District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Miller Man Sentenced for Being Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Miller, South Dakota, man convicted of Felon in Possession of a Firearm was sentenced on August 12, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Johnathan Taylor, age 27, was sentenced to time served, 2 years of supervised release, forfeiture of his interest in 6 firearms, any and all ammunition recovered with the weapons, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Taylor was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 13, 2019. He pled guilty on May 28, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on December 1, 2018, when a South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Officer was conducting licensing verification and encountered Taylor, who had a pump action shot gun. When the officer discovered Taylor was an individual prohibited from possessing a firearm, a search warrant was executed on Taylor’s residence and the 6 firearms were seized. During the search, marijuana was also discovered, to which Taylor admitted to using daily for about 8 years.
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 South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Taylor was released following sentencing.
Marty Man and Yankton Man Plead Guilty to Kidnapping and AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Gavin Little, age 23, of Marty, South Dakota, and Christian Garcia, age 24, of Yankton, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier on August 15, 2019, and pled guilty to an Indictment that charged Little with Kidnapping and Garcia with Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
The maximum penalty upon conviction for Little is life in federal prison, and/or $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be imposed.
The maximum penalty upon conviction for Garcia is 10 years in federal prison, and/or $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be imposed.
On or about November 25, 2018, Little and Garcia, along with two juveniles, assaulted an adult male at a home in east housing of Marty, on the Yankton Sioux Indian Reservation. After the man was severely beaten and unconscious, Little loaded him into a vehicle and left the scene. A high speed chase ensued near Greenwood, before Little abandoned the vehicle and fled away on foot. Tribal officers discovered the unconscious man in the back of the vehicle. He was flown to Sioux Falls for emergency medical treatment.
The investigation was conducted by the Yankton Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for November 4, 2019. Both Little and Garcia were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.
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.
Nicole Ducheneaux, age 33, was indicted on August 13, 2019. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on August 16, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 40 years in federal prison and/or a $5,000,000 fine, a lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that beginning at a time unknown, but no later than on or about January 1, 2017, continuing to on or about August 13, 2019, Ducheneaux, knowingly and intentionally, combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with persons known and unknown to knowingly and intentionally distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The charge is merely an accusation and Ducheneaux 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.
Ducheneaux was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Attempted Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Commercial Sex Trafficking of Children and Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet following a federal jury trial, was sentenced on July 26, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Zam Lian Mung, age 30, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Mung was one of seven men who were arrested and federally indicted as a result of an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2018 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting persons willing to pay to have sex with minors obtained through the Internet. The conviction stemmed from Mung communicating with someone he believed to be associated with a 15-year-old girl, but who was in fact an undercover agent, for the purpose of arranging a meeting to engage in sexual acts with the minor.
The undercover operation and arrests were a joint effort between the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins prosecuted the case.
Mung was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Connecticut Man Sentenced to 8 Years for Attempted Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Colchester, Connecticut, man convicted of Attempted Receipt of Child Pornography was sentenced on July 22, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Kevin Carney, age 32, was sentenced to 8 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.
Carney was one of nine men who were arrested and federally indicted as a result of an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2017 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting persons willing to pay to have sex with underage girls or boys obtained through the Internet. The conviction stemmed from Carney communicating with someone he believed to be a minor for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts, and requesting that the minor send pornographic images to Carney.
The undercover operation and arrests were a joint effort between the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins prosecuted the case.
Carney was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Soldier Creek Man Sentenced for Involuntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Soldier Creek, South Dakota, man convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter was sentenced on August 12, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Robert Staples, Jr., age 35, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Staples was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 13, 2019. He pled guilty on May 28, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on September 14, 2018, when Staples was backing a vehicle out of his driveway in the Soldier Creek community, where children frequently played in the street. Staples struck two children with his vehicle, and one of the children was killed in a grossly negligent manner. Staples further had THC, a compound found in marijuana, in his bloodstream at the time of the wreck.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.
Staples was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
New York Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Defraud the GovernmentRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Brooklyn, New York, man convicted of Wire Fraud, Conspiracy to Defraud the Government, and False Claim was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Manaen Dean Matthews, age 35, was sentenced on July 25, 2019, to 6 and 1/2 years in federal prison, and was ordered to pay a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $523,250.00 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service.
