case.
Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Relentless JusticeRead the Press Release
Sioux Falls, S.D. – The Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Relentless Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators. The nationwide crackdown resulted in over 205 child victims being located and the arrests of over 293 child sexual abuse offenders. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of two weeks by all 56 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) in the Department’s Criminal Division, and U.S. Attorneys’ offices around the country.
“We will not allow evil criminals who prey on children to evade justice,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Our federal agents have worked tirelessly alongside our state and local partners to track down these vile predators, and now our prosecutors will ensure they receive severe punishments to match their horrific crimes."
“Operation Relentless Justice shows no child will be forgotten and that all predators targeting the most vulnerable amongst us will be held accountable,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “This year, the FBI has led multiple nationwide surges across the U.S. to find and arrest hundreds of child predators. We will not stop until every child can live a life free of exploitation. We will utilize the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state, and local partners to protect communities across the nation from such horrific crimes.”
“Operation Relentless Justice demonstrates the power of coordinated federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement working together to safeguard children,” said U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons for the District of South Dakota. “We’re grateful to Attorney General Bondi for leading this expansive effort to sweep up these worst of the worst child sex abuse offenders.”
“We have no higher calling than protecting our children. The extraordinary efforts of Operation Relentless Justice underscore our tireless commitment to defending children from exploitation and abuse, particularly vulnerable children on tribal lands," said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “The FBI will continue to leverage our full strength, along with our federal, state, tribal, and local partners, to ensure heinous predators are punished, innocent victims are given justice, and all children can grow up in safety.”Those arrested are alleged to have committed various crimes, including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material; online enticement and transportation of minors; and child sex trafficking.
Those arrested include Donovan He Crow, a resident of the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, who is the subject of a superseding indictment filed in the District of South Dakota. He Crow is alleged to be a repeat sex offender who is most recently alleged to have committed Abusive Sexual Contact with a child in violation of federal law. If convicted, He Crow would face a mandatory minimum sentence of life in federal prison.
Some of the other alleged offenders include an airman out of Dallas, TX, who was arrested with his wife for producing child sex abuse material (CSAM), as well as a Police Officer from Raleigh, NC, who distributed CSAM to an undercover officer while discussing his interest in engaging in sexual contact with children. In another case involving enticement of a minor, the Miami Field Office arrested a Guatemalan national who was previously deported in 2011, and had previous arrests for battery, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and carrying a concealed weapon.
As sextortion cases continue to rise, this operation highlights arrests of individuals who target vulnerable children online including the five leaders of Greggy’s Cult, as well as a Virginia man who persuaded a 14-year-old to produce CSAM. The victim attempted suicide after he allegedly told her to kill herself.
This effort follows two other successful operations, including Operation Restore Justice in May, which resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sex abuse offenders, and Operation Enduring Justice in August, which resulted in the rescue of 133 children and the arrests of 234 offenders.
The FBI's Victim Services Division (VSD) assisted victims during this operation and provided services, to include forensic interviews, referrals for medical and mental health resources, and coordination with partners. VSD's mission is to inform, support, and assist victims in navigating the aftermath of crime and the criminal justice process with dignity and resilience.
These operations underscore the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. attorneys’ offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit justice.gov/psc.
The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.
The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI's tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Rapid City Woman Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal Prison for Interstate Methamphetamine Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on December 15, 2025.
Ruth Kazmer, 60, was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. She was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in October of 2024. She pleaded guilty on April 30, 2025.
Beginning at least in July 2022, Kazmer organized a conspiracy to transport large amounts of methamphetamine from surrounding states into western South Dakota. Kazmer financed multi-pound shipments of methamphetamine and arranged for co-conspirators to transport the methamphetamine into South Dakota. No stranger to the drug trade, Kazmer was on parole for a state conviction for distribution of methamphetamine at the time she organized this conspiracy. Kazmer was responsible for bringing at least 14.9 kilograms of methamphetamine into South Dakota, where it was destined for sale in communities throughout Rapid City and surrounding areas. Law enforcement seized over six pounds of methamphetamine during the investigation.
“We are immensely grateful for our collaborative relationship with our state and local law enforcement partners whose incredible detective work led to this conviction and sentence,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “Getting meth and other drugs off the streets and dismantling the criminal organizations responsible for their distribution takes teamwork, time, dedication, and a relentless work ethic. I have nothing but respect and admiration for the highly skilled men and women of law enforcement in Rapid City and communities across South Dakota who wake up every day and risk their lives protecting our children and fellow citizens from these ruinous substances.”
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET) and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. UNET is comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, the Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the South Dakota Highway Patrol and the South Dakota National Guard. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward C. Tarbay prosecuted the case.
Kazmer was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Woman Sentenced for Her Role in Methamphetamine Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on December 15, 2025.
Elisha Rose Merdanian, 21, was sentenced to two years in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Merdanian was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in December 2024. She pleaded guilty on September 18, 2025.
Beginning in at least October 2023, Merdanian worked with a Pine Ridge-based source of supply to sell methamphetamine within the Pine Ridge community. Merdanian sold methamphetamine to end-users, assisted her co-conspirators in identifying potential buyers, and arranged methamphetamine sales to end-users on behalf of her co-conspirators.
This case was investigated by the Badlands Safe Trails Task Force, which is comprised of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Division of Drug Enforcement, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward C. Tarbay prosecuted the case.
Merdanian was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to over 2 Years in Federal Prison for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on December 16, 2025.
Darwin Carlow, 39, was sentenced to two years and eight months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Carlow was indicted for three counts of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender by a federal grand jury in May 2025. He pleaded guilty to one count on September 18, 2025.
Carlow was charged following repeated failures to maintain his sex offender registration as required by state and federal law following his earlier federal conviction for a sexual offense in the Pine Ridge Reservation.
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Lindrooth prosecuted the case.
