District of South Dakota

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Porcupine, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Second Degree Murder.

Lawrence Red Shirt, age 27, was indicted on November 19, 2013.  Red Shirt appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on November 26, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The charge relates to Red Shirt killing another man by stabbing him multiple times on November 8, 2013, at Rocky Ford.

The charge is merely an accusation and Red Shirt is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich is prosecuting the case.

Red Shirt was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial.  A trial date has been set for February 4, 2014.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that two Sioux Falls, South Dakota, men were found guilty of drug charges as a result of a federal jury trial in Sioux Falls, and their two co-defendants were sentenced after pleading guilty.

Austin Jon Dalsted, age 20, was found guilty of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.  The charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life in prison and/or a $10 million fine, a minimum of 5 years and maximum of life on supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  

Jeffrey Harley Strom, age 29, was convicted of the lesser included offense of distribution of methamphetamine.  That charge carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison and/or a $1 million fine, a minimum of 3 years and a maximum of life on supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
         
Regina Renee Johnson, of Sioux Falls, and Robert Raymond Jackson, of Brandon, South Dakota, both age 43, pled guilty to their part in the conspiracy on September 12 and 13, 2013, respectively. 
         
Both Johnson and Jackson were sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Lawrence L. Piersol on November 25, 2013, to 210 months in custody followed by 5 years of supervised release.  A sentencing date for Dalsted and Strom has not yet been set.
         
The four defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2013 for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.  Johnson and Jackson pled guilty in September 2013.  The trial for Dalsted and Strom commenced on November 19 and concluded on November 21, 2013.
         
On March 27, 2013, Sioux Falls Police were called to a local motel when Regina Johnson tried to return to the room in which she had already checked out.  The motel manager asked the police to check Johnson’s room.  When the police checked the room, they found $87,300 cash hidden under the bed.  Police located and arrested Johnson.  At the time of her arrest she was with Robert Jackson in an SUV, which contained over seven pounds of methamphetamine.  While the police were searching the SUV, they noticed Jeff Strom watching them and making calls on his cell phone.  When questioned by the police, Strom admitted that Johnson had called him to serve as a lookout at the motel where the cash was found.  The police next searched the home where Johnson, Jackson and Johnson’s son, Austin Dalsted, were living.  The search found more cash and methamphetamine.
         
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.  Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Haak prosecuted the case.
         
All defendants are in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Larceny.

Ruby Sazue, age 20, was indicted on November 14, 2013.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 26, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 5 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

Sazue is alleged to have stolen a motor vehicle in Fort Thompson in October 2013.  The charge is merely an accusation and Sazue is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges is prosecuting the case.   

Sazue was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service  pending trial.  Trial has been set for January 21, 2014.         

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Third Degree Burglary and Aiding and Abetting was sentenced on November 26, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Brian One Feather, age 31, was sentenced to 18 months of custody, 2 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution will remain open for 30 days.
         
One Feather was indicted by a federal grand jury for Third Degree Burglary, Aiding and Abetting, and Larceny on July 17, 2013.  He pled guilty to Third Degree Burglary and Aiding and Abetting on September 12, 2013.
         
One Feather’s conviction is the result of a June 2012 break-in at the Howard V. Johnson Cultural Heritage Center for the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe in Eagle Butte.  After One Feather broke in, he took approximately $37,420 worth of cultural and craft items belonging to the Cultural Heritage Center.       

This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Law Enforcement Division.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikal Hanson prosecuted the case.

One Feather was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.           

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on November 25, 2013 by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Aadam Tiger, age 29, was sentenced to 55 days of custody, 2 years of Supervised Release, a $1,000 fine and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
         
Tiger was indicted for the above charge by a federal grand jury on November 15, 2012.  He pled guilty on August 13, 2013.

On December 2, 2011, Cheyenne River Law Enforcement stopped the Defendant’s vehicle for a traffic violation.  The officer could smell marijuana coming from inside the vehicle.  The officer was given consent to search the vehicle and found marijuana, plastic baggies, a grinder, scale, zig-zag papers, roaches, and $725.  Tiger had the intent to distribute some or all of the marijuana that was in his possession.
   