The conviction stems from Matthews devising a scheme to obtain personal information from individuals living on the Pine Ridge Reservation and elsewhere. In the course of his scheme, Matthews directed several other individuals to obtain personal information from tribal citizens by falsely telling them they would lawfully receive large tax refunds or other government payments. Matthews then used the personal information obtained to knowingly file fraudulent personal income tax returns and falsely reporting earnings from self-employment, when in fact the tribal citizens had not received the income reported on their tax returns and were not due the tax refunds shown on their tax returns.
In all, from 2015 through 2018, Matthews knowingly made false claims against the United States totaling approximately $3,621,770.20 by filing 1,201 fraudulent federal income tax returns. As a result of his fraudulent scheme, Matthews personally obtained $523,250.00.
The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Matthews was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Allen Woman Sentenced on Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Allen, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on August 12, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Clara Poor Bear, age 28, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $1,000 fine and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Poor Bear was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 14, 2018. She pled guilty on May 29, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy that occurred between October 1, 2016, through January 31, 2017, where Poor Bear knowingly and intentionally conspired with others, and distributed between 350 and 500 grams of methamphetamine on the Rosebud Indian Reservation.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Poor Bear was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
St. Francis Woman Charged with Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Aleah Walking Bull, age 24, was indicted on November 14, 2018. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on August 8, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 8 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on June 14, 2018, Walking Bull did forcibly assault, resist, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with a law enforcement officer who was employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.
The charge is merely an accusation and Walking Bull 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.
Walking Bull was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Montana Woman Sentenced for Wire Fraud and Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Kalispell, Montana, woman convicted of Tax Evasion and four counts of Wire Fraud was sentenced on August 7, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Judy Lynn Carroll, age 60, was sentenced to 7 years in federal prison, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release on the Wire Fraud charges. Carroll was also ordered to pay a total of $1,240,236.01 in restitution to several victims and a $400 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The Wire Fraud charges relate to a scheme devised by Carroll to obtain money from others for her own benefit. As part of the scheme, Carroll falsely told others the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) had seized her financial account that contained several million dollars. Carroll knew the IRS had not seized her financial account and that she did not have any account that had millions of dollars. Carroll then convinced several individuals, including a resident of South Dakota, to send her hundreds of thousands of dollars between 2000 and 2016.
Carroll was also sentenced to 7 years in federal prison, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $310,078.00 in restitution to the IRS and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund on the Tax Evasion charge, with the prison time to run concurrently with the Wire Fraud convictions.
This case was investigated by Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Minnesota Man Indicted on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Minneapolis, Minnesota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Production of Child Pornography and Receipt of Child Pornography.
Nicolas Edward Wilson, age 34, was indicted on July 9, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on August 5, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 30 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and up to $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about December 30, 2014, Wilson knowingly enticed and coerced a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of such conduct, knowing such depiction would be transported in interstate or foreign commerce by computer.
The Indictment also alleges that on or about between September 23, 2012, and April 4, 2015, Wilson knowingly received and distributed, and attempted to receive and distribute, any child pornography that had been mailed, shipped, and transported in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce by any means, including by computer.
The charges are merely accusations and Wilson 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.
Wilson was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, which has been set for October 15, 2019.
Former Tribal Chair Indicted for Embezzlement & Theft from an Indian Tribal Organization and Aiding and AbettingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that a former Crow Creek Sioux Tribe councilmember and chair was indicted by a federal grand jury for embezzlement & theft from an Indian tribal organization, and aiding and abetting.
Brandon Sazue, age 45, of Chamberlain, South Dakota, was indicted on August 6, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Moreno on August 9, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
According to the Indictment, in about March 2014 through February 2019, Roland Robert Hawk Sr., Francine Maria Middletent, Roxanne Lynette Sazue, Jacquelyn Ernestine Pease, and Brandon Sazue embezzled, stole, willfully misapplied, willfully permitted to misapplied, and converted to their own use over $1,000 of monies, funds, credit, goods, assets, and other property belonging to the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe. During times relevant to each defendant’s case, Brandon Sazue served as Chair of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, Hawk served as the elected Treasurer of the tribe, Roxanne Sazue was also Chair, and Middletent was an elected councilperson. When not serving in their respective leadership positions, all defendants, except for Brandon Sazue, worked for Hawk in the tribe’s finance office. In their respective leadership roles and employment positions, the defendants had the access and opportunity to the funds that were embezzled from the tribe.