Carlow was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Jamaican Citizen Sentenced to over 5 Years in Federal Prison for Spearheading a Long-Running Fraudulent Sweepstakes SchemeRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS – United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that Chief U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange has sentenced a Jamaican citizen, who was previously extradited to the United States from Jamaica. The sentencing took place on December 15, 2025.
Dwayne Anderson, age 36, was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison, ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $181,075.60 and assessed $100 for the Federal Crime Victim’s Fund.
Anderson was indicted by a federal grand jury in February 2023. In July 2024, Jamaican authorities arrested him and agreed to a United States request he be extradited to this country to face his federal charges. He pleaded guilty to Wire Fraud in September 2025.
The conviction stemmed from Anderson’s participation in a scheme to defraud an American woman from as early as 2010 until September 2017. Using phony names, Anderson contacted the victim by telephone, text message, and email and falsely informed her that she had won millions of dollars in a sweepstakes. He persuaded the victim, who believed his false representations, to send money to pay various purported fees and taxes associated with the sweepstakes. He instructed her on how, and to whom, to send these payments. Anderson repeatedly contacted the victim with additional requests to pay money and told her that her winnings would be forthcoming if she paid the requested money. The victim paid the purported fees, losing more than $181,000, but never received any of the purported winnings.
“This case underscores the devastating impact that sweepstakes scams have on older Americans who are targeted because of their trust and generosity,” said U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons. “This conviction sends a clear message that we are committed to protecting our seniors and dismantling the criminal networks—here and overseas—who seek to exploit them.”
“If you target vulnerable Americans with schemes designed to steal their hard-earned money, you will become our target,” said Inspector in Charge Eric Shen of the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Criminal Investigations Group. “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service knows no boundaries when it comes to protecting our communities. We will find you, we will stop you, and we will hold you accountable.”
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Service. Former Assistant United States Attorney Ann Hoffman and Supervisory Assistant United States Attorney Connie Larson prosecuted the case. They were joined Assistant Chief J. Matt Williams and Trial Attorneys Brandon J. Robers and Edward E. Emokpae of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.
Anderson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pierre Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for EscapeRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange has sentenced a Pierre, South Dakota, man convicted of Escape.
The sentencing took place on December 15, 2025.
James Dubray, age 22, was sentenced to 12 months and a day in federal prison, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Dubray was indicted by a federal grand jury in May 2025. He pleaded guilty on October 14, 2025.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on May 5, 2025 when Dubray, who was in the custody of the Bureau of Prisons pursuant to a conviction for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and serving part of his sentence at Dismas Charities Residential Reentry Center in Sioux Falls, escaped from the facility by leaving without authorization and failing to return.
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Connie Larson prosecuted the case.
Dubray was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Jamaican National Sentenced for Long-Running Sweepstakes SchemeRead the Press Release
An extradited Jamaican citizen was sentenced today to 63 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for participating in a long-running scheme to defraud an elderly California woman.
According to court documents, Dwayne Anderson, 36, of Hannover, Jamaica, undertook a scheme to defraud an American woman from 2010 until 2017. Using fake names, Anderson contacted the victim by telephone, text message, and email and falsely informed her that she had won millions of dollars in a sweepstakes. The defendant persuaded the victim to send money to pay various purported fees and taxes associated with the alleged winnings. He also carefully instructed the victim how to make the payments, including having her send money to an individual in South Dakota. In furtherance of the scheme, Anderson repeatedly contacted the victim with additional requests to pay money and falsely told her that her winnings would be forthcoming so long as she paid the requested amounts. In total, the victim paid Anderson over $181,000.
In September 2025, Anderson pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. Anderson was arrested on July 11, 2024, by Jamaican authorities based on a U.S. indictment and was extradited to the United States. At sentencing, Anderson was ordered to pay more than $181,075 in restitution.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Ronald A. Parsons Jr. for the District of South Dakota; and Inspector in Charge Eric Shen of the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Criminal Investigations Group made the announcement.
The USPIS investigated the case.
Assistant Chief J. Matt Williams and Trial Attorneys Brandon J. Robers and Edward E. Emokpae of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Connie Larson for the District of South Dakota prosecuted this case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Jamaica to secure the arrest and August 2024 extradition of Anderson. The Department of Justice further acknowledges the assistance of the Jamaica Constabulary Force in this matter.
McLaughlin Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison for Assaulting His MotherRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. The sentencing took place on December 4, 2025.
Brady James Claymore, 38, was sentenced to two years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Claymore was indicted for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury by a federal grand jury in May 2025. He pleaded guilty on September 16, 2025.
On the evening of December 26, 2024, Claymore was drinking alcohol at his mother’s home in McLaughlin, South Dakota, in the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation. When his mother reproved him, Claymore became upset, placed his hands around her neck and squeezed. After Claymore’s brother punched him several times in the head, Claymore let go of his mother and lost his balance. Both Claymore and his mother then tumbled down a short flight of steps. Claymore’s mother incurred a broken nose and fractured three teeth in the fall.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal Court as opposed to State Court.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
Claymore was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
South Dakota and Arizona Men Collectively Sentenced to Decades in Federal Prison for Conspiracies to Distribute Fentanyl Pills and to Launder Drug ProceedsRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota man and a Phoenix, Arizona man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering. The sentencings took place for both defendants on December 1, 2025.
Fame Cobbs, 40, of Sioux Falls was sentenced to 24 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. In addition to the drug and money laundering convictions, Cobbs was also sentenced in a separate case following a conviction for Assault on a Federal Officer. In the assault case Cobbs was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment. This sentence is to run concurrent with the drug sentence.
Mario Taylor, 34, of Phoenix was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
“Fentanyl traffickers are merchants of death who knowingly flood our communities with substances so lethal that two milligrams—less than a few grains of salt—can kill,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “Each pill they press, each gram they move, is a loaded weapon aimed directly at our children, our neighbors, and our future.”