The investigation was conducted by the Cheyenne River Law Enforcement Services and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Colorado man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Distribution of a Controlled Substance.

Dustin Reller, age 27, was indicted on November 19, 2013.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica Duffy on November 22, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $500,000 fine, 4 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

Beginning no later than August 2013, Reller conspired with others to distribute marijuana in the District of South Dakota and distributed more the 5 grams of marijuana to a person under 21 years of age.

The charge is merely an accusation and Reller is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Unified Narcotic Enforcement Team and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Ted L. McBride is prosecuting the case.   

Reller was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial.  A trial date has been set for January 28, 2014.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Spearfish, South Dakota, man convicted of Mail Fraud and Misbranding of a Drug was sentenced on November 25, 2013, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

John Martin, age 74, was sentenced to 9 years in custody, 3 years of supervised release, a $125 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and restitution of at least $209,300.  The court deferred a final determination on restitution until a later date.

Martin was indicted for Mail Fraud and Misbranding of a Drug by a federal grand jury on March 20, 2012.  He pled guilty on May 9, 2013.
 
Between February 27, 2007, and December 31, 2011, Martin, who is not a physician, fraudulently claimed he could treat and cure cancer and other diseases.  Martin instructed individuals who contacted him to send samples of bodily fluids and hair, along with money, to him in Spearfish.  In one instance, he instructed a person to send money and samples of blood, saliva, and hair so that he could test the samples for cancer.  Martin then informed the individual of the presence of colon cancer, and that the individual needed to travel to Spearfish for treatment.  Martin charged the individual for treatment, prescribed herbal supplements, and later informed the individual that the cancer was cured.   

Additionally, in April 2011, Martin directed a person to take herbal supplement pills, which Martin provided, as a treatment for cancer.  Martin fraudulently informed that person that he had liver cancer and prescribed 96 herbal supplements to treat the cancer, which caused the supplements to become “drugs” under federal law.  The supplements lacked labeling bearing adequate directions for use in the treatment of cancer.

The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Spearfish Police Department, the Belle Fourche Police Department, and the Butte County Sheriff's Office.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman.
         
Martin was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Milwaukee, Wisconsin, man has been charged in federal court for Transportation for Prostitution, Coercion, and Commercial Sex Trafficking.

Thomas Alexander Roberts, age 33, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge John E. Simko on November 26, 2013, and pled not guilty to the charges.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

In November 2013, Roberts allegedly transported an adult female from Wisconsin to South Dakota with the intent to have her engage in prostitution and sexual activity.

The charge is merely an accusation and Roberts is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Sioux Falls Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.   

Roberts was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial.  A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a White River, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on November 26, 2013, by Roberto A. Lange.

Nathan First In Trouble, age 34, was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day of custody, 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
         
First In Trouble was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 17, 2013. He pled guilty on September 16, 2013.

First In Trouble was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in federal court in April 1998.  At that time, he was sentenced to 30 months in prison and ordered to register as a sex offender.  From February to April 2013, First In Trouble registered as a sex offender at his father’s residence in Mellette County. However, he was not staying there.  First In Trouble was working and staying in Pierre from January to April 2013, when he was arrested.  During that time, he failed to register as a sex offender by updating his residence and employment information.
         
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher prosecuted the case.

First In Trouble was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.          

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, man convicted of Child Abuse was sentenced on November 26, 2013, by Roberto A. Lange.

Joseph Morrisette, age 43, was sentenced to 9 months of custody, 18 months of supervised release, and $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
         
Morrisette was indicted for Child Abuse by a federal grand jury on August 21, 2013.  He pled guilty on September 16, 2013.
         
Morrisette’s conviction was the result of a July 9, 2013, incident when Morrisette was babysitting several children at his home while he was drinking. While he was intoxicated, he struck the victim and gave the child a black eye.
         
