District of Montana

The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:

Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on March 16 was:

Brett Williams James Jones, 27, of Lame Deer, on charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. If convicted of the most serious crime, Jones faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Jones was released pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 20-73.

Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on March 17 was:

Joseph Mark Parsons Menke, 29, of Belgrade, on charges of distribution and receipt of child pornography. If convicted of the most serious crime, Menke faces a mandatory minimum five years to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. Menke was released pending further proceedings. The Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Bozeman Police Department and Montana Department of Justice’s Division of Criminal Investigation investigated the case.  PACER case reference. 21-04.

Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on March 16 was:

Kaycee Lynn Menz, 29, of Poplar, on charges of conspiracy to possess and distribute oxycodone, possession with intent to distribute oxycodone, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, conspiracy to commit money laundering and money laundering. If convicted of the most serious crime, Menz faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and four years of supervised release. Menz was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office and Montana Highway Patrol investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-11.

The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.

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BILLNGS – A California man convicted in a methamphetamine distribution ring that supplied pounds of the drug to the Sidney area was sentenced today to 121 months in prison and five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Marc Buetow, 53, of San Diego, California, pleaded guilty on Oct. 22, 2020 to possession with intent to distribute meth.

U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. Buetow was detained.

In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that Buetow reportedly had a drug connection to the Mexican Cartel, would receive meth from his connection and supply individuals in California and Montana. Buetow was involved in supplying multiple pounds of meth to the Sidney area and eastern Montana from October 2015 through at least November 2017. Buetow became a significant source of meth for a Sidney distributor, who received 10 pounds in 2016 and another two to three pounds in 2017.  Ten pounds of meth is the equivalent of 36,240 doses. In exchange for the meth, the Sidney distributor sent money to Buetow and eventually deposited money into accounts Buetow had at banks in Sidney and in North Dakota. Buetow received approximately $52,000 from these transactions.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zeno Baucus and Bryan Dake prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

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BILLINGS – A Lame Deer man who admitted sexual abuse charges involving a minor was sentenced today to 50 months in prison and to five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Coolidge Allen Killsontop, 42, pleaded guilty on Oct. 19, 2020 to attempted sexual abuse of a minor and to abusive sexual contact as charged in an indictment.

U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. Killsontop was detained.

In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that in 2018 or 2019 in Lame Deer, on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, Killsontop was in a residence with the victim, identified as Jane Doe, who was between the ages of 12 and 16. Killsontop groped the victim and attempted to sexually abuse her again after she had fallen asleep.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan Dake prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI.

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GREAT FALLS — A Wolf Point man accused of injuring an infant on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation pleaded guilty to assault charges today, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Charles Connor Clark, 27, pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury as charged in a superseding information. Clark faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris set sentencing for June 16. Clark was detained pending further proceedings.

In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that in November 2017, the FBI was notified that an infant, identified as John Doe, had been flown from Wolf Point, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, to a hospital in Billings. The victim appeared to have suffered life-threatening, non-accidental injuries. Doctors informed agents that John Doe’s injuries were classic signs of physical abuse. When interviewed, the victim’s mother said Clark had told her the victim had vomited, that he was trying to burp him and that the victim had choked.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Suek is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Fort Peck Tribal Law Enforcement.

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GREAT FALLS–A Great Falls man who admitted assaulting another man with a machete in Browning on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation was sentenced today to one year and one day in prison and to two years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Shem Abram Killsnight, 42, pleaded guilty on Oct. 19, 2020 to assault with a dangerous weapon.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Killsnight was ordered to self report to prison.

In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that on June 4, 2019, Killsnight went to the residence of the victim, identified as John Doe, on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. Killsnight brought a machete, and the victim believed Killsnight was under the influence of methamphetamine. Killsnight swung the machete at the victim and struck him in the hand. The victim sought medical treatment for the wound.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kalah Paisley and Cassady Adams prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services.

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BILLINGS – An Arizona man who admitted drug trafficking and firearm crimes after officers seized more than four pounds of methamphetamine in Livingston was sentenced today to 15 years in prison and to five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Gaspar Feliciano Salas, 46, of Glendale, Arizona, pleaded guilty on Aug. 7, 2020 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute meth and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.

The government alleged in court documents filed in the case that the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force learned in February 2020 that a person had been purchasing multi-pound quantities of meth from Salas and another individual since February 2019. Salas and the individual traveled together to Montana to distribute meth. On April 23, 2020, agents located Salas and the individual at a hotel in Livingston and searched the room pursuant to a warrant. Agents seized 4.69 pounds of meth, which is the equivalent of about 16,996 doses, in a backpack. The backpack also contained a loaded 9mm handgun and an additional 51 rounds of ammunition.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin Rubich prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and the FBI Transnational Organized Crime West Task Force.

This case is part of Project Guardian, the U.S. Department of Justice’s recent initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws, and Project Safe Neighborhoods, the USDOJ’s initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 48% from 2013 through 2019. Through these initiatives, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

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BILLINGS – A methamphetamine user who admitted to brandishing a firearm at two individuals was sentenced today to 32 months in prison and to three years of supervised release, U.S. Acting Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Kenneth John Howard, 30, of Billings, pleaded guilty on Oct. 20, 2020 to possessing a firearm while being a user of a controlled substance as charged in an indictment.

U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.

In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that from July to October of 2019 Howard possessed a firearm on three occasions while using a controlled substance.  The most recent of these instances occurred on Oct. 15, 2019, when officers responded to the Sleep Inn in Billings for a report of an individual brandishing a firearm. Two witnesses reported they were leaving the hotel when Howard motioned them over, pulled a black handgun from a bag, showed it to them, and began using derogatory language. Howard then walked away and entered a room at the hotel. Officers located the gun, a semi-automatic pistol with 11 live rounds of ammunition, in a vehicle.

Howard initially denied having a gun but later admitted to officers he brandished the gun in front of the two witnesses.  Howard acknowledged he was a regular meth user and that he was coming down from using when he displayed the firearm.  Another witness confirmed Howard was a regular meth user and that he previously brandished the firearm to other individuals on July 16 and August 29.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla Painter prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

This case is part of Project Guardian, a Department of Justice initiative launched in the fall of 2019 to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Through Project Guardian, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Montana is working to enhance coordination of its federal, state, tribal and local law enforcement partners in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes. In addition, Project Guardian supports information sharing and taking action when individuals are denied a firearm purchase by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System for mental health reasons or because they are a prohibited person.

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BILLINGS – A Florida man who admitted trafficking methamphetamine after the Montana Highway Patrol found 78 pounds of the drug during a traffic stop in one of the state’s largest seizures was sentenced today to 11 years in prison and to five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Nicholas James Imhoff, 30, of Cape Coral, Florida, pleaded guilty on Sept. 9, 2020 to possession with intent to distribute meth.

U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.

“With this traffic stop of Mr. Imhoff’s vehicle, the Montana Highway Patrol prevented a staggering amount of nearly pure methamphetamine from hitting the streets and harming communities. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is dedicated to dealing with the problem of meth in our communities.  We need to reduce both supply and demand.  One way to reduce supply is demonstrated by this case.  Meth traffickers caught in Montana will be investigated and prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” Acting U.S. Attorney Johnson said.

"Meth is the driving force behind the surge in violent crime across our state in recent years. One Highway Patrol trooper’s vigilance resulted in one of the largest drug interdictions in state history and kept a massive amount of meth off the streets. The Highway Patrol and entire Montana Department of Justice will continue to pursue and crack down on the people who are flooding our communities with dangerous drugs,” Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen said.

The government said in court documents filed in the case that on Feb. 11, 2020, a Montana Highway Patrol trooper stopped a vehicle for speeding on Interstate 90 near Columbus. Imhoff, the driver and sole occupant, told the trooper he was headed back to work in the oilfields in North Dakota. Imhoff's explanations and other observations led the trooper to suspect Imhoff was transporting drugs.

