District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Sex Trafficking Operation Results in ArrestsRead the Press Release
PIERRE, S.D. - Attorney General Marty Jackley, United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler, Rapid City Police Chief Karl Jegeris, and Pennington County Sheriff Kevin Thom announce that the Division of Criminal Investigation, the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, and Homeland Security Investigations have conducted investigations into sex trafficking during the Motorcycle Rally.
“It is important that we protect our children with law enforcement operations that focus on removing sexual predators from our streets. Our operations continue to protect children and send a message that South Dakota is off-limits to anyone seeking to harm our children,” said Jackley.
“Despite the intense publicity and focus on human trafficking these past few years, these undercover operations serve as a somber reminder that some people will throw caution to the wind and succumb to their perverted instincts,” said U.S. Attorney Randy Seiler. “I’m proud of the joint collaboration displayed by law enforcement and our united efforts to bring sex traffickers to justice.”
The investigation resulted in the following felony arrests and indictments for sex crimes:
Eric Carl Afrank, 22, Rapid City, SD, Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet (18 USC 2422(b))
Joshua Aschwege, 33, Black Hawk, SD, Attempted Commercial Sex Trafficking of a Minor - 18 USC 1591(a) and 1594 (a) and Enticement of a Minor using the Internet USC 2422(b)
Donald Scott Baker, 45, Independence, MO, Attempted Commercial Sex Trafficking of a Minor - 18 USC 1591(a) and 1594 (a) and Enticement of a Minor using the Internet USC 2422(b)
Kevin J. Carney, 30, Portland CT, Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet (18 USC 2422(b))Jimmy Rudy Custodio, 39, Edina MN, Attempted Commercial Sex Trafficking of a Minor - 18 USC 1591(a) and 1594 (a) and Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet (18 USC 2422(b))
Erik Glenn Dahlquist, 29, Rapid City, SD, Attempted Commercial Sex Trafficking of a Minor - 18 USC 1591(a) and 1594 (a) and Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet (18 USC 2422(b))
Abdurrahman Keskin, 26, Silvan, Turkey, Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet (18 USC 2422(b))
Carlocito Slim, 31, Lake Jackson, TX, Attempted Commercial Sex Trafficking of a Minor - 18 USC 1591(a) and 1594 (a) and Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet (18 USC 2422(b))Daniel David Wasner, 31, St. Cloud, MN, Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet (18 USC 2422(b))
The mandatory minimum penalty upon conviction for Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet is 10 years in prison, up to life imprisonment. For Commercial Sex Trafficking of a Minor under 14, the charge carries a mandatory minimum term of 15 years in federal prison and up to life imprisonment. If the minor is over 14 years of age, it is 10 years mandatory minimum.
All these individuals are presumed innocent until such time as proven guilty.
The cases are being federally prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins.Mission Man Charged with Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Adrian William Fast Dog, age 37, was indicted on August 16, 2017. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on August 17, 2017, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, a mandatory minimum of at least 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between July 7, 2017, and August 4, 2017, Fast Dog, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of a conviction under federal law, knowingly failed to register and update his registration.
The charge is merely an accusation and Fast Dog is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The nvestigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Fast Dog was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Former Tribal Executive Sentenced to Federal Prison for EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a former executive board member of the Big Coulee District of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Tribe was sentenced in federal court on August 17, 2017, to 10 months of imprisonment. Carrie Godfrey, 52, of Sisseton, was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $31,640, to pay a fine in the amount of $3,000, and to serve three years of supervised release after serving her prison sentence.
According to court documents, from approximately June 2010 through March 2013, Godfrey and her co-defendants conspired to embezzle, steal, and knowingly convert to their own use funds from the Big Coulee District of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Tribe, an Indian tribal organization. The Big Coulee District is a political subdivision of the Tribe. Godfrey and her co-defendants were all elected executive board members or employees of the District at the time.
During the conspiracy, they stole a total of $81,542.50 from the District. Godfrey received $31,640 of the stolen funds and used the funds for her own purposes.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.
The case was brought pursuant to The Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities. The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include: Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (605)330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
Rosebud Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Methamphetamine, was sentenced on August 10, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Benjamin Jason Young, a/k/a, Benjamin Jason Two Eagle, age 36, was sentenced to 40 months in custody, followed by 3 years of supervised release, a fine of $500, forfeiture of a firearm and ammunition, and a mandatory special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Young was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 17, 2016. He pled guilty on April 11, 2017.
Between January 2015 and May 2016, Young knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in the District of South Dakota. Young received distributable quantities of methamphetamine and distributed some of that methamphetamine in South Dakota. The individuals who provided Young with the methamphetamine knew that he intended to engage in further distribution. Young admitted that it was reasonably foreseeable to him that more than 50 grams of methamphetamine would be distributed during the course of the conspiracy.
When law enforcement executed a search warrant on Young’s residence on September 23, 2015, Young had methamphetamine, paraphernalia testing positive for methamphetamine, a firearm, and ammunition in his possession. Those items were seized by law enforcement and the firearm and ammunition were forfeited.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney SaraBeth Donovan prosecuted the case.
Young was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on August 10, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Donni DaRae Traversie, a/k/a Donna Dupris, age 27, was sentenced to 78 months in custody, followed by 3 years of supervised release, a fine of $500, and a mandatory special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Traversie was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 19, 2017. She pled guilty on May 16, 2017.
Between April of 2012 and January of 2017, Traversie knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine in the District of South Dakota. Traversie received distributable quantities of methamphetamine and distributed some of the methamphetamine in South Dakota. The individuals who provided Traversie with the methamphetamine knew that she intended to engage in further distribution. Traversie admitted that her distribution conduct involved between 500 grams and 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services Narcotics Division and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney SaraBeth Donovan prosecuted the case.
Traversie was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on August 10, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Kenneth Bowker, Jr., age 58, was sentenced to 24 months in custody, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Bowker was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 12, 2017. He pled guilty on July 17, 2017.
The conviction stems from Bowker failing to register as a sex offender as required by federal law between January 26, 2017, and February 5, 2017. Bowker had previously been convicted of a sex offense in federal court, which requires him to register for the rest of his life.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Bowker was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Two St. Francis Men Indicted on Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that two St. Francis, South Dakota, men have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
George Scott, age 32, and Kyle Swift Hawk, age 24, were indicted on July 11, 2017. Scott appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 20, 2017, and Swift Hawk appeared on August 9, 2017. Both pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about June 12, 2017, Scott and Swift Hawk assaulted an individual with shod feet and a knife with the intent to do bodily harm, and that the assault resulted in serious bodily injury.
The charges are merely accusations and Scott and Swift Hawk are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Scott and Swift Hawk were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, which has been set for September 19, 2017.
Tribal District Vice-Chair Pleads Guilty in Federal Court to Embezzlement ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Lacreek District Vice-Chair has pleaded guilty in federal court to Embezzlement and Theft from an Indian Tribal Organization.
Charles Leo Cummings, 57, of Martin, South Dakota, entered his guilty plea on August 4, 2017, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann.
The maximum term of imprisonment upon conviction is up to 1 year and/or a $100,000 fine, a period of 1 year of supervised release, and a special assessment of $25 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution will also be ordered.
According to his plea agreement, between December 28, 2015, and January 18, 2016, Cummings did willfully and knowingly embezzle, steal, misapply, and convert to his own use monies, funds, credits, goods, assets, and other property belonging to the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Cummings pleaded guilty to a federal misdemeanor and has agreed to pay restitution in the amount of $2,500.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Interior, Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
The case was brought pursuant to The Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities. The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include: Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (605)330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
Sioux Falls Meth Dealer Sentenced to over 15 Years in Federal Prison for ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on July 31, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Anthony Wayne Ponca, age 39, was sentenced to 188 months in custody, followed by five years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Ponca was indicted for Conspiracy with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, methamphetamine, and for a firearm offense by a federal grand jury. He pled guilty to the Conspiracy charge on April 24, 2017.
Beginning on or about June 2015, and continuing until on or about August 16, 2016, Ponca, along with others, conspired to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine in and around the area of Sioux Falls. Ponca also possessed firearms at this time.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, which includes Drug Enforcement Administration, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Department, and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.
Ponca was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for BurglaryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Second Degree Burglary was sentenced on August 9, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Bryan Herman, age 52, was sentenced to 4 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, restitution was ordered in the amount of $11,793.79, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Herman was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 18, 2016. He pled guilty on May 15, 2017.
The conviction stemmed from multiple incidents that occurred between June 15, 2016, and July 20, 2016. Around June 15, 2016, Herman broke into the home of a friend in Todd County, South Dakota, and stole multiple blank checks. Between June 20, 2016, and July 20, 2016, Herman forged the account holder’s signature on multiple checks and cashed them at various locations in and around Mission.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Herman was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Former Pit Boss, Blackjack Dealer, and a Player Plead Guilty in Federal Court to a Cheating Conspiracy at Dakota Sioux CasinoRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that three individuals have pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of Conspiracy Involving Theft by Employees of a Gaming Establishment on Indian Land.
Lito Banbilla Bolocon, age 44, and Jordon Anthony Rondell, age 29, appeared before U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann on August 1, 2017, and pled guilty to the Conspiracy charge contained in the Superseding Indictment. Jeremy Kris Brown, age 43, pleaded guilty to that same count on May 1, 2017.
The maximum term of imprisonment upon conviction is up to 5 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Dakota Sioux Casino (“DSC”) is a gaming establishment located approximately five miles north of Watertown, in Codington County, South Dakota. The DSC is also located on the Lake Traverse Indian Reservation and is operated by the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Sioux Tribe.
According to the defendants’ plea agreements, Bolocon worked at the DSC as a pit boss, and Brown worked as a blackjack dealer. Rondell was a customer of the DSC whom frequently played blackjack. In December 2015 and through January 1, 2016, Bolocon, Brown, Rondell, and others conspired to enrich themselves by unlawfully obtaining gaming chips and money from the DSC. Specifically, in December 2015, the defendants devised a plan to cheat the DSC of monies derived during the gambling operations taking place on New Year’s Eve 2015 and into January 1, 2016. The agreement was for Rondell to unlawfully make a large sum of money from illegitimate winnings paid by Brown, and Rondell would then pay-off the other defendants for their participation. Rondell cashed-out approximately $10,000 from the DSC after playing at Brown’s blackjack tables, which were supervised by Bolocon.
Bolocon, as pit boss during that night and early morning, would oversee Brown’s and Gill’s dealing to Rondell. Bolocon knew about and allowed the cheat to proceed throughout the night of December 31, 2015, and early morning of January 1, 2016.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Attorney’s Office, and the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Sioux Tribe’s Gaming Commission. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
A fourth defendant, Fern Freya Gill, has a trial date set for August 22, 2017.
The case was brought pursuant to The Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities. The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include: Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (605)330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual Contact and Failure to AppearRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact and Failure to Appear was sentenced on August 9, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Luther Blue Thunder, age 36, was sentenced to a total of 128 months in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Restitution may also apply.
Blue Thunder was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 16, 2016. He was scheduled to plead guilty to Abusive Sexual Contact at a change of plea hearing on May 16, 2017, but he failed to appear for the hearing and a warrant was issued for his arrest. Blue Thunder was apprehended in Eagle Butte on May 18, 2017, and charged with Failure to Appear. He pled guilty to both offenses on May 22, 2017. Blue Thunder was sentenced to 120 months in prison for the Abusive Sexual Contact conviction and 8 months in prison for the Failure to Appear conviction, with the sentences ordered to be served consecutively.
The Abusive Sexual Contact conviction stemmed from conduct that occurred between May 2011 and September 2012, wherein Blue Thunder sexually assaulted a child who was between six and seven years old. The conduct occurred in Mission, South Dakota.
The case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Blue Thunder was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pierre Man Indicted for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child and Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child, Travel With Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct, and Transportation, Distribution, Receipt and Possession of Child Pornography.
Amin Ricker, age 30, was charged by Superseding Indictment on July 11, 2017. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on August 9, 2017, and pled not guilty to the Superseding Indictment.
The penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of 30 years imprisonment up to life imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Ricker was indicted for distribution and possession of child pornography in April 2017. The Superseding Indictment further alleges that Ricker crossed a state line with the intent to engage in a sexual act with children under the age of 12, traveled in interstate commerce for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a person under the age of 18, and received and transported child pornography.
The charges are merely accusations and Ricker is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pierre Police Department, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Ricker was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, which is set for October 3, 2017.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced on Methamphetamine and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on July 17, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Charlie Warren Marshall, age 27, was sentenced to 78 months in custody and 4 years of supervised release, on each count, to run concurrently, a fine of $1,000, forfeiture of six firearms and ammunition, and a mandatory special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Marshall was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 9, 2016. He pled guilty on March 13, 2017.
Between January 1, 2015, and November 9, 2016, Marshall knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine in South Dakota.
Marshall received distributable quantities of methamphetamine and distributed some of that methamphetamine in South Dakota. The individuals who provided Marshall with the methamphetamine knew that he intended to engage in further distribution. Marshall admitted that his distribution activities involved at least 350 grams or more of methamphetamine, and that he had in his possession firearms for protection while distributing methamphetamine.
Marshall was arrested by Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal police on various occasions, in which he had firearms, ammunition, and/or narcotics or paraphernalia in his possession. On March 5, 2016, Marshall was arrested with a firearm and marijuana. Marshall admitted to using methamphetamine and marijuana, and because he is an unlawful user of, or addicted to, a controlled substance, he is unable to lawfully possess firearms.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney SaraBeth Donovan prosecuted the case.
Marshall was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man and Parmelee Woman Sentenced for Consipiracy to Manufacture and Distribute MarihuanaRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mission, South Dakota man convicted of Conspiracy to Manufacture a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, and a Parmelee, South Dakota woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, were sentenced on July 31, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Meddore Maurice Douville, age 46, was sentenced to 30 months in custody and 3 years of supervised release on each count, to run concurrently, a fine of $1,000, forfeiture of $2,281.91 in United States currency, and a mandatory special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Teeana Shannon Two Eagle, age 25, was sentenced to 9 months in custody, 2 years of supervised release, a fine of $500, forfeiture of $2,281.91 in United States currency, and a mandatory special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.Douville and Two Eagle were indicted by a federal grand jury on December 20, 2016. They both pled guilty on May 3, 2017.
Douville admitted to knowingly and intentionally conspiring with others to manufacture and distribute marihuana, a Schedule I Controlled Substance, within the District of South Dakota between September 1, 2015, and December 20, 2016. Two Eagle admitted to knowingly and intentionally conspiring with others to distribute marihuana within the District of South Dakota between January 1, 2016, and December 20, 2016.
During the course of the conspiracy, Douville received distributable quantities of marihuana from others and manufactured and distributed some of that marihuana in South Dakota. The individuals who provided Douville with the marihuana knew that he intended to engage in further manufacturing and distribution of it. Two Eagle participated in Douville’s manufacturing and distribution operation.
On December 6, 2016, Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services Officers executed a search warrant on Douville’s residence in Mission, South Dakota. Present in the residence at the time of the search warrant were Douville, Two Eagle, two of their young children, and one of Douville’s adult sons. Two Eagle was pregnant at the time with twins.During the execution of the search warrant, law enforcement seized numerous items from Douville’s home, garage and storage shed, including over 46 total pounds of marihuana and marihuana cigarettes, in bulk and already packaged for sale, $2,281.91 in United States currency which was proceeds from the sale of marihuana, and equipment to grow, cultivate, process, and distribute marihuana like drying racks, planting pots, burlap sacks, sodium lights, industrial fans, plant food, grinders, cases of rolling papers and small plastic baggies.
Douville was employed at the St. Francis Indian School in St. Francis, South Dakota, from 2001 to 2008, and from 2011 until August of 2015. For part of that time, Douville was a special education teacher at the school.
Although Douville admitted he was unemployed after August of 2015, from December of 2015 until late November of 2016, Douville and Two Eagle traveled at least monthly, and often twice a month, to Colorado to buy marihuana to manufacture and distribute in South Dakota, staying in lavish hotels such as the Ritz Carlton or Sheraton in Denver, and spending money on marihuana paraphernalia, concerts, Colorado Rockies baseball games, or other supplies and entertainment. For example, on November 27, 2016, Douville bought $900 worth of marihuana rolling papers from a paraphernalia shop in Denver. During that same time, Douville reloaded over $30,000.00 on his Walmart debit card, reloading $5,000.00 in just five transactions during a ten-day window in November of 2016.
Both Douville and Two Eagle admitted that Douville was in charge of the manufacturing and distribution operation conducted in and out of his residence in Mission, South Dakota.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney SaraBeth Donovan prosecuted the case.
Douville and Two Eagle were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.McLaughlin Man Pleads Guilty to MurderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that Matthew St. Pierre, age 31, of McLaughlin, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann on August 4, 2017, and pled guilty to a Superseding Information that charged him with Second Degree Murder.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in custody, a$250,000 fine, a period of supervised release of 5 years. If St. Pierre is found to have violated a condition of supervised release, he may be incarcerated for an additional term of up to 5 years on any such revocation. A fine of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and restitution may also be ordered.The charge stems from an incident between October 11, 2016, and October 12, 2016, when St. Pierre unlawfully aided and abetted in the murder of his girlfriend’s daughter who was five years old at the time of her death.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Troy R. Morley and Daniel C. Nelson.A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for November 20, 2017. St. Pierre was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced on Use of Interstate Facilities to Transmit Information about a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota man convicted of Use of Interstate Facilities to Transmit Information about a Minor was sentenced on July 31, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schrier.
Kevin Dolejsi, (pronounced “Dole – ish”), age 31, was sentenced to 50 months in custody and 5 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and will have to register as a sex offender.
Dolejsi was indicted for Attempted Transfer of Obscene Material to a Minor and Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet by a federal grand jury on September 7, 2016. He pled guilty to Use of Interstate Facilities to Transmit Information about a Minor on April 20, 2017.
On August 15, 2016, Kevin Dolejsi, used his cell phone to respond to an advertisement on the internet website Backpage. Dolejsi, sent a number of messages to a female he believed to be 13 years-old to entice her to engage in sexual contact with him. Unknown to Dolejsi, the messages were sent to an undercover law enforcement officer as part of a sting operation. In addition to transmitting the name of the minor, Dolejsi paid for a hotel room and arranged a meeting with the 13 year old girl.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Dolejsi was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.Bullhead Woman Sentenced for Child AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Bullhead, South Dakota, woman convicted of Child Abuse was sentenced on August 1, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Alyssa Oka, age 28, was sentenced to 18 months in custody, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Oka was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 15, 2017. She pled guilty on May 4, 2017.
The conviction stems from an incident on June 3, 2015, when BIA officers responded to a call at a residence in Bullhead, South Dakota. As they got there, a young child came up to them and stated his mother, Oka, the Defendant, had just beat him up. The victim stated that he left his mother laying on the ground by the walking bridge in town. Officers were unable to locate her there. The officers then proceeded to Oka’s residence, at which time Oka began shouting at them from across the street. Oka was observed to be staggering as she attempted to walk towards them.
Oka was placed in the back of the patrol vehicle while the victim was interviewed and informed the officers that he was struck on the left side of his face. When one of the officers examined the child, he noted discoloring to the face. Photographs were taken and Oka was placed under arrest.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Oka was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.Bullhead Man Sentenced for AssaultsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Bullhead, South Dakota, man convicted of two counts of Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender was sentenced on August 1, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Dana Yellow Earrings, age 44, was sentenced to 37 months in custody in each count to be served concurrently, 3 years of supervised release on each count to be served concurrently, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Yellow Earrings was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 15, 2017. He pled guilty on May 5, 2017.
The conviction stems from an incident on September 11, 2016, when Yellow Earrings went to the home of the victim, and angrily confronted her at her home in Bullhead, South Dakota. Yellow Earrings became more irate and physically assaulted the victim. He then left the residence and attempted to break the windows out of a vehicle outside the residence.On February 6, 2016, Yellow Earrings was walking across a bridge in Bullhead, South Dakota, and came across the victim walking across the bridge in the opposite direction. He and the victim began to argue and Yellow Earrings struck the victim with a beer can, knocking her to the ground. As the victim was laying on the ground, Yellow Earrings began to kick her in the abdomen. A person who observed the incident managed to distract Yellow Earrings, allowing the victim to flee. He was later apprehended.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Yellow Earrings was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.Rosebud Woman Indicted on Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Annie Rose Gassman, age 33, was indicted on June 14, 2017. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 28, 2017, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in custody and/or a $1,000,000 fine, a lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between August 1, 2015, and June 14, 2017, Gasman knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled Substance, within South Dakota.
The charge is merely an accusation and Gassman is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is being investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney SaraBeth Donovan is prosecuting the case.
Gassman was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.Rapid City Man Sentenced on Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on July 17, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Jonah Burning Breast, a/k/a Jonah Jarrett Burning Breast, a/k/a Jonah Jared Burning Breast, a/k/a Jonah Jared Big Crow, age 23, was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day in custody, 3 years of supervised release, a fine of $500, forfeiture of $506, and a mandatory special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Burning Breast was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 15, 2017. He pled guilty on April 25, 2017.
On September 2, 2016, in Todd County, South Dakota, Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services performed a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Burning Breast. Found in the vehicle during the stop was 8 grams of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, separated into five small plastic baggies, two scales, baggies, a torch-style lighter, and syringes, one of which was filled with methamphetamine. Burning Breast admitted that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine. Also found during the traffic stop was $506 in Burning Breast’s wallet.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney SaraBeth Donovan prosecuted the case.
Burning Breast was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Promise Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Promise, South Dakota man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on July 24, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Emmett Delaine Traversie, age 21, was sentenced to 57 months in custody, 3 years of supervised release, a fine of $1,000, and a mandatory special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Traversie was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 12, 2016, for Distribution of a Controlled Substance. A Superseding Indictment was returned on March 15, 2017, charging Traversie with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine. He pled guilty on May 2, 2017.
Between June 1, 2015 and March 15, 2017, Traversie knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine in South Dakota. Traversie admitted he received distributable quantities of methamphetamine and distributed some of the methamphetamine in South Dakota. The individuals who provided Traversie with methamphetamine knew that he intended to engage in further distribution. Traversie admitted that more than 350 grams of methamphetamine was distributed during the course of the conspiracy.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services Narcotics Division and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney SaraBeth Donovan prosecuted the case.
Traversie was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.Eagle Butte Woman Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury was sentenced on August 1, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Rheta Haskell, a/k/a Rheta Miner, age 38, was sentenced to 16 months in custody, 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Haskell was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 19, 2017. She pled guilty on May 15, 2017.
The conviction stems from an incident on October 8, 2016, when Haskell approached the victim near the civil courts building in Eagle Butte. Both had been drinking previously. Haskell had heard rumors that the victim had been with Haskell’s ex-husband. When Haskell saw the victim, she told the victim to stay away from her ex-husband. The victim denied knowing what Haskell was talking about. Haskell became angry and assaulted the victim. The victim was bleeding heavily from her face and lost consciousness. As a result of the assault, the victim sustained serious injuries. She had had significant swelling and trauma to her face, orbital regions and scalp. Hospital staff were unable to visualize the right pupil due to the significant swelling to the victim’s right eye. Her left pupil floated towards the inner eye and would not look straight. Five (5) staples were used to close the laceration to the left side of her head. Due to the nature of her head injury, the victim was transported to Rapid City Regional Hospital.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Haskell was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.Eagle Butte Woman Charged with AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.
Lynsi Bad Warrior, a/k/a Lynsi Four Bear, age 33, was indicted on July 18, 2017. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 24, 2017, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and up to $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on April 7, 2017, Bad Warrior unlawfully assaulted an adult female with shod feet, causing serious bodily injury to the victim.
The charges are merely accusations and Bad Warrior is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.Bad Warrior was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced on Methamphetamine and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota man convicted of Distribution of a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on August 1, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Smokey James Jandreau, age 40, was sentenced to 10 months in custody and 3 years of supervised release on each count, to run concurrently, a fine of $1,000, forfeiture of a firearm and ammunition, and a mandatory special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Jandreau was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 16, 2016. He pled guilty on May 16, 2017.
On three occasions between July 2, 2016, and July 24, 2016, Jandreau knowingly and intentionally distributed methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in Eagle Butte, South Dakota.
On July 26, 2016, Jandreau came into contact with law enforcement. During a search of his residence, officers found a rifle, ammunition, and drug paraphernalia near his bedroom. Jandreau admitted owning the firearm and smoking methamphetamine. Being a drug user, Jandreau was prohibited from possessing the firearm. The firearm was seized by law enforcement and forfeited.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services Narcotics Division and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney SaraBeth Donovan prosecuted the case.
Jandreau was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, Opposing, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on August 1, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Thomas James Shan Looking Horse, a/k/ T.J. Shan Looking Horse, age 28, was sentenced to 24 months in custody, 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of
$100.
Looking Horse was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 19, 2017. He pled guilty on May 16, 2017.
The conviction stems from an incident on December 19, 2016, when Looking Horse was taken to the Indian Health Services Hospital in Eagle Butte by his parents. He had been acting erratically and his mother was concerned that he may be under the influence of something.When they got Looking Horse to the hospital, he became aggressive and uncooperative, so law enforcement was notified. A police sergeant with the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe responded and attempted to rationalize with Looking Horse, telling him that hospital staff just wanted to get him checked out and get him the help he needed. Looking Horse became uncooperative while at the hospital and was placed under arrest by the police sergeant.
When the sergeant went to place handcuffs on Looking Horse, he pulled both of his arms towards his chest and asked the sergeant what he was doing. When the sergeant attempted again to place the wrist restraints on Looking Horse, he attempted to get away. The sergeant had ahold of Looking Horse’s right arm when Looking Horse grabbed the handle of the sergeant’s duty weapon with his left hand, and tried to get it out of its holster. The sergeant pushed down on his duty weapon and turned away from Looking Horse who continued to try to go for the duty weapon. Several people intervened to assist the sergeant, but Looking Horse continued his irate behavior, and was still fighting to get away. Looking Horse was ultimately taken to the ground and restrained. He continued to be uncooperative and resistive.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Looking Horse was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.Eagle Butte Man Charged with Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
Nolan Leo Coleman, age 28, was indicted on June 14, 2017. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 28, 2017, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on July 14, 2016, Coleman, having previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce and foreign commerce.
The charge is merely an accusation and Coleman is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
Coleman was released on bond pending trial which has been set for October 3, 2017.Arizona Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Arizona man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Methamphetamine, was sentenced on July 17, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Monte Dinehdeal, a/k/a Monte Dineh Deal, age 41, was sentenced to 120 months in custody, 5 years of supervised release, a fine of $1,000, the forfeiture of a firearm and ammunition, and a mandatory special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Dinehdeal was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 16, 2016. He pled guilty on April 25, 2017.
Between January 1, 2013 and September 17, 2015, Dinehdeal knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine in South Dakota. Dinehdeal received distributable quantities of methamphetamine and distributed some of that methamphetamine in South Dakota. The individuals who provided Dinehdeal with the methamphetamine knew that he intended to engage in further distribution. Dinehdeal admitted that it was reasonably foreseeable to him that more than 500 grams of methamphetamine would be distributed during the course of the conspiracy.
During the execution of a search warrant on September 17, 2015, law enforcement seized a firearm and ammunition from Dinehdeal’s pickup truck. The firearm and ammunition were subsequently forfeited.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Federal Bureau of Investionation, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney SaraBeth Donovan prosecuted the case.
Dinehdeal was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.St. Francis Woman Sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Aiding and AbettingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, woman convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Aiding and Abetting, was sentenced on July 31, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Mary Left Hand Bull, age 26, was sentenced to time served, 3 years of supervised release, a fine of $500, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Left Hand Bull is to be on home confinement until placed in inpatient treatment.
Left Hand Bull was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 9, 2016. She pled guilty on May 31, 2017.
The conviction stems from a traffic stop that occurred on March 7, 2016, during which Left Hand Bull was found to be in possession of several baggies containing methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance.This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.
Sioux Falls Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Kidnapping ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Sioux Falls, SD, man pleaded guilty in federal court to Kidnapping.
Jon Henri Bryant, Sr., age 61, was indicted on November 9, 2016. He appeared before U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier on August 1, 2017, and pled guilty to the Kidnapping charge alleged in the Superseding Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to Life in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
According to the indictment, on October 25, 2016, Bryant forcefully and violently took a motor vehicle from the victim, who was forced by Bryant into the vehicle's trunk. The victim suffered serious bodily injury. Bryant committed the kidnapping for revenge and he transported the victim over state lines.
The investigation is being conducted by the Sioux Falls Police Department, the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Marshal’s Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
Bryant was returned to the custody of the U.S. Marshal's Service. A sentencing hearing has been set for October 23, 2017.Rapid City Man Indicted for Assault and Child Abuse ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation and Child Abuse.
Gary Hacker, III, age 27, was indicted on July 11, 2017. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 24, 2017, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction for Assault is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, and 3 years supervised release, the maximum penalty upon conviction for Child Abuse is 15 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, and 3 years supervised release. Both charges could result in a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and restitution.
The Indictment alleges that on June 12, 2017, Hacker assaulted an individual with the intent to do bodily harm. The Indictment further alleges that Hacker abused, exposed, tortured, tormented, and cruelly punished a child on that date.The charges are merely accusations and Hacker is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Hacker was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.Mission Man Charged with Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Roger Watts, age 34, was indicted on February 15, 2017. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 20, 2017, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 8 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 Indictment alleges that on or about January 20, 2017, Watts assaulted a federal law enforcement officer.
The charge is merely an accusation and Watts is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.Watts was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Colorado Man Sentenced for Sexual Contact with a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Denver, Colorado, man convicted of Sexual Contact with a Minor was sentenced on July 31, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Isaac Padilla, age 24, was sentenced to 10 months in custody, 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Padilla was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 7, 2017. He pled guilty on April 25, 2017.
The conviction stems from an incident on February 25, 2017, when Padilla, who was intoxicated, intentionally touched the breast of a 15-year old girl through her clothing.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Padilla was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.Sioux Falls Man Pleads Guilty to Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that Ehab Abdulmutta Jaber, age 46, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Veronica L. Duffy on July 25, 2017, and pled guilty to an Indictment that charged him with Possession of Firearms by a Prohibited Person.
The maximum penalty for the offense is 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Jaber was attending an event at the Hilton Garden Inn South in Sioux Falls on April 9, 2017, when security officers noticed him using his phone to take a video of the crowd. As videotaping was not allowed at the venue, security asked Jaber to leave. Jaber went to his vehicle and posted a Facebook live feed in which he pulled firearms out of his vehicle and from his person. He made statements on the feed that law enforcement believed were terroristic threats. Jaber was arrested and five firearms were seized.
Jaber admitted to law enforcement that he was addicted to methamphetamine, which makes it illegal for him to possess firearms under federal law.
The investigation was conducted by the Sioux Falls Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Criminal Chief Dennis R. Holmes.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date has been scheduled for October 16, 2017. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Eagle Butte Woman Sentenced for TheftRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman convicted of Theft from Indian Tribal Organization was sentenced on July 24, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Shanon LeCompte, a/k/a Shanon Morgan, age 41, was sentenced to 2 months in custody, followed by 2 years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $1,805.97, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
LeCompte was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 19, 2017. She pled guilty on May 2, 2017.
LeCompte was employed by the Oriental Express in Eagle Butte in 2014 and 2015. While employed at Oriental Express, the defendant was given the business’ Personal Identification Number that allowed her to charge merchandise to Oriental Express’ account at the Lakota Thrifty Mart grocery store in Eagle Butte. LeCompte left her position at the Oriental Express and was later hired as an Assistant Manager at the Lakota Thrifty Mart, a business owned by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe.
The conviction stems from incidents between May 31, 2016, and October 22, 2016, when LeCompte used the Oriental Express’ Personal Identification Number to charge over $1,800.00 in merchandise at the Lakota Thrifty Mart for her own use.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
LeCompte was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation and Assaulting, Resisting, Opposing, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on July 26, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Allen Garreau, age 33, was sentenced to 42 months in custody, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100 for the Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation count. Garreau was sentenced to 18 months in custody, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100 for the Assault on a Federal Officer count.
Garreau was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 19, 2016. He pled guilty on April 17, 2017.On July 11, 2016, Garreau went to the apartment of Michelle Black Tail to spend time with their son. Black Tail Deer allowed Garreau inside of the apartment but he began making sexual advances towards her, which she rebuffed. Garreau became angry and assaulted Black Tail Deer. Garreau grabbed Black Tail Deer by the hair, threw her to the floor, kicked her, punched her in the face, and then began to strangle her. Black Tail Deer lost consciousness. Garreau stayed at the apartment all night. The next morning, he attempted to prevent her from going to work. Black Tail Deer was able to get away from Garreau when a co-worker came to the apartment to pick her up for work.
Black Tail Deer was taken to the hospital and the police were called. After taking a report from her, Officers with the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Police Department went to the apartment to make contact with Garreau. Garreau refused to open the door for the officers, and a maintenance worker had to unlock the apartment. Once inside, the officers found Garreau sitting on a bed in one of the bedrooms. He had a blanket pulled up over him and he had his arms around two small children. The officers made repeated requests for him to put the children down, to get up, and to walk out, but Garreau refused. When one of the officers attempted to approach Garreau, he told the officer that he needed to back up. The officer asked Garreau if he had anything or anything dangerous in his hands. Garreau told the officer words to the effect of “come find out.”
After several minutes of talking, Garreau stood up, showed his hands, and walked towards the officers. As the officers attempted to take him into custody, Garreau began to struggle with them. The officers were eventually able to take Garreau into custody.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Garreau was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.St. Francis Man Sentenced for Failure to RegisterRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on July 25, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Joseph Blue Bird, age 30, was sentenced to 10 months in custody, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Blue Bird was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 13, 2016. He pled guilty on May 15, 2017.
The conviction stems from Blue Bird failing to register as a sex offender as required by federal law between June 16, 2016, and September 13, 2016. Blue Bird had previously been convicted of a sex offense in federal court, which requires him to register within three days of arrival in a state or upon changing his place of residence.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Blue Bird was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced on Transfer of Obscene Material ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Brandon, South Dakota, man convicted of transfer of obscene material was sentenced on Monday, July 24, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schrier.
Ryan Jervik, age 30, was sentenced to 6 months in custody, followed by 3 years supervised release, which includes 6 months of home confinement. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Jervik was indicted for attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor and attempted enticement of a minor using the internet by a federal grand jury on October 4, 2016. He pled guilty on April 25, 2017.
On August 29, 2016, Jervik used his cell phone to communicate with an individual he believed to be a minor female that was 13-years old. The defendant knowingly used his cell phone to transfer a digital nude photo of himself, to the individual he believed was 13-years old. Unknown to the defendant, the individual receiving the obscene images was an undercover law enforcement officer.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Jervik was given a date to self-surrender to the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Sexual Exploitation of a ChildRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of sexual exploitation of a child was sentenced on Monday, July 24, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schrier.
Terance Morice Highbull, 38, was sentenced to 25 years in custody, followed by15 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Highbull was indicted for sexual exploitation of a child by a federal grand jury on February 23, 2016. He pled guilty on April 24, 2017.
On or about February 9, 2015, officers from the Sioux Falls Police Department responded to a family dispute call at the home of Highbull’s girlfriend. While at the residence, a report of naked photographs on Highbull’s cell phone was made. Police seized the cell phone and began investigating the claims. Highbull had engaged in sexual contact with his girlfriend’s 13 year-old daughter and recorded it on his cell phone.
“Sexual exploitation of a child is among the most heinous crimes we prosecute. The actions of these sexual predators can alter a child’s life forever and steal their innocence during a crucial time in their formative years. The sentence handed down to Terance Highbull is indicative of the serious nature of these acts,” said U.S. Attorney Seiler.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department, along with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Highbull was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Daniel Tobacco, age 24, was indicted on July 18, 2017. Tobacco appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on July 19, 2017, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, a lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to Tobacco failing to register and update his registration as a convicted sex offender between May 9, 2017, and May 25, 2017.
The charge is merely an accusation and Tobacco is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman is prosecuting the case.
Tobacco was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been not been set.
Nebraska Woman Indicted for False StatementRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Walthill, Nebraska, woman was charged in federal district court with False Statement.
Wehnona Stabler, age 59, was charged on June 20, 2017. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on July 21, 2017, and pleaded not guilty to the charge. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 5 years of imprisonment 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 charge relates to Stabler making a false statement in January 2014 on a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report while an employee of Indian Health Service (IHS) at Pine Ridge, related to a $5,000 payment she received from Dr. Stanley Patrick Weber. Weber is currently under indictment for multiple counts of sex abuse with minors arising when he was a pediatrician at IHS Pine Ridge.
The charge is merely an accusation and Stabler is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Office of Inspector General, Health and Human Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins is prosecuting the case.
Stabler was released pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Ellsworth Man Convicted of Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that Colby Haggerty, 25, of Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota, was found guilty of two counts of Receipt of Child Pornography and one count of Possession of Child Pornography at the conclusion of a four-day federal jury trial in Rapid City.
The penalty is a mandatory minimum of 5 years up to 20 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, lifetime supervised release, a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and restitution.
The conviction stems from Haggerty downloading at least 1,000 pornographic images of children, including infants, between 2009 and 2015 while living on Ellsworth Air Force Base and in Rapid City.
This case was investigated by the Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered and sentencing will be scheduled. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on July 24, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Joseph Marshall, age 38, was sentenced to 24 months in custody, followed by 5 years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $99.65, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Marshall was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 19, 2016. He pled guilty on May 2, 2017.
The conviction stems from Marshall failing to register as a sex offender as required by federal law between February 1, 2016, and March 10, 2016, and March 20, 2016, and April 10, 2016. Marshall has previously been convicted of a sex offense in federal court which requires him to register for the rest of his life.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Marshall was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Standing Rock Woman Pleads Guilty to MurderRead the Press Release
States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that Desarae Makes Him First, age 26, of Standing Rock, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann on July 20, 2017, and pled guilty to a Superseding Information that charged her with Second Degree Murder.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in custody, a $250,000 fine, a period of supervised release of 5 years. If Makes Him First is found to have violated a condition of supervised release, she may be incarcerated for an additional term of up to 5 years on any such revocation. A fine of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and restitution may also be ordered.
The charge stems from an incident between October 11, 2016, and October 12, 2016, when Makes Him First unlawfully aided and abetted in the murder of her daughter, who was five years old at the time of her death.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for October 30, 2017. Makes Him First was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.
Rosebud Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting a Federal Officer was sentenced on July 17, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Ronald Red Tomahawk, age 31, was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Red Tomahawk was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 15, 2017. He pled guilty on April 24, 2017.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred in St. Francis, South Dakota, on September 25, 2016, wherein Rosebud Sioux Tribe Police Officers were arresting Red Tomahawk on an outstanding warrant. Red Tomahawk was intoxicated and became violent with the officers as they attempted to place him in wrist restraints.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Red Tomahawk was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rosebud Man Charged for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Anthony Farmer, age 33, was indicted on July 11, 2017. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 19, 2017, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Farmer was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact with a Child in June 2010. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. It is alleged that between May 22, 2017, and June 16, 2017, Farmer, a person required to register under the Sex Offender registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under Federal Law, failed to properly register as a s sex offender.
The charge is merely an accusation and Farmer is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Farmer was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Charged with Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Colby Dean Hutchinson, age 50, was charged on February 23, 2016. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on July 14, 2017, and pleaded not guilty to the charge. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 of imprisonment 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 charge relates to Hutchinson, a previously convicted felon, being in possession of a .357 magnum revolver. The charge is merely an accusation and Hutchinson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Hutchinson was detained pending further hearing. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Charged for Sexually Exploiting MinorsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with four counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.
Chance Garrett Williams, age 27, was charged on June 20, 2017. Williams appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on July 11, 2017, and pleaded not guilty to the charges. The penalty upon conviction is 15 to 30 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, a minimum of 5 years up to lifetime supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Williams sexually exploiting three minor females via his cell phone between January 2012 and January 2017. The charges are merely an accusation and Williams is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins is prosecuting the case.
Williams was detained pending further hearing. A trial date has not been set.
Okreek Woman Sentenced for Assault by Striking, Beating, and WoundingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Okreek, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assault by Striking, Beating and Wounding was sentenced on July 19, 2017, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.
Selena Chief Eagle, age 25, was sentenced to 10 months and 18 days in in custody, followed by 1 year of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $25.
Chief Eagle was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 15, 2017. She pled guilty to a Superseding Information on May 4, 2017.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on January 10, 2017, wherein Chief Eagle assaulted her boyfriend with a knife during a domestic dispute.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Chief Eagle was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Charged for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Edward Zane Roubideaux, Jr., age 26, was indicted on July 11, 2017. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 19, 2017, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Roubideaux was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in November 2011. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. It is alleged that between June 8, 2017, and June 23, 2017, Roubideaux, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under Federal Law, failed to properly register as a sex offender.
The charge is merely an accusation and Roubideaux is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Roubideaux was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.