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Isabel, South Dakota, woman convicted of Simple Assault of a Minor was sentenced on November 25, 2013, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.

Crystal Lee Reeder, a/k/a Crystal Taylor, age 29, was sentenced to 6 months of probation and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Reeder was indicted for Child Abuse by a federal grand jury on June 12, 2013.  She pled guilty on September 19, 2013, to Simple Assault of a Minor.

In May 2012, the victim went to Reeder’s home to visit.  During the visit, Reeder asked the victim, who was under the age of 16, inappropriate questions and offered alcohol to the victim, which she refused.  While the victim was sitting on the couch, Reeder engaged in offensive touching of the victim and a Simple Assault of the victim’s person.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Allen, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for First Degree Burglary.

George Cortier, age 26, was indicted on November 19, 2013.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on November 26, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 25 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The indictment charges that in July 2013, near Allen, Cortier broke into a man’s home and stole three television sets.

The charge is merely an accusation and Cortier is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman is prosecuting the case.    

Cortier was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial.  A trial date has not been set.  

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man convicted of Larceny was sentenced on November 25, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange. 

John Swift, age 55, was sentenced to 2 years’ probation, a $500 fine, $9,458.49 in restitution, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
 
Swift was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 13, 2013, and pled guilty to the charge on July 23, 2013. 

The conviction stems from incidents that took place between August 2009 and December 2010, when Swift was the Chief of the St. Francis Volunteer Fire Department.  Swift wrote himself 9 checks from the St. Francis Volunteer Fire Department’s checking account totaling $5,200, which he had countersigned by co-defendant Harvey LaPointe.  Swift countersigned 12 checks for other members of the fire department totaling $2,800.  These 21 checks were issued to Swift and others who were not entitled to those funds, which were designated by the Todd County Treasurer to pay for insurance premiums for the fire department.   Swift also took and carried away property that belonged to the St. Francis Volunteer Fire Department. 

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers.           

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine was sentenced on November 25, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Steven Michael Schumm, age 48, was sentenced to 240 months in custody to be followed by 10 years of supervised release.  He was also fined $2,000 and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
         
Schumm was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2013, for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.  He pled guilty on September 3, 2013.
         
On April 16, 2013, a federal search warrant was executed on Schumm’s Sioux Falls residence.  Packages of methamphetamine, over $30,000 in cash, and a loaded handgun were located and seized. 
         
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.  Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Haak prosecuted the case.
         
Schumm was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, or Impeding Federal Officers was sentenced on November 25, 2013, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno. 

Lawrence Gary, age 36, was sentenced to 90 days in custody with credit for time served and $25 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
 
Gary was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 12, 2013, and pled guilty to the charge on September 19, 2013.

The charge relates to an incident that occurred on July 25, 2012, when Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Officers responded to a complaint that the Defendant was driving while intoxicated.  As a result, Gary was asked to step out of the car and perform sobriety tests.  He refused to comply and the officers had to pull Gary from the car and place handcuffs on him.  Gary was non-compliant, spun away from the officers, and lunged toward one of the officers before being restrained again and placed in a patrol car.

The investigation was conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers.             

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, or Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on November 25, 2013, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.

Anthony One Star, age 26, was sentenced to 60 days in custody and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
         
One Star was indicted for Assaulting, Resisting, Opposing, and Impeding a Federal Officer by a federal grand jury on September 17, 2013.  He pled guilty on November 25, 2013.
         
The conviction stems from an incident in Mission on August 19, 2013, when One Star was intoxicated and walked into a home where he didn't belong.  The home owner summoned law enforcement officers, and a Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services Officer responded and found One Star sleeping on the kitchen floor.  The officer awoke One Star, who apologized for being intoxicated but said that he just wanted to sleep, and he also indicated he was on probation and was not supposed to be drinking.  The Officer attempted to take the One Star to jail for the violations, but One Star did not cooperate and he spat upon the officer.  
         
This case was investigated by Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher prosecuted the case.
         
