District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Chamberlain Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Chamberlain, South Dakota, man convicted on two counts of Abusive Sexual Contact with a Child Incapable of Consent was sentenced on January 2, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
James Blue, Jr., a/k/a “BJ”, age 39, was sentenced to 144 months in federal prison, followed by 8 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Blue was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 13, 2018. He pled guilty on October 8, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from multiple incidents between 2011 and 2015. During this time, Blue engaged in sexual acts with two minors who had not attained the age of 12 years, and who were incapable of appraising the nature of the conduct and declining participation and communicating an unwillingness to engage in the abusive sexual contact.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Crow Creek Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Blue was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rosebud Man Indicted for Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Sexual Abuse of a Minor.
Gabriel White Lance, age 20, was indicted on September 10, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 3, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 15 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on March 23, 2019, White Lance knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, a sexual act with a minor female.
The charge is merely an accusation and White Lance is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
White Lance was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison on Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Dustin Seegrist, age 37, was sentenced on January 3, 2020, to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The charge related to Seegrist possessing more than 310 grams of methamphetamine and 2 firearms at Rapid City in September 2018, which was found in a backpack hidden underneath Seegrist’s sweatshirt after he came into contact with a Rapid City police officer.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Seegrist was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Kyle Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man convicted by virtue of a federal jury trial for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on January 3, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken. The trial was held August 26-29, 2019.
Brendon Janis, age 35, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
From approximately the summer of 2015 through July 2018, Janis distributed multiple pounds of methamphetamine in the area of Kyle. He had multiple sub-distributors who assisted him. During the execution of a federal search warrant at his residence in April 2017, Janis had several handguns, which were forfeited.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
This case was investigated by the Badlands Safe Trails Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The Badlands Task Force is comprised of law enforcement from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Indian Affairs Drug Enforcement Division, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case. Multiple co-conspirators have already been sentenced and two more remain pending trial in May 2020.
Janis was immediately returned to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced on Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of two counts of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury was sentenced on January 3, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Oscar Lance Whiteman, age 31, was sentenced to 54 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release on each count, to run concurrently, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Whiteman was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 4, 2019. He pled guilty on October 7, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on August 11, 2019, where Whiteman assaulted a female and a male, which resulted in serious bodily injury to both victims.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Whiteman was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of one count of distribution of a controlled substance resulting in serious bodily injury and one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance was sentenced on December 30, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Michael Wayne Cooper, age 58, was sentenced to 240 months of federal imprisonment on each count, to be served concurrently, and 3 years of supervised release on each count, to be served concurrently. He was also ordered to pay $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
According to the court documents, Cooper knowingly and intentionally distributed a controlled substance, namely fentanyl, resulting in the serious bodily injury of a victim in Sioux Falls, who overdosed on the fentanyl sold to him. The overdose victim was revived by first responders with two doses of Naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, which prevented his death.
The evidence at trial further demonstrated that Cooper had been involved in an ongoing conspiracy in Sioux Falls to illegally distribute hydromorphone (commonly known as Dilaudid), a Schedule II controlled substance, from about the beginning of 2015 through August 2018.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Sioux Falls Police Department, and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.
Cooper was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rosebud Man Sentenced for Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Felon in Possession of a Firearm was sentenced on January 2, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Alvin Running Horse, Jr., age 41, was sentenced to 9 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Running Horse was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 26, 2019. He pled guilty on September 25, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on April 23, 2019. On that date, Running Horse got into a confrontation with his wife at his residence in Rosebud. Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services (RSTLES) officers responded to a call for service at the residence. Running Horse’s wife reported that Running Horse left with a firearm. Running Horse was subsequently stopped by RSTLES officers and the firearm was found in his possession.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Running Horse was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Woman Charged with Second Degree Burglary, Assaulting a Federal Officer, and Related OffensesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Second Degree Burglary, Larceny, Assaulting Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.
Justin Twite, age 22, was indicted on April 9, 2019. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 30, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on December 21, 2018, Twite entered a residence in Eagle Butte where she stole a safe. She also stole a pickup parked at the residence. The Indictment further alleges that, on the same date, Twite did forcibly assault, resist, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with multiple Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Police Officers, and did assault one of the police officers with a firearm, with intent to do bodily harm to the officer.