Imhoff's vehicle was impounded and the officer obtained a Montana search warrant. During a search of the vehicle, officers seized about 78 pounds of meth, which is the equivalent of 282,672 doses. The meth was located under a floor storage compartment in the second seat area and was in white plastic garbage bags. Some of the meth was packaged in vacuum sealed plastic bags and some was wrapped in duct tape. An analysis by a Drug Enforcement Administration lab determined the meth was 98 percent pure. The street value of the meth was estimated at between $624,000 to $1,248,000. The seizure was one of the largest meth seizures in Montana.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Patten prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Montana Highway Patrol.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 to 2018. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

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The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:

Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on March 10 was:

Holly Michele Hedberg, 38, of Billings, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Hedberg faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. The FBI Western Transnational Organized Crime Task Force and Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force investigated the case. PACER case reference. 20-109.

The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.

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BILLINGS — A Crow Agency man today admitted stabbing another man last year on the Crow Indian Reservation, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Dee Bad Bear, 59, pleaded guilty to an indictment charging him with assault with a dangerous weapon. Bad Bear faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. A sentencing date will be set. Bad Bear was detained.

In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution alleged the assault occurred on April 17, 2020 at a Lodge Grass residence, located on the Crow Indian Reservation. Bad Bear and the victim, identified as John Doe, were drinking alcohol and talking. Doe went to the bathroom and when he came out, Bad Bear slashed him with a knife. Doe was treated for injuries at a hospital in Billings. A knife matching a description by the victim was recovered from Bad Bear’s car.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeanne Torske is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI.

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MISSOULA – A Missoula certified public accountant convicted of filing false tax returns for a couple’s businesses was sentenced today to two years in prison to be followed by one year of supervised release and fined $10,000, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

After a four-day trial, a jury convicted Daniel Brian Burke, 64, on Nov. 5, 2020 of six counts of aiding and assisting to subscribing to a false document.

U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. Judge Christensen ordered Burke to self-report to prison.

“As with all tax preparers, Mr. Burke had a responsibility to ensure that his clients complied with the tax laws. Instead, Burke actively helped them cheat on their taxes by hiding income, inflating expenses, and manipulating depreciation. With tax season under way, I hope this case will encourage tax preparers and taxpayers to think twice before committing tax fraud. If they commit fraud, they will be investigated and prosecuted,” Acting U.S. Attorney Johnson said.

“Today's sentencing of Daniel Burke is a direct result of the excellent partnership the IRS and the U.S. Attorney’s Office have in combating violations of federal law,” said Andy Tsui, Special Agent in Charge IRS Criminal Investigation, Denver Field Office. “This sentence is a strong message to all CPAs and tax preparers everywhere who are contemplating abusing or exploiting the tax system. IRS CI is committed to investigating and prosecuting those who abuse our tax system.”

In court documents filed in the case and evidence presented at trial, the government alleged that Burke signed false tax returns along with co-defendants and clients, Traci and Joseph Baumgardner, owners of AJB, Inc. and JZ Contracting, Inc., for years 2011 to 2013. In total, the Baumgardners reported gross receipts of $5,001,374 and paid federal taxes totaling $10,066 for the time. Traci and Joseph Baumgardner each pleaded guilty to a conspiracy count and were sentenced to three years of probation and ordered to pay $89,918 restitution. 

The government alleged that through AJB and JZ Contracting, Inc., the Baumgardners operated two businesses, Splash Car Wash, in Missoula and Hamilton, and Pro Sweeps Plus, an industrial maintenance service. Burke, a certified public accountant, owned and operated Burke and Company, P.C., and prepared corporate and individual tax returns for the Baumgardners.

Prosecutors further alleged an undercover investigation by the IRS showed that Burke instructed the Baumgardners not to deposit cash in the bank or report it as income as required, to deduct personal expenses as business expenses and to improperly depreciate assets. An undercover IRS agent met with Burke and in a recorded interview, Burke agreed to file false tax returns for the undercover agent. At one point, Burke asked the agent, “You're not an undercover agent from the IRS or anything?” The agent responded no.  Burke told the agent how to avoid taxes.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Weldon and Karla Painter prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the IRS.

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MISSOULA — A Missoula man suspected of trafficking large amounts of methamphetamine in the Flathead Valley and of having five pounds of meth at his shop admitted drug crimes on March 9, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Leon Paul Kavis, Jr., 36, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth and to possession with intent to distribute meth. Kavis faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Kavis was detained pending further proceedings,

U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Sentencing was set for July 8 before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen. Kavis was detained pending further proceedings.

In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that Kavis was identified to law enforcement as a source of meth in the Flathead Valley from about November 2019 to November 2020. California authorities also identified Kavis as working with individuals to bring to meth to Montana for distribution.

The government further alleged witnesses would testify that Kavis sold them meth, observed him with pounds of meth, including up to 15 pounds on one occasion, that he always carried a firearm for protection and often had large sums of cash, ranging from $30,000 to $50,000.

The government also alleged that packages were being sent from California to Kavis’ shop in East Missoula. Officers executed a search warrant on one of the packages at the shop and found it contained about five pounds of meth, which is the equivalent of about 18,120 doses. The package was addressed to Kavis’ shop and had Kavis’ number listed.

Kavis contested aspects of the government’s case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Clark is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Missoula Police Department and Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 48% from 2013 to 2019. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

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MISSOULA – A convicted felon who admitted possessing a loaded handgun found in a traffic stop in Gallatin County was sentenced today to 15 months in prison and to three years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Ruben Francisco Federico. 23, of Belgrade, pleaded guilty on Nov. 10, 2020 to prohibited person in possession of a firearm.

U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.

In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution alleged that on July 6, 2020, Federico, a convicted felon on state supervision, possessed a loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol during a traffic stop in Gallatin County. A sheriff’s deputy clocked a vehicle going 109 mph in a 65 mph zone and stopped it after a short pursuit. Federico, the driver and sole occupant, was moving all over as the deputy approached. The loaded pistol was located during a probation search under the back-passenger seat, but within easy grabbing distance. Federico was convicted of a felony in 2018.  

The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office, Montana Department of Corrections’ Probation and Parole and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case.

This case is part of Project Guardian, a Department of Justice initiative launched in the fall of 2019 to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Through Project Guardian, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Montana is working to enhance coordination of its federal, state, tribal and local law enforcement partners in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes. In addition, Project Guardian supports information sharing and taking action when individuals are denied a firearm purchase by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System for mental health reasons or because they are a prohibited person.

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BILLINGS — A California man accused of trafficking methamphetamine after law enforcement officers found 24 pounds of the drug hidden in a vehicle he was driving pleaded guilty today to a trafficking crime, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Christopher Santillanes Ceja, 31, of Riverside, California, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth. Ceja faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Ceja was detained pending further proceedings.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. A sentencing date before U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters has not yet been set.  

In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that law enforcement agents learned in March 2019 about a shipment of meth being transported from Mexico to Billings. Law enforcement surveillance saw a vehicle with a California license plate registered to Ceja pull into a Billings hotel. Ceja was known to law enforcement as having been involved in meth trafficking in the Billings area. Later that same evening, officers conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle and Ceja was driving. Agents impounded and searched the vehicle pursuant to a warrant. Agents located 19 bundles of meth concealed throughout the vehicle. The meth totaled 11 kilograms, or about 24.2 pounds, of pure meth. Eleven kilograms of meth is the equivalent of about 87,700 doses.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Suek is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI Western Transnational Organized Crime Task Force and the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 48% from 2013 to 2019. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

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The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:

Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on March 1 was:

David Raymond Smith, 59, of Hamilton, on charges of false statements to bank and bank fraud. If convicted of the most serious crime, Smith faces a maximum 30 years in prison, a $1 million fine and five years of supervised release. Smith was released pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-01.

