District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Mission Man Sentenced on Meth and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy 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.
Walter Willard Wright, age 37, was sentenced to 160 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release for the conspiracy conviction. He was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release for the firearm conviction. The sentences will be served concurrently. Also, a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200 was ordered.
Wright was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 13, 2018. He pled guilty on May 2, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy that occurred between October 1, 2016, and January 31, 2017, in which Wright and Co-Defendant Micole Menard, knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute between 1.5 kilograms and 5 kilograms of methamphetamine. Further, on January 18, 2017, during the execution of a search warrant at the Wright’s home, 267 grams of methamphetamine and other drug paraphernalia was seized from the home along with four firearms. Wright, being a felon and unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, did knowingly illegally possess those 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 Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Wright was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Indicted on Meth Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Louie ThunderHawk, age 32, was indicted on July 16, 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 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, ThunderHawk 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.
The charge is merely an accusation and ThunderHawk 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.
ThunderHawk was released pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mission Man Indicted on Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
Lorenzo Brave Hawk, Sr., age 34, 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 November 9, 2018, Brave Hawk assaulted a woman with a baseball bat, and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury.
The charges are merely an accusation and Brave Hawk 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.
Brave Hawk was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Little Eagle Woman Indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Little Eagle, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.
Lucenda Layetta Bobtail Bear, age 38, was indicted on July 16, 2019. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on July 29, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 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 March 1, 2018, and continuing to June 17, 2018, Bobtail Bear knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with persons to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
The charge is merely an accusation and Bobtail Bear 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.
Bobtail Bear was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Iowa Woman Indicted on Meth Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux City, Iowa, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Veronica Arciniega, age 42, was indicted on July 16, 2019. She 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 a mandatory minimum of 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, Arciniega 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.
The charge is merely an accusation and Arciniega 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.
Arciniega was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Multiple Rapid City Defendants Indicted on Federal Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that three men and one woman from Rapid City, South Dakota, have been indicted by a federal grand jury on federal gun charges. All Defendants were indicted on July 23, 2019.
Julie Cagle, a/k/a Julie Davis, a/k/a Julie Dzuirman, age 48, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on July 26, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment charging her with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
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 Cagle, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully being in possession of two firearms in June 2019 at Rapid City.
Mason Means, age 21, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on July 26, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment charging him with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
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 Means, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully possessing a semi-automatic pistol in June 2019 at Rapid City.
Wanbli Morris, age 34, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on July 26, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment charging him with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Possession of a Stolen Firearm.
The maximum penalty upon conviction for each count 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 charges relate to Morris, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully possessing a stolen semi-automatic pistol in April 2019 at Rapid City.
Juan Rosales, age 45, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on July 26, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment charging him with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
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 Rosales, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully possessing a semi-automatic pistol in June 2019 at Rapid City.
The charges are merely accusations and all Defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
These cases are 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 investigations are 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 cases.
All four Defendants have been detained pending trial. Trial dates have not been set.
Yankton Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Yankton, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on July 26, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Lorri Ann Rodgers, a/k/a Lorri Lee Colton, age 57, was sentenced to 72 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.
Rodgers was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 6, 2018. She pled guilty on May 8, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning at an unknown date until on or about March 21, 2018, when Rodgers knowingly and intentionally conspire and agreed with others to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.
Rodgers was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Kyle Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor was sentenced on July 22, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
David Herman, age 21, was sentenced to 8 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.
Herman was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2018. The conviction stemmed from Herman forcing the minor victim to perform a sexual act on him between 2016 and 2017 at Pine Ridge.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Herman was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Harrold Woman Charged with ManslaughterRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Harrold, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Manslaughter.
Kiya Rojas, age 23, was indicted on July 16, 2019. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 23, 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 July 9, 2018, Rojas unlawfully killed an individual while operating a motor vehicle in a grossly negligent manner.
The charge is merely an accusation and Rojas is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Lower Brule Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Rojas was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sturgis Man Sentenced for Armed RobberyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sturgis, South Dakota, man has been sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court, for the November 2017 armed robbery of the Phillips 66 Speedy Mart in Spearfish.
