District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Black Hawk Man Sentenced to 11 Years in Federal Prison for Role in Large-Scale Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in Rapid City Area and within the Pine Ridge ReservationRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a man from Black Hawk, South Dakota, convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on September 2, 2025.
Jackie Corean, 63, was sentenced to 11 years and three months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Corean was indicted by a federal grand jury in February 2024 for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. He pleaded guilty on May 19, 2025.
Between January 2022 and February 2024, Corean and others were involved in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in South Dakota, including in the Rapid City area and within the Pine Ridge Reservation. During the conspiracy, large quantities of methamphetamine were transported from Denver, Colorado, to South Dakota, for distribution. Corean allowed his home to be used as a central hub for the distribution and also spoke with others in the conspiracy about taking firearms to Colorado to exchange for methamphetamine. Prior to Corean being able to take the firearms to Denver, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Corean’s residence and seized six firearms and numerous items of drug paraphernalia consistent with drug distribution.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, the Rapid City Police Department, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the Wyoming State Highway Patrol, and the North Metro Denver Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Corean was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sully County Farmers Ordered to Pay over $4 Million in Civil Judgment for Crop Insurance FraudRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Chief U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange has entered a judgment against James and Levi Garrett and ordered them to pay a combined total of $4,019,820 to resolve violations of the False Claims Act arising out of their 2018 and 2019 crop insurance fraud.
The civil judgment follows the defendants’ 2022 criminal convictions for the same conduct. The defendants operated a family farm and ranch in Sully County. In 2018, the defendants falsely certified to a crop insurance company that they planted 2,200 total acres of sunflowers. In fact, the defendants did not plant any sunflowers, and they wrongfully received indemnity from the insurance company as if their entire crop failed. In 2019, James Garrett falsely certified he planted 47.5 acres of corn as part of a larger claim. In fact, no corn was planted, and he wrongfully received indemnity from the insurance company that year. The defendants fraudulently obtained over $1.3 million in total benefits from their crimes.
“Protecting taxpayer-funded programs from fraud and abuse remains a top priority for our office,” said U.S. Attorney Ramsdell, “and we won’t stop at criminal convictions. As this case demonstrates, those who attempt to cheat federal programs face serious consequences—both criminal and civil.”
The False Claims Act allows the government to seek treble damages and civil penalties against individuals and companies that knowingly submit false or fraudulent claims for payment to federal programs. In this case, the defendants were held liable for civil damages in addition to their criminal convictions.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Risk Management Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexis A. Warner prosecuted the case.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY – U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a man from Rapid City, South Dakota, convicted of Receipt of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on August 29, 2025.
Jerry Lamont, 61, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $35,630 in restitution and $200 in special assessments to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Lamont was indicted for the charges by a federal grand jury in January 2025. He pleaded guilty on May 14, 2025.
Between January and December 2024, Lamont uploaded multiple pictures and videos of child pornography into his Dropbox cloud storage account. Lamont possessed 12 electronic devices, all of which contained child pornography. The material depicted children as young as infants being sexually abused, computer-generated imagery, bestiality, and bondage. Forty-one children have been identified by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children as victims whose images Lamont possessed. Restitution was ordered to several of the victims and the South Dakota ICAC Digital Investigations Fund.
“This defendant was in possession of 13,137 images of child sexual abuse material,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “Due to the relentless and collaborative work of local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, the defendant was located, apprehended, and swiftly prosecuted for his exploitative conduct. The defendant is now out of our community as he begins his 15 year sentence in federal prison.”
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Knox prosecuted the case.
Lamont was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Manderson Man Found Not Guilty of Involuntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a man from Manderson, South Dakota, was acquitted of Involuntary Manslaughter following a federal jury trial in Rapid City, South Dakota, on August 28, 2025.
Matocika Poor Bear, age 20, was indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2025. The indictment charged that on November 16, 2024, the defendant assaulted a man after an unknown dispute at a residence in Manderson, SD. The male sustained an injury and later passed away.
The investigation was conducted by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety and the FBI. The U.S. Attorney's Office prosecuted the case.
Todd County Man Acquitted of AssaultRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a man from Todd County, South Dakota, was acquitted of Assault by Striking, Beating, and Wounding after a federal jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota, on August 27, 2025.
Joel Miller, age 51, was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2025. The charge related to an allegation that Miller assaulted a man in May 2025, in Todd County, and within the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because federal law mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
The investigation was conducted by the Todd County Sheriff’s Office, the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and the FBI. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case.
Sisseton Man Sentenced to Almost 30 Years in Federal Prison for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a man from Sisseton, South Dakota, convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Sexual Abuse of a Minor. The sentencing took place on August 26, 2025.
Chauncey Allen White, age 31, was sentenced to two years and eight months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100 on the Assault with a Dangerous Weapon charge.
White was sentenced to 26 years and eight months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200 on the Sexual Abuse of a Minor charge. Upon release from federal prison, White must register as a sex offender. White’s sentences are to be served consecutively, which amounts to 29 years and four months in federal prison.
White was indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in March 2024. He was indicted by a federal grand jury for Sexual Abuse of a Minor in July 2024. White pleaded guilty to Assault with a Dangerous Weapon on November 18, 2024. He pleaded guilty to Sexual Abuse of a Minor on June 9, 2025.
The Assault with a Dangerous Weapon conviction stemmed from an incident on February 28, 2023, when White assaulted his romantic partner with a knife. The victim was trying to break up with White, which angered White. While sitting in the victim’s vehicle in the parking lot where she worked, White held a knife to the victim’s body and asked how she wanted to die. The victim was able to escape without physical injury. White, however, stabbed the center console of the victim’s car causing property damage.
The Sexual Abuse of a Minor conviction stemmed from an incident in 2014 when White, 20-21 years old at the time, provided alcohol to two young teenage girls. The girls became heavily intoxicated and lost consciousness. White then removed the clothes of minor victim 1 and began to vaginally rape her. She came to and was able to push him off. White then found minor victim 2 and proceeded to vaginally rape her before she regained consciousness. The incident happened at White’s family home on the Lake Traverse Reservation.