One Star was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Bend, Oregon, man convicted of Conspiracy and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on November 25, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Glenn Shea, age 21, was sentenced to two years of probation with four months home confinement concurrent on each count, a $1,000 fine on each count, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund on each count.
         
Shea was indicted for the above charges by a federal grand jury on March 13, 2013.  He pled guilty on November 25, 2013.
         
Between September 1, 2012 and September 15, 2012, Shea, along with two others, transported several pounds of marijuana for distribution.  Shea was aware that the vehicle he traveled in contained marijuana and shared in the proceeds of the sale.
         
This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.              

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.

Celso Estrada, Jr., age 49, was indicted on November 19, 2013.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 25, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

Estrada is accused of stabbing two people at an apartment complex in Mission on November 16, 2013.  The charges are merely accusations and Estrada is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher is prosecuting the case.   

Estrada was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial.  A trial date has not been set.          

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on November 21, 2013, by U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes. 
         
Rhonda Brown, age 41, was sentenced to four months, 1 year of supervised release and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Brown was indicted for the above charge by a federal grand jury on July 17, 2013.  She pled guilty to a Superseding Information on November 21, 2013.    

The conviction stems from an incident occurring on July 10, 2013, in which Brown’s car was stuck in a ditch.  When law enforcement arrived, she became belligerent and fled the scene.  A Bureau of Indian Affairs Officer Lieutenant located Brown in a field, but Brown ignored his commands and began to run away.  The Lt. gave pursuit on foot and after a short chase, caught up to Brown who was lying face down with her hands underneath her.  He ordered Brown to place her hands behind her back, but she continued to resist.  The Lt. then grabbed Brown’s elbow, and she rolled on her left side, exposing a knife in her right hand.  After several failed attempts to get Brown to comply, the Lt. deployed his taser, striking Brown on the shoulder. 
         
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.                         

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Paullina, Iowa, man convicted of Distribution of a Controlled Substance was sentenced on November 25, 2013, by U.S. District Court Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Dustin William Coates, a/k/a “DC,” age 27, was sentenced to 108 months in custody and four years of supervised release.  He was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
         
Coates was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 6, 2013.  He pled guilty on September 3, 2013.
         
On January 23, 2013, Coates agreed to sell methamphetamine to a drug customer.  Unknown to Coates, the customer had begun to cooperate with law enforcement.  Later the same day, Coates and the customer met in the parking lot of a Sioux Falls business where Coates sold him over 50 grams of methamphetamine for $3,800.  Law enforcement recorded the transaction.         

This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.  Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Haak prosecuted the case.

Coates was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury.
         
Torin DeWitt, age 25, was indicted on November 14, 2013, for Larceny.  DeWitt appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 21, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment. 
         
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 5 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation, and a mandatory $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered. 
         
The charges are merely accusations, and DeWitt is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
         
The Indictment alleges that on September 30, 2012, October 23, 2013, and October 25, 2013, DeWitt stole 2 vehicles and monies not belonging to him.
         
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case. 
         
DeWitt was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.  A trial date has not been set.                 

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Wakpala, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on November 18, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann. 
         
Juan Valadez, Jr., age 20, was sentenced to 12 months of custody, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Valadez was indicted for the above charge by a federal grand jury on March 13, 2013.  He pled guilty to an Information on August 22, 2013. 

The conviction stems from an incident occurring on January 26, 2013, in which an officer with the Bureau of Indian Affairs received a call regarding a high speed pursuit in excess of 90 mph involving Valadez.  During the pursuit, the officer’s car and Valadez’s car came into physical contact with one another.  Valadez ignored the officer’s commands, but eventually the officer was able to get Valadez to stop and exit his vehicle.  As a result of the physical contact, the officer sustained mild contusions.
         
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case. 

Valadez was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.                       

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury.
         
Samuel White Lance, age 22, was indicted on November 14, 2013, for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 21, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.           

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation, and a mandatory $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered. 
         