Cobbs and Taylor were indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering by a federal grand jury in December 2023. Cobbs pleaded guilty on August 29, 2025, and Taylor pleaded guilty on September 8, 2025. Cobbs was indicted for Assault on a Federal Officer in September 2024 and pleaded guilty on August 29, 2025.
During the conspiracy Mario Taylor was the source of supply in Arizona of thousands of fentanyl pills. He arranged for packages containing fentanyl to be mailed from Arizona to Fame Cobbs and others in the Sioux Falls area. Cobbs and his co-conspirators in Sioux Falls then distributed the fentanyl pills in Sioux Falls. Investigators identified approximately 18 packages through historical records and learned that each package contained approximately 2,000-4,000 fentanyl pills. Additionally, Cobbs collected money from various individuals to send back to Taylor in Arizona. Cobbs and Taylor utilized the electronic payment system Cash App to move proceeds related to the sale of fentanyl and to promote their drug distribution. Investigators believe a total of approximately 35,000 fentanyl pills were trafficked during the conspiracy.
Cobbs’ criminal activity did not stop once he was in arrested. While in federal custody pending resolution of his case, Cobbs engaged in multiple instances of assaultive behavior while confined at the Minnehaha County jail. During one incident, Cobbs flooded his cell and physically struggled with officers. During the struggle Cobbs kicked one of the officers.
“Today’s federal sentences reflect a simple truth,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “If you traffic fentanyl in South Dakota, you will end up behind bars for a long time.”
These cases were investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, IRS-Criminal Investigations, the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, and the United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Hodges and Meghan Dilges prosecuted the cases.
Cobbs and Taylor were immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sisseton Man Sentenced to Nearly 3 Years in Federal Prison for Assaulting Another Person with a KnifeRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a Sisseton, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. The sentencing took place on December 4, 2025.
Garrett Joseph Ojeda, Sr., age 33, was sentenced to two years and eleven month in federal prison, three years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Ojeda was indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2025. He filed a Petition to Plead Guilty on September 15, 2025.
The conviction stemmed from an incident February 9, 2025, on the Lake Traverse Reservation when Ojeda became angry about a missing TV remote device. Ojeda took out his anger on the victim and stabbed the victim several times before the victim could escape. The victim sustained serious bodily injuries which required medical treatment and reparative surgery.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Sisseton-Wahpeton Law Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Ebert-Webb prosecuted the case.
This matter is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
Ojeda was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to over 13 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on December 1, 2025.
Alex Lang, 31, was sentenced to 160 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, fine, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Lang was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in April 2025. He pleaded guilty on September 9, 2025.
Lang worked with others to distribute multiple pounds of methamphetamine in Sioux Falls. He obtained methamphetamine from a co-conspirator who investigators identified as sourcing the methamphetamine from Arizona through the mail. Lang then sold methamphetamine to others. In total, investigators believe that Lang was responsible for selling approximately seven pounds of methamphetamine in the community.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This case was investigated by United States Postal Investigation Service and the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Lang was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Kyle Man Found Guilty of Assault Following Federal Jury TrialRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a jury has convicted Oliver Brown Bull, age 37, of Kyle, South Dakota, of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury following a 3-day jury trial in federal district court in Rapid City. The verdict was returned on December 4, 2025.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of ten years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Brown Bull was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2025, for two counts of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and one count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. At the conclusion of a federal jury trial, he was found guilty of assaulting one victim and not guilty of assaulting another victim.
On January 31, 2025, in the Pine Ridge Reservation, Brown Bull assaulted another man by pushing him to the ground and punching him multiple times in the face. Brown Bull then kicked the victim in the face. As a result, the victim suffered several injuries, including a broken eye socket, a laceration around his eye, two broken bones in his nose, and severe bruising. At the time of trial, the victim was still suffering from the assault, including continued pain and disfigurement.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date will be set. In the interim, Brown Bull was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Canton Man Sentenced to more than 3 Years in Federal Prison for Wire Fraud and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Canton, South Dakota, man convicted of three counts of Wire Fraud and two counts of Money Laundering. The sentencing took place on December 5, 2025.
Gary Aaron King, 51, was sentenced to three years and one month in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release and ordered to pay a $500 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $1,418,220.87 in restitution.
King was indicted for Wire Fraud and Money Laundering by a federal grand jury in February 2024. He pleaded guilty on September 5, 2025.
Between July 2022 and January 2023, King, the sole owner of Cypress Risk Management, LLC, collected insurance premiums from client colleges for student athlete insurance coverage and then embezzled the funds for his own personal benefit. Rather than remitting those premiums to the managing general agents as he was required, King used more than $1,400,000.00 for another business venture and to purchase a luxury home. When questioned by the managing general agents regarding the payments on the policies the colleges had purchased, King provided false explanations and sent checks to the managing general agents that were returned as insufficient funds.
“Federal investigators are committed to rooting out fraud wherever it exists,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “This sentence, which includes full restitution for the institutions fleeced by this defendant, is another reminder that the bill for committing fraud will eventually come due and be paid with a term of years.”
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
King was ordered to self-surrender to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service at a future date.
Aberdeen Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced an Aberdeen, South Dakota man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on December 4, 2025.
Calvin Taylor, 42, was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, fine, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Taylor was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in November 2024. He pleaded guilty on June 2, 2025.
In February 2024, Taylor began having packages of methamphetamine mailed to various addresses in Aberdeen and the surrounding area from a source of supply in California. Taylor then sold the drugs to other members of a conspiracy of which he was a member who distributed it in the Aberdeen area. Approximately 4.5 pounds of distributed methamphetamine was attributed to Taylor at sentencing.
This case was investigated by the Brown County Sheriff’s Office, the Aberdeen Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Joyce prosecuted the case.
Taylor must self-report to the U.S. Marshals Service on or before December 26, 2025.
Aberdeen Man Sentenced in Federal Court for Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced an Aberdeen, South Dakota man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on December 8, 2025.