Laura Jeanne Haacke, 46, of Missoula, on charges of conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute. If convicted of the most serious crime, Haacke faces mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Haacke was released pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-02.

Appearing on March 2 and pleading not guilty was:

Russell Joseph Breton, 61, of Polson, on charges of possession with intent to distribute and felon in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Breton faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Breton was released pending further proceedings. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Polson Police Department and Lake County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-04.

Aaron Charles Foote, 34, a transient, on charges of conspiracy, wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. If convicted of the most serious crime, Foote faces 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Foote was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Billings Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-01.

Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on March 3 was:

Crystal Leigh Speakthunder, 38, a transient, on charges of conspiracy, wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. If convicted of the most serious crime, Speakthunder faces a maximum 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Speakthunder was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Billings Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-01.

Appearing on March 1 and pleading not guilty was:

Carl Mark Madden, 46, of Billings, on charges of wire fraud, aggravated identity theft and prohibited person in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Madden faces a maximum 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Madden was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-05.

The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.

 

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GREAT FALLS – A Washington woman who admitted trafficking methamphetamine on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation and in Great Falls was sentenced on March 3 to seven years in prison and five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Georgie Elaine Russell, 41, of Spokane, Washington, pleaded guilty on Oct. 22, 2020 to possession with intent to distribute meth.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Russell was detained.

The government alleged in court documents filed in the case that the Great Falls Police Department learned in January 2020 that Russell was on federal supervised release for a meth conviction in the Eastern District of Washington and was trafficking meth from Washington to the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation and Great Falls. During an approved trip to Montana in January 2020, law enforcement made a traffic stop of a vehicle in which Russell was a passenger. The vehicle was impounded, and a search warrant was obtained. Officers found an air-sealed bag that contained approximately 222 grams of meth, or nearly one half pound of meth.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan Plaut prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Chippewa Cree Law Enforcement Services and Great Falls Police Department.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 48% from 2013 to 2019. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

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GREAT FALLS – Three members of a Lewistown family were sentenced today for their roles in a methamphetamine trafficking scheme in which meth was sent from California to Lewistown for distribution, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Kathleen Elizabeth Francis, 54, of Lewistown, was sentenced to 42 months in prison and four years of supervised release. Francis’ daughter, Amber Rachelle Carr, 36, of Lewistown, was sentenced to 20 months in prison and four years of supervised release. Francis’ mother, Shirley Ann Adcock, 73, of Springfield, Michigan, formerly of California, was sentenced to eight months in prison and three years of supervised release. Francis and Adcock pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth, while Carr pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth. All three defendants pleaded guilty on Nov. 10, 2020.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and ordered the defendants to self-report to prison.

In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that in May 2019, the Lewistown Police Department learned that Francis was receiving packages of meth in the mail from the Bakersfield area in California. The investigation determined that Francis received delivery on two to three parcels per month. When a suspect package arrived addressed to Francis on September 2019 at the Lewistown Post Office, officers obtained a federal search warrant for the package and found it contained about 15 grams of meth. The package was delivered, officers executed a search warrant of Francis’ residence and arrested Francis. While officers were at the home, Carr arrived and was detained.

Carr admitted she had drugs sent to her mother’s house and said that the meth was shipped by Adcock, her grandmother, from California. Francis admitted she was using meth and allowed meth to be shipped to her home in exchange for Carr giving her meth to use. Adcock admitted to mailing the intercepted package, to mailing packages of meth to Francis on two or three prior occasions and to receiving money orders or money transfers for payment of the drugs.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeff Starnes prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service, Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and the Lewistown Police Department.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 48% from 2013 to 2019. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

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GREAT FALLS – A North Dakota man convicted of methamphetamine trafficking crimes after investigators seized nearly two pounds of meth that were hidden in a pinata and a jar of peanut butter was sentenced today to 12 years and six months in prison followed by five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

A jury found Christopher Michael Stebbins, 53, of Williston, N.D., guilty on Nov. 6, 2020 of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth and with attempted possession with intent to distribute meth.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and continued Stebbins’ detention.

In court documents and during trial, the prosecution presented evidence that on Nov. 8, 2019, Don Fred Baldwin, of Merced, California, mailed almost two pounds of meth to Stebbins to an address of a Brockton residence, located on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. The meth was hidden in a jar of peanut butter and inside a “cop dog” pinata. Law enforcement officers intercepted the package, obtained a search warrant and found 1.7 pounds of meth inside the pinata and the peanut butter jar. The quantity of meth seized is the equivalent of about 6,208 doses. Baldwin was sentenced to six years in prison for conviction in a companion case.

A witness told law enforcement officers that Stebbins received meth from Baldwin and that the shipments were usually one-pound quantities. Baldwin typically shipped the meth to Stebbins’ home in Williston and that the Nov. 8, 2019 package was the only shipment to the Brockton residence. Stebbins would re-package the meth to sell to others.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeff Starnes prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, U.S. Postal Service and the Merced Police Department.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 48% from 2013 to 2019. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

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UPDATED March 5, 2021: For clarification, neither the defendant nor the victim was an employee of or affiliated with the National Park Service.

MISSOULA — A seasonal employee accused of sexually assaulting another seasonal worker in Glacier National Park admitted charges today, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Eduardo Luis Diaz, 26, of Chicago, Illinois, pleaded guilty to sexual abuse during a hearing. Diaz faces a maximum life in prison, a $250,000 fine, and five years of supervised release.

U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided. Judge Molloy set sentencing for June 24. Diaz was released pending further proceedings.

The government alleged in court documents filed in the case that in July 2020, Diaz and the victim, identified as Jane Doe, were both seasonal employees working in Glacier National Park for a private contractor and living in employee housing.  Doe became intoxicated at a party.  After Doe had passed out, Diaz sexually assaulted Doe.  Another resident of the dorm assisted Doe after the assault. 

When interviewed by a National Park Service ranger, Diaz told the ranger that he had engaged in sex with Doe. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kalah Paisley is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the National Park Service.

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BILLINGS — A man admitted murder and firearms charges today in the fatal shooting of a woman and injury of a passenger in her vehicle along Blue Creek Road on the Crow Indian Reservation, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Taylor Leigh Plain Bull, 27, a transient, pleaded guilty to second degree murder and to use of a firearm during a crime of violence as charged in an amended superseding information. Plain Bull faces life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release on the murder charge, and a mandatory minimum 10 years in prison consecutive to any other term of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release on the firearm charge.

U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. Judge Watters set sentencing for July 23. Plain Bull was detained.

In court documents filed in the case, the government alleged that on Oct. 24, 2020, the victim, identified as Jane Doe, was driving from Pryor to Billings with a passenger, identified as John Doe, in the front passenger seat, and a child in the back seat. While Jane Doe was driving westbound on Blue Creek Road, she was passed by Plain Bull, who was driving a stolen truck eastbound toward Pryor. Plain Bull previously had been in a dating relationship with Jane Doe. The truck had been reported stolen in Billings and contained four firearms, including a .45-caliber semiautomatic pistol.

The government alleged that after passing Jane Doe, Plain Bull turned around and chased after her. He passed her car, drove to the top of a hill, and stopped sideways on the roadway, blocking the road. Plain Bull got out of the truck and pointed a gun at Jane Doe’s approaching car.  Jane Doe stopped, told John Doe that it was Plain Bull and put her car in reverse. Plain Bull got back in the truck and ultimately forced Jane Doe’s car off the road into the ditch. Jane Doe was unable to drive out of the ditch because of snowy conditions.