The charges are merely accusations and Twite is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
Twite was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sisseton Man Sentenced to 13 Years for Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sisseton, South Dakota, man was sentenced on December 27, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Brendon Javon Jacob Rodlund, age 30, was sentenced to 157 months in federal prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
According to court documents, April 30 and May 1, 2016, Rodlund knowingly engaged in a sexual act with a juvenile victim, while the victim was physically incapable of declining participation in and communicating her unwillingness to engage in the sexual act. Rodlund knew the victim was incapacitated. During the investigation of this sexual assault, Rodlund also lied under oath to the U.S. District Judge while testifying at a federal court hearing involving the victim and others. Rodlund’s untruthful testimony was used to enhance his sentence for the sexual assault of the victim.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
Rodlund was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Charged with Making False Statement to Obtain GunRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with False Statement During Purchase of a Firearm.
Uriah Lafferty, age 34, was charged on December 17, 2019. Lafferty appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on December 27, 2019, and pleaded not guilty to the charge. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to Lafferty knowingly making a false written statement in order to purchase a firearm in October 2019 at Rapid City. The charge is merely an accusation and Lafferty is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Lafferty was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Charged with Unlawful Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Harold Dooley, age 29, was charged on December 17, 2019. Dooley appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on December 23, 2019, and pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to Dooley, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully possessing a semi-automatic pistol in November 2019 at Rapid City. The charge is merely an accusation and Dooley is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Dooley was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Pine Ridge Man Charged in MurderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Second Degree Murder.
Colton Bagola, age 26, was charged on December 20, 2019. Bagola appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on December 23, 2019, and pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to Bagola killing a man by shooting him in the head in December 2019 at Pine Ridge. The charge is merely an accusation and Bagola is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan J. Poppen and Gina S. Nelson are prosecuting the case.
Bagola was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Interior Woman Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal Prison for Second Degree MurderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Interior, South Dakota, woman convicted of Second Degree Murder was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Krystin Spotted Calf, age 36, was sentenced on December 18, 2019, to 14 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Spotted Calf was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2018. During the early morning hours of August 11, 2018, Spotted Calf struck the victim, her step-father, Jeffrey Lynn Janis, Sr., multiple times with a tire iron after a dispute. Janis was pronounced dead at the Bennett County Hospital Emergency Room from blunt force trauma to the head.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Office of Justice Services, the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Spotted Calf was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Oklahoma Man Sentenced for Passing Counterfeit United States CurrencyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, man convicted of Passing Counterfeit United States Currency was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Michael Ogden, age 38, was sentenced on December 18, 2019, to 41 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised released, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Michael Ogden was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2018, together with Mary Autry and Marcus Franklin. The charges relate to the trio using printers, paper, and chemicals to convert legitimate $10 U.S. currency bills into counterfeit $100 U.S. currency bills. Using this equipment, they manufactured and passed thousands of dollars of counterfeit U.S. $100 bills in South Dakota and other states.
The investigation was conducted by the Rapid City Police Department and the U.S. Secret Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Ogden was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. Autry and Franklin are awaiting sentencing.
Northern Hills Drug Traffickers SentencedRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Spearfish, South Dakota, man and woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, were recently sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Enrique Estrada, Jr., a/k/a Ricky Estrada, age 43, was sentenced on December 5, 2019, to 20 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Kari Lee Vaughn, a/k/a/ Kari Drury, age 35, was sentenced on December 18, 2019, to 15 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.
Estrada and Vaughn were indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2018. The charge relates to Estrada, Vaughn, and others distributing multiple pounds of methamphetamine in western South Dakota, primarily in the Northern Hills, between October 2017 and September 2018. Estrada coordinated several co-conspirators to obtain methamphetamine from the state of Colorado, then transport it to South Dakota and distribute it. Vaughn wired money for Estrada and traveled to Colorado, to assist in obtaining the methamphetamine. She further distributed the methamphetamine for Estrada, as well. Much of the methamphetamine was distributed out of Estrada’s home in Spearfish.
This investigation was led by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation with the assistance from the Deadwood Police Department, Spearfish Police Department, Belle Fourche Police Department, South Dakota Highway Patrol, Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, Butte County Sheriff’s Office, and members from the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET). Additional arrests were also made at the State and Federal level in connection to this investigation. The case was prosecuted by Gina S. Nelson, Assistant U.S. Attorney.