Matthew Wainman, age 26, pleaded guilty to Interference with Commerce by Robbery and Conspiracy to Violate 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) on March 29, 2019. He was sentenced on July 22, 2019, to 57 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Two other co-defendants in this case were previously sentenced. David Jackson Jr., age 26, of Sturgis, pleaded guilty to Use and Brandishing of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence. He was sentenced on November 30, 2018, to 7 years in federal prison. Adam Peters, age 22, of Belle Fourche, pleaded guilty to Interference with Commerce by Robbery and Use and Brandishing of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence. He was sentenced on December 17, 2018, to 10 years in federal prison.
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 Spearfish Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Wainman was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rosebud Woman Indicted on Meth Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Jacqueline Roberta Little Sack, age 41, was indicted on July 16, 2019. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 19, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 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 for each Count. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between February 1, 2019, and July 16, 2019, Little Sack 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.
The charge is merely an accusation and Little Sack 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.
Little Sack was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rosebud Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on July 22, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Moses Left Hand Bull, age 27, was sentenced to 18 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.
Left Hand Bull was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 9, 2019. He pled guilty on May 28, 2019.
Left Hand Bull was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in August 2009. 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 February 9, 2019, and March 5, 2019, Left Hand Bull failed to register and update his registration.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Left Hand Bull was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Woman Sentenced for Theft of Federal and State FundsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman convicted of Theft of Government Property, Misuse of Funds by Representative Payee, and False Statement was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Connie Pates, age 38, was sentenced on July 22, 2019, to 5 years of probation, and was ordered to pay a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, $18,644.73 in restitution to the Social Security Administration, and $3,764 in restitution to the South Dakota Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
The conviction stems from Pates falsely claiming that a minor child was living with her in order to receive the child’s Title XVI Supplemental Security Income, as well as SNAP and Medicare benefits for herself and the child between May 2015 and July 2018 at Rapid City.
The investigation was conducted by the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Rapid City Man Indicted on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Receipt of Child Pornography, Possession of Child Pornography, and Transportation of Obscene Matter.
Michael Richard Hanson, age 52, was charged on July 16, 2019. Hanson appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on July 19, 2019, and pleaded not guilty to the charges. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, lifetime supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Hanson receiving and possessing computer images of child pornography, as well as obscene matter, at Rapid City between September 2010 and June 2019. The charges are merely an accusation and Hanson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins is prosecuting the case.
Hanson was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Multiple Defendants Indicted on Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that four South Dakota men have been indicted by a federal grand jury for several Child Pornography charges.
Derek Robert Schroeder, age 28, of Sioux Falls, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on July 17, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment charging him with Transportation of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and up $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund on each count. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between August 30, 2017, and January 22, 2018, Schroeder knowingly transported child pornography via a computer. The Indictment also alleges that between February 4, 2018, and July 31, 2018, Schroeder knowingly accessed, with intent to view, and possessed on his phone materials which contained an image of child pornography, which had been shipped and transported in and affecting interstate and foreign commerce.
Eric Wallace Hedrick, age 45, of Sioux Falls, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on July 17, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment charging him with Receipt of Child Pornography.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 40 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between December 28, 2018, and May 28, 2019, Hedrick knowingly received and attempted to receive child pornography that has been mailed, shipped, and transported in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce by any means, including by computer.
Joshua Robert Hein, age 47, of Yankton, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on July 17, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment charging him with Transportation of Child Pornography.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between November 1, 2018, and February 21, 2019, Hein knowingly transported child pornography via a computer, and by use of the internet uploaded graphic images and video files depicting one or more minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Richard Charles Tellinghuisen, age 29, of Huron, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on July 18, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment charging him with Distribution and Receipt of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and up $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund on each count. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between September 11, 2017, and September 12, 2018, Tellinghuisen knowingly received and distributed, and attempted to receive and distribute child pornography via a computer. The Indictment also alleges that between January 16, 2017, and February 21, 2018, Tellinghuisen knowingly possessed and attempted to possess material containing an image of child pornography, which had been shipped and transported in and affecting interstate and foreign commerce.
All Defendants were indicted on July 9, 2019.
The charges are merely accusations and all Defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Department of Homeland Security. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper are prosecuting the cases.