These cases were investigated by the FBI and the Sisseton Wahpeton Law Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Ebert-Webb prosecuted the case.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
White was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Women Sentenced to 16 Years and 10 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Chief U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange has sentenced two Sioux Falls women convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Hailey Schneiderman, 25, was sentenced to 16 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. The sentencing took place on August 4, 2025.
Heather Downey, 54, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. The sentencing took place on August 25, 2025.
Schneiderman and Downey were indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in November 2024. Schneiderman pleaded guilty on May 8, 2025. Downey pleaded guilty on June 4, 2025.
Schneiderman obtained methamphetamine from a source in California and sold it to Downey and others in the Sioux Falls area. Downey also sold methamphetamine in the Sioux Falls area. Schneiderman was identified when she twice sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant. In total, those sales involved more than 100 grams of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Joyce prosecuted the case.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Schneiderman and Downey were immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Timber Lake Man Sentenced to 3 Years in Federal Prison for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a man from Timber Lake, South Dakota, convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact without Consent. The sentencing took place on August 25, 2025.
Jaren Loren Lane Mellette, age 27, was sentenced to three years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Mellette was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Mellette was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2024. He pleaded guilty on June 3, 2025.
During the summer of 2023, Mellette groped a 13-year-old girl without her consent. The incident occurred in Corson County, South Dakota, within the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, authorizes certain crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country to be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was also brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
Mellette was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mitchell, SD Woman and North Jackson, OH Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange has sentenced a woman from Mitchell, South Dakota, and a woman from North Jackson, Ohio, both convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencings took place on April 7, 2025, and August 25, 2025.
Catherine Hamilton, 55, of Mitchell, South Dakota, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. The sentencing took place on April 7, 2025.
Christine Hughes, 66, of North Jackson, Ohio, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. The sentencing took place on August 25, 2025.
Hamilton and Hughes were indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in April 2024. Hamilton pleaded guilty on January 27, 2025; Hughes pleaded guilty on May 27, 2025.
Court documents show that Hamilton received several packages of methamphetamine through the United States Postal Service from Hughes in Ohio. Hamilton then distributed the methamphetamine to others in South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Mitchell Police Department. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Joyce prosecuted the case.
Hamilton and Hughes were immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced to Nearly 4 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing a Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a man from Mission, South Dakota, convicted of Possession of a Stolen Firearm. The sentencing took place on August 25, 2025.
Marlow Poor Thunder, 30, was sentenced to three years and 11 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Poor Thunder was indicted for Possession of a Stolen Firearm and Felon in Possession of a Firearm by a federal grand jury in February 2025. He pleaded guilty to Possession of a Stolen Firearm on July 28, 2025.
According to court documents, on October 24, 2024, Poor Thunder was driving a stolen vehicle when he was stopped by a trooper with the South Dakota Highway Patrol. At that time, Poor Thunder possessed a stolen firearm, which he had stolen earlier that day from another vehicle. Law enforcement located and seized the firearm.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the Yankton Police Department, and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
Poor Thunder was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Nevada Man with Ties to South Dakota Sentenced to 15 ½ Years in Federal Prison for Production of Child Pornography and CyberstalkingRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange has sentenced a man from Las Vegas, Nevada, convicted of Production of Child Pornography and Cyberstalking. The sentencing took place on August 25, 2025.
Jaykob Elijah Varner, age 25, was sentenced to 15 years and six months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Varner was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2024. He pleaded guilty on June 2, 2025.
The conviction stemmed from incidents occurring between August 1, 2023, and April 13, 2024, when Varner coerced a juvenile female to send him nude photographs and videos of herself. Varner cyberstalked another juvenile female and similarly coerced her into sending nude photographs of herself. In both instances, Varner threatened to expose the victims’ photographs to their family, friends, and classmates if the victims refused to comply with Varner’s intensifying demands. These communications took place through Snapchat.
“This case is a sobering example of the real and serious threats our children face online,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “The victims in this case were sextorted by a complete stranger, whose escalating demands for compromising photos led the victims to believe they had no other choice than to comply. Although Varner will rightfully spend the next 15 years of his life in federal prison, there are others out there attempting to perpetrate the same crime. It is therefore critical that we talk with the children in our lives about the dangers associated with social media and how to report this type of illegal activity.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and DCI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Ebert-Webb prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Varner was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Former Box Elder Teacher’s Aide Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Enticement of a Minor StudentRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a woman from Tonganoxie, Kansas, convicted of Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet. The sentencing took place on August 18, 2025.
Duncan Sioux Witt, 29, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $100 in special assessments to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. A federal grand jury indicted Witt for the charge in August 2024. She pleaded guilty on April 30, 2025.
During the commission of her crime, Witt was employed at Douglas High School in Box Elder, South Dakota, as a special education paraprofessional teacher’s aide. The victim was a student receiving special education services at the school. No later than February 2024, Witt began sending the boy sexually explicit messages, as well as sexually explicit images and videos of herself, using Snapchat. Over time, Witt induced the boy to send her sexually explicit pictures and videos of himself, which she saved in her Snapchat account. Witt and the boy exchanged thousands of messages over the course of several months. When the victim turned 18, Witt convinced her former husband to allow him to move into their home. Then, Witt provided the victim with alcohol and began a sexual relationship with him. Witt repeatedly told the victim she was pregnant with his child and convinced him she intended to leave her marriage to be with him.
The investigation revealed Witt had inappropriate conversations over Snapchat with multiple other students, in addition to the victim in this case. Witt was arrested in South Carolina while working at an elementary school.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the Box Elder Police Department and the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Knox prosecuted the case.
Witt was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Aberdeen, SD Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a man from Aberdeen, South Dakota, convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on August 18, 2025.
Kaleb Lee Fletcher Kapit, 44, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Kapit was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in February 2024. He pleaded guilty on May 19, 2025.