Estrada and Vaughn were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
St. Francis Woman Found Not Guilty of Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, woman was acquitted of Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting In Serious Bodily Injury as a result of a federal jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota, beginning on December 17, 2019, and concluding on December 18, 2019.
Tiffany Spotted War Bonnet, age 45, was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 9, 2019.
The charges alleged that on March 4, 2019, Spotted War Bonnet, assaulted an individual with a sharp metal object with the intent to do bodily harm and the alleged assault resulted in serious bodily injury.
The investigation was conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case.
Rapid City Man Sentenced on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Daniel Sweeris, age 36, was sentenced on December 17, 2019, to 36 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stemmed from Sweeris, a previously convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms, knowingly possessing a Jimenez Arms, model J.A. T-380 caliber semi-automatic pistol, which was found during a traffic stop of Sweeris’ vehicle at Rapid City in August 2018.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Sweeris was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Man Sentenced to Prison for Assault with a Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Wakiyan Dreamer, age 21, was sentenced on December 16, 2019, to 37 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Dreamer was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury in April 2019. The charge related to Dreamer kicking a female victim in the face with shod feet at Pine Ridge on October 30, 2018. The victim suffered a black eye and other bruising about her head and face as a result of the assault.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama prosecuted the case.
Dreamer was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
White River Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a White River, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on December 17, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Tyler Standing Bear, a/k/a Ty Standing Bear, age 25, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Standing Bear was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 14, 2019. He pled guilty on September 24, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred in the Lower Swift Bear Community, near White River, on January 20, 2019. On that date, a Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services Officer responded to a report of disturbance at a residence. The officer subsequently made contact with Standing Bear and informed him he was going to be placed under arrest on an outstanding warrant, at which point Standing Bear produced a knife. Standing Bear brandished the knife at the officer, ignored the officer’s commands to put the knife down and yelled at the officer to shoot him. Standing Bear then fled the residence on foot.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Standing Bear was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Two Eagle Butte Men Sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two Eagle Butte, South Dakota, men convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance were sentenced on December 16, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Terry Dillabaugh, age 70, was sentenced to 44 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Frederick Dillabaugh, age 57, was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Terry and Frederick Dillabaugh were indicted by a federal grand jury on May 15, 2018. They each pled guilty on September 24, 2019.
The convictions stemmed from an incident that occurred on February 13, 2018, where law enforcement received a call on the whereabouts of Terry who had an outstanding tribal warrant. The Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Law Enforcement Services responded and found Terry and Frederick in possession of 66.83 grams of methamphetamine, which they tried to conceal from law enforcement.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Both defendants were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Three People from Rapid City Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two Rapid City, South Dakota, men and a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Joshua Kudlock, age 32, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Kudlock was sentenced on December 16, 2019.
David Brandon Pauly, age 31, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Pauly was sentenced on October 9, 2019.
Serena Renea Rodriguez, age 33, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Rodriguez was sentenced on October 21, 2019.
Kudlock, Pauly, and Rodriguez were indicted by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2019. Kudlock pled guilty on September 23, 2019, Pauly pled guilty on July 16, 2019, and Rodriguez pled guilty on July 23, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning on an unknown date and continuing until approximately February 5, 2019, when Kudlock, along Pauly and Rodriguez came to an understanding to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine in the District of South Dakota.
At the time they joined in the agreement to distribute methamphetamine, they knew the purpose of the agreement or understanding.
On January 3, 2019, a vehicle they were all riding in for the purpose of making a drug run was stopped in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and searched by law enforcement. Inside the vehicle, officers located approximately five pounds of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Kudlock, Pauly, and Rodriguez were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Springfield Woman Sentenced for Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Springfield, South Dakota, woman convicted of Theft of Government Funds was sentenced on December 16, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Shelly Linn Jones-Hegge, age 44, was sentenced to 5 years of probation, restitution in the amount of $27,484.43 to the Social Security Administration, $21,210.18 to South Dakota Medicaid, and $6,060.00 to South Dakota SNAP, for a total of $54,754.61, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Jones-Hegge was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 4, 2018. She pled guilty on September 26, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between December 3, 2013, and July 1, 2017, when Jones-Hegge willfully and knowingly embezzled, stole and purloined money from departments or agencies of the United States, namely, Title XVI program benefits payments made to her stepdaughter, which are administered by the U.S. Social Security Administration.