The maximum penalties for each defendant upon conviction are as follows: 5 years imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine; 3 years of supervised release; $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund; and restitution may be ordered.
The charges are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
Hawk Sr. was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. Defendants Pease, Middletent, Roxanne Sauze, and Brandon Sazue were released on bond. A trial date has been set for September 10, 2019.
The case was brought pursuant to the Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities. The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include: Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
For additional information about the Guardians Project, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (605) 330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
Eagle Butte Man Charged with False StatementRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for False Statement.
Paul William Stands For, age 24, was indicted on July 16, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on August 8, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 5 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on April 18, 2019, Stands For willfully and knowingly made a materially false, fictitious, and fraudulent statement to a Task Force Officer with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force by stating that a handgun was his, when he in fact knew this statement was false.
The charge is merely an accusation and Stands For 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 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.
Stands For was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Washington Man Sentenced to over 8 Years for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Everett, Washington, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Nathan Merriel, age 30, was sentenced on August 2, 2019, to 8 years and 3 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stems from Merriel conspiring with two other people to obtain methamphetamine in Denver, Colorado, for distribution in South Dakota between October 2017 and June 2018.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Merriel was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Wakpala Woman Charged with Assault and RobberyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Wakpala, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with Intent to Commit Murder, Robbery, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
Averil Cadotte, age 36, was indicted on April 9, 2019. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on August 2, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on June 4, 2016, Cadotte unlawfully assaulted two individuals with a vehicle with the intent to commit murder and said assault resulted in serious bodily injury to both victims. The Indictment further alleges that Cadotte attempted to take a cellphone, alcohol, and cash from the victims.
The charges are merely accusations and Cadotte is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Indian of Affairs, Standing Rock Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirsten Jasper is prosecuting the case.
Cadotte was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has been set for October 8, 2019.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Preparation of False and Fraudulent Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Preparation of False and Fraudulent Tax Returns was sentenced on July 26, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Isaiah H. Rangel, age 50, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, followed by 1 year of supervised release, restitution to the U.S. Department of Treasury in the amount of $46,648, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Rangel was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 4, 2018. He pled guilty on April 3, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between January 29, 2015, and April 15, 2015, when Rangel, who owned 1st Global Tax in Sioux Falls and in Huron, prepared false tax returns for the tax year 2014 by preparing false Schedules C and Forms 1099, which resulted in fraudulent refunds for clients.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Rangel was ordered to report to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service by August 23, 2019.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Stealing Guns in Rooster BurglaryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Theft of a Firearm was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Matthew Keifer, age 31, was sentenced on August 5, 2019, to 5 years and 11 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 and $11,199.17 in restitution.
The charge related to Keifer breaking into The Rooster sporting goods store in Rapid City and stealing 24 firearms in August 2018. The firearms were taken to a co-defendant’s residence, and a Dremel tool was utilized to remove serial numbers from several of the firearms. Some of the firearms were later traded for methamphetamine. During the investigation, 22 of the 24 stolen guns were recovered by law enforcement.
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, the South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Patterson prosecuted the case.
Keifer was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited PersonRead 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.
Michael S. Croyle, age 21, was sentenced on August 2, 2019, to 2 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Croyle was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2018. The conviction stems from Croyle being in possession of a handgun before jumping from a moving vehicle, following a police pursuit at Rapid City on August 8, 2018. Croyle is prohibited from possessing firearms based on a previous felony conviction for Possession of a Controlled Substance in 2017.
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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Croyle was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Pleads Not Guilty to Sexual Abuse of JuvenilesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Assault and two counts of Abusive Sexual Contact.
Ira Little Bear, age 29, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in prison, lifetime supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Little Bear engaging in and attempting to engage in sexual contact and acts with juvenile females at Wounded Knee between 2015 and 2017.
The charges are merely accusations and Little Bear is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cassandra DeCoste is prosecuting the case.
Little Bear was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for October 8, 2019.
Pine Ridge Man Sentenced to Ten Years in Prison for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
James Janis, age 39, was sentenced on August 2, 2019, 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.
Janis was indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2018. The charge related to Janis forcibly engaging in sexual contact with a juvenile victim at the White Clay Dam in Pine Ridge on November 17, 2017.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Janis was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Man Found Guilty of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Robert Dowty, Sr., age 57, was found guilty of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor following a federal trial in Rapid City, South Dakota.
The charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years in federal prison, up to life, and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Evidence at trial established that between June and September of 2018, Dowty forcibly sexually assaulted a child under the age of 16 years. Additional victims testified at trial that they also were sexually assaulted in the past by Dowty.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted and tried the case.
A sentencing date is set for December 16, 2019. Dowty was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Pine Ridge Man Charged with Assaulting Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault on a Federal Officer.
Joseph John Winters, age 44, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 8 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to Winters striking an officer in the face with a closed fist on March 3, 2019, at Pine Ridge.
The charge is merely an accusation and Winters is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cassandra DeCoste is prosecuting the case.
Winters was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for October 8, 2019.
Pine Ridge Brothers Charged with KidnappingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two brothers from Pine Ridge, South Dakota, were charged in federal district court with Kidnapping.
Jesse Sierra, age 33, and Dustin Sierra, age 35, were charged on July 30, 2019. Dustin Sierra appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on July 31, 2019, and Jesse Sierra appeared on August 2, 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 supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to the Sierra brothers kidnapping a female from Rapid City, South Dakota, on July 13, 2019, transporting her against her will and holding her on the Pine Ridge Reservation for several days, and ultimately taking her across state lines to Nebraska. On July 21, 2019, the victim was dropped off at the hospital in Chadron, Nebraska, with severe injuries, including broken bones and bruising to her face and body.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services, the Rapid City Police Department, the Nebraska State Patrol, and the Dawes County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Heather Sazama and Cassandra DeCoste are prosecuting the case.
Both Dustin Sierra and Jesse Sierra were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for October 8, 2019.
Nebraska Man Sentenced for Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Gordon, Nebraska, man convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Lawrence Martin, Jr., age 20, was sentenced on August 2, 2019, to time served, 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Martin was indicted by a federal grand jury in May 2018. The charge related to Martin engaging in a sexual relationship with a 13-year old female in 2017 and 2018.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Kyle Woman Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assault by Striking, Beating, or Wounding was sentenced by Daneta Wollmann, U.S. Magistrate Judge.
Mattie Yankton, age 38, was sentenced on August 2, 2019, to 3 years of probation, 25 hours of community service work, and ordered to pay a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Yankton was indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2018. The charge related to Yankton assaulting a man while he slept on April 12, 2018, at Kyle. The assault resulted in him having to seek medical treatment for his injury.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama prosecuted the case.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Honors AUSA Michael Elmore as Part of Purple Heart Recognition DayRead the Press Release
PIERRE, S.D. – At the request of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed Wednesday, August 7, 2019, as “Purple Heart Recognition Day,” calling on all South Dakotans to honor those men and women who are recipients of the Purple Heart Medal.
Our nation’s oldest military medal, the Purple Heart is awarded to those men and women who have been wounded or killed as the result of enemy action while serving in the United States Armed Forces. The Purple Heart was created on August 7, 1782, by the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, General George Washington, whose likeness is now featured on the medal.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota is pleased to honor Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore, a federal prosecutor in our Pierre office, who was awarded the Purple Heart while serving overseas in the United States Marine Corps.
AUSA Elmore was born and raised in Gillette and Campbell County, Wyoming, where his family still resides. He grew up working the family cattle ranch. From 2007 to 2011, he was in the United States Marine Corps, serving as a Scout Sniper, conducting operations as part of combat reconnaissance and surveillance teams. He had three deployments in support of the Global War on Terror, including to Southeast Asia, Africa, and Afghanistan. In 2010, Elmore was awarded the Purple Heart as a result of injuries sustained in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.
In 2011, Elmore was honorably discharged having attained the rank of Sergeant. After his honorable discharge, he attended St. Edward’s University, Austin, Texas, and graduated from Baylor Law School in Waco, Texas, in 2015. While in Texas, Elmore worked extensively with non-profit agencies to promote awareness and raise money for wounded veteran and memorial groups.
From 2016 to 2018, he served as a Deputy County Attorney in Custer County, Montana. In 2018, Elmore joined the Pierre branch of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota. He is a member of the South Dakota Bar Association and the United States District Court Bar. He is assigned to work cases arising on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation, and his present work includes prosecuting violent crime, firearm, and methamphetamine offenses arising in Central South Dakota.