Schroeder, Hedrick, and Tellinghuisen were released on bond pending trial. Hein was returned to State Custody pending trial.
Jury trials have been set for September 24, 2019.
White River Woman Charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm by a FelonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a White River, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm by a Felon.
Andrea Ruth Barrera, age 32, was indicted on July 16, 2019. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 19, 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 at some time before September 1, 2018, and continuing until July 16, 2019, Barrera, knowingly and intentionally, combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Further, a traffic stop was conducted on March 5, 2019, wherein over $12,000 in U.S. currency, forty-one rounds of .380 AUTO caliber ammunition, and a .380 AUTO caliber, semi-automatic pistol were located in a vehicle with Barrera. The Indictment alleges that Barrera knowingly possessed the pistol while being a convicted felon.
The charges are merely accusations and Barrera is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of 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 Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Barrera was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Fort Pierre Man Indicted on Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Pierre, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Frank Loring Miller, Jr., age 61, was indicted on July 16, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 18, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 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 for each Count. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between February 1, 2019, and July 16, 2019, Miller 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 of methamphetamine. Further, on June 23, 2019, a traffic stop was conducted wherein 236 grams of methamphetamine was located in the vehicle.
The charge is merely an accusation and Miller 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.
Miller was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Wanblee Man Sentenced for Transfer of Obscene Material to a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Wanblee, South Dakota, man convicted of Transfer of Obscene Material to a Minor was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Benjamin Sitting Up, Jr., age 33, was sentenced on July 16, 2019, to 3 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.
Sitting Up was indicted by a federal grand jury in February 2018. The charge related to Sitting Up electronically sending the minor victim multiple obscene images of adults engaging in sexual acts through Facebook Messenger. Sitting Up also repeatedly propositioned the minor to engage in sexual acts through messages.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Sitting Up was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Charged with 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.
Adrian Fast Dog, age 40, was indicted on July 16, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 17, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, a lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between February 1, 2019, and April 9, 2019, Fast Dog failed to register as a sex offender and update his sex offender registration as required.
The charge is merely an accusation and Fast Dog is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Fast Dog was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Martin Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Martin, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Eugene Dubray, age 28, was sentenced on July 16, 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.
Dubray was indicted by a federal grand jury in February 2018. The charge related to Dubray forcibly engaging in sexual contact with a seven-year old victim in the laundry room area of a house at Sunrise Housing.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Dubray was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Hartford Man Charged with Being Felon in Possession of ExplosivesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Hartford, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Felon in Possession of Explosives and Unlicensed Receipt of Explosive Materials.
Gerald “Jerry” Eldon Gosmire, age 60, was indicted on July 9, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on July 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 $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund per count. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about November 27, 2018, Gosmire, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year, and knowing he was not licensed or permitted to transport explosives, knowingly possessed and transported explosive materials.
The charges are merely accusations and Gosmire is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Gosmire was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Eagle Butte Man Charged with Sexual Exploitation of a Child and Possession of Child PornographyRead 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 Sexual Exploitation of a Child and Possession of Child Pornography.
Dustin Red Legs, age 40, was indicted on May 14, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 16, 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, up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on September 24, 2018, Red Legs enticed a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for purposes of producing visual depiction of the conduct, and further possessed and attempted to possess material that contained an image of child pornography.
The charges are merely accusations and Red Legs is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
Red Legs was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Colorado Woman Sentenced to 20 Years for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Colorado Springs, Colorado, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on July 16, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey Viken, U.S. District Court.
Cathy Wells, age 50, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Wells was indicted for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine & Heroin and Distribution of a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on June 19, 2018. She pled guilty on January 4, 2019.
Wells received methamphetamine from a Colorado supplier. The methamphetamine received by Wells was later distributed in Rapid City, South Dakota. Additional co-conspirators are pending sentencing and trials in Rapid City, including one of her Colorado suppliers.
This case was investigated by South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Wells, who has been in custody since her initial appearance in South Dakota in September 2018, was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Woman Charged in Stabbing Death of ManRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, woman was charged in federal district court with Second Degree Murder.
Doreen Brown, age 43, was charged on July 1, 2019. Brown appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on July 3, 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 a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to Brown stabbing a man with a screwdriver at Pine Ridge in June 2019, resulting in his death. The charge is merely an accusation and Brown 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 Sarah B. Collins and Heather Sazama are prosecuting the case.