In approximately December 2013, Jones-Hegge applied for Title XVI supplemental security income program benefits payments (SSI) for her stepdaughter. In the application, she stated that she lived with three minor children: her own two children and her stepdaughter. Jones-Hegge did not disclose that her husband—the biological father of her stepdaughter—was living in the same residence with them. Jones-Hegge was well-aware that her husband lived with them and was earning money from his employment, and that his earnings would factor into whether her stepdaughter was eligible to receive SSI benefits.
In March 2014, her stepdaughter was awarded SSI, and Jones-Hegge was appointed to be her representative payee. She began receiving benefits payments on behalf of her stepdaughter. In multiple reviews with the Social Security Administration and the South Dakota Department of Social Services, she repeatedly concealed that her husband was living in the same residence as her and her stepdaughter in order to continue receiving benefits to which she would not have otherwise been entitled. The value of the benefits received by the Defendant exceeded $1,000.
This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration, Cooperative Disability Investigation Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.
Spearfish Man Sentenced on Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Spearfish, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Jacob Papka, age 25, was sentenced on December 17, 2019, 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.
The conviction stemmed from Papka obtaining heroin and distributing it to others between February 2017 and February 2019 near Spearfish.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Spearfish Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Papka was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Cletus Gerald Williams, III, a/k/a C.J. Williams, age 23, was indicted on December 10, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 13, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Williams was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in April 2017. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. It is alleged that between September 23, 2019, and October 27, 2019, Williams, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under Federal Law, failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration.
The charge is merely an accusation and Williams is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Williams was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Man Charged with Theft of Government Funds, False Statement, and Concealment of Information from SSI ProgramRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Theft of Government Funds, False Statement, and Concealment of Information from SSI Program.
Robert Anthony Brannon, age 29, was indicted on December 3, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on December 17, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and up to $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between October 2015 and February 2019, Brannon, willfully and knowingly embezzled, stole, and purloined money from Title XVI program benefits payments made to himself and his wife. Title XVI is administered by the Social Security Administration.
The Indictment also alleges that on or about November 1, 2018, Brannon knowingly made false statements and representations in a Social Security Administration non-medical review - that is he reported he was not working and earning wages.
Finally, between October 2015 and February 2019, Brannon falsely reported that he was not working and continued to intentionally conceal and fail to disclose his wages, in order to continue to receive and spend SSI benefits payments made by the Social Security Administration to him and his wife.
The charges are merely accusations and Brannon is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Social Security Administration, Cooperative Disability Investigation Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman is prosecuting the case.
Brannon was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Sentenced on Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on December 17, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Robert Cook, age 37, was sentenced to 4 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Cook joined a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy with other individuals no later than January 2017. During the course of the conspiracy, Cook received methamphetamine directly from different individuals and distributed the methamphetamine in Rapid City. Over the course of the conspiracy, at least 500 grams of methamphetamine was distributed in the Rapid City area.
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. UNET is comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the South Dakota National Guard. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Cook was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Porcupine Woman Sentenced for LarcenyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Porcupine, South Dakota, woman convicted of Larceny was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Lorraine Yellow Boy, age 45, was sentenced on December 16, 2019, to 6 months in federal prison, followed by 1 year of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $30,661 in restitution.
The conviction stems from Yellow Boy, while employed as an Evidence Technician with the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, taking $30,661 from evidence bags and using it for her personal benefit between October 2018 and March 2019.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Yellow Boy was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pierre Man Indicted on Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Nathen Doherty, a/k/a Nathan Doherty, age 22, was indicted on December 10, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 13, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on May 11, 2018, Doherty, knowing he was an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance as defined in 21 U.S.C. § 802, knowingly possessed a Remington Arms Company Incorporated, model 870 Express Super Magnum, 12 gauge, pump-action shotgun, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce and foreign commerce.