“We are pleased to honor our friend and colleague, Michael Elmore, for his heroism and sacrifice on behalf of our country,” said United States Attorney Ron Parsons.
California Man Charged in Fentanyl Distribution, Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a California man has been indicted for his role in a large-scale opioid distribution conspiracy involving the shipment of approximately 100,000 synthetic analogue fentanyl pills to South Dakota, and as many as 2.6 million fentanyl pills nationwide.
Damon Vincent Jobin, age 34, of Huntington Beach, California, was indicted on October 23, 2018, by a federal grand jury in South Dakota for conspiracy to distribute over 100 grams of a fentanyl analogue and money laundering. Jobin, along with other co-conspirators, utilized the Dark Web to distribute approximately 100,000 pills that contained fentanyl or a fentanyl analogue in 2017 to individuals either suspected or convicted of distributing the pills in Chamberlain, Mitchell, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Twenty thousand of these pills were seized from the U.S. Mail by law enforcement in South Dakota. The pills tested positive for cyclopropyl fentanyl, a fentanyl analogue or derivative. The investigation revealed that, in all, Jobin mailed approximately 200 packages containing over 2.6 million fentanyl or fentanyl analogue pills to addresses in 32 different states. Based on records kept by Jobin, the total weight of the pills exceeded 259 kilograms. Experts estimate that one kilogram of fentanyl has the potential to produce approximately one million fatal doses. Fentanyl is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine.
“The public should know that our dedicated law enforcement partners are doing everything possible to work up the chains of illegal drug distribution and bring the criminals who are profiting from human suffering by shipping these poisons into South Dakota, or anywhere else, to justice,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.
In the indictment, Jobin is also accused of laundering over $130,000 in U.S. Currency converted from Bitcoin proceeds he received for pressing and shipping the illegal drugs.
Following his indictment, Jobin was arrested in Los Angeles, California, on November 29, 2018. He appeared before the Honorable Karen L. Stevenson, U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Central District of California, who released him on a $25,000 appearance bond and ordered him to appear in the District of South Dakota for his arraignment in February 2019.
In early 2019, Jobin fled the United States in an apparent attempt to avoid prosecution. A federal warrant was issued for his arrest. He was apprehended in Thailand, taken into the custody of the Royal Thai Police on June 7, 2019, and transported back to the United States from Thailand by U.S. Marshals from the District of South Dakota.
“It doesn’t matter where in the world you try to hide,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “The United States Marshals will find you and bring you back.”
Upon landing in Seattle in the custody of the Marshals, Jobin was formally arrested on his outstanding warrant and appeared on July 15, 2019, before the Honorable Brian A. Tsuchida, Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Western District of Washington, who ordered him detained. Jobin was then ordered to be transferred to the District of South Dakota to face his pending charges.
On August 7, 2019, Jobin made his initial appearance in Sioux Falls in the District of South Dakota, before the Honorable Veronica L. Duffy, U.S. Magistrate Judge. He pleaded not guilty, was detained, and was placed in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial.
The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a potential maximum penalty of life in prison, and a $10 million fine.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Western Cyber Crimes Unit, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Marshals Service, the U.S. Department of State, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Costa Mesa Police Department, and the Chamberlain Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga is prosecuting the case.
The charges and allegations are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Mexican National Sentenced for Meth Trafficking in 21-Pound Bust by SD Highway PatrolRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a man from San Jose, Mexico, who entered the United States and was subsequently apprehended in South Dakota and convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on July 31, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Heriberto Navarro Ortiz, age 33, was sentenced to 41 months in federal prison, 1 year of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
“First of all, I want to commend the South Dakota Highway Patrol for its excellent work in apprehending this drug trafficker,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “Most of the meth trafficked in South Dakota and across the United States is produced by violent Mexican drug cartels and smuggled across our southern border. Federal, State, Local, and Tribal law enforcement authorities are working together to do everything possible to stamp out this poison and hold the traffickers accountable.”
Ortiz was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 4, 2018. He pleaded guilty on May 3, 2019.
In early November of 2018, Ortiz was hired to travel to the United States and deliver a load of methamphetamine from California to Minnesota. Using funds provided by his contact, Ortiz flew from Guadalajara, Mexico, to Tijuana, Mexico, and then crossed the border into the United States on foot. Ortiz’s contact then instructed him to travel to Apple Valley, California, where he picked up a silver Chevrolet Malibu loaded with approximately 21 pounds of packaged methamphetamine, and began heading east.