Brown was detained pending trial. A trial date has been set for September 10, 2019.
North Dakota Woman Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Belcourt, North Dakota, woman convicted of Assaulting a Federal Officer was sentenced on July 8, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Gloria Peltier, age 20, was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day 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.
Peltier was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 23, 2019. She pled guilty on March 25, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on December 18, 2018, when Peltier was being held at the Lower Brule Detention Center and was caught with contraband. When a corrections officer took the contraband, Peltier became agitated and correction officers had to remove Peltier from the jail cell. When the officers were removing Peltier from the cell, she balled her hand into a fist and punched one of the officers in the face causing a laceration.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Lower Brule Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Peltier was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Colorado Man Sentenced for False Statement During Purchase of FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pueblo, Colorado, man convicted of False Statement During Purchase of Firearm was sentenced on July 15, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
David Aaron Freyn, age 40, was sentenced to 2 years of probation, 40 hours of community service, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Freyn was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2018. He pled guilty on April 22, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on November 6, 2016, when Freyn purchased a firearm at a gun shop in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Freyn filled out a Department of Justice, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Form 4473, Firearms Transaction Record; however, Freyn knowingly made a false and fictitious written statement on that form when he claimed that he was the actual buyer of the firearm, when, in fact, he was not. Freyn knew he was purchasing the firearm for another person and knowingly made the false statement. The other person was a felon that was prohibited from purchasing or possessing firearms.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearm, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Wire Fraud and Mail FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of 10 counts of Wire Fraud and 8 counts of Mail Fraud was sentenced on July 15, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Tobias Ritesman, age 42, was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $680,000, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $1,800.
Ritesman and co-defendant, Timothy Burns, were indicted by a federal grand jury on January 9, 2018. Ritesman filed a Petition to Plead Guilty on April 15, 2019. The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning on or about May 3, 2016, and August 1, 2017.
“This is an appropriate federal prison sentence for what was an ambitious and surprisingly audacious fraudulent scheme,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “A lot of South Dakotans lost a lot of money as the result of the web of lies spun by this defendant.”
Ritesman started a company called Ritesman Enterprises, Inc. (REI) in approximately 2012. Ritesman had three companies that operated under REI’s umbrella: Tinkers and Thinkers, Tiger Consulting, and Global Aquaponics, Inc. Global Aquaponics was active in pursuing investments for a proposed aquaponics facility to be built in Brookings, South Dakota. The purpose of this facility was to raise fish and produce. In approximately June of 2016, Ritesman then formed SD Food Security, LLC (SDFS), which was also involved in the aquaponics project.
Burns owned and operated multiple businesses in the Brookings area: Oakwood Equity, Concrete Contractors (CCI), and Multiply. Burns held these companies under a parent company called Syntech.
The fundraising plan for the aquaponics facility in Brookings was that Global Aquaponics would contribute $5.6 million to the project and own 51% of the facility. SDFS would contribute $5.4 million to the project (raised primarily by selling investment shares) and own 49% of the facility.
The Private Placement Memorandum (PPM) offering an investment opportunity in the aquaponics facility was dated June 20, 2016, and the offering expired on June 19, 2017. It stated that the proposed facility was modeled after an aquaponics facility in Maryland. The PPM said that Global Aquaponics board members included some individuals with aquaponics experience, including an individual involved with the Maryland facility. In addition to describing the project, it identified the specific 40-acre parcel of land near Brookings that would be purchased for the project. The PPM detailed how it would use the proceeds, including spending nearly $1.2 million for purchasing the property.
Between approximately May 3, 2016, and August 1, 2017, Ritesman and Burns received a total of $1,030,000 in investments in the project from 34 investors. Bank records showed that the money from investors was deposited into four different accounts. Ritesman and Burns were each stealing investor money and using it for their own purposes.
Co-defendant Timothy Burns’ sentencing is set for Monday, July 22, 2019.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.
Ritesman was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
St. Francis Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on July 9, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Marti Rosalie Whirlwind Soldier, age 23, was sentenced to 50 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.