The charge is merely an accusation and Doherty is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force and the Pierre Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Doherty was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Philip Man Sentenced on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Philip, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on December 17, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Steven Frost, age 38, was sentenced to 5 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The charge related to Frost, a previously convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms, knowingly possessing a Mossberg, model 500A, 12 gauge pump shotgun, a Smith & Wesson, model Bodyguard, .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and a Taurus, model PT738, .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol, which were all found in Frost’s vehicle during a traffic stop near Black Hawk on January 5, 2018.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Frost was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
North Carolina Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Newton, North Carolina, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on December 12, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Gregory Skrehot, age 59, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
From February 2017 through February 25, 2018, Skrehot conspired and agreed with others to receive methamphetamine directly from suppliers in Colorado. Skrehot would transport the methamphetamine to Rapid City, where he would then distribute it to numerous individuals. Over the course of the conspiracy, at least 500 grams of methamphetamine was distributed in the Rapid City area.
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. UNET is comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the South Dakota National Guard. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Skrehot was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mt. Vernon Woman Pleads Guilty in Federal Court to Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Nancy Tingle, age 53, of Mt. Vernon, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier on December 16, 2019, and pled guilty to an Information that charged her with Health Care Fraud.
According to court documents, between on or about 2012 and continuing until the fall of 2018, Nancy Tingle knowingly and willfully executed and attempted to execute a scheme and artifice to defraud a health care benefit program to obtain, by means of false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises, property owned by and under the custody and control of a health care benefit program in connection with the delivery of and payment for health care benefits, items, and services. Specifically, Tingle worked as the business office manager at Firesteel Healthcare Community in Mitchell, South Dakota. At times relevant to this case, Tingle defrauded Firesteel Healthcare Community of funds and monies, and in doing so, Tingle manipulated Medicaid funds intended for Firesteel Healthcare Community. Tingle knew that she was not authorized to receive the funds and monies of Firesteel Healthcare Community and that she used the fraudulently obtained funds on personal items and personal expenditures. The loss amount attributable to Tingle’s fraudulent conduct exceeded $450,000. She also failed to pay taxes on the taxable income that she obtained through fraud, resulting in over $100,000 of back taxes.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of the Inspector General, Office of Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Jehangiri.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date of March 9, 2020, has been set. The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing.
Minnesota Man Indicted on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Saint Cloud, Minnesota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Production of Child Pornography, Transfer of Obscene Material to a Minor, Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct with a Minor, and Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet.
Nathan Paul Grondahl, age 24, was indicted on December 10, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on December 17, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and up to $400 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on November 19, 2019, Grondahl knowingly persuaded a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions, knowing such depictions would be transported in interstate or foreign commerce, or mailed, and would be produced using materials that had been mailed, shipped, and transported in interstate and foreign commerce, including by a computer. Grondahl also used a cellular telephone to transfer and attempt to transfer obscene materials to a minor, who had not attained the age of 16.
The Indictment also alleges that on November 22, 2019, Grondahl knowingly traveled to engage in sexual conduct with the same minor. Grondahl again used his cellular telephone to attempt to knowingly persuade that minor to engage in sexual activity.
The charges are merely accusation and Grondahl is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Grondahl was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Lower Brule Man Sentenced for Larceny and Aiding and AbettingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man convicted of Larceny and Aiding and Abetting was sentenced on December 16, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Demitre’ Ecoffey, age 25, was sentenced to 2 years of probation, $2,084 in restitution, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Ecoffey was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 13, 2019. He pled guilty on December 16, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on May 26, 2017, when Ecoffey and Alan Thompson, Jr., took and vandalized personal property from the driveway and outdoor lot of an individual’s residence in Lyman County, resulting in a total loss of $2,084.
Alan Thompson, Jr., was set to be sentenced on October 7, 2019, but failed to appear. A warrant for his arrest has been issued.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Defendant was released following his sentencing hearing.
Hultgren Construction, L.L.C., Ordered to Dissolve & Pay Restitution to Victims of Building CollapseRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that Hultgren Construction, L.L.C., of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, appeared in federal court for sentencing following its conviction for Willful Violation of the Occupational, Safety, and Health Act Causing Death to an Employee. U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier presided over the sentencing hearing.