The government further alleged that Jane Doe locked the car doors as Plain Bull approached the passenger side of the car with a .45-caliber semiautomatic pistol.  Plain Bull knocked on the passenger window and asked John Doe who he was. John Doe told Plain Bull to remain calm.  Plain Bull fired two shots. The first shot shattered the window and lodged in the dashboard.  Plain Bull then reached in and put the gun to John Doe’s temple.  John Doe sustained an injury to his temple.  The second bullet struck Jane Doe, who was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical responders.

Plain Bull drove away from the scene with the child and dropped the child off at another location. He called 911 after the shootings at least twice screaming that it was an accident and requesting an ambulance. The government said that according to Plain Bull, he passed Jane Doe, she saw him and tried to pull over because he was going to give her money but ended up in the ditch because of the slippery roads.  When Plain Bull approached the car, John Doe started giving him grief, he tried to pistol whip him, and the gun went off. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Suek is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI.

 

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The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:

Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on Feb. 23 was:

Eric Kendrick Buchanan, 43, transient, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute meth, distribution of meth and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. If convicted of the most serious crime, Buchanan faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release on the drug crimes and a minimum mandatory consecutive five years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release on the firearms count. Buchanan was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-02.

Appearing on Feb. 25 and pleading not guilty was:

Jesus Valdez Martinez Jr., 45, of Bakersfield, CA, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute meth, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and prohibited person in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Martinez faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years in prison on the drug counts, and a minimum mandatory consecutive five years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release on the firearms count. Martinez was detained pending further proceedings. The Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-06.

Chad Henry Swoboda, 36, of Billings, on charges of felon in possession of a firearm and false statement during a firearms transaction. If convicted of the most serious crime, Swoboda faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Swoboda was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 20-47.

Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on Feb 25 was:

Jacyln Lee Henderson, 35, of Billings, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth and possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Henderson faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Henderson was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-07.

Nash Devine Angel Ingraham, 19, Browning, on charges of kidnapping, aggravated sexual abuse, strangulation, assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in substantial bodily injury. If convicted of the most serious crime, Ingraham faces life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. The FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services investigated the case. Ingraham was detained pending further proceedings. PACER case reference. 21-06.

Clayton Cree Morsette, 23, of Havre, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth and possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted of the most serious crime, Morsette faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Morsette was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Chippewa Cree Law Enforcement Services, Tri-Agency Drug Task Force, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Kalispel Tribe Public Safety Department, Washington, and Airway Heights Police Department, Washington, investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-02.

James Tino White, Jr., 28, of Box Elder, on charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. If convicted of the most serious crime, White faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. White was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 20-88.

Gurpal Singh Gill, 39, of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, on charges of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. If convicted of the most serious crime, Gill faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Gill was detained pending further proceedings. Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection investigated the case. PACER reference. 21-05.

Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on Feb. 22 was:

Rastefaye Alpha Neil, 39, of Washington, D.C., on charges of transportation of illegal aliens. If convicted of the most serious crime, Neil faces a maximum of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Neil was detained pending further proceedings. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Flathead County Sheriff’s Office, Montana Highway Patrol, and Eureka Police Department investigated the case.  PACER case reference. 21-07.

Appearing on Feb. 23 and pleading not guilty was:

Christopher White, 40, of New York and Jamaica, on charges of illegal re-entry. If convicted of the most serious crime, White faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. White was detained pending further proceedings. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Flathead County Sheriff’s Office, Montana Highway Patrol and Eureka Police Department investigated the case.  PACER case reference. 21-08.

The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.

 

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GREAT FALLS – A Harlem man who admitted to drinking and driving a four-wheeler when it crashed, killing his passenger on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, was sentenced on Thursday to 16 months in prison and to two years of supervised release,  Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Taylor Gardipee Walker, 23, pleaded guilty on Oct. 28, 2020 to involuntary manslaughter.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris also ordered restitution of $375.

The prosecution said in court documents that on Dec. 31, 2019 and into the early morning hours on Jan. 1, 2020, Walker was drinking to the point of intoxication. At about 3 a.m., Walker and the victim, identified as Jane Doe, went for a ride on a four-wheeler on Rodeo Drive, with Walker driving. Walker lost control of the ATV, causing it to roll over and sending him and the victim onto the pavement. Walker was seen fleeing the scene on foot.

Law enforcement officers and emergency responders arrived and found the victim unresponsive. The victim ultimately was transported to a Great Falls hospital, where she died from her injuries later that day.

Officers found Walker’s wallet at the scene and located Walker hiding in a bedroom closet of a residence. Walker, who had blood on his clothing and abrasions on his hands, was arrested for failing to report an accident. After initially saying he was not the driver, Walker admitted had been driving the ATV and had lost control and crashed. The investigation determined that Walker had a blood alcohol concentration of .0145 percent approximately three and a half hours after the crash.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Cobell prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services, Blaine County Sheriff’s Office and Montana Highway Patrol.

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GREAT FALLS – A Missoula man who admitted aiming a laser beam at an airplane as it was approaching the Great Falls airport was sentenced today, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Brian John Loven, 42, pleaded guilty on Oct. 28, 2020 to aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft.

The defendant faced a possible sentence of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. The government recommended a sentence within the guideline range of 15 months to 21 months in prison. The court sentenced Loven to three years of probation.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.

“Mr. Loven’s conduct needlessly threatened the safety of the passengers and crew of a commercial aircraft. It is important for the public to understand that pointing any laser, even a small one, at the cockpit of an aircraft can obscure the pilot’s view and jeopardize the safe operations of the aircraft. Fortunately, the Great Falls incident did not result in any injuries. This office regards such cases as serious matters requiring aggressive prosecution,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Johnson.

In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution said that at about 9:40 p.m. on March 3, 2020, two pilots operating a SkyWest flight reported that on their descent to the Great Falls airport, the plane was hit with a bright green laser that lit up the cockpit. The pilots reported that the incident occurred on the east end of town in the area of Giant Springs State Park.

Cascade County Sheriff’s deputies dispatched to the area located a Jeep driving slowly through the parking lot of Heritage Park, which was closed at the time. Loven was a passenger. The driver told deputies that she was learning how to drive a manual transmission car. While speaking with the driver, deputies noticed a small, black pen-like device sticking out of the center cup holder and asked about the item. The driver said the device was a laser pointer and activated it. The laser pointer projected a green light onto the dashboard.

Deputies interviewed Loven, who admitted to shining the laser at an airplane while it was approaching the airport. Loven explained that he was unaware it was a federal offense to shine a laser at a plane and just wanted to “test out the distance of the laser.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Starnes prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Transportation Security Administration, Cascade County Sheriff’s Office and Airport Security.

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GREAT FALLS – A Box Elder man who admitted his role in scheme to smuggle methamphetamine into the Cascade County Detention Center by having inmates hide the drug inside their bodies was sentenced today to 42 months in prison and to three years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Franklin Troy Caplette, 36, pleaded guilty on Oct. 22, 2020 to possession with intent to distribute meth.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.

The prosecution said in court documents that in May 2019, while Caplette was incarcerated at the Cascade County Detention Center, detectives began to investigate a drug smuggling scheme. Caplette arranged for people outside of the jail to bond out inmates, provide the defendants with drugs to conceal in their rectums and have the defendants smuggle the drugs back into the jail.

When defendants returned to the jail, they told detention officers who their enemies were at the jail so they could get placed into the right pod to distribute the drugs.

In June 2019, a judge temporarily released Caplette to attend a relative's funeral on the Rocky Boy's Indian Reservation and directed him to return by 5 p.m. the next day.

While on release, Caplette spoke by cell phone with jail inmates and told one inmate he was "coming in hot."  Detectives waited at the jail for Caplette, who arrived late. While Caplette went to the booking area, Caplette's wife told detectives that they never made it to the funeral and instead went to other places before returning to Great Falls.