Christopher Emmanuel Walton, 35, was sentenced to serve five months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Walton was indicted for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm by a federal grand jury in July 2024. He pleaded guilty on November 3, 2025.
Walton is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a prior domestic violence conviction. In June 2024, Walton’s roommate borrowed his car to go target shooting. When he returned home, the roommate inadvertently left a pistol in the trunk. Later that day, Walton discovered the firearm in his vehicle as he was preparing to leave for parenting time with his children. Since he was already late, Walton put the firearm inside his backpack rather than take it back inside to his roommate. An Edmunds County deputy pulled Walton over and found the firearm in the trunk of his vehicle.
This case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the 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 gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Rosebud Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a man from Rosebud, South Dakota, convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on December 2, 2025.
Lavern David Luxon, Jr., age 34, was sentenced to one year and one day in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Luxon was indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2025. He pleaded guilty on September 3, 2025.
Luxon was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in 2017. Consequently, he is required to register as a sex offender and update his registration within three days of relocation or changing employment or student status. In June 2023, Luxon began a period of supervised release living in Rapid City, South Dakota, and appropriately registered as a sex offender with local law enforcement. In September 2024, however, Luxon moved from his registered address and absconded from supervision. His whereabouts were unknown until July 2, 2025, when he was found and arrested in Rosebud.
This case was brought as a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Luxon was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Kyle Man Sentenced to Nearly 4 years in Federal Prison for Causing Fatal Car Crash While IntoxicatedRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Kyle, South Dakota, man convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter. The sentencing took place on December 1, 2025.
Kevin Hunter, 33, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Hunter was indicted for Involuntary Manslaughter by a federal grand jury in July 2024. He pleaded guilty on September 2, 2025.
On May 15, 2024, near Kyle, South Dakota, Hunter drove his pickup while under the influence of alcohol, reaching speeds over 80 miles per hour. He crossed into the oncoming lane and struck a van, killing the passenger inside. Instead of calling 911 or seeking help, Hunter immediately fled the scene and then lied to investigators about his whereabouts that night. In sentencing him to the top of his Sentencing Guidelines range, Judge Theeler noted that Hunter had a history of previous DUI convictions, concluding such a sentence was necessary to protect the public.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes committed in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Lindrooth prosecuted the case.
Hunter was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on December 1, 2025.
Willard Menard, 61, was sentenced to nine months in federal prison to be served consecutively to a state prison sentence of two years, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Menard was indicted Failure to Register as a Sex Offender by a federal grand jury in May 2025. He pleaded guilty on September 2, 2025.
Menard was previously convicted of a federal sex offense. Because of his prior conviction, he was required to register as a sex offender. Menard was aware of his obligation to register and to keep his registration current with officials within the county in which he resided. From early January through April 2025, Menard knowingly failed to register and update his registration.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Jeremy Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
Menard was immediately returned to state custody to continue serving a state sentence. Following that term of imprisonment, he will be remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to serve his federal sentence.
This case was brought as a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Unit prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing a Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on December 1, 2025.
Michael Spath, II, 35, was sentenced to 2 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, fine, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Spath was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in February 2025. He pleaded guilty on October 27, 2025.
On September 4, 2024, Sioux Falls Police responded to a report of an incident at Spath’s residence in Sioux Falls. While investigating the incident, police found two firearms under a nightstand next to Spath’s bed. Spath is prohibited from possessing firearms due to having multiple prior felony convictions.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). Through PSN, the District of South Dakota seeks to bring together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Sioux Falls Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Joyce prosecuted the case.
Spath was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Life in Federal Prison for Fentanyl Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that District Court Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a man from Rapid City, South Dakota, convicted of Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death. The sentencing took place on November 24, 2025.
Anthony Sorensen, 37, was sentenced to life in federal prison, followed by six years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Sorensen was indicted for Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death by a federal grand jury in June 2024. He was found guilty after a three-day jury trial in March 2025.
The indictment stemmed from a fatal fentanyl overdose that occurred in Rapid City on June 5, 2023. During the investigation, law enforcement obtained messages between Sorensen and the victim that indicated Sorensen had agreed to sell the victim a fentanyl pill in the early morning hours of June 5, 2023. Security camera footage from nearby businesses showed the victim arrive at the apartment that Sorensen was living in at the time. The victim was found unresponsive approximately one block from Sorensen’s home just a few hours after the victim had been seen arriving at Sorensen’s residence. An autopsy later confirmed that the victim consumed a lethal amount of fentanyl.
“So much death, misery, and pain has been caused by fentanyl dealers,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “I am so grateful to our law enforcement partners that this dealer is now out of business for good.”
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team, which is comprised of investigators from the Rapid City Police Department, Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the National Guard Counter-Drug Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward C. Tarbay prosecuted the case.
Sorensen was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Fort Thompson Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a man from Fort Thompson, South Dakota, convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on November 25, 2025.
Michael Lovejoy, Jr., age 43, was sentenced to time served in custody through January 2, 2026, equal to approximately ten months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Lovejoy was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2025. He pleaded guilty on August 14, 2025.
Lovejoy was convicted of Third Degree Rape in Pennington County, South Dakota, in August 2005. As a result of his conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender and update his registration within three business days of relocation or change in employment or student status. In November 2024, Lovejoy began a period of supervised release, and he updated his sex offender registration to reflect that he was residing at a residence in Fort Thompson. Lovejoy did not thereafter reside at the residence. An arrest warrant was subsequently issued, and on March 13, 2025, Lovejoy was arrested in Fort Thompson.
This case was brought as a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Unit prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Zachrison prosecuted the case.