The charge is merely an accusation, and White Lance is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
         
The Indictment alleges that on October 9, 2013, White Lance and the victim argued and fought.  Following the fight, White Lance allegedly assaulted the victim with a knife.
         
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers is prosecuting the case. 
         
White Lance was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.  A trial date has not been set.                              

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury.
         
Lawrence Village Center, age 46, was indicted on November 14, 2013, for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender.  Village Center appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on November 19, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment. 
         
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation, and a mandatory $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered. 
         
The charges are merely accusations, and Village Center is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
         
The Indictment alleges that on August 31, 2013, Village Center assaulted his spouse with a hammer. 
         
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case. 
         
Village Center was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.  A trial date has not been set.                            

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury.     

Robert Arnold Stand, age 25, was indicted on November 14, 2013, for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor.  Stand appeared before U.S. Magistrate William D. Gerdes on November 19, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment. 
         
The maximum penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of 30 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, and a mandatory minimum of 5 years up to life of supervised release.  If Stand is found to have violated any condition of his supervised release, he may be incarcerated for an additional term of up to 5 years for each violation with one exception.  If Stand commits a new felony violation of sexual abuse, sexual exploitation and other abuse of children, transportation for illegal sexual activity and related crimes, kidnapping, or sex trafficking of children or by force, fraud, or coercion, while on supervised release, he may be incarcerated for a mandatory minimum term of 5 years up to life for each violation.  The maximum penalty also includes a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and restitution may be ordered. 
         
The charge is merely an accusation, and Stand is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
         
The Indictment alleges that on October 5, 2013, Stand engaged in and attempted to engage in a sexual act with a minor.
         
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case. 
         
Stand was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.  A trial date has not been set.                                              

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Little Eagle, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury.
         
Verinda Red Legs, age 29, was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 14, 2013, for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.  Red Legs appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on November 19, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment. 
         
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation, and a mandatory $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered. 
         
The charges are merely accusations, and Red Legs is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
         
The Indictment alleges that on October 18, 2013, Red Legs assaulted her dating partner with a knife and that assault resulted in serious bodily injury.
         
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case. 
         
Red Legs was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.  A trial date has not been set.                        

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Little Eagle, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury.
         
Dana Fast Horse, age 46, was indicted on November 14, 2013, for Embezzlement and Theft from an Indian Tribal Organization.  Fast Horse appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on November 19, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment. 
         
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 5 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation, and a mandatory $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered. 
         
The charges are merely accusations, and Fast Horse is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The Indictment alleges that between August 15, 2013 and October 1, 2013, Fast Horse, while Vice Chairman for the Running Antelope District, willfully and unlawfully stole, embezzled, misapplied, and converted to his own use over $1,000 of the monies and funds belonging to the Running Antelope District, which is a subdivision of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe.
         
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case. 
         
Fast Horse was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.  A trial date has not been set.                       

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Ft. Thompson, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on November 20, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange. 
         
Patrick Wind, a/k/a Patrick Azure, age 21, was sentenced to 13 months of imprisonment, 18 months of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Wind was indicted for the above charge by a federal grand jury on June 12, 2013, and he pled guilty on August 28, 2013. 

The conviction stems from an incident on June 4, 2013, wherein a Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) officer was dispatched to a home in Lower Brule, responding to a report of a passed out male on the front porch of a residence. The officer made contact with the male, later identified as Wind.  Wind was placed under arrest for public intoxication and Wind became noncompliant. 

Once handcuffed, Wind lunged at the officer, kicking and swearing at the officer who attempted to put him in the car.  Two additional BIA officers arrived on scene, and as one of them was attempting to put leg restraints on Wind, he continued to resist by spitting and kicking at the officers.  Wind continued to resist the entire time.
         
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case. 

Wind was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.                          

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Velnita Hairy Chin, age 41, of Bullhead, South Dakota, pled guilty to Child Abuse and  was sentenced on November 18, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann. 
         