Whirlwind Soldier was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 11, 2018. She pled guilty on April 30, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from a drug conspiracy that occurred beginning no later than October 15, 2018, and continuing to November 2, 2018, in which Whirlwind Soldier knowingly and intentionally conspired with her co-defendants to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in the District of South Dakota. At the time of her arrest, law enforcement recovered a firearm, 256 grams of methamphetamine, scales, baggies and other drug trafficking items.
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 Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Whirlwind Soldier was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault by Striking, Beating, or Wounding, and Simple Assault was sentenced on July 8, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Jared Bourland, age 38, was sentenced to 14 months in federal prison, followed by 1 year of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,137.80 in restitution and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Bourland was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 14, 2017. He was found guilty by a jury trial on April 26, 2019.
The convictions stem from incidents on December 28, 2016, and December 29, 2016, when law enforcement was doing a welfare check at the Bourland residence based on a call from Bourland’s mother-in-law. When law enforcement arrived, the victim was upset and crying. The victim left the residence with law enforcement. Later that night, the victim disclosed that over the past two days, she had been strangled, kicked, and punched by Bourland. She was transported to the Indian Health Services where she was treated for her injuries.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Bourland was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Current and Former Tribal Officials Indicted for Embezzlement & Theft from an Indian Tribal Organization and Aiding and AbettingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that past and present Crow Creek Sioux Tribe councilmembers were indicted by a federal grand jury for embezzlement & theft from an Indian tribal organization, and aiding and abetting.
Roland Robert Hawk, Sr., age 50, Francine Maria Middletent, age 55, Roxanne Lynette Sazue, age 62, and Jacquelyn Ernestine Pease, age 34, all from Ft. Thompson, South Dakota, were indicted on July 9, 2019. All four defendants appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica Duffy on July 12, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
According to the Indictment, in about March 2014 through February 2019, Hawk, Middletent, Sazue, and Pease embezzled, stole, willfully misapplied, willfully permitted to misapply, 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 the timeframe, Hawk served as the elected Treasurer of the tribe, and all of the other defendants worked for Hawk in the tribe’s finance office. In their respective leadership roles and employment positions, the defendants had the opportunity to access 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, and Sazue were released on bond. A trial date has not been set.
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.
Two Men Sentenced for Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two men convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime, were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Dayvon Byrd, age 29, from Watertown, South Dakota, convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Joshua Noel Paul, age 38, from Watertown, South Dakota, convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime, was sentenced to 211 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Byrd was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 13, 2018, and a Superseding Information was filed on November 16, 2011. He pled guilty on December 7, 2018. Paul was indicated by a federal grand jury on March 13, 2018, and a Superseding Indictment was filed on June 12, 2018. He pled guilty on September 14, 2018.
The convictions stem from a methamphetamine conspiracy in and around the Watertown and Sisseton areas from November 23, 2017, through February 28, 2018. The conspiracy involved over 500 grams of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. Byrd, and three other co-defendants, Alexis Dumarce, Amos Hall, and Danny Callahan, were selling methamphetamine brought to South Dakota from California by Paul and co-defendant Victor Caperon. Caperon and Paul were found with six pounds of methamphetamine on February 28, 2018, during a traffic stop in Corson County, South Dakota. This methamphetamine was intended for sale in the Watertown and Sisseton areas.
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, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Corson County Sheriff’s Office, Mobridge Police Department, and the Watertown Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Byrd and Paul were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Hearing Set for Michael Lambert Seabrooke in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
Greenville, South Carolina --- United States Attorney Sherri A. Lydon announced today that Michael Lambert Seabrooke, of Columbia, was arrested on a federal criminal complaint and charged with possessing firearms (destructive devices) which are not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
Seabrooke will have a detention and preliminary hearing at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 15, 2019, on the third floor of the Clement F. Haynsworth Federal Courthouse, 300 East Washington Street, Greenville, South Carolina. United States Magistrate Judge Kevin McDonald will preside.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Pickens Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Max Cauthen of the Greenville Office.