Kapit and others conspired to distribute methamphetamine in Aberdeen, South Dakota. In February 2023, law enforcement seized a package sent to Kapit by his co-conspirator, which contained approximately one pound of methamphetamine and was intended for distribution to others. Through further investigation, law enforcement learned that Kapit had sent money to someone in California on multiple occasions.
This case was investigated by the Brown County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Kapit was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Two Fort Thompson Men Sentenced to Years in Federal Prison in Assault CaseRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced two men from Fort Thompson, South Dakota, in a case involving a violent assault with a firearm.
Trevin Witt, age 18, pleaded guilty to Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, and Using and Carrying a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. On March 31, 2025, Witt was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Lawrence Taylor, age 21, pleaded guilty to Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. On August 19, 2025, Taylor was sentenced to four years and nine months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Witt and Taylor were indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2024. Witt pleaded guilty on February 24, 2025, and Taylor pleaded guilty on May 15, 2025.
The convictions stem from a violent incident that occurred on April 13, 2024, in the Crow Creek Sioux Indian Reservation. On that day, Witt and Taylor forcibly entered the home of the victim. Witt held a gun to the head of a resident demanding to know where the victim was. When the victim came up the stairs from the basement, he was shot by Witt. The victim survived the encounter.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the FBI and BIA-Office of Justice Services – Crow Creek Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Both Witt and Taylor were immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service following their respective sentencings.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Two Years in Federal Prison for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a man from Rapid City, South Dakota, convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on August 18, 2025.
Brady Makes Room For Them, age 40, was sentenced to two years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Makes Room For Them was indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2025. He pleaded guilty on June 2, 2025.
Makes Room For Them was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in September 2005. Consequently, he is required to register as a sex offender and update his registration within three business days of relocation or changing employment or student status. Makes Room For Them was convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender in 2012, 2018, and 2023. In December 2024, Makes Room For Them updated his sex offender registration with the Rapid City Police Department. He relocated from his registered address on March 6, 2025, but did not thereafter update his sex offender registration. On March 20, 2025, Makes Room For Them was arrested in Rapid City.
This case was brought as a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Makes Room For Them was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for 20 Years for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl in the Rapid City AreaRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a man from Rapid City, South Dakota, convicted of two counts of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on August 15, 2025.
Michael Cole, a/k/a “Texas,” 34, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. For Count 2, Cole was also sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Both sentences are set to run concurrently.
Cole was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2024. He pleaded guilty on March 31, 2025.
Between January 2024 and February 2024, Cole engaged in a conspiracy with others to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl throughout the Rapid City area. Cole travelled to Colorado, where he purchased large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl. Cole would then transport the narcotics back to South Dakota for further distribution. Cole was on federal supervised release for a prior drug conspiracy at the time of his participation in this conspiracy.
“This investigation resulted in the seizure of more than seven pounds of methamphetamine and over 2,000 counterfeit M/30 fentanyl pills destined for distribution in the Rapid City area,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “Thanks to the dogged work of the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team and this resulting federal prosecution, Cole will be spending the next two decades of his life in prison.”
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team, which is comprised of investigators from the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the National Guard Counter Drug Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward C. Tarbay prosecuted the case.
Cole was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Voluntary Manslaughter and Assault with a Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a man from Mission, South Dakota, convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter and Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. The sentencing took place on August 19, 2025.
Eric Roubideaux, II, age 21, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for Voluntary Manslaughter and 10 years in federal prison for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon, with the sentences to be served concurrently, followed by three years of supervised release. Roubideaux was further ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Roubideaux was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2024. He pleaded guilty on May 19, 2025.
In the early morning hours of July 7, 2024, within the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation, Roubideaux was with family members at a residence in Mission, South Dakota. Roubideaux became angry and attacked a family member with a garden hoe and kicked and stomped her with shod feet. He then fled the residence. The family member suffered injuries that included a concussion and a laceration to her scalp that required medical attention. After he fled the residence, Roubideaux came upon a man walking along the street and confronted him. Roubideaux attacked the man with a stick and knocked him to the ground. Roubideaux then kicked and stomped the man with shod feet, including repeatedly kicking the man in the head. Roubideaux fled the scene, but he was arrested a short time later. The man suffered fatal blunt force trauma injuries.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Roubideaux was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Woman Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a woman from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer. The sentencing took place on August 18, 2025.
Michaela Big Eagle, age 27, was sentenced to time served in custody through August 25, 2025, equal to approximately six months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Big Eagle was indicted by a federal grand jury in February 2025. She pleaded guilty on June 23, 2025.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on February 14, 2025, in Rosebud, South Dakota, within the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. On that date, Big Eagle was involved in a traffic stop and was questioned by a Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services Officer regarding methamphetamine use while Big Eagle was pregnant. While Big Eagle was in the officer’s patrol vehicle, she was informed that she was under arrest for Child Endangerment. Big Eagle got out of the patrol vehicle and ran to her own vehicle. She attempted to lock the vehicle doors, but the officer was able to get into the backseat of Big Eagle’s vehicle. Big Eagle ignored commands from the officer and fought with him over the keys to the vehicle. Big Eagle then started her vehicle and drove away at a high rate of speed. The officer fell out of Big Eagle’s vehicle as she drove away.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Zachrison prosecuted the case.
Big Eagle was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to over 4 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing a Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a man from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on August 18, 2025.
Quincy Lamar Johnson, 35, was sentenced to four years and three months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Johnson was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in February 2025. He pleaded guilty on May 5, 2025.
Johnson was involved in a motor vehicle accident in Sioux Falls in July 2024 and was seriously injured. When he was removed from the vehicle, officers found a bag containing two 9mm pistols, which Johnson had placed on the floorboard of the car. At that time, Johnson was prohibited from possessing firearms because of felony convictions in Georgia for aggravated assault, assault with a firearm, and possession of a firearm by a felon/addict.
“This case and others like it demonstrate the effective partnership between the Sioux Falls Police Department and federal law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “Working together, we are interrupting violence in the community by removing illegally possessed firearms from our neighborhoods and holding violent offenders to account in federal court.”