Lovejoy was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
United States Attorney’s Office Persisted in Mission to Improve Public Safety in South Dakota Despite Government ShutdownRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that the dedicated men and women of the U.S. Attorney’s Office continued their efforts in the pursuit of justice during the recent federal government shutdown. Working unabated to keep our communities safe and uphold the rule of law, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and its law enforcement partners continued to prosecute drug trafficking, child exploitation, and violent assaults, among other federal crimes. In addition to securing convictions at trial, federal prosecutors recorded significant sentences for numerous individuals who committed federal crimes in South Dakota, many of which are highlighted below.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office secured sizable federal sentences for drug traffickers:
- Box Elder Woman Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine in Western South Dakota
- Rapid City Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Federal Prison for Role in Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in Rapid City Area
- Rapid City Man Sentenced to Over 24 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine in Rapid City and within the Pine Ridge Reservation
- Minnesota Man Sentenced to Over 22 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine within Lower Brule and Crow Creek Reservations
- California Man Sentenced to 21 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl in Sioux Falls Area
The U.S. Attorney’s Office helped bring to justice those who abuse and exploit children:
- Watertown Man Sentenced to 40 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Assaulting a Child
- Nebraska Man Sentenced to 35 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Exploitation of a South Dakota Minor
- Winner Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison in Child Sex Trafficking Case
- Sioux Falls Teacher Sentenced to Over 24 Years in Federal Prison for Producing Child Pornography
- Rapid City Man Sentenced to Nearly 20 Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet and Child Pornography
And the U.S. Attorney’s Office made our streets and communities safer by pursuing serious sentences for the perpetrators of violent crime:
- Kyle Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Federal Prison for Assaulting Woman, Causing Serious Bodily Injury
- Rapid City Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Federal Prison for Brandishing Firearm During Crime of Violence
- Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to Nearly 6 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a Firearm
- Rapid City Man Sentenced to Nearly 5 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a Firearm
To review all press releases issued by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-sd/pr.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 11 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine in the Sioux Falls AreaRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on November 17, 2025.
Brett Berglund, 54, was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, fine, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Berglund was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in November 2024. He pleaded guilty on August 18, 2025.
In 2024, Berglund operated as a sub-distributor for a California-based drug trafficking organization. Berglund purchased methamphetamine from the organization and re-sold it in the Sioux Falls area. Berglund plead guilty to distributing more than 500 grams of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the DEA. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Joyce prosecuted the case.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Berglund was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced to more than Two Years in Federal Prison for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily InjuryRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a man from Mission, South Dakota, convicted of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. The sentencing took place on November 12, 2025.
Tyler Waukechon, age 32, was sentenced to two years and six months in federal prison, followed by three of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Waukechon was indicted by a federal grand jury in February 2025. He pleaded guilty on August 7, 2025.
The conviction stems from an incident that occurred in October 2024, in the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation, when Waukechon confronted another adult male with a shovel at a residence in Mission. Waukechon struck the man in the face with the shovel, inflicting a deep laceration that required hospitalization. Waukechon was arrested later that day at a nearby residence.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Waukechon was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
California Man Sentenced to 33 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine and Conspiracy to Commit Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a San Jacinto, California man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering. The sentencing took place on November 3, 2025.
Darrel Devorce, 56, was sentenced to 33 years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, fine, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Devorce was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering by a federal grand jury in May 2024. He pleaded guilty on July 28, 2025.
“Devorce is a longtime meth dealer responsible for shipping that poison into South Dakota since at least 2018,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “He will now be separated from the rest of society for most of the rest of his life.”
“IRS Criminal Investigation is proud to be part of a task force that is dedicated to dismantling criminal organizations that pose a threat to the safety of our local communities,” said Special Agent in Charge William Steenson. “Devorce’s 400-month prison sentence is a reflection of that dedication and our determination to use our financial expertise to help get dangerous people off our streets.”
Through an investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, investigators learned that Darrel Devorce was responsible for running a large methamphetamine trafficking organization for approximately five years. Devorce began sourcing methamphetamine to co-conspirators in Sioux Falls around 2018 and continued to do so into 2023. During Devorce’s involvement in the conspiracy, he arranged for methamphetamine from California to be delivered to co-conspirators in South Dakota. Devorce directed others to conduct financial transactions involving the proceeds from the methamphetamine conspiracy using CashApp, Western Union and Zelle. The money transfers were designed to conceal the source of the proceeds of the methamphetamine conspiracy and Devorce’s involvement in the conspiracy.
In addition to Devorce, multiple other individuals from California and South Dakota were involved in the conspiracy, and to date over ten of them have been charged and convicted in federal court. Devorce was the leader of the group responsible for souring the drugs and directing the movement of money.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Devorce was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rosebud Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on November 12, 2025.
John Larvie, age 35, was sentenced to ten months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Larvie was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2025. He pleaded guilty on August 7, 2025.
Larvie was convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse in Rosebud Sioux Tribal Court in 2019. Consequently, he is required to register as a sex offender and update his registration within three business days of relocation or changing employment or student status. On May 6, 2025, Larvie began a period of supervised release residing in Rosebud, but he did not update his sex offender registration until June 4, 2025.
This case was brought as a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Larvie was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a man from Mission, South Dakota, convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer. The sentencing took place on November 12, 2025.
Shannon Dunham, age 38, was sentenced to eight months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Shannon Dunham was indicted by a federal grand jury in November 2024. He pleaded guilty on August 7, 2025.
The conviction stems from an incident that occurred in October of 2024, in the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation, wherein a Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services officer was dispatched to a residence in Mission based on a report that Dunham was causing a disturbance. Upon arrival at the residence, the officer contacted Dunham, who was verbally aggressive, grabbed the officer, and brandished a knife at him. Dunham was subsequently arrested.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Dunham was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Minnesota Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Mountain Lake, Minnesota man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on November 10, 2025.
William Soudap Somphanthabansouk, 29, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, fine, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Somphanthabansouk was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in April 2025. He pleaded guilty on August 25, 2025.