On November 22, 2018, a Trooper with the South Dakota Highway Patrol stopped Ortiz’s car for speeding on Interstate 90 near mile marker 216. After obtaining consent to search the vehicle, the Trooper discovered a package containing methamphetamine wrapped in plastic tape beneath the carpet covering a rear wheel well. A thorough search of the car revealed that it contained nineteen hidden packages weighing approximately 21 pounds. Six packages were located in the rear wheel well, four were inside of the driver and passenger seat backs, and nine were in the windshield cowling. The South Dakota Public Health Laboratory determined that the packages contain 8.4 kilograms of pure methamphetamine. Prior to November 2018, Ortiz had entered the United States at least seven or eight times.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Highway Patrol and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Ortiz was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
St. Francis Man Sentenced for Assault with a Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault With a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on July 30, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Sylvan White Hat, Jr., a/k/a Bud White Hat, age 38, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
White Hat was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 13, 2018. He pled guilty on July 25, 2018.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on October 16, 2017. On that date, White Hat was intoxicated and went to the victim’s home in St. Francis, demanding to talk to the victim’s niece. When told the niece was not present, White Hat became aggravated and repeatedly punched the victim and kicked him in the face with shod feet. White Hat was previously employed as a police officer with the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services from 2009 to 2015.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
White Hat was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Woman Sentenced in Methamphetamine Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota woman convicted of conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine was sentenced on July 23, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Dixie Leigh Murphy, age 42, was sentenced to 121 months in federal prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Murphy was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on November 6, 2018. She pled guilty on April 30, 2019.
Murphy received several pounds of methamphetamine from co-conspirators that she distributed in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Murphy was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Saint Francis Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Saint Francis, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting a Federal Officer was sentenced on July 30, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Myron Night Shield, age 34, was sentenced to 22 months and 15 days in custody, 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Night Shield was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 17, 2017. He pled guilty on May 3, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on September 9, 2017, when law enforcement was called to Night Shield’s residence due to Night Shield heavily drinking and not taking his medication. Night Shield was ultimately placed under arrest and began shouting death threats at the officer. When the officer and Night Shield got to the patrol car, Night Shield turned toward the officer, and spit in his face.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Night Shield was released upon sentencing.
Rosebud Man Indicted on Sexual Abuse and Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse and Assault with a Dangerous Weapon.
John Larvie, age 29, was indicted on June 11, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 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 November 20, 2018, Larvie knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, a sexual act with a victim by use of force and assaulted the victim with shod feet, with the intent to do bodily harm.
The charges are merely accusations and Larvie is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.
Larvie was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on July 30, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Kameron Lamont Jackson, age 26, was sentenced to 16 months in federal prison, 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Jackson was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 14, 2018. He pled guilty on May 9, 2019.
Jackson was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in October 2013. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender and to update his registration within three business days of relocation or changing employment. Between October 3, 2018, and November 14, 2018, Jackson failed to register and update his registration.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.
Jackson was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Woman Sentenced to 10 Years for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Dawn Rose Dowty, age 29, was sentenced on July 29, 2019, to 10 years in federal prison, 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Dowty was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2018. The charge related to Dowty and at least one other person distributing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere between 2012 and 2018.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Badlands Safe Trails Drug Task Force, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina Nelson prosecuted the case. Additional co-conspirators are pending trial.
Dowty was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Man Sentenced to Prison for Escape from CustodyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Robert Little, age 35, was sentenced on July 29, 2019, to 5 months in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Little was found guilty of the charge following a federal jury trial in Rapid City on April 17, 2019. Evidence at trial established that Little failed to arrive at the Community Education Center facility in Rapid City on February 6, 2019, which was the time and place designated by the United States Bureau of Prisons upon his release from their facility.
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama prosecuted the case.
Little was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pierre Woman Indicted on Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Melissa Jean Scull, age 38, was indicted on July 16, 2019. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 29, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is a mandatory 5 years up to 40 years in prison and/or a $5,000,000 fine, at least 4 years supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between February 1, 2019 and July 16, 2019, Scull did knowingly and intentionally, combine, conspire, confederate, and agree with persons known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more methamphetamine. Further, on June 23, 2019, a traffic stop was conducted wherein 236 grams of methamphetamine were located in the vehicle.