Federal firearm prosecutions are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). Through PSN, the District of South Dakota seeks to bring together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Joyce prosecuted the case.
Johnson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mobridge Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Federal Prison for Assaulting a Man with a Pistol and a KnifeRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a man from Mobridge, South Dakota, who was convicted of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. The sentencing took place on August 18, 2025.
Kendall Lee White Tail, age 34, was sentenced to eight years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
White Tail was indicted by a federal grand jury in May 2024. He pleaded guilty on May 19, 2025.
On the evening of June 25, 2023, White Tail confronted and threatened a couple strolling in McLaughlin, South Dakota, within the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation. White Tail placed a pistol to the woman’s head and racked it, saying “I’ll get you.” Later that night, White Tail approached the man, who was chatting with a friend on a stoop. White Tail had a pistol in one hand and a knife in the other. White Tail slashed the man’s face and leg with the knife, then pistol whipped him. The man permanently lost sight in his left eye and suffered fractured orbital and nasal bones in the assault.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
White Tail was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
McLaughlin Man Sentenced to over 31 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Abusing a Three-Year-Old ChildRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a man from McLaughlin, South Dakota, convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child. The sentencing took place on August 18, 2025.
Kurtis Charles Cross, age 67, was sentenced to 31 years and eight months in federal prison and five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Cross was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2024. He pleaded guilty on June 3, 2025.
In late 2023, Cross was staying at a home in McLaughlin, South Dakota, within the Standing Rock Reservation. Several young children lived in the house. On August 4, 2024, Cross was left home alone with a three-year-old-girl for around 20 minutes. When an adult household member came home, she sensed something was wrong. She crept to Cross’ bedroom and saw the three-year-old sitting in a chair, terrified and clutching her teddy bear. With his hand, Cross had forced the child’s mouth open and forced her to perform oral sex on him. The household member yanked the girl away and promptly reported the incident to the police.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, authorizes certain crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country to be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was also brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the FBI, the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services, and the Corson County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
Cross was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Bullhead Man Sentenced to 3 ½ Years in Federal Prison for Slashing Another Man with a KnifeRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a man from Bullhead, South Dakota, who was convicted of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. The sentencing took place on August 18, 2025.
Martin Joseph Taken Alive, age 32, was sentenced to three years and six months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Taken Alive was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2025. He pleaded guilty on June 2, 2025.
On January 4, 2024, Taken Alive and the adult male victim were lounging in a home in Bullhead, South Dakota, within the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation. Both were heavily intoxicated and began to quarrel. Taken Alive drew a knife and slashed the victim across the chest, then fled the home. The wound was approximately six inches long and required hospitalization. Taken Alive turned himself in to law enforcement later that evening.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
Taken Alive was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a man from Rapid City, South Dakota, who was convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing occurred on August 15, 2025.
Jayquan Flying Horse, 20, was sentenced to two years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Flying Horse was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in February 2025. He pleaded guilty on May 5, 2025.
In December 2024, Rapid City police officers arrived at an apartment building in Rapid City for a weapons call. Flying Horse and two others were exiting the building when the police arrived. When officers asked for identification, Flying Horse attempted to avoid them and refused to identify himself. While an officer was attempting to identify Flying Horse, Flying Horse admitted he was carrying a Taurus, 9mm caliber, semi-automatic pistol. Flying Horse had previously been convicted of a felony, was on parole for a felony drug conviction, and knew that he was prohibited from possessing firearms pursuant to his parole agreement.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). Through PSN, the District of South Dakota seeks to bring together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Flying Horse was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Woman Indicted on Federal Charges for Straw Purchasing Firearm Connected to Local Shooting Involving Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a federal grand jury has indicted a woman from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm and False Statement to a Licensed Firearm Dealer.
“Keeping firearms out of the hands of those who are legally prohibited from possessing them is a top priority at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in South Dakota,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “As this case demonstrates, lying to obtain a firearm for a convicted felon can have grave consequences. We are therefore committed to working with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to hold straw purchasers to account.”
Chardea Danies Odom, age 30, was indicted in August 2025. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on August 14, 2025, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The indictment alleges that in June 2025, Odom purchased a firearm from a local, licensed firearm dealer. On the firearm purchase paperwork, Odom indicated she was the buyer of the firearm when in fact she was actually purchasing it for another person. That firearm was later used by a person prohibited from possessing guns in shootings in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, one of which involved law enforcement officers.
“This is how innocent people get hurt and officers end up staring down the barrel of a gun,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Travis Riddle. “When you straw purchase a firearm for a convicted felon, you are not just breaking the law, you are placing lives at risk. ATF will continue to pursue anyone who arms dangerous individuals. We are proud to stand beside the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Sioux Falls Police Department, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation on this case and the issue of straw purchasing.”
“The Sioux Falls Police Department thanks our State and Federal partners for their support in holding the suspects accountable for their actions,” said Sioux Falls Police Department Chief Jon Thum. “This event highlights the danger faced by the public and our officers when firearms end up in the wrong hands.”
“This defendant’s actions led to the lives of three law enforcement officers being threatened,” said South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley. “The investigation and arrest of this defendant was made possible thanks to the combined effort of several agencies.”
The maximum penalty upon conviction for False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm is up to 10 years in federal custody 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 maximum penalty upon conviction for False Statement to a Licensed Firearm Dealer is up to 5 years in custody 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 investigation is being led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Connie Larson is prosecuting the case.
Odom was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set. The charge is merely an accusation, and Odom is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Rosebud Woman Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Shulte has sentenced a Rosebud, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer. The sentencing took place on August 11, 2025.
Jamie Leader Charge, age 32, was sentenced to time served in custody through August 23, 2025, equal to approximately four months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Leader Charge was indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2024. She pleaded guilty on May 12, 2025.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on November 5, 2024, in St. Francis, South Dakota, within the Rosebud Indian Reservation. On that date, a Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services (RSTLES) officer responded to a report that Leader Charge was causing a disturbance at a residence in St. Francis. Upon arrival at the residence, the officer learned Leader Charge had an active tribal arrest warrant and placed her under arrest. Leader Charge resisted and kicked the officer.