Somphanthabansouk obtained methamphetamine in California through the mail and then distributed it to others in Sioux Falls as well as in Western Minnesota. In early 2025, investigators discovered that Somphanthabansouk had traveled to California and mailed himself a package from there. They arranged to have him stopped on the interstate on his way to Sioux Falls and discovered approximately 228 grams of methamphetamine and a loaded pistol in his vehicle. They then obtained a search warrant for his residence in Mountain Lake, Minnesota, and discovered approximately 850 grams of methamphetamine and multiple firearms. Altogether, investigators believe that Somphanthabansouk was responsible for distributing approximately nine pounds of methamphetamine in this area.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Worthington Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Somphanthabansouk was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Watertown Man Sentenced to 40 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Assaulting a ChildRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a Watertown, South Dakota, man convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse and Sexual Abuse of a Minor. The sentencing took place on November 3, 2025.
Gokoh Frank Brown, age 29, was sentenced to 40 years in federal prison, 20 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200. Brown must register as a sex offender once released from federal prison.
Brown was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2024. He was found guilty following a jury trial on May 21, 2025.
From January to August 2023, Brown, 27 years old at the time, repeatedly sexually assaulted a 12-year-old household member while living on the Lake Traverse Reservation.
This case was investigated by the FBI, Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Law Enforcement, and the DCI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Ebert-Webb prosecuted the case.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Brown was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing a Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on November 3, 2025.
John Michael Law, age 42, was sentenced to two years in federal prison, three years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Law was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2024. He pleaded guilty on August 19, 2025.
On April 3, 2023, Sioux Falls police officers encountered Law during a traffic stop. Officers discovered that Law was in possession of a .380 pistol and approximately two grams of methamphetamine. Law was previously convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence and was not lawfully permitted to possess a firearm because of that conviction and because he was an illegal user of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). Through PSN, the District of South Dakota seeks to bring together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Law was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to over 24 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in Rapid City and on the Pine Ridge ReservationRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that District Court Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a man from Rapid City, South Dakota, for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on October 27, 2025.
Demitre Ecoffey, 31, was sentenced to 24 years and four months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Ecoffey was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in April 2025. He pleaded guilty on August 13, 2025.
Throughout 2024 and 2025, Ecoffey was purchasing pound quantities of methamphetamine and selling it to others throughout Rapid City and the Pine Ridge reservation. During his involvement in the drug conspiracy, Ecoffey engaged in dangerous conduct such as high-speed chases through Rapid City and the Pine Ridge reservation, destruction of evidence, and possessing multiple firearms.
“Strong detective work and collaboration by all levels of law enforcement in the state have ensured that our citizens in western South Dakota will be protected from this dangerous individual for the next quarter century or so,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Division of Drug Enforcement (BIA), the FBI, Rapid City Police Department and the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET). UNET is comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, the Rapid City Police Department, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the South Dakota National Guard. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paige Petersen prosecuted the case.
Ecoffey was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Delano, California Man Sentenced to 21 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl in the Sioux Falls AreaRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Delano, California man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on November 3, 2025.
Michael Thomas, 51, was sentenced to 21 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, fine, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Thomas was indicted for of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in October 2023. He pleaded guilty on August 11. 2025.
Investigators with the FBI and Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office uncovered a large group of people selling methamphetamine and fentanyl around Sioux Falls in 2021 and 2022. Investigators learned that Thomas, who was incarcerated in a prison in California at the time, worked with another inmate in the prison to coordinate large shipments of methamphetamine and fentanyl pills to Sioux Falls and other locations from California. Thomas coordinated shipments as large as 100 pounds of methamphetamine at a time to Sioux Falls using semi-trucks. Investigators also learned that the drug trafficking organization run by Thomas and his co-conspirator in prison was operating in California, South Dakota, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Alabama, and West Virgina. Investigators believe that in total Thomas was responsible for organizing the shipment of 300-400 pounds of methamphetamine and over 100,000 pills containing fentanyl during his involvement in the conspiracy. To date, 15 people have been convicted in South Dakota and sentenced to federal prison for their involvement in this scheme.
This case was investigated by the FBI, the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Thomas was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to Nearly 6 Years in Federal Prison for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited PersonRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on October 27, 2025.
James Jenkins, 35, was sentenced to 57 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.
Jenkins was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in April 2025. He pleaded guilty on July 21, 2025.
The case arose on March 18, 2025, when Jenkins was involved in an incident with the Mitchell Police Department, during which officers conducted a search of his backpack, discovering a 9mm pistol. At that time, Jenkins knew he was prohibited from possessing firearms because he was previously convicted of a felony offense in Arizona.
This case was investigated by ATF, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and the Mitchell Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Joyce prosecuted the case.
Jenkins was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). Through PSN, the District of South Dakota seeks to bring together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Assaulting Teenaged GirlsRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a man from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact. The sentencing took place on November 3, 2025.
Chico Baker, age 24, was sentenced to seven years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Baker was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2024. He pleaded guilty on July 15, 2025.
Between December 10, 2023, and January 20, 2024, Baker had sexual intercourse with a 16-year-old girl without her consent and engaged in sexual contact with two 15-year-old girls. The conduct occurred in rural McLaughlin, South Dakota, in the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, authorizes certain crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country to be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was also brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
Baker was immediately returned to the South Dakota State Penitentiary, where he is serving an eight year sentence for Reckless Burning (Aiding and Abetting). He will be remanded to federal custody following the completion of that sentence.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on October 27, 2025.
Michael Lee Terveen, 39, was sentenced to 5 years in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Terveen was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in February 2025. He pleaded guilty on August 4, 2025.
The charges against Terveen stem from law enforcement discovering him and another man passed out in a vehicle outside of Sioux Falls. Minnehaha County Sheriff’s deputies eventually searched the vehicle and found approximately 77 grams of methamphetamine and a large amount of cash. They also found a gun on Terveen’s person. Investigators later learned that Terveen was working with others to obtain methamphetamine and then redistribute it in Sioux Falls.