The charge is merely an accusation and Scull is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Scull was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Pierre Man Sentenced on Fentanyl ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on July 30, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Darrell Hamann, age 25, was sentenced to 8 months in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, a fine in the amount of $1,000, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Hamann was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 12, 2019. He pled guilty on May 14, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy that occurred between September 1, 2018 and September 5, 2018, wherein Hamann knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance. The fentanyl distribution resulted in the individual using the fentanyl needing emergency medical care, including two doses of Narcan.
This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Pierre Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Hamann was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Norris Man Sentenced for Assault, Failure to Appear, and Distribution of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Norris, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, Failure to Appear, and Distribution of a Controlled Substance, was sentenced on July 29, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Brandon Jones, age 25, was sentenced to a total of 36 months in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, $300 in restitution, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $300.
Jones was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 14, 2017 for the Assault charge, August 13, 2018, for the Failure to Appear Charge, and on January 23, 2019, for the Distribution charge. He pled guilty to all three charges on March 5, 2019.
The Assault conviction stemmed from an incident on May 6, 2017, when Jones was driving under the influence of methamphetamine at speeds of 100 miles per hour or more, and rear-ended another vehicle causing serious bodily injury to three individuals in the vehicle.
The Failure to Appear conviction stemmed from an incident July 16, 2018, when Jones was summoned to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno for a scheduled hearing for his Assault charge and failed to appear for the court as directed.
The Distribution conviction stemmed from an incident on September 10, 2018, when Jones sold 2.1 grams of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Jones was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on July 30, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Shelbyjo Two Eagle, a/k/a Shelbyjo Larvie, age 24, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, 4 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Two Eagle was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 11, 2018. She pled guilty on May 3, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident beginning on December 1, 2017, and continuing through December 11, 2018, wherein Two Eagle conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Two Eagle was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Minnesota Man Sentenced for Possession of an Unregistered FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Houston, Minnesota, man convicted of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Jacob Jurisch, age 32, was sentenced on July 26, 2019, to 5 years and 10 months in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. He was also ordered to forfeit a firearm.
Jurisch was indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2019. The charge related to Jurisch being a passenger in a vehicle that was stopped by law enforcement in Rapid City on November 17, 2019, while in possession of a shotgun that he knew was stolen.
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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.
Jurisch was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Gettysburg Man Sentenced on Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Gettysburg, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Possession of an Unregistered Firearm and Possession of an Unregistered Firearm Silencer was sentenced on July 30, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Adam Westphal, age 35, was sentenced to 120 months on the conspiracy conviction and 97 months on each firearm conviction. All custody time is to run concurrent, except for 6 months of the firearm convictions, which runs consecutive to the conspiracy conviction for a total custody sentence of 126 months in federal prison, 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $300.
Westphal was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 13, 2018. He pled guilty on May 9, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy that occurred between October 1, 2017, and July 1, 2018, wherein Westphal knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with persons known and unknown to distribute and possess with intent to distribute between 500 grams and 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. Westphal, who is an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, knowingly received and possessed 12 firearms, including an illegal short shotgun, and ammunition. Additionally, Westphal knowingly received and possessed several homemade silencers and destructive devices, each of which were not registered to him as required by law.
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 Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Potter County Sheriff’s Office, the Mobridge Police Department, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Westphal was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Former Secretary of Tribal Office Sentenced for EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a former Secretary of the Oglala Sioux Tribe’s Credit and Finance Office was sentenced to 5 years of federal probation for Embezzlement and Theft from an Indian Tribal Organization. Helen Hernandez, age 41, was also ordered to pay $42,100 in restitution. She pleaded guilty to felony embezzlement on April 5, 2019, at the federal courthouse in Rapid City, South Dakota.
According to court documents, from February 2014 through June 2015, Hernandez embezzled and converted to her own use more than $1,000 of monies, funds, credits, goods, assets, and other property belonging to the Credit and Finances Office of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, an Indian Tribal Organization. During the time of the embezzlement, Hernandez was serving as the Secretary of that office.