Hultgren Construction, L.L.C., was sentenced to 1 year of probation. During that time, the company was ordered to dissolve and comply with all of the bankruptcy proceedings, including paying restitution to the victims of the building collapse. The company was not fined because all of the assets were used to pay restitution to the victims. As required by federal law, the company was also ordered to pay a $50 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
According to court documents, on December 2, 2016, Hultgren Construction, L.L.C., an employer under the provisions of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, willfully violated the standards and regulations relating to instruction and training on proper demolition methods promulgated and prescribed under the Act, and said violation caused the death of Ethan McMahon.
At times relevant to this case, Hultgren Construction, L.L.C., was a company providing residential and commercial construction services throughout South Dakota, and the company employed approximately eleven (11) employees in South Dakota. On or about and at times prior to December 2, 2016, Hultgren Construction, L.L.C., the controlling and exposing employer, did not sufficiently instruct employees in the recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions related to temporary shoring supporting a multi-story building. Employees were tasked to remove two adjoining exterior load bearing walls between the ground level and first floor. Employees were not sufficiently instructed in the means and methods for building and installing a temporary shoring system to transfer the building loads from the foundation to the shoring system. In the morning hours of December 2, 2016, an employee was fatally injured as a result of removing the last segment of the load bearing wall, thereby causing the structure to collapse.
Hultgren Construction’s acts and omissions exhibited a plain indifference to a known and obvious hazard. Hultgren Construction knowingly permitted employees to engage in demolition activities without sufficient training to ensure that a licensed engineering professional first prepared an engineering analysis to assess the structural stability of the building, including the planned temporary shoring systems.
This case was investigated by the Department of Labor – Office of the Solicitor, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri.
Former Tribal Supervisor Pleads Guilty to Embezzlement from Sisseton-Wahpeton Tribal OrganizationRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a former supervisor of a tribal government department was sentenced on December 12, 2019, by U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes.
Jerome Renville, age 42 of Peever, South Dakota, pleaded guilty to one count of misdemeanor embezzlement and theft from an Indian Tribal Organization. Renville was sentenced to one year of probation and ordered to pay $6,000 in restitution. He was also ordered to pay $25 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
According to court documents, between on or about January 2015 and March 2019, in the District of South Dakota, Renville embezzled, willfully misapplied, willfully permitted to be misapplied monies, funds, credits, goods, assets, and other property belonging to the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Sioux Tribe, an Indian Tribal Organization. Renville was the Supervisor of the Tribe’s Facilities Maintenance for over 5 years. While serving in that position, he willfully misapplied money and funds belonging to the Tribe; Renville used and converted those monies and funds for his own personal use.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Guardians Project is a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities. The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the participating federal agencies include: Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General
For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (605) 330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Assault and Brandishing a Firearm During a Crime of ViolenceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Brandishing a Firearm during and in Relation to a Crime of Violence was sentenced on December 16, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
William Hawk, Sr., age 31, was sentenced to 8 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, forfeiture of 2 rifles, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Hawk was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 14, 2019. He pled guilty on September 25, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on May 11, 2019, when Hawk entered a motel in Eagle Butte, with a rifle in his hands and another swung on his back. Hawk spoke to the night clerk and demanded a key to a certain individual’s room. At that time, the individual Hawk was referring to walked into the lobby and Hawk instructed him to walk outside to speak with him. When the individual refused to do so unless he put the gun down, Hawk told the individual that if he did not go outside with Hawk, the individual would be executed in the lobby. At that point, the rifle discharged, and the round struck the door to the registration office. After the shot was fired, the individual ran out of the motel into the parking lot. Hawk pursued him into the parking lot, and fired a shot in the individual’s direction. The bullet struck a parked vehicle. The individual ran to a nearby residence and called 911.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Hawk was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Dupree Woman Charged with Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Child AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Dupree, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Child Abuse.
Cache Hebb, age 23, was indicted on December 10, 2019. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 16, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 15 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about March 8, 2019, Hebb assaulted a minor child, who was under the age of seven, with a dangerous weapon, a hairbrush, and did abuse, expose, torture, torment, and cruelly punish the minor child.
The charges are merely accusations and Hebb is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Hebb was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Bullhead Man Sentenced to 5 Years for ManslaughterRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Bullhead, South Dakota, man was sentenced on December 16, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann, as a result of a jury convicting him of involuntary manslaughter.