Hairy Chin was sentenced to 12 months in custody, 1 year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
         
Hairy Chin was indicted for the above charge by a federal grand jury on December 11, 2012.  The conviction stems from an incident occurring between March 30, 2012 and May 20, 2012, in which Hairy Chin neglected the needs of her infant daughter by failing to seek prompt medical attention for her injuries.
         
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case. 

Hairy Chin was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.                                                

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Bullhead, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury.
         
Alexander Oka, age 22, was indicted on November 14, 2013, for Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation and Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender.  Oka appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on November 19, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment. 
         
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation, and a mandatory $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered. 
         
The charges are merely accusations, and Oka is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
         
The Indictment alleges that on August 20, 2013, Oka assaulted his dating partner by strangling and suffocating her. 
         
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case. 
         
Oka was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.  A trial date has not been set.                       

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Wounded Knee, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on November 15, 2013, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court. 
         
Lyle Sutton, Jr., age 27, was sentenced to 36 months of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and restitution.
         
Sutton was indicted for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury by a federal grand jury on February 20, 2013.  The charges stemmed from an incident that occurred at Wounded Knee on December 28, 2012.  Sutton struck a woman with a wooden bat, causing nasal and cheek fractures and severe bruising to her back.  Sutton pled guilty to Assault with a Dangerous Weapon on May 3, 2013.
         
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne Venhuizen prosecuted the case.
         
Sutton was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Wounded Knee, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on November 15, 2013, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court. 
         
Lyle Sutton, Jr., age 27, was sentenced to 36 months of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and restitution.
         
Sutton was indicted for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury by a federal grand jury on February 20, 2013.  The charges stemmed from an incident that occurred at Wounded Knee on December 28, 2012.  Sutton struck a woman with a wooden bat, causing nasal and cheek fractures and severe bruising to her back.  Sutton pled guilty to Assault with a Dangerous Weapon on May 3, 2013.
         
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne Venhuizen prosecuted the case.
         
Sutton was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, Opposing, and Impeding a Federal Officer.

Cyrus Black Spotted Horse, age 32, was indicted on November 14, 2013.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 19, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 8 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The charge is merely an accusation and Black Spotted Horse is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher is prosecuting the case.   

Black Spotted Horse was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial.  A trial date has not been set.              

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Jeremy Gunhammer, age 20, of Rosebud, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange on November 19, 2013, and pled guilty to Possession of Child Pornography. 

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The conviction stems from incidents that took place between January 1, 2013, and May 31, 2013, when Gunhammer would use the internet to receive and possess images of child pornography.  Gunhammer knew that the child pornography images were produced using material that had been mailed and shipped and transported in interstate and foreign commerce by means of computer, cellular phone, Facebook, and other online services.

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, Rapid City Police Department, Sioux Falls Police Department and the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tim Maher and Sarah Collins are prosecuting the case.   

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for January 27, 2013.  The defendant was released on conditions pending sentencing.                                

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Jason Riley, age 36, of Rosebud, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange on November 19, 2013, and pled guilty to Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. 

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

On October 13, 2010, Jason Riley was at the Sicangu Village Housing on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation.  The victim approached Riley and asked for a cigarette.  A verbal disagreement ensued and Riley struck the victim in the face and kicked the victim with shod feet while the victim was on the ground.  The victim suffered multiple abrasions, soft tissue bruising, and a nose bone fracture.

The investigation was conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher.

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for February 10, 2014.  Riley was released pending sentencing.                            

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Philana Red Feather, a/k/a Philana Garcia, age 37, of Pine Ridge, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on November 15, 2013, and pled guilty to misdemeanor Larceny.
         
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 1 year imprisonment and a $100,000 fine.
         
The charge relates to Red Feather and others stealing items from a house in Pine Ridge in the early morning hours of December 15, 2012.  The stolen items included, but were not limited to, an air compressor, tools, electronic devices, DVDs, games, and jewelry. 
         
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety.
         