U.S. Attorney Lydon stated that all charges in this case are merely allegations and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
#####
St. Francis Woman Sentenced for Meth and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on July 1, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Rainbow Stoneman, age 37, was sentenced to 100 months in federal prison, 4 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Stoneman was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 11, 2018. She pled guilty on April 16, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from a drug conspiracy that occurred beginning no later than October 15, 2018, and continuing to November 2, 2018, in which Stoneman knowingly and intentionally conspired with her co-defendants to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in the District of South Dakota. Further, Stoneman was an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, which prohibited her from possessing firearms, and she was in possession of a firearm at the time of her arrest. At the time of her arrest, law enforcement recovered 256 grams of methamphetamine, scales, baggies and other drug trafficking items.
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 Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Stoneman was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Woman Charged with Methamphetamine OffensesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, and Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.
Terri Paulhamus, age 38, was indicted on August 14, 2018. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 6, 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 October 26, 2016, and continuing to August 14, 2018, Paulhamus, knowingly and intentionally, conspired and agreed with persons to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. The Indictment further alleges that on or about October 26, 2016, and October 14, 2017, Paulhamus aided and abetted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possessed with intent to distribute methamphetamine, respectively.
The charges are merely accusations and Paulhamus is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Paulhamus was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Nebraska Woman Indicted on Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Nebraska woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Marcitta Connors, age 24, was indicted on September 11, 2018. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 8, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in prison and/or a $10,000,000 fine, a lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for each Count. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that beginning no later than January 1, 2015, continuing to September 11, 2018, Connors knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The charge is merely an accusation and Connors 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 Trials Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Connors was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Mission Woman Sentenced for Misprision of a FelonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, woman convicted of Misprision of a Felon was sentenced on May 13, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Sharlie Colombe, a/k/a Sharli Colombe, age 35, was sentenced to 3 years’ probation, ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $10,000, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Colombe was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 14, 2018, which was followed by a Superseding Information on February 19, 2019. She pled guilty to the Superseding Information on February 19, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred between February 4, 2011, through June 6, 2017, where Co-Defendant Mark O’Leary passed at least 544 checks drawn on a bank account belonging to the victim. The checks were used for personal items for O’Leary and the purchases were not authorized by the owner of the bank account. Colombe knew of O’Leary’s activities, helping him to cash some of the checks and did not report it to law enforcement.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Mission Man Acquitted on Ammunition ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man was acquitted of Possession of Ammunition by a Felon as a result of a federal jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota, on June 5 and June 6, 2019.
Aaron Santistevan, age 43, was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 13, 2019, and a Superseding Indictment was filed on May 14, 2019.
The charge relates to the allegation that on December 28, 2018, Santistevan, having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year, possessed 40 rounds of copper-jacketed, hollow point .50 Action Express caliber handgun ammunition.
The investigation was conducted by Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the U.S. Attorney's Office prosecuted the case.
Midland Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Midland, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on August 8, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Angelica Dolloff, age 31, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Dolloff was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 12, 2018. She pled guilty on February 20, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from a methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy that occurred between June 1, 2013, and continued through June 12, 2018, wherein Dolloff knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to distribute between 500 grams and 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine. When arrested, Dolloff was unlawfully in possession of .40 caliber pistol ammunition.
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 South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Dolloff was released on conditions pending placement at a Bureau of Prisons facility to begin serving her custody sentence.
Fort Thompson Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on May 13, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Brooke Kristen Shields, age 32, was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison, 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Shields was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 14, 2018.
She pled guilty on February 19, 2019.The conviction stemmed from her involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy beginning at some point before January 1, 2017, and continuing until November 14, 2018. Shields conspired to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.
Shields was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Woman Sentenced for Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on June 17, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Marilyn Ducheneaux, age 22, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison, 5 years of supervised release, a $500 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Ducheneaux was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 16, 2018. She pled guilty on April 1, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from conduct that occurred beginning at a time unknown, but no later than on January 1, 2016, and continuing to October 16, 2018, in South Dakota, when Ducheneaux knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Ducheneaux was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced on Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm was sentenced on June 18, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Devin Dolphus, a/k/a Devin Pretty Weasel, age 19, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, forfeiture of a firearm and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Dolphus was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 12, 2019. He pled guilty on April 3, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on January 16, 2019. Law enforcement responded to a call of an unknown individual sleeping in a vehicle. Once on scene, law enforcement found and seized a firearm from Dolphus’ vehicle, the firearm had a barrel length of less than 18 inches, and was not registered to Dolphus in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
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, Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Dolphus was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Charged with Burglary, Larceny, and Firearm OffensesRead 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 First Degree Burglary, Larceny, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, and Possession of a Firearm by a Felon.
Judson His Law, age 24, was indicted on May 14, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 30, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 25 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 February 13, 2019, His Law unlawfully entered and remained in an occupied residence with the intent to commit the crime of larceny and that he in fact stole a firearm and a Dodge Challenger Hellcat from the residence. The Indictment further alleges that His Law possessed a firearm having previously been convicted of a felony offense.
The charges are merely accusations and His Law 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 Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
His Law was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Dupree Man Sentenced for Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Dupree, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on May 14, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Waylon Young Bird, age 50, was sentenced to 136 months in federal prison, 5 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.
Young Bird was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 15, 2018. He was found guilty by a Jury on April 4, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from incidents that occurred from January 1, 2016 until May 15, 2018, when Young Bird knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine, which is a Schedule II controlled substance, on the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation. The Jury also convicted Young Bird of knowingly and intentionally possessing with the intent to distribute a detectable amount of methamphetamine from a March 9, 2018, traffic stop. During this stop, Young Bird was found to have just under 10 grams of methamphetamine hidden in his sock in eight little baggies.
The investigation was conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Young Bird was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Chamberlain Man Indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Chamberlain, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Philip Battese, a/k/a Philip Anthony Battese, Jr., age 37, was indicted on April 9, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 3, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in prison and/or a $10,000,000 fine, a lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that beginning no later than on or about January 1, 2016, and continuing to April 9, 2019, in South Dakota, Battese knowingly and intentionally, combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The charge is merely an accusation and Battese 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 Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Battese was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rosebud Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on July 8, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Jonathan Anthony Jones, a/k/a D.J. Jones, age 29, was sentenced to 21 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.
Jones was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 22, 2019. He pled guilty on April 29, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred in Mission, South Dakota, on November 16, 2018. On that date, Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services Officers responded to a report of an intoxicated person at Mission City Park. Officers subsequently made contact with Jones, who was intoxicated and was walking with a small child. Jones was placed under arrest for child neglect and public intoxication and was placed in a patrol vehicle. Jones subsequently became belligerent and began kicking the door of the patrol vehicle. The officer stopped the vehicle and opened the door to gain Jones’ compliance, at which point Jones kicked the officer.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Jones was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rosebud Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on July 3, 2019, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.
Travis Bird In Ground, age 20, was sentenced to 2 years of probation and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $25.
Bird In Ground was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 13, 2019. He pled guilty on July 3, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on August 25, 2018, Bird In Ground did forcibly assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with a law enforcement officer who was employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and that such conduct involved physical contact.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for RobberyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of two counts of Robbery was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Miles Michael Goings, age 25, was sentenced on June 28, 2019, to 8 years and 1 month in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and restitution to the victims on each count.
Goings was indicted by a federal grand jury in November 2018. The charges related to Goings robbing the victim in his residence on June 10, 2018, at Pine Ridge. Goings took the victim’s property, and then assaulted him by kicking him in the face before stealing his vehicle. On July 21, 2018, Goings was again at Pine Ridge and robbed another victim at Pizza Hut by forcibly taking her vehicle from the parking lot.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan Poppen and Cassandra DeCoste prosecuted the case.
Goings was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of a Short-Barrel ShotgunRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Scott Schauer, age 48, was sentenced on July 2, 2019, to 2 and 1/2 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 Schauer knowingly being in possession of a short-barrel shotgun. Additionally Schauer was involved with trading methamphetamine for two Kahr semi-automatic pistols which had been stolen from The Rooster 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.
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.
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.
Schauer was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Kyle Tobacco, age 25, was sentenced on July 3, 2019, to 46 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The charge related to Tobacco, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, being in possession of a .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol at Rapid City in September 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 Ben Patterson prosecuted the case.
Tobacco was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Attempted Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Receipt of Child Pornography was sentenced on July 3, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Timothy George Bender, age 56, was sentenced to 5 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 Bender 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 Bender.
The investigation was conducted by the Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins prosecuted the case.
Bender was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.