This case was investigated by Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Leader Charge was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Woman Sentenced to 11 Years in Federal Prison for Voluntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a woman from Eagle Butte, South Dakota, who was convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter. The sentencing took place on August 11, 2025.
Jaclyn Blue Coat, age 26, was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Blue Coat was indicted by a federal grand jury in November 2024. She pleaded guilty on May 15, 2025.
On September 24, 2024, Blue Coat stabbed the father of her children with a knife in the left upper chest, causing his death. The incident occurred during an argument on the deck outside the victim’s residence in Dupree, South Dakota, within the Cheyenne River Sioux Indian Reservation.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne Venhuizen prosecuted the case.
Blue Coat was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a man from Eagle Butte, South Dakota, who was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor. The sentencing took place on August 4, 2025.
Dion Michael Brown, age 55, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Brown will also be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Brown was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2023. He pleaded guilty on April 21, 2025.
Between May 1, 2020, and October 2, 2022, Brown engaged in a sexual relationship with the victim while they were living in Eagle Butte, South Dakota, within the Cheyenne River Sioux Indian Reservation. During this period, Brown was between 50 and 52 years old, and the victim was between 13 and 15 years old.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne Venhuizen prosecuted the case.
Brown was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Denver Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Role in Large-Scale Drug Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in Rapid City Area and within the Pine Ridge ReservationRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that District Court Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Denver, Colorado, woman, convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on August 8, 2025.
Shelina Martinez, 34, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Martinez was indicted by a federal grand jury in February 2024 for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. She pleaded guilty on May 21, 2025.
Between January 2022 and February 2024, Martinez was part of a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in South Dakota, including in the Rapid City area and within the Pine Ridge Reservation. During the conspiracy, large quantities of methamphetamine were transported from Denver, Colorado, to South Dakota, and Martinez assisted on occasion with the transportation of those drugs.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, the Rapid City Police Department, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the Wyoming State Highway Patrol, and the North Metro Denver Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Martinez was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Wyoming Man Found Not Guilty in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Gillette, Wyoming, man was acquitted of Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity and Aggravated Sexual Abuse with Children following a federal jury trial in Rapid City, South Dakota, on July 25, 2025.
Richard Wayne Gray, age 41, was indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2024. The charges related to the alleged transportation of a minor across state lines to engage in a sexual act.
The investigation was conducted by the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office and the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office in Wyoming. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case.Winner Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Abusive Sexual Contact with a ChildRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Shulte has sentenced a man from Winner, South Dakota, who was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact with a Child. The sentencing took place on August 5, 2025.
Clayton Spotted Calf, age 30, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Spotted Calf was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2024. He pleaded guilty on April 14, 2025.
The conviction stems from conduct that occurred between approximately April 2015 and June 2017 in Todd County, South Dakota, within the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. On more than one occasion during that period, Spotted Calf engaged in sexual contact with a child who was then between the ages of six and eight years old.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Spotted Calf was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Nearly Three Years in Federal Prison for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on August 7, 2025.
Dorian Lester, 29, was sentenced to two years and nine months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Lester was indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender by a federal grand jury in April 2025 and later pleaded guilty on May 19, 2025.
Lester is required to register as a sex offender for life because he was previously convicted of sexual abuse of a minor, where the victim was 12 years old. Federal law requires a sex offender to update his residence to the sex offender registry within three days of changing residence. Lester was released from custody from a separate sentence and failed to update the sex offender registry with his current residence. It is a violation of federal to fail to register as a sex offender.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.
Lester was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Receipt of a Firearm while Under Indictment. The sentencing took place on August 7, 2025.
Terrance Drapeaux, 31, was sentenced to one year and three months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Drapeaux was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Receipt of a Firearm while Under Indictment by a federal grand jury in March 2025. He pleaded guilty on May 19, 2025.
On December 4, 2024, Drapeaux was found by law enforcement with an active warrant for his arrest. Drapeaux resisted arrest and was discovered to have a firearm in his pocket. Before this date, Drapeaux had been charged elsewhere with a felony crime, which charge was still pending at the time he possessed the firearm. It is illegal for a person charged with a crime punishable beyond a year in prison to receive a firearm.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). Through PSN, the District of South Dakota seeks to bring together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
This case was investigated by the ATF, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.
Drapeaux was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mother and Son Sentenced to Federal Prison for Distributing Thousands of Fentanyl Pills in Sioux Falls Area and for Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that United States District Judge Karen Schreier has sentenced a man from Sioux Falls, SD, and a woman from Luverne, MN, for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering.
Sean Swiftbird, 27, was sentenced on April 22, 2025, to 11 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Laurie Swiftbird, age 67 and Sean’s mother, was sentenced on August 4, 2025, to two years in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The two were indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering in December 2023. Sean Swiftbird pleaded guilty on February 4, 2025. Laurie Swiftbird pleaded guilty on September 6, 2024.
Sean Swiftbird worked with others in Sioux Falls to distribute thousands of fentanyl pills over the course of 2023. Eventually, his mother Laurie became involved and assisted the conspiracy by accepting pill-laden packages at her home and dealing pills to customers. Both Sean and Laurie utilized the electronic payment system Cash App to accept proceeds related to the sale of fentanyl pills and to send those proceeds to their source. Throughout the Swiftbirds’ involvement, the conspiracy trafficked thousands of fentanyl pills in the Sioux Falls area.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, IRS-Criminal Investigations, and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Sean Swiftbird was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. Laurie Swiftbird was ordered to turn herself in by January 2026.
Mobridge Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in Central South Dakota and within the Cheyenne River Sioux Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a man from Mobridge, South Dakota, who was convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on August 5, 2025.
Eric Traversie, age 28, was sentenced to ten years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Traversie was indicted for by a federal grand jury in February 2025. He pleaded guilty on April 30, 2025.