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date will be set.  The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury.
         
Edwin Clayton Cook, Jr., age 37, was indicted on November 14, 2013, for Distribution of a Controlled Substance.  Cook appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 19, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment. 
         
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years of imprisonment and/or $1,000,000 fine, at least 3 years of supervised release, an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation, and a mandatory $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered. 
         
The charge is merely an accusation, and Cook is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 
         
The Indictment alleges that on or about June 12, 2013, Cook knowingly and intentionally distributed a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
         
The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case. 
         
Cook was released on bond pending trial which has not been set.                     

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, Opposing, and Impeding a Federal officer was sentenced on November 20, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange. 

William Rahn, age 27, was sentenced to 5 months in custody, 5 months of home confinement, 1 year of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
 
Rahn was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 16, 2013, and pled guilty to the charge on August 30, 2013.

The charge stems from an incident wherein Rahn was driving erratically, attempting to elude Bureau of Indian Affairs police officers on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation.  He drove his vehicle directly at a parked police unit, coming within feet of hitting the vehicle.  When Rahn finally stopped his vehicle on a dirt road, he resisted the officers and that resistance involved physical contact with an officer. 

The investigation was conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher.
 
Rahn was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.                                  

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Walter York, age 34, of Martin, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on November 14, 2013, and pled guilty to Benefits Fraud.     The maximum penalty upon conviction is 1 year imprisonment and a $100,000 fine.
         
York was indicted for fraudulently making a purchase at Sam’s Club in Rapid City on July 10, 2011, when he used another person’s Electronic Benefits Transfer card.
         
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the South Dakota Department of Social Services.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne Venhuizen.
         
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for February 3, 2014.  The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a couple from La Plant, South Dakota, has been indicted by a federal grand jury.
         
Rochelle Breckbill, a/k/a Rochelle LeBeau, age 25, and Henry Chase Alone, age 30, were indicted on November 14, 2013, for Involuntary Manslaughter, Child Abuse, and False Statement.  They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 19, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment. 
         
The maximum penalty upon conviction for each person is 15 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation, and a mandatory $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered. 
         
The charges are merely accusations, and Breckbill and Chase Alone are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 
         
The three-count Indictment alleges that between September 29, 2013 and October 1, 2013, Breckbill and Chase Alone unlawfully killed a human being, without malice.  The Indictment also alleges that they abused, exposed, tortured, tormented, and cruelly punished a child who had not attained the age of 7 years.  Following those acts, it is alleged that Breckbill and Chase Alone lied to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
         
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay P. Miller is prosecuting the case.      

Breckbill and Chase Alone were released on bond pending trial which has not been set.                            

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man convicted of Felon in Possession of Firearm was sentenced on November 20, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.      

Bryant Ross, age 39, was sentenced to 9 months of imprisonment, 18 months of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Ross was indicted for the above charge by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2013.  He pled guilty on August 29, 2013. 

The conviction stems from an incident occurring on February 23, 2013, when a Bureau of Indian Affairs Officer made contact with Ross in the Old Fort campground area off of Highway 47.  At this time, it was learned that Ross had an active tribal warrant.  During his arrest on the tribal warrant, two firearms were discovered in Ross’ possession. 

In 1998, Ross was convicted of Possession of a Controlled Substance-Meth, which makes him a prohibited person.
         
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case. 

Ross was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.                        

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a La Plant, South Dakota, man and woman convicted of Incest were sentenced on November 18, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Nicholas Ray White Eagle, age 26, and Fawn Lynn Scott, age 21, were each sentenced to 3 years of probation and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

White Eagle and Scott were indicted by a federal grand jury on June 12, 2013, and pled guilty to Incest on August 14, 2013.

In April 2011, White Eagle and Scott, first cousins, had consensual sexual intercourse that produced a child with a genetic disability.  At the time of the sexual intercourse, White Eagle and Scott were not legally married and were within the degrees of consanguinity with each other within which marriages are void.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Nicole Condon, a/k/a Nicole Garreau, age 35, of Eagle Butte, South Dakota, has pled guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance and was sentenced on November 19, 2013, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.
         