This case was investigated by United States Postal Investigations, the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, and the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Terveen was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Nearly 5 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing a Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Court Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on October 27, 2025.
Louis Iron Cloud, 34, was sentenced to four years and nine months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Iron Cloud was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in May 2025. He pleaded guilty on August 13, 2025.
On April 18, 2025, law enforcement learned that Iron Cloud had carried a semi-automatic rifle. Law enforcement recovered the rifle in a backyard where a witness had seen Iron Cloud shortly before. The rifle was found next to four high-capacity magazines. One of the magazines was loaded. Iron Cloud was previously convicted for a crime punishable beyond a year in prison. To possess a firearm or ammunition after such a conviction is a federal felony.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). Through PSN, the District of South Dakota seeks to bring together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
This case was investigated by the ATF and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.
Iron Cloud was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on November 4, 2025.
Abel Moran, age 42, was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Moran was indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2025. He pleaded guilty on August 21, 2025.
Moran was convicted of Sexual Contact in September 2005. As a result of his conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender and update his registration within three business days of relocation or change in employment or student status. In September 2024, Moran updated his sex offender registration to reflect that he was residing at a residence in Rapid City, SD. In December 2024, Moran relocated to a different residence in Rapid City, but did not thereafter update his sex offender registration. On June 10, 2025, Moran was arrested in Rapid City.
This case was brought as a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Unit prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by U.S. Marshalls Service and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Zachrison prosecuted the case.
Moran was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Arrested During 2023 Sturgis Rally Anti-Sex Trafficking Operation Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet. The sentencing took place on October 24, 2025.
James Fast Horse, 47, was sentenced to ten years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and $95 in restitution to the South Dakota Internet Crimes Investigation Fund.
Fast Horse was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2023. He pleaded guilty on July 28, 2025.
Fast Horse was arrested following an undercover anti-sex trafficking operation conducted during the Sturgis Bike Rally. Over the course of multiple days, Fast Horse used Facebook Messenger and his cell phone to communicate with a person he believed to be a 14-year-old female. The female was actually the online undercover persona of a federal law enforcement officer. During Fast Horse’s communications, he described various sex acts he intended to engage in with the girl and sent her multiple images of his private anatomy. Fast Horse asked her to send him sexually explicit photos of herself. On the night of his arrest, Fast Horse drove for more than an hour to meet the girl for sex. After he stopped at a local business to purchase sexual lubricant, he arrived at the designated meetup location and was arrested by law enforcement agents.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by U.S. Homeland Security Investigations, the South Dakota DCI Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Knox prosecuted the case.
Fast Horse was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Little Eagle Man Sentenced to Nearly 3 Years in Federal Prison for First Degree Burglary of a Tribal HomeRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a man from Little Eagle, South Dakota, convicted of First Degree Burglary. The sentencing took place on November 3, 2025.
Jett Allen Grey Cloud, age 28, was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Grey Cloud was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2025. He pleaded guilty on July 15, 2025.
Shortly after midnight on February 25, 2025, Grey Cloud, heavily intoxicated, knocked on the door of a small family home in Little Eagle, South Dakota, in the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation. Grey Cloud was looking for a friend. The father of the family did not recognize Grey Cloud and refused to let him in. Undeterred, Grey Cloud barged into the home and began scuffling with the residents. Grey Cloud drew a knife and stabbed the father in the head, fracturing his left orbital and cutting a tendon in his hand. A teenaged boy then shoved Grey Cloud out of the home and locked the door. Grey Cloud was arrested later that night.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, authorizes certain crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country to be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
Grey Cloud was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Kyle Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Federal Prison for Assaulting a Woman Resulting in Serious Bodily InjuryRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Kyle, South Dakota, man convicted of two counts of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. The sentencing took place on October 31, 2025.
Channing Little Whiteman, 39, was sentenced to eight years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 in special assessments to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Little Whiteman was indicted on six counts of assault by a federal grand jury in March 2025. He pleaded guilty on July 16, 2025. Little Whiteman pleaded guilty to two of the assaults, occurring on different days.
On May 13, 2024, Little Whiteman and his girlfriend were drinking when an argument ensued in which Little Whiteman accused her of cheating on him. Law enforcement was dispatched to their residence. Little Whiteman assaulted the victim with a bat and a cigarette resulting in a fractured leg and a cigarette burn to the victims’ thigh.
On November 5, 2024, Little Whiteman and his girlfriend were drinking when an argument ensued. Little Whiteman again accused his girlfriend of cheating on him. Little Whiteman grabbed a metal chair and struck the victim in the face with the chair, causing her orbital bone and maxillary sinus to fracture. The victim suffered a large laceration under her eye and was unable to see until the swelling decreased as her eye was nearly swollen shut. At the time the victim was injured she was seven months pregnant.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Little Whiteman was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Ellsworth, Minnesota Man Sentenced to More than 22 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange has sentenced an Ellsworth, Minnesota man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on October 27, 2025.
Lugene Rafael Russell, 56, was sentenced to 22 and a half years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Russell was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in November 2024. He pleaded guilty on August 5, 2025.
Russell’s conviction stems from an incident in July 2024 when law enforcement officers were called to his home in Ellsworth for a report of a crime. Nobles County Sherrif’s deputies eventually obtained a warrant for the home and found approximately a half pound of methamphetamine and a pistol inside the home. Deputies later returned to the home after a tip and found approximately 12 pounds of methamphetamine and three more firearms. The investigation showed that Russell worked with others to obtain methamphetamine and then distribute it to others including those on the Crow Creek and Lower Brule reservations in South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the DEA and Nobles County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Russell was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Convicted Sex Offender Sentenced to 35 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Exploitation of a South Dakota MinorRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Bellevue, Nebraska, man convicted of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity, and Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on October 27, 2025.
Sean Carlos Payne, 34, was sentenced to 35 years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $300 in special assessments to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Payne was indicted by a federal grand jury in November 2024. He pleaded guilty on April 22, 2025.