The investigation was conducted by the Department of Interior, Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
The case was brought pursuant to The Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities. The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include: Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (605)330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
Britton Woman Sentenced on Methamphetamine and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Britton, South Dakota, woman convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on July 30, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Sheri Lynn Rademacher, a/k/a Sherri Lynn Whiting, age 44, was sentenced to 1 month in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Rademacher was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 11, 2018. She pled guilty on May 9, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on June 6, 2018, wherein Rademacher knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. Further, Rademacher being an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, did knowingly possess a firearm.
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 and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.
Rademacher was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Summerset Man Sentenced for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Summerset, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on July 26, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Kevin Michael Dawson, age 49, 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.
The conviction stemmed from Dawson downloading images of child pornography from the internet and printing them in March 2018 at Summerset.
The investigation was conducted by the Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins prosecuted the case.
Dawson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rosebud Man Charged with Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
Alvin Running Horse, Jr., age 40, was indicted on June 11, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 26, 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 April 23, 2019, at Rosebud, Running Horse, having previously been convicted of a felony, knowingly possessed a firearm.
The charge is merely an accusation and Running Horse 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 Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Running Horse was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for September 24, 2019.
Rapid City Man Sentenced on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that 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.
William Hopkins, age 25, was sentenced on July 26, 2019, to 3 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 Hopkins, a previously convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms, knowingly being in possession of a Glock, model 43, 9mm semi-automatic pistol during a traffic stop on July 23, 2018, at Rapid City.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Safe Trails Task Force, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Hopkins was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pierre Man Sentenced on Meth and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on July 29, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Paul Frost, age 47, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Frost was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 16, 2018. He pled guilty on April 3, 2019.
The convictions stemmed from an incident that occurred on June 15, 2018, where Frost knowingly and intentionally possessed with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. Further, on both April 3, 2017, and June 15, 2018, Frost, being an unlawful user of a controlled substance, did knowingly illegally possess firearms.
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 Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force and the Pierre Police Department. Assistant U.S. Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Frost will report to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service on August 6, 2019.
Pierre Man Sentenced for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on July 29, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
David Foster, age 36, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, $130,500 in restitution, a $5,000 assessment to the Domestic Trafficking Victims’ Fund, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Foster was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 17, 2018. He pled guilty on May 1, 2019.
In early 2017, an agent with the Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) initiated an undercover operation targeting chat rooms and child sexual exploitation on the “Kik” Messenger application. During the operation, the Kik group “No Limits” was discovered. An HSI agent recorded the activity of the group to include capturing images and videos of child exploitation/pornography that were shared among the group. Each member of the group received all of the content (images/videos) shared by other users in the group each time a user logged into the Kik application. One of the members of the group was identified as Foster, who was using the screen name “smartdguy”.
On May 4, 2017, a search warrant was executed in Pierre. A forensic analysis determined Foster’s iPhone6 contained over 4,700 images (including duplicates) of child pornography. A review of the videos on Foster’s iPhone6 revealed over 100 videos (including duplicates) of child pornography.
As part of his sentence, Foster was also ordered to pay $130,500 to 18 different victims whose images were found on his phone.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative of the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Foster was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Parmelee Man Sentenced for Assault by Strangulation and Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation and of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on July 29, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Michael Yellow Eyes, age 37, was sentenced to 24 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation. He was sentenced to 15 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentences will be served concurrently. Yellow Eyes was also ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Yellow Eyes was indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation on October 16, 2018. He was indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender on December 11, 2018. He pled guilty to both offenses on May 3, 2019.
The conviction for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender stemmed from conduct that occurred in August 2018. Yellow Eyes was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in April 2017. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender and to update his registration within three business days of relocating or changing employment. On August 1, 2018, Yellow Eyes moves from his registered address in Rosebud, South Dakota, but did not update his sex offender registration until August 29, 2018.
The conviction for Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation stemmed from an incident that occurred in Parmelee on September 20, 2018, wherein Yellow Eyes assaulted his spouse and intimate partner by strangling and suffocating her until she could not breathe.
These cases were investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the cases.
Yellow Eyes was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
New Mexico Woman Indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a New Mexico woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.
Holly Swallow, age 40, was indicted on June 11, 2019. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 29, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $10,000,000 fine, up to a lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that beginning a time unknown, but no later than January 1, 2016, and continuing to June 11, 2019, Swallow knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with persons to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
The charge is merely an accusation and Swallow is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Swallow was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.