Daniel Brown, age 29, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. He was ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
According to court documents, on or about September 8, 2018, in Bullhead, Daniel Brown unlawfully killed Dionne Brown Otter by operating a motor vehicle recklessly while under the influence of alcohol and a controlled substance. Brown had a blood alcohol content of .22 percent and methamphetamine in his system. While driving up an unmaintained steep hill that had a walking path, Brown lost control of his crew cab truck, causing it to roll down the hill. As a result of the roll, two people were ejected, including Dionne Brown Otter. The second individual also sustained serious injuries.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
Brown was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Bullhead Man Charged with Vehicular BatteryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Bullhead, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Vehicular Battery.
Frank Chapman, age 30, was indicted on December 16, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 13, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on July 25, 2019, in Dewey County, Chapman drove a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and caused serious bodily injury to another individual.
The charge is merely an accusation and Chapman is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
Chapman was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to 75 Years in Federal Prison for Aggravated IncestRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of two counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor and one count of Aggravated Incest was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Henry Chase Alone, a/k/a Henry Black Elk, age 36, was sentenced on December 16, 2019, to 2 consecutive terms of 30 years in federal prison sentences, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund as to the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor charges. Chase Alone was sentenced to an additional 15 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, and another $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for the Aggravated Incest charge, for a total of 75 years in federal prison. Chase Alone was also ordered to pay $6,000 in restitution to the victims of sexual exploitation.
Chase Alone was found guilty of the charges following a federal jury trial in Rapid City on January 10, 2019. Evidence at trial established that Chase Alone received custody of a young girl in November 2016 and almost immediately upon her arrival at his home, began sexually abusing her. Chase Alone used threats and fear of violence to physically and sexually abuse her for years. Through the ongoing investigation, child pornography was found on Chase Alone’s computer. Videos and still photos established Chase Alone recorded himself and the victim engaging in sexual intercourse.
This case was investigated by the Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Chase Alone was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
St. Francis Man Indicted on Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Richard Charles Young, a/k/a RC Young, age 45, was indicted on August 13, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 12, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of 10 years, up to life in prison and/or a $10,000,000 fine, at least 5 years, up to a lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for each Count. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that no later than on or about the 1st day of January 2015, and continuing to on or about August 13, 2019, Young knowingly and intentionally, combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with persons known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Indian Reservation.
The charge is merely an accusation and Young is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Young was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Woman Charged with Theft of Government Funds and Concealment of Information from Federal ProgramRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Theft of Government Funds and Concealment of Information from the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Program. The SSI program is administered by the U.S. Social Security Administration.
Nikona Jeffries, age 36, was indicted on December 3, 2019. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on December 12, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and up to $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or between June 2017 and February 2019, Jeffries willfully and knowingly embezzled, stole, and purloined money from Tittle XVI program benefits payments made to her.
The Indictment also alleges that during that same period of time, Jeffries had knowledge of the occurrence of an event affecting her initial and continued right to receive payment of Title XVI SSI benefits. Specifically, Jeffries knowingly failed to report her income and employment, in order to continue receiving and spending SSI benefits.
The charges are merely accusations and Jeffries is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Social Security Administration Cooperative Disability Investigation Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman is prosecuting the case.
Jeffries was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Found Guilty of Attempting to Entice a Minor Using the InternetRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Japher Rajab, 42, of Rapid City, South Dakota, was convicted of Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet following a three-day federal jury trial held in U.S. District Court in Rapid City. The guilty verdict was returned on December 11, 2019.
Rajab was one of eleven men who were arrested and federally indicted as a result of an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2019 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting internet predators. Following multiple chats and text messages with a person Rajab believed to be a 15 year-old girl, but who was in fact an undercover agent, he proceeded to negotiate the time and place he would meet the minor to engage in unlawful sex acts. When Rajab went to the pre-determined location to meet the minor, he was instead met by law enforcement agents and placed under arrest.
The undercover operation and arrests were a joint effort between the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins prosecuted and tried the case.