Payne was originally charged by Criminal Complaint on October 21, 2024, after the Meade County Sheriff’s Office received an emergent report of a missing 13-year-old female. It was discovered that Payne groomed the girl for multiple weeks leading up to her disappearance using online applications including Teen Chat, Discord, and Snapchat.
During Payne’s communications with the child, Payne persuaded her to send him sexually explicit images of herself. Payne repeatedly sexually assaulted the victim in South Dakota and took her across state lines to Wyoming. There, Payne fled a traffic stop initiated by a law enforcement officer who was on the lookout for the missing child. Payne led multiple state and local Wyoming law enforcement officers on a high-speed pursuit with the child in his vehicle before being captured. Payne told the victim he intended to take her to California.
Payne, who had been convicted of attempted enticement of a minor in Iowa in June 2024, was a convicted sex offender in violation of his felony probation and the national sex offender registry at the time he began communicating with the victim.
“Thanks to swift, coordinated action by a team of dedicated law enforcement personnel, this is one horror story that ends with a multi-decade sentence for this egregious offender,” said U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons.
"Payne's heinous crimes shattered a child's innocence and left them with unimaginable pain and trauma," said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. "Protecting our children is our greatest duty and privilege as law enforcement. Payne's sentence highlights our enduring commitment to that mission. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will stop at nothing to secure justice for victims and let predators know they will face the full weight of the law."
“The protection of our youth is, and always will be, a top priority for the Meade County Sheriff’s Office. I am proud of our team’s efforts and the partnerships that made it possible to bring this dangerous individual to justice and to reunite the juvenile with their family. Our children will always come first. I extend my sincere gratitude to everyone whose dedication led to the successful resolution of this case,” said Meade County Sheriff Pat West.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Meade County Sheriff’s Office, the Wyoming Highway Patrol, the Rawlins, Wyoming Police Department, and the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Knox prosecuted the case.
Payne was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Box Elder Woman Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine in Western South DakotaRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a woman from Box Elder, South Dakota, for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on October 28, 2025.
Jenna Holzer, 41, was sentenced to 30 years, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Holzer was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in November 2024. She pleaded guilty on August 7, 2025.
Holzer joined a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in 2022. During her involvement, she worked with others to obtain methamphetamine from California, typically through the mail, for redistribution in Western South Dakota. A United States Postal Inspector identified multiple packages sent from California to addresses known to be associated to Holzer. On October 16, 2024, investigators performed a traffic stop on Holzer’s vehicle. Troopers discovered an ounce of methamphetamine and approximately $3,365 in Holzer’s possession during that stop. Investigators determined Holzer was involved in trafficking approximately 100 pounds of methamphetamine during her involvement in the conspiracy.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service, the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET), and the Drug Enforcement Administration. UNET is comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, the Rapid City Police Department, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the South Dakota National Guard. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Hodges and Paige Petersen prosecuted the case.
Holzer was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Winner Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison in Child Sex Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a man and a woman, both from Winner, South Dakota, following their convictions in a case charging Sex Trafficking of a Child and Production of Child Pornography.
Richard Alan Kucera, age 67, was found guilty of two counts of Sex Trafficking of a Child and two counts of Production of Child Pornography following a four-day federal jury trial in July 2025. On October 20, 2025, he was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $400 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Ivy Rose Heron, age 37, pleaded guilty on April 9, 2025, to one count of Conspiracy to Engage in Sex Trafficking of a Child. On October 21, 2025, she was sentenced to seven years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Kucera and Heron were indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2023.
At trial, the evidence established that between 2019 and 2021, Kucera and Heron entered into an agreement to recruit local girls in the Winner area to engage in sexual activity with Kucera in exchange for payment. Heron received a fee for each girl she recruited whom Kucera selected. Between 2020 and 2021, Heron recruited two sixteen-year-old girls, each of whom Kucera paid to engage in sexual activity on multiple occasions. Kucera also created child pornography images and videos of both minor victims, which he uploaded to Facebook. The arrangement between Kucera and Heron was discovered in June 2022, when the minor victims were interviewed by law enforcement.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Kucera and Heron were immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
St. Francis Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a St. Francis, South Dakota woman convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer. The sentencing took place on October 20, 2025.
Jordan Fast Horse, age 24, was sentenced to nine months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Fast Horse was indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2024. She pleaded guilty on July 23, 2025.
The conviction stems from an incident that occurred in August of 2024, in the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. On the day in question, Fast Horse was arrested by Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services Officers and charged with child abuse and transported by an officer to the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Adult Correctional Facility. While she was completing intake processing at the Adult Correctional Facility, Fast Horse kicked the leg of one corrections officer and slapped a second corrections officer across the face.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Fast Horse was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Teacher Sentenced to over 24 Years in Federal Prison for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ronald A. Parsons, Jr. announced today that United States District Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange has sentenced a former middle school teacher from Sioux Falls, South Dakota convicted of four counts of Production of Child Pornography, three counts of Attempted Production of Child Pornography, and one count of Transfer of Obscene Materials to a Minor. The sentencing took place on October 14, 2025.
Justin Preuschl, age 29, was sentenced to 24 years and 4 months in federal prison, 7 years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $1,000, a special assessment of $1,000 under the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Act of 2018, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $800. Upon release from federal prison, Preuschl must register as a sex offender.
Preuschl was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2024. He pleaded guilty on July 15, 2025.
Between 2022 and 2024, Preuschl created multiple social media personas posing as a teenage boy. Using his personas on SnapChat and TikTok, Preuschl targeted and sexually groomed over 20 young teenage and preteen girls and convinced several of them to produce for him child sexual abuse materials. The victims included some of his own students, ages 13-15 years old, while he was a teacher at Whittier Middle School in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department, the Division of Criminal Investigations, and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Ebert-Webb prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Preuschl was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.