The conviction stemmed from a drug conspiracy that ran between April 2024 and February 2025 in which Traversie and other individuals conspired to distribute methamphetamine in and around the central South Dakota area, including within the Cheyenne River Sioux Indian Reservation. As part of the conspiracy, Traversie was involved in distributing between 1.5 and 5 kilograms of methamphetamine. Traversie was also involved in a traffic stop where law enforcement seized 237 grams of 99% pure methamphetamine.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This case was investigated by the FBI, Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, BIA, and Dewey County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.
Traversie was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Four Men Arrested and Federally Charged Following Multi-Agency Child Exploitation OperationRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC), the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI), the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, the Rapid City Police Department, the Ellsworth AFB Office of Special Investigations, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the FBI conducted a joint sex-trafficking and child exploitation operation during the 2025 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
“This sophisticated sting operation pulled together local, state, and federal law enforcement resources to take dangerous sexual predators off the streets and out of our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “We are fortunate here in South Dakota to have officers, agents, and detectives who collaborate each and every day to protect children throughout the state. Now that the operation has safely concluded, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is pleased to announce that four local men have been arrested and will be held to account in federal court.”
The operation resulted in federal charges against the following four men who were all separately arrested while attempting to meet with a person who they believed to be a 14-year-old girl for the purposes of engaging in sexual activity:
- Elmer Hopper, 36, Rapid City—charged with Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet.
- Beau Remington, 23, Black Hawk—charged with Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet and Attempted Transfer of Obscene Material to a Minor.
- Jayson “Javi” Gomez, 30, Rapid City—charged with Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet.
- Joshua Michael Allen, 36, Hermosa—charged with Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet.
“All the individuals who were arrested in this operation are South Dakota residents,” said South Dakota ICAC Task Force Commander Toby Russell. “This is a sad statistic for our state, but it is a reminder why these operations and investigations are so important. The level of support, cooperation, and teamwork between local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies during this operation is unique and does not happen elsewhere. This operation is truly a team effort. All the law enforcement personnel who participated in this operation and the members of the South Dakota ICAC Task Force work tirelessly every day to keep the children of South Dakota safe. They should all be commended for their tenacity and professionalism in how they pursue these offenders.”
The mandatory minimum penalty upon conviction for Attempted Enticement of a Minor is 10 years up to life in federal prison, along with a minimum term of supervised release of five years up to life.
These cases are brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
The cases are being federally prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Knox.
The charges are merely accusations, and all four defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Brandon, SD Woman Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing and Distributing Methamphetamine in the Sioux Falls AreaRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange has sentenced a woman from Brandon, SD, who was convicted of Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute. The sentencing took place on August 4, 2025.
Wendy Faye Stricherz, 49, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Stricherz was indicted for Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute by a federal grand jury in January 2024. She pleaded guilty on May 8, 2025.
Investigators with the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force learned that Stricherz was traveling to Las Vegas, Nevada, to pick up methamphetamine that she then trafficked to others out of her home and at a local bar in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. In October 2023, investigators executed a search warrant at Stricherz’s home and found methamphetamine and distribution materials in both her home and in a vehicle in which she was traveling. Altogether, Stricherz is believed to have trafficked more than four pounds of methamphetamine in the Sioux Falls area.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the Brandon Police Department, and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Stricherz was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Bullhead Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a man from Bullhead, South Dakota, convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor and Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on August 4, 2025.
Travis Anthony Weasel, age 45, was sentenced to 30 years in prison and five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Weasel was indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2023. He pleaded guilty on May 19, 2025.
Travis Weasel was convicted of Sexual Abuse of an Incapacitated Person in 2011 for having sexual intercourse with an unconscious woman at a house party in Bullhead, South Dakota, and encouraging an adolescent boy to join him in the “fun.” Following his most recent release from prison for this offense in May 2021, Weasel decided to stop registering as a sex offender. He did not register again until his arrest in February 2024.
On January 26, 2023, Weasel, destitute and homeless, asked a childhood friend if he could sleep for a few nights in a spare bedroom in the friend’s home in McIntosh, South Dakota. McIntosh is a community within the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation. Weasel’s friend took pity on him and permitted him to stay. That evening, the friend’s 15-year-old daughter came to visit. Weasel first gave adulterated alcohol to his friend. When the friend passed out, Weasel shooed the other adults out of the home, opining they were too drunk to be around a child. Weasel then pressured and threatened the girl to drink the adulterated alcohol. She eventually relented, losing consciousness soon after she imbibed. When she woke, Weasel was having sexual intercourse with her in the spare bedroom. When the girl screamed to her father for help, Weasel told her he would kill her father and the family dog with her father’s handgun if she persisted. The girl pleaded for Weasel to stop, but he continued to rape her until ejaculation. The minor then ran to the living room to escape, but Weasel caught her by the backpack. The girl slipped the backpack from her shoulders and fled the home into the snow. Her grandmother found her later that night crying in a snowbank.
“Protecting children from sexual abuse is amongst our highest priorities at the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “When we can prosecute these heinous crimes at the federal level, we are able to seek decades-long sentences without the possibility of parole, thereby achieving the justice these victims deserve and safeguarding our communities from sex offenders for years to come.”
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was also brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the FBI, the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services, and the United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
Weasel was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Woman Sentenced to Nearly 3 Years in Federal Prison Following Conviction for Conspiracy to Commit Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a woman from Rapid City, South Dakota, who was convicted of Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering. The sentencing took place on July 25, 2025.
Kiana Pilcher, 29, was sentenced to two years and 11 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Pilcher was indicted for Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering by a federal grand jury in April 2024. She pleaded guilty on May 5, 2025.
Pilcher worked with multiple individuals involved in a cocaine conspiracy to help them move money generated by the distribution of cocaine through electronic transactions. Pilcher and others deposited money into her bank account from drug proceeds and the account was then used to send the proceeds to drug sources in Texas. Investigators determined that approximately $90,000 in cash was deposited into Pilcher’s account through ATM deposits. Pilcher was also involved in the distribution of cocaine. While Pilcher was involved in the conspiracy, the group distributed over three kilograms of cocaine in the Rapid City area.