Detectives served a warrant on Caplette to search his body for drugs and took him to an emergency room for an x-ray. The x-ray showed three oblong-shaped objects in Caplette's abdomen. Caplette eventually passed the bags. An analysis determined that one of the bags contained meth, while two of the bags contained tobacco.

Other inmates told detectives that Caplette was in charge of contraband entering the jail and that he would use young inmates to be runners to bring back drugs into jail, where they would have parties at night.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Betley prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Russell Country Drug Task Force, Drug Enforcement Administration, Great Falls Police Department and Cascade County Sheriff's Office.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 to 2018. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

 

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GREAT FALLS — A Spokane, Washington, woman suspected of being a longtime methamphetamine dealer in and around the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation today admitted trafficking charges, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Kristina Dawn Russette, 30, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth. Russette faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris set sentencing for June 2 and continued Russette’s detention.

According to court documents filed by the government, law enforcement officers in 2019 and 2020 learned from multiple individuals that Russette was supplying methamphetamine from the Spokane area to individuals on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation.

The documents allege that in May 2020, Russette was driving a vehicle stopped in Washington for traffic violations. The vehicle was searched pursuant to a tribal search warrant and Russette’s consent and probation conditions. In a purse in the rear seating area were multiple bags containing suspected methamphetamine. A passenger in the vehicle stated that he and Russette had picked up those drugs in Spokane. The DEA determined the drugs from this seizure contained about 746.8 grams, or about 1.6 pounds, of actual methamphetamine.

FBI investigators also obtained information from multiple Facebook accounts in which Russette had used slang or code to communicate about drugs and to arrange for the distribution of drugs.

 Additional individuals interviewed by the FBI identified Russette as a longtime supplier of large quantities of meth to persons on and around the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan Plaut is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Chippewa Cree Law Enforcement Services, Tri-Agency Drug Task Force, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Kalispel Tribe Public Safety Department in Washington and the Airway Heights Police Department in Washington.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 48% from 2013 to 2019. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

 

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BILLINGS – A man who admitted illegally possessing a shotgun after a shooting incident at a Billings motel was sentenced today to 30 months in prison and three years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Roderick Lee Little Bear, 39, of Billings, pleaded guilty on Sept. 3, 2020 to prohibited person in possession of a firearm.

U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.

In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution said that Little Bear was convicted of a state felony in 2016 and was revoked in 2018.

On Oct. 17, 2017, Billings Police officers were dispatched to the Lazy KT Motel in Billings for a report that someone had shot a hole in the ceiling above a room with a shotgun. During the investigation, officers observed a suspect gray pickup return to the motel. Officers observed the driver exit the vehicle and a male, later identified as Little Bear, in the passenger seat.  As officers approached the vehicle, they heard the sound of a shotgun being racked.

Little Bear looked at both officers and both officers observed Little Bear with a shotgun. One of the officers advised he saw Little Bear raise the shotgun and appear to take a step outside the vehicle. Little Bear was commanded to drop his weapon.  Little Bear swung the shotgun in the direction of the officers and pointed the shotgun at them. The officers both fired shots at Little Bear. Officers directed Little Bear to show his hands and eventually Little Bear complied.

A shotgun was located on the ground next to the pickup. Little Bear was transported to a Billings hospital for treatment of his injuries. Little Bear refused to provide a statement to detectives regarding the shooting. Interviews with motel residents revealed the shooting was likely a result of a feud between rival gangs.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Patten prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

This case is part of Project Guardian, a Department of Justice initiative launched in the fall of 2019 to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Through Project Guardian, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Montana is working to enhance coordination of its federal, state, tribal and local law enforcement partners in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes. In addition, Project Guardian supports information sharing and taking action when individuals are denied a firearm purchase by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System for mental health reasons or because they are a prohibited person.

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GREAT FALLS — A Box Elder man today admitted allegations that he assaulted a woman, causing serious injuries, on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Kelcey James Morsette, 31, pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Morsette faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris set sentencing for June 2. Morsette was detained.

The prosecution said in court documents that on Nov. 14, 2019, Morsette was highly intoxicated and belligerent. Morsette argued with the victim, identified as Jane Doe, before becoming angry and attacking her. Doe sustained serious injuries from the assault and was hospitalized for her injuries. The assault occurred on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Cobell is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Rocky Boy’s Police Department Criminal Investigations.

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BILLINGS – An Arizona man who admitting providing methamphetamine and heroin to a friend, who overdosed and died from the drugs, was sentenced today to 12 years in prison and to three years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Brandon Thomas Houdashelt, 33, of Goodyear, Arizona, pleaded guilty on Sept. 29, 2020 to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.

U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. Houdashelt was detained.

According to court documents filed by the prosecution, on Nov. 3, 2018, Houdashelt was at the residence of two of his friends in Park County. Houdashelt had brought with him methamphetamine and heroin. He loaded a syringe with a combination of methamphetamine and heroin for himself and his two friends. One of his friends overdosed and died from the drugs. Law enforcement and medical personnel responded to the residence. An investigation determined that Houdashelt had been distributing methamphetamine and heroin to multiple people in the days between Nov. 1, 2018 and Nov. 4, 2018. Multiple drug users stated that Houdashelt was a drug dealer and described seeing Houdashelt in that time frame with a backpack containing methamphetamine and heroin, and to being provided with drugs by Houdashelt.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Godfrey prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 48% from 2013 to 2019. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

 

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BILLINGS—A Billings woman today admitted a drug trafficking crime after law enforcement seized methamphetamine, heroin and fentanyl during an investigation, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Lisa Ann Emmett, 34, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Emmett faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. A sentencing date will be set before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen. Emmett was released pending further proceedings.

In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution said that agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration developed information that Emmett and co-defendant, Anthony Walker, had been receiving distributable amounts of meth and heroin in the U.S. mail. DEA agents conducted several controlled buys from Emmett and Walter. Walter has pleaded guilty to charges and is pending sentencing.

On Aug. 30, 2019, a U.S. Postal Inspector intercepted a suspicious package destined to Walker’s business address. The package was searched pursuant to a warrant and investigators found about 465.1 grams of meth, which is approximately one pound, and 61.1 grams of heroin, which was similar to “China white” heroin.

The package was delivered to Walter’s business, and Walter took possession of the package. Agents executed a search warrant on the business. Both Walter and Emmett were present and directed agents to their drug stash. Agents located heroin, meth and marijuana in a black container. The meth was determined to be 99 percent pure. The China white heroin was determined to contain 51.6 grams of fentanyl.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Patten is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the DEA.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 48% from 2013 to 2019. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

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The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:

Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on Feb. 17 was:

Travis Rusty Wallace, 18, of Lodge Grass, on charges of arson. If convicted of the most serious crime, Wallace faces a maximum of life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release. Wallace was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. PACER case reference. 20-137.

Appearing on Feb. 19 and pleading not guilty was:

Quinn Henry Jessen, 38, of Miles City, on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. If convicted of the most serious crime, Jessen faces a maximum 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release on the conspiracy and fraud counts and a minimum mandatory consecutive two years in prison, a $250,000 fine and one year of supervised release on the identity theft count. Jessen was detained pending further proceedings. The Billings Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 20-128.

The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.

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GREAT FALLS — A Wolf Point man today admitted charges that he sexually abused a minor on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Christopher George Follette, 33, pleaded guilty to sexual abuse of a minor as charged in an indictment. Follette faces a maximum 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris set sentencing for May 27 and ordered Follette detained.

The prosecution said in court documents that in 2019 and 2020, Follette sexually abused a minor, identified as Jane Doe, who was between the ages of 12 and 16, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Cobell is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Fort Peck Law Enforcement Services and Wolf Point Police Department.

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GREAT FALLS – A Wolf Point woman who admitted entering a hotel and beating up the desk clerk during a robbery was sentenced on Thursday to 30 months in prison and to two years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said today.