Condon was sentenced to 2 years of probation, a $1,000 fine, and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Condon was indicted on August 21, 2013.

The conviction stems from an incident occurring on October 23, 2012, when Condon was in a vehicle that was stopped for a traffic violation.  Condon was transported to the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Adult Detention Center and searched.  Officers found 0.68 grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine on her person in addition to several syringes, a straw, and empty plastic bags.  Condon admitted to consuming methamphetamine.
         
The investigation was conducted by the Northern Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.                      

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Pearsall, Texas, man convicted of Distribution of a Controlled Substance was sentenced on November 18, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange. 
         
Ricardo Avila, age 53, was sentenced to 33 months of imprisonment, a $1,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Avila was indicted for the above charge by a federal grand jury on November 19, 2012.  He pled guilty on August 19, 2013. 

The conviction stems from an incident occurring on or about April 12, 2012, when an undercover officer was introduced to Avila, and a purchase of cocaine was arranged. Avila delivered to the undercover officer a substance that was confirmed to be 28.3 grams of powder cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance. 

The investigation was conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case. 

Avila was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Lee Larney, a/k/a “Southern Wind,” 32, of Pine Ridge, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on November 14, 2013, and pled guilty to a charge of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and a charge of Assault on a Federal Officer.
         
The maximum penalty for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury is 10 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, and the maximum penalty for Assault on a Federal Officer is 8 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine.
         
In April 2012, at Porcupine, Larney struck a man several times in the face, causing injuries to the man’s jaw, teeth, and gums which required surgery.  He also experienced ear pain and a temporary loss of hearing. 
         
In August 2012, near Oglala, Larney punched an Oglala Sioux Tribe police officer in the face while the officer was attempting to arrest him for intoxication.

The investigations were conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety.  The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins.
         
Presentence investigations were ordered and sentencing dates will be set.  Larney was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.  

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Murdo, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on November 7, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange. 
         
Shaun Sporrer, age 42, was sentenced to 30 months of imprisonment, 18 months of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Sporrer was indicted for the above charge by a federal grand jury on April 2, 2013.  He pled guilty on August 13, 2013. 

The conviction stems from an incident occurring on March 1, 2013, in which Sporrer pulled a revolver on a neighbor.  Sporrer has previous domestic violence convictions, and as a result is prohibited from owning firearms.
         
The investigation was conducted by the Jones County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay P. Miller prosecuted the case. 

Sporrer was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a man from Mexico convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute of a Controlled Substance was sentenced on November 15, 2013, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court. 
         
Lorenzo Camacho Tarango a/k/a "Lencho", a/k/a "Lecho", age 43, was sentenced to 120 months of imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The charge relates to Tarango conspiring with Abraham Romero and others to distribute at least 500 grams or more of methamphetamine in the District of South Dakota between 2010 and 2012.  Tarango would deliver methamphetamine to Romero, and Romero would then engage in further distribution within the state.  Tarango pled guilty to the charge on July 23, 2013.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Ted L. McBride prosecuted the case.

Tarango remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Chamberlain, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury.
         
Warren LaRoche, age 23, was indicted on November 14, 2013, for Access Device Fraud and Larceny.  LaRoche appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 18, 2013, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.           

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 15 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation, and a mandatory $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered. 
         
The charges are merely accusations, and LaRoche is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
         
The Indictment alleges that between December 3, 2012, and April 16, 2013, LaRoche stole a credit card number and made unauthorized purchases in excess of $1,000.
         
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case. 
         
LaRoche was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.  A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Watertown, South Dakota, man has been charged with Unlawful Taking of Migratory Birds and Lacey Act Violations by an Information filed October 30, 2013. 

Roger Meyer, age 52, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on November 8, 2013, and pled not guilty to the charge. 

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 1 year of imprisonment and/or a $