This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET) and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Division of Criminal Investigation. UNET is comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, the Rapid City Police Department, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the South Dakota National Guard. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Pilcher was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to 17 ½ Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine in and Around Rapid CityRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a man from Rapid City, South Dakota, who was convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on July 25, 2025.
Andre Gibson, 46, was sentenced to 17 years and six months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Gibson was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in May 2024. He pleaded guilty on May 9, 2025.
Gibson received multiple packages of methamphetamine through the United States Mail Service from surrounding states and worked with others to sell the methamphetamine within South Dakota. Working with others from outside of South Dakota, Gibson ultimately distributed between 1.5 and 5 kilograms (between 3 and 11 pounds) of methamphetamine in the Rapid City area.
“More and more often, criminals are shipping narcotics through the U.S. mail system,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “Fortunately, our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners are highly skilled at intercepting these packages and tracking down suspects, thereby allowing the U.S. Attorney’s Office to secure federal convictions and pursue significant prison sentences, just as we did against Andre Gibson.”
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward C. Tarbay prosecuted the case.
Gibson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Fort Thompson Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Shulte, has sentenced a man from Fort Thompson, South Dakota, who had been convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on July 29, 2025.
Stuart Dion, age 41, was sentenced to time served through August 4, 2025, equal to 11.5 months in custody, followed by five years of supervise release, and ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Dion was indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2025. He pleaded guilty on July 14, 2025.
Dion is required to register as a sex offender under federal law due to a prior federal conviction for Sexual Abuse of a Minor. Dion has been convicted of Failure to Register in the past. Following his release from prison on the most recent conviction, Dion registered an address in Ft. Thompson, SD, on the Crow Creek Sioux Indian Reservation in March 2024. On April 11, 2024, Dion moved from his registered address and knowingly failed to update his registration with authorities as required by law.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshal’s Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.
Pierre Woman, Sixth in a Large-Scale Conspiracy, Sentenced to 21 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Methamphetamine in the Pierre AreaRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a woman from Pierre, South Dakota, who had been convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on July 21, 2025.
Misty Stahlhoefer, age 42, was sentenced to 21 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Stahlhoefer was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2024. She pleaded guilty on April 14, 2025. Her conviction stemmed from a drug distribution conspiracy beginning in June 2023 and continuing until September 2024. Misty Stahlhoefer and co-defendant Heather Stahlhoefer were the source of supply to several other individuals in the Pierre area. The Stahlhoefers would acquire up to one pound of methamphetamine per trip to be further distributed by themselves and others including Whitney Marrowbone, Wendy Mealer, Brent Larvie, David Rinehart, and Heath Choal. The conspiracy involved between 30 and 35 pounds of methamphetamine.
“Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the FBI’s Northern Plains Safe Trails Task Force, the Pierre Police Department, the Chamberlain Police Department, and the Lyman County Sheriff’s Office, Misty Stahlhoefer and her local co-conspirators are facing significant time in federal prison for pushing drugs that are ravaging our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “Drug traffickers should take note that in South Dakota, they will be met with the full force of law enforcement—federal, state, local, and tribal—and unrelenting federal prosecution out of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
“For years, Misty Stahlhoefer distributed illegal drugs in the Pierre, SD area,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. “Stahlhoefer will pay dearly for her reprehensible conduct. Those who choose to harm our community by enriching themselves and leading others to drug addiction will pay a heavy price. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will do everything in our power to rid our communities of illegal drugs.”
The co-defendants were earlier sentenced to federal prison as follows:
• Heather Stahlhoefer was sentenced to 18 years in federal prison.
• Marrowbone was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison.
• Mealer was sentenced to six years in federal prison.
• Larvie was sentenced to four years and six months in federal prison.
• Rinehart was sentenced to two years in federal prison.The seventh co-defendant, Heath Choal, is scheduled to be sentenced on September 2, 2025.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Pierre Police Department, the Chamberlain Police Department, and the Lyman County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges.
Stahlhoefer was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mexican National Sentenced for Illegal Reentry after DeportationRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Mexican man convicted of Illegal Reentry after Deportation. The sentencing took place on July 23, 2025.
Francisco Jimenez-Grijalva, 31, was sentenced to time served and ordered to be removed from the United States.
Jimenez-Grijalva was indicted for Illegal Reentry after Deportation by a federal grand jury in May 2025. He pleaded guilty on June 6, 2025.
Jimenez-Grijalva, a non-citizen of the United States and a Mexican national, was deported from the United States to Mexico in 2015 and was found back in the United States in May 2025. He was arrested for DUI in Pennington County. After the arrest, it was discovered Jimenez-Grijalva had been deported from the United States on three separate occasions. Reentering the United States after deportation is a felony.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.
Jimenez-Grijalva was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Harrold Man Sentenced to Prison for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited PersonRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Shulte has sentenced a man from Harrold, South Dakota, who was convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on July 21, 2025.
Jerrod Fallis, age 47, was sentenced to six months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Forfeiture of the firearm and silencer was also ordered.
Fallis was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2024. He pleaded guilty on April 17, 2025.
On December 8, 2023, a traffic stop was conducted on a vehicle driven by Fallis. During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered a Rock River Arms AR15 rifle, silencer, and methamphetamine paraphernalia. Fallis is prohibited from possessing firearms due to prior state felony drug convictions.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Hyde County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.
Fallis was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
California Man Sentenced to Nearly 22 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Fentanyl and Methamphetamine in the Sioux Falls AreaRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange has sentenced a man from Lancaster, California, who had been convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances, including methamphetamine and fentanyl. The sentencing took place on July 21, 2025.
Clarence Williams, a/k/a “CJ,” 34, was sentenced to 21 years and 10 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.
Williams was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances by a federal grand jury in September 2024. He pleaded guilty on March 5, 2025, to conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture containing methamphetamine.