A sentencing date has not been set. Rajab was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Mission Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Edward Zane Roubideaux, Jr., age 29, was indicted on December 10, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 12, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Roubideaux was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in November 2011. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. It is alleged that between August 15, 2019, and September 19, 2019, Roubideaux, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under Federal Law, failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration.
The charge is merely an accusation and Roubideaux is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Roubideaux was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Wildlife TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced Troy Fairbanks, age 56, of Rapid City, South Dakota, appeared before Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on December 6, 2019, and pleaded guilty to an Indictment that charged him with Conspiracy to Commit Wildlife Trafficking.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 5 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and restitution.
Fairbanks conspired with his sons and other individuals to traffic in wildlife—specifically, bald and golden eagles, various species of hawks, and fifteen other bird species—and parts of those birds. Fairbanks, the owner/operator of a Native American dance business called Buffalo Dreamers, bought, sold, traded, and bartered eagles and hawks and their parts on numerous occasions between July 17, 2014, and February 11, 2016. Fairbanks sold and traded hundreds of eagle feathers, as well as eagle wings, eagle heads, eagle claws, raptor claws, hawk feathers, and parts from other CITES I protected birds. Testing of carcasses and parts recovered after a search warrant conducted at Fairbanks’s home revealed at least 112 eagles and/or parts thereof passed through his home during the transactions he conducted there.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric Kelderman and Meghan Dilges.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for May 4, 2020. The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing.
Jury finds Mission Man Guilty of Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Luke Joseph Burning Breast, age 36, of Mission, South Dakota, was found guilty of Felon in Possession of a Firearm as a result of a federal jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on December 10, 2019.
The charge carries a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Burning Breast was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 13, 2019. In 2008, Burning Breast was convicted in Federal court of Drug User in Possession of a Firearm, a felony. On April 9, 2019, in Rosebud, South Dakota, Burning Breast was at a residence when an altercation ensued between Burning Breast and his domestic partner. Law enforcement was contacted and responded to the residence. During questioning, the officers noted a rifle magazine on the table and Burning Breast requested his rifle be retrieved from outside. The arresting officers knew that Burning Breast had a prior felony conviction and asked him about the firearm and conviction. Burning Breast erroneously claimed he was no longer a felon, though the investigation revealed his conviction remained valid.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.
A sentencing date has not been set. Burning Breast was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Fort Thompson Man Charged with AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender.
Charles Grey Owl, a/k/a Raymond Keith Grey Owl, age 49, was indicted on December 10, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 11, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on July 30, 2019, Grey Owl unlawfully committed domestic assault upon his intimate partner, when at the time he had at least two separate prior final convictions for domestic assault. The Indictment further alleges that Grey Owl committed the assault with a dangerous weapon, that is shod feet, with the intent to do bodily harm.
The charges are merely accusations and Grey Owl is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Grey Owl was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Eagle Butte Woman Indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.
Kristen Nordvold, a/k/a Kristen Pretty Weasel, a/k/a Kristen Red Dog, age 38, was indicted on December 10, 2019. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 11, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is life in prison and/or a $10,000,000 fine, a lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that beginning on or about January 1, 2016, and continuing to on or about December 10, 2019, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Nordvold, knowingly and intentionally, combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
The charge is merely an accusation and Nordvold is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Nordvold was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Yankton Man Sentenced in Fentanyl Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Yankton, South Dakota, man convicted of conspiring to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl was sentenced on December 9, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Fletcher Stark, age 23, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Stark was indicted with others for conspiracy to distribute a mixture and substance containing fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, by a federal grand jury on February 5, 2019. He pled guilty on August 21, 2019.
Stark was obtaining fentanyl from co-conspirators in Minneapolis for redistribution in South Dakota.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, and the police departments of Vermillion, Yankton, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Stark was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
St. Francis Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on December 10, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Steven William Emery, age 48, was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, forfeiture of a firearm, ammunition, and firearm accessories, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Emery was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 11, 2018. He pled guilty on August 13, 2019.
Beginning in June 2016 and continuing to May 2018, Emery knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine in the District of South Dakota, in and around the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. Emery admitted that over 50 grams of methamphetamine was distributed during the course of the conspiracy. During a vehicle and residence search, several drug paraphernalia items were found, in addition to a loaded firearm, ammunition and firearm accessories.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.
Emery was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.