Jalissa Haley Fern Spotted Bird, 32, pleaded guilty on Oct. 15, 2020 to robbery.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Spotted Bird was detained.

The prosecution said in court documents that on September 15, 2019, at about 5:45 a.m., Spotted Bird and another individual entered the Sherman Inn, in Wolf Point, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. Spotted Bird and the other individual walked behind the counter of the front desk and assaulted the desk clerk by hitting and kicking her, demanding money.

The assault and robbery by Spotted Bird and the other individual were captured on security camera footage. The other individual took the cash drawer and escaped the hotel, while Spotted Bird assaulted the hotel clerk. A hotel patron heard the commotion and stopped the assault.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ethan Plaut and Cassady Adams prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Fort Peck Law Enforcement Services.

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The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:

Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on Feb. 9 was:

Joshua Dean Fish, 27, of Helena, on charges of sexual exploitation of a child and receipt of child pornography. If convicted of the most serious crime, Fish faces 15 years to 40 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release. Fish was detained pending further proceedings. The Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office, Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and Gilbert (Arizona) Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 21-1.

The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.

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MISSOULA — A Belgrade man today admitted trafficking cocaine after the U.S. Postal Inspection Service intercepted a package containing six and one-half pounds of cocaine that was mailed to his former address, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Luis Alberto Rocha, 38, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Rocha faces a minimum mandatory five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and four years of supervised release.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Sentencing was set for June 10. Rocha was detained.

The prosecution said in court documents that in September 2019, the Missouri River Drug Task Force in Bozeman received information from a confidential source that Rocha was involved in distributing drugs.

In April 2020, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service noticed packages scheduled for delivery to Rocha’s residence in Belgrade and his former residence in Bozeman, which he rented to several employees of his construction company. The inspector learned that five packages had been sent to Rocha’s residence from California since July 2019, six packages had been sent from Texas, and three packages had been sent from Arizona.

On July 16, 2020, the inspector searched a package addressed to Rocha pursuant to a federal warrant. The package, heat-sealed in plastic wrapping, contained U. S. currency and had “27K” written on the wrapping. The agents returned the money to the parcel and delivered it in the normal course.  Two days later, another package was sent to Rocha’s residence from an address in Nebraska. That package, also searched pursuant to a warrant, contained $62,000 in U.S. currency. Rocha personally picked up the package from the Belgrade post office.

On August 17, 2020, another package was sent to Rocha’s former address in Bozeman. Pursuant to a warrant, the package was searched and found to contain 2,981 grams of cocaine, which is about six and one-half pounds. The delivery of the package was delayed due to the ongoing investigation, and agents learned someone checked on the status of the package more than 300 times from an IP address that is registered to Rocha.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Racicot is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Missouri River Drug Task Force and U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 48% from 2013 to 2019. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

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GREAT FALLS – A Browning man convicted by a federal judge of sexually abusing a minor girl on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation was sentenced today to four years in prison and to six years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

After a one-day bench trial, Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris found Justin Zane Gobert, 38, guilty on Sept. 22, 2020 of abusive sexual contact. Chief Judge Morris allowed Gobert to self-surrender.

The prosecution said in court documents filed in the case that Gobert sexually abused a minor girl, who was under the age of 12, in June 2017. The abuse occurred in a residence on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kalah Paisley prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services

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BILLINGS — A Billings man accused of knowingly receiving and approving of sexually explicit videos from a minor female on Wednesday admitted to receiving child pornography, Acting U.S Attorney Leif Johnson said today.

Brandon Frank Stricker, 47, pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography. Stricker faces a minimum mandatory five years to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and five years to life of supervised release. Under the terms of a plea agreement, if accepted by the Court, Stricker will be sentenced to between seven years and 20 years in prison.  

U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. Stricker was released pending sentencing, which was set for June 16 before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen.

In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution said that in June 2018 Stricker met Jane Doe 1, a 14-year-old female. Stricker communicated online with Jane Doe 1, including via Facebook Messenger. In a June 2018 message, Jane Doe 1 informed Stricker of her age.

On August 11, 2018, Jane Doe 1 sent Stricker two videos via Facebook. One video depicted Jane Doe 1 engaged in sexually explicit conduct by herself and the second video reflected Jane Doe 1 and another minor female engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Stricker expressed his approval of the videos to Jane Doe 1.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zeno Baucus and Karla Painter are prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI.

This case was initiated under the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, which was launched in 2006 to combat the proliferation of technology-facilitated crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children. Through a network of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and advocacy organizations, Project Safe Childhood attempts to protect children by investigating and prosecuting offenders involved in child sexual exploitation. It is implemented through partnerships including the Montana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The ICAC Task Force Program was created to assist state and local law enforcement agencies by enhancing their investigative response to technology facilitated crimes against children.

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BILLINGS—A Billings man indicted in a sex and drug trafficking investigation today admitted to conspiracy and firearms crimes stemming from an ecstasy transaction that went bad, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Djavon Lamont King, 30, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and ecstasy and to possession of and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Pursuant to a plea agreement, King pleaded guilty to charges in a superseding information. King initially was indicted on multiple counts stemming from an investigation into sex trafficking, drug trafficking and firearms crimes. King faces a maximum 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine, and three years of supervised release on the drug count, and a mandatory minimum consecutive seven years in prison on the firearms count.

U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. Judge Watters set sentencing for June 28 and continued King’s detention.

In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution said that in 2019, King, a co-defendant, Mario Drake, and others engaged in a conspiracy to distribute illegal narcotics, including cocaine and ecstasy. Multiple witness interviews and social media messages involved King, Drake, and others in this conspiracy. Drake has pleaded not guilty to charges.

On April 24, 2019, two individuals attempted to distribute some of the ecstasy related to the conspiracy. The transaction, which involved a buyer, was set to occur at a motel in Billings. However, at the meeting a struggle ensued, and the buyer assaulted one of the individuals and left the scene. Following this incident, the individual informed King and Drake what had occurred at the motel. In response, on April 29, 2019, King, Drake, and others, arranged a meeting with the buyer, during which they assaulted that individual while holding firearms.

Multiple witness informed law enforcement of this confrontation, including the buyer, who stated that this confrontation related to the sale of illegal narcotics. In the weeks following the April 29, 2019, incident, King and others informed the two individuals who had gone to the drug deal, that they retaliated against the buyer in response to the failed drug transaction at the motel.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zeno Baucus and Bryan Dake are prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI.

This case is part of Project Guardian, the U.S. Department of Justice’s recent initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws, and Project Safe Neighborhoods, the USDOJ’s initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 48% from 2013 through 2019. Through these initiatives, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

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BILLINGS – A Hardin man on Tuesday admitted raping a woman he met at a casino and took to the Crow Indian Reservation, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said today.

Elmer Burpee Yarlott II, 65, pleaded guilty to aggravated sexual abuse. Yarlott faces a maximum of life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to a lifetime of supervised release.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. Yarlott was detained pending further proceedings. A sentencing date will be set.

In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution said that on Nov. 19, 2019 in Hardin, Yarlott approached the victim in a casino and offered her a dollar if she would leave with him and his friend. After midnight, the victim left with Yarlott and his friend and they drove to the Crow Indian Reservation. Yarlott dropped off his friend and then drove with the victim to a remote area on the reservation to drink alcohol and use methamphetamine. When the victim declined Yarlott’s repeated requests for sex, Yarlott threatened to kill the victim and then raped her.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Suek is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI.

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GREAT FALLS — A East Helena man who admitted trafficking methamphetamine was sentenced today to 76 months in prison and five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Casey Robin Kazimi, 27, pleaded guilty on Oct. 14, 2020 to possession with intent to distribute meth.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.

The prosecution said in court document that on Sept. 3, 2019, Kazimi possessed three firearms and 17.25 grams of meth in East Helena.

The Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office deputies contacted Kazimi during the end of a call of a person going through vehicles. Other civilians pointed Kazimi out to the deputies. Kazimi lied to the deputies, fled on foot, and threw a handgun behind a tree at Radley Elementary School before he was apprehended. At the time, Kazimi was on state supervision. During a probation search of his car, officers found two additional firearms and methamphetamine. They also found small plastic bags for repackaging and distribution of the methamphetamine and a digital scale. A Drug Enforcement Administration lab determined the meth was 98 percent pure.

The case was investigated by the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office and Montana Department of Corrections’ Probation and Parole and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

This case is part of Project Guardian, the U.S. Department of Justice’s recent initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws, and Project Safe Neighborhoods, the USDOJ’s initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 48% from 2013 through 2019. Through these initiatives, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

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GREAT FALLS–A Great Falls man who admitted breaking into an outfitting business and stealing 27 firearms was sentenced today to six years and three months in prison and to three years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Carlyle Ray Wells, 25, pleaded guilty on Oct. 8, 2020 to theft of a firearm from a federal firearms licensee.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Wells was detained.

In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution said that on Nov. 30, 2019, Great Falls Police officers responded to a burglary alarm at North 40 Outfitters. Officers saw that a gun display case had been smashed and guns appeared to be missing.

Security footage at the business showed a small pickup truck had parked outside, just prior to the alarm. One individual exited the truck, forcefully entered the store, broke the gun case, took firearms and fled.

Officers identified the vehicle as a stolen Ford Ranger and located it near Wells' residence. Security footage showed an individual, whose clothing and physical description aligned with the North 40 burglar, walk toward Wells' residence carrying a large bag. During a search of Wells' residence, law enforcement recovered 16 firearms, 15 of which were stolen from North 40. Home surveillance video obtained through a search warrant showed that Wells entered the residence shortly after the burglary carrying a large bag with a rifle and price tag sticking out.

An audit showed that 27 firearms were stolen in the North 40 burglary. Eleven of the stolen firearms, including and AR-15 style assault rifle, remain at large.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan Plaut prosecuted case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, FBI, Great Falls Police Department and the Russell Country Drug Task Force.

This case is part of Project Guardian, a Department of Justice initiative launched in the fall of 2019 to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Through Project Guardian, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Montana is working to enhance coordination of its federal, state, tribal and local law enforcement partners in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes. In addition, Project Guardian supports information sharing and taking action when individuals are denied a firearm purchase by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System for mental health reasons or because they are a prohibited person.

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BILLINGS — The former executive director of the Montana Native Women’s Coalition today admitted stealing federal funds for an unapproved trip to Las Vegas, Nevada, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Sheryl Lynn Lawrence, 44, of Colstrip, pleaded guilty to theft of federal funds. Lawrence was the executive director of the Montana Native Women’s Coalition. Lawrence faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.

U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. Judge Watters continued Lawrence’s release pending further proceedings. Sentencing was set for June 3.

The prosecution said in court documents that the purpose of the Lame Deer-based Coalition is to help Native American victims of domestic and sexual violence.  The Coalition receives funding from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), which provides grants for victim services.

While serving as the Coalition’s executive director, Lawrence received a travel advance in November 2017. Lawrence claimed $1,826 in travel money for a trip to Las Vegas. Lawrence claimed she drove, which provided more money due to payment for mileage, when in fact, Lawrence flew, which cost significantly less money than if driving. Lawrence spent money on a trip to Las Vegas, which was never approved by the OVW, nor would it ever have been approved.

Lawrence's actions intentionally deprived OVW from using the federal funds for their intended purpose to help Native American victims of domestic and sexual violence.

Lawrence’s co-defendant, Barbara Mary Daychief of Browning, pleaded guilty to theft of federal funds on Jan. 22, 2021 and is pending sentencing. A third co-defendant, Meredith McConnell of Colstrip, has pleaded not guilty to charges.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Weldon and Bryan Dake are prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General.

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GREAT FALLS — A Browning man today admitted he distributed methamphetamine on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Dakoda Blu Wade Iron Shirt, 28, pleaded guilty to distribution of meth. Iron Shirt faces a minimum mandatory five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris ordered Iron Shirt detained pending further proceedings. Sentencing is set for May 12.

The prosecution said in court records filed in the case that on Aug. 6, 2019, a confidential source working with the Drug Enforcement Administration and FBI made a controlled purchase of meth from Iron Shirt. The transaction occurred in a parking lot in Browning. Iron Shirt sold the confidential source approximately 14 grams of meth for $600. Additional witnesses interviewed by the FBI identified Iron Shirt as a meth distributor on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan Plaut is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the DEA, FBI Big Sky Safe Trails Task Force and Cut Bank Police Department.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 48% from 2013 to 2019. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

 

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BILLINGS — A Billings man who admitted selling 11 firearms he stole from a residence to an undercover agent was sentenced today to 37 months in prison and to three years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Rodrigo Gomez, 20, pleaded guilty on Sept. 9, 2020 to possession of stolen firearms.

U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. Judge Watters also ordered $26,470 restitution to be paid jointly and severally with a co-defendant. Gomez was detained.

The prosecution said in court documents that an undercover agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives met with Gomez and a co-defendant, Maliyah Jae Chavez, on Feb. 24, 2020 to buy 11 stolen firearms. The defendants told the agent the firearms were stolen from a residence. The guns were in a safe inside of a garage. The agent paid the defendants for the stolen firearms, which the ATF confirmed had been reported as stolen on Feb. 21, 2020. Gomez admitted to stealing the firearms and selling them.

Chavez pleaded guilty in the case and was sentenced to three years in prison.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Godfrey prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the ATF.

This case is part of Project Guardian, a Department of Justice initiative launched in the fall of 2019 to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Through Project Guardian, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Montana is working to enhance coordination of its federal, state, tribal and local law enforcement partners in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes. In addition, Project Guardian supports information sharing and taking action when individuals are denied a firearm purchase by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System for mental health reasons or because they are a prohibited person.

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BILLINGS —A Worden couple admitted methamphetamine trafficking charges after drug task force investigators found 10 pounds of meth in their vehicle, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Lisa Marie Fish, 39, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth. Fish’s husband, Bo Bryan Fish, 40, pleaded guilty on Jan. 27 to possession with intent to distribute meth. Each faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release.

U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. Lisa Fish was released pending further proceedings. A sentencing date was set for June 16.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided at the hearing for Bo Fish. Bo Fish was detained pending further proceedings. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

The prosecution said in court documents filed in the case that between January and March 2020, the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Task Force began investigating Bo and Lisa Fish for involvement in drug trafficking.  

Cooperating witnesses told investigators that both defendants were involved in meth trafficking and that Bo Fish took trips to Colorado to acquire bulk quantities of meth, ranging from five to 20 pounds per trip.

The investigation led to a traffic stop in which a truck occupied by both defendants was pulled over near Worden. Lisa Fish refused to make a statement. Bo Fish told investigators there were about 10 pounds of meth in the back seat of the truck and admitted to acquiring the 10 pounds that day in Wyoming. He said he had been acquiring bulk meth from the source for about eight months. Investigators served a search warrant on the truck and the couple’s property and seized 10 pounds of meth from the vehicle and about seven ounces of meth from the property. Ten pounds of meth is the equivalent of about 36,240 doses.

While Lisa Fish did not handle the meth, she furthered the conspiracy by setting up drug deals by telephone and text message so Bo Fish could later deliver meth these people, travelling with Bo Fish to pickup meth from out of state and depositing proceeds from meth sales into bank accounts so that she and Bo Fish could access the funds.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin Rubich is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force and FBI Western Transnational Organized Crime Task Force.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 48% from 2013 to 2019. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.