Williams is from Lancaster, California, and came to Sioux Falls to sell methamphetamine and fentanyl. Williams sourced the drugs from California, and worked with others from California and South Dakota to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine in the Sioux Falls area using vehicles and the postal system. Throughout the investigation, law enforcement seized approximately 2 kilograms of fentanyl pills/powder through intercepted parcels and search warrants at a residence in Sioux Falls. The group also trafficked multiple pounds of methamphetamine. Throuhgout his involvement in the conspiracy, Williams also possessed firearms, three of which were seized by law enforcement during the investigation. In total, the group trafficked approximately 3 kilograms of fentanyl in pill and powder form and over 20 pounds of methamphetamine.
“This case is yet another example of the tremendous collaboration taking place between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to dismantle drug trafficking organizations in South Dakota,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “Williams will rightfully spend the next two decades of his life in federal prison for callously exploiting drug addictions for his own financial gain.”
“Those attempting to harm members of our South Dakota communities by pushing poisons like fentanyl and methamphetamine should take note of this sentencing,” Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Omaha Division Acting Special Agent in Charge Rafael Mattei said. “Our agents leave no stone unturned as they work to locate and arrest the drug trafficking criminals who look to profit by inflicting pain and suffering on others. These attempts won’t fly in South Dakota. You will be brought to justice and you will serve time.”
This case was investigated by the DEA, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Williams was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Saint Francis Man Sentenced to Nearly 4 Years in Federal Prison for Assault with a Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a man from Saint Francis, South Dakota, who was convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. The sentencing took place on July 21, 2025.
Samuel Iron Shell, age 23, was sentenced to three years and 10 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Iron Shell was indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2024. He pleaded guilty on April 24, 2025.
The conviction stems from an incident that occurred on December 24, 2024, within the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. Iron Shell and his significant other, a female, were at a residence near St. Francis when, at one point, Iron Shell got angry and began striking the woman on the head with a broomstick. The victim attempted to shield her head with her hand, and Iron Shell then struck her hand. The victim suffered a broken finger.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Iron Shell was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to 2½ Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on July 21, 2025.
William Janis, 25, was sentenced to two years and six months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. This sentence was ordered to run consecutively to a state custody sentence Janis is serving for a prior drug conviction.
Janis was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in February 2025. He pleaded guilty on April 28, 2025.
In December 2024, Janis was contacted by law enforcement officers after he was seen yelling outside an apartment complex in Rapid City and trying to gain access inside. Officers learned Janis had an active warrant, and he was subsequently arrested. After being arrested, Janis informed officers he had a firearm in his waistband. Officers located and seized a 9mm pistol. Janis had previously been convicted of a felony, was on parole for a felony drug conviction, and knew he was also prohibited from possessing firearms pursuant to his parole agreement.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). Through PSN, the District of South Dakota seeks to bring together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Janis was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison for Assaulting a Family Member within the Pine Ridge ReservationRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a man from Pine Ridge, South Dakota, who was convicted of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. The sentencing took place on July 21, 2025.
Cole Waters, 37, was sentenced to two years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Waters was indicted for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury by a federal grand jury in December 2024. He pleaded guilty on May 9, 2025.
On November 16, 2024, in Pine Ridge, South Dakota, Waters used a pistol to beat his nephew several times. Waters first used the pistol to strike his nephew’s face, causing him to fall down. Then, when his nephew tried to get back up, Waters struck his nephew with the pistol again, on the back of his head. Waters used the pistol to hit his nephew a final time on the back of his shoulder. Waters’ nephew suffered serious bodily injury, including a fracture to his face and numbness and scarring elsewhere.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.
Waters was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Fort Thompson Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Embezzling Funds from the Crow Creek Sioux TribeRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a woman from Fort Thompson, South Dakota, who was convicted of Embezzlement from an Indian Tribal Organization. The sentencing took place on July 21, 2025.
Mariah Pearl Sazue, age 35, was sentenced to three months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $44,627.25 in restitution to the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Sazue was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2024. She pleaded guilty on April 17, 2025.
Sazue served as the Human Resources Director for the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe between June 2022 and May 2024. In December 2022, Sazue began submitting timesheets with forged signatures and grossly inflated overtime hours. In total, Sazue received $44,627.25 in excess overtime pay before being fired for fraud in May 2024. When confronted, Sazue claimed she would never take advantage of the tribe.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the United States Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.
Sazue was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Attempted Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a man from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, who was convicted of Attempted Possession of Child Pornography. The sentencing took place on July 15, 2025.
Elliott Anderson, age 28, was sentenced to two years and three months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Anderson was indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2022. He pleaded guilty on April 7, 2025.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between March 7, 2022, and March 8, 2022, when Anderson attempted to possess materials which contained images of child pornography. More specifically, during that timeframe, law enforcement agents engaged in a joint undercover child exploitation/human trafficking operation in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. On March 7, 2022, Anderson made contact via the online application MeetMe and then via text messages on his cell phone with what he believed was a 15-year-old female but was a law enforcement officer working in an undercover capacity. Anderson asked the undercover persona to provide photographs of sexually explicit conduct.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Connie Larson and Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Ebert-Webb prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Anderson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced to 2.5 Years in Federal Prison for Failure to AppearRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Appear After Release. The sentencing took place on July 21, 2025.
Rayzohn Bertrand, 24, was sentenced to two years and six months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Bertrand was indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Appear After Release in March 2025. He pleaded guilty on May 12, 2025.
Bertrand was previously convicted of the federal offense of Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm. As part of his sentence, he was required to comply with conditions of supervised release. On release, Bertrand was alleged to have violated conditions of his supervised release and was arrested to have revocation proceedings. A United States Magistrate Judge released Bertrand from custody pending his revocation hearing, instructing him that he is required to appear at all court proceedings. Defendant was released and failed to appear for his revocation hearing, in violation of federal law. Bertrand admitted to the violation of supervised release on July 21, 2025, and was sentenced to six months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release. This sentence is to run consecutively to the 30-month sentence above.
This case was investigated by U.S. Marshals Service and the Summerset Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.
Bertrand was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.