 

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GREAT FALLS — A Great Falls man who admitted downloading and sharing child pornography with his cell phone was sentenced today to eight years and six months in prison and to five years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Derek Wallace Johnson, 41, pleaded guilty on Sept. 23, 2020 to distribution of child pornography and receipt of child pornography.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris ordered Johnson to pay $12,000 restitution and continued Johnson’s detention.

The prosecution said in court documents that in October 2019, Homeland Security Investigations in Great Falls received information that a suspect had uploaded possible child pornography in April 2019. An investigation determined that the uploaded image depicted a child engaged in sexually explicit conduct and led to Johnson as the suspect. Investigators served a search warrant on Johnson's residence. Johnson, who was present for the search, told officers he had lost his cell phone a few days earlier, but an agent found it hidden between the box spring and mattress in Johnson's bedroom.

After initially being untruthful, Johnson admitted he had participated in online activity involving child pornography and admitted to hiding his phone. He also said he had about 1,000 videos and images of child pornography in an encrypted app on his phone. Johnson told officers he downloaded child pornography in Kik chat rooms and shared files with others seeking images in chat rooms.

Agents searched Johnson's phone and determined it contained almost 2,700 image files and more than 500 video files of child pornography. Johnson distributed child pornography in April 2019 and had downloaded or received child pornography from December 2016 to November 2019.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Cyndee Peterson prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Montana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations and the Great Falls Police Department.

This case was initiated under the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, which was launched in 2006 to combat the proliferation of technology-facilitated crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children. Through a network of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and advocacy organizations, Project Safe Childhood attempts to protect children by investigating and prosecuting offenders involved in child sexual exploitation. It is implemented through partnerships including the Montana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The ICAC Task Force Program was created to assist state and local law enforcement agencies by enhancing their investigative response to technology facilitated crimes against children.

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BILLINGS — A Bozeman doctor who admitted illegally dispensing appetite suppressants without seeing clients at clinics in Bozeman and Billings was sentenced today to three years of probation and fined $150,000, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Dr. Ronald M. Buss, 71, pleaded guilty on Oct. 1, 2020 to an information charging him with two counts of unlawful dispensing and distribution of controlled substances by registrant, a misdemeanor.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. Judge Cavan further prohibited Dr. Buss from personally dispensing or prescribing three weight loss drugs involved in the case for the duration of his probation.

Court documents filed by the prosecution said that in 2009, Buss became the medical director for Go Figure, a weight loss clinic in Bozeman, and a year later became the director for Go Figure in Billings. Buss is registered with the Drug Enforcement Administration and is authorized to dispense controlled substances.

Go Figure prescribed three types of weight loss drugs: Phendimetrazine and Benzphetamine, both Schedule III controlled substances, and Phentermine, a Schedule IV controlled substance.

In August 2016, the Billings DEA received information from a pharmacist that Go Figure was illegally dispensing these appetite suppressants from its clinic. In July 2016, Buss began pre-signing prescriptions for Go Figure staff to complete. An employee at the Billings clinic told investigators Buss pre-signed prescriptions for new and current clients, and that staff would choose one of the three drugs and complete the written prescription.

At the Bozeman clinic an employee told law enforcement that she was a "consultant" who met with patients and prescribed controlled substances on blank, pre-signed prescriptions from Buss. Patients confirmed to DEA investigators that they rarely, if ever, met with Buss.

When interviewed, Buss admitted to investigators to pre-signing blank prescriptions and not seeing patients until after they started taking the drugs. Buss claimed that was only way to run the practice effectively.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla Painter prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.

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BILLINGS — A Cody, Wyoming, man who admitted violating a protective order by stalking and harassing a Laurel woman and her family was sentenced today to 37 months in prison, three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $3,600 in restitution, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Donald Raymond Foote, Jr, 50, pleaded guilty on June 16, 2020 to interstate violation of a protective order.

U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. Judge Watters ordered Foote detained.

The prosecution said in court documents that in August 2017, the victim, identified as Jane Doe 1, began living on Foote’s property and that Foote became infatuated with her. Jane Doe 1 moved to the Laurel area in November 2017 and Foote continued to maintain contact with her. The relationship between Foote and Jane Doe 1 deteriorated. Foote began contacting the victim on a repeated basis by phone, text and through social media, and he continued to contact Jane Doe 1’s family and friends.

After an incident in August 2018, Jane Doe 1 obtained a temporary restraining order against Foote from Billings Municipal Court. In October 2018, the court issued a permanent order of protection, prohibiting Foote from threatening or committing acts of violence, harassing, annoying, disturbing the peace or communicating, directly or indirectly, with Jane Doe 1, and with two other victims. The order also required Foote to stay 1,500 feet from the victims as well as their residences, jobs and vehicles.

In December 2018, Foote’s vehicle was observed outside of Jane Doe 1’s residence. Law enforcement arrived and found Foote nearby. Foote claimed he had traveled to Billings from Cody to buy materials for his construction business and did not know where Jane Doe 1 lived. In subsequent searches of Foote’s vehicle and residence, law enforcement found multiple electronic devices and photographs of Jane Doe 1 and other victims. Evidence from the devices linked Foote to a fake “private investigator” Facebook page he used to contact Jane Doe 1 as well as several internet searches for the victim’s residence in Montana.

Law enforcement’s investigation found that Foote used multiple aliases designed to conceal his tracks and that he made more than 1,500 calls to Jane Doe 1 in the Fall of 2018.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zeno Baucus and Bryan Dake prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Billings Police Department, Laurel Police Department and Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office.

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BILLINGS — A Lame Deer man on Jan. 28 admitted to assaulting a woman on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said today.

Darrell Dean Fisher, 36, pleaded guilty to assault resulting in substantial bodily injury. Fisher faces a maximum five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. Fisher was released pending further proceedings. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution said that on Aug. 4, 2019, Fisher and the victim, identified as Jane Doe, returned to Ashland from a trip and argued. An altercation ensued and Fisher pushed the victim to the ground, injuring her.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan Dake is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI.

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The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:

Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on Jan. 26 was:

Elijah James Rideshorse, 30, of Billings on charges of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute meth and felon in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Rideshorse faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Rideshorse was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Billings Police Department, Montana Highway Patrol, Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services, Glacier County Sheriff’s Office and Cut Bank Police Department investigated the case.

PACER case reference. 20-87.

The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.

 

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MISSOULA – Three men suspected in an illegal border crossing into Montana near Eureka and arrested after a high-speed pursuit had initial appearances today on criminal complaints, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.

Criminal complaints filed in the case allege immigration crimes against Christopher White, 41, of Jamaica; Rastesfaye Alpha Neil, 39, of Washington, D.C.; and Afrah Ahmed Abdi, 32, of Virginia.

The complaints accuse White of being an alien in the United States after deportation, Neil of transporting certain aliens and Abdi of improper entry by alien.

A criminal complaint is only an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston presided. All defendants were detained pending further proceedings.

According to the criminal complaints and affidavits filed in support of the complaints, on Jan. 23 at about 8:55 a.m., the Spokane Sector Border Patrol Dispatch received information that three subjects dressed in camouflage and dark clothing and carrying black backpacks were crossing the border from Canada into the United States near the area of West Kootenai, Montana.

Border Patrol agents located a Nissan Sentra on West Kootenai road leaving the area where the three subjects had crossed into the United States. The agents attempted to conduct a vehicle stop, and the Nissan eventually pulled to the side of the road. As agents approached the vehicle on foot, the Nissan sped away and headed southeast on Highway 93. Law enforcement ultimately deployed a vehicle immobilization device on the Nissan, and it came to a stop down a small embankment off the highway near Whitefish, Montana. Law enforcement arrested the occupants.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Paulette Stewart is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the Border Patrol, Flathead County Sheriff’s Office, Montana Highway Patrol and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.

PACER case reference. MJ-21-12, MJ-21-13 and MJ-21-15.

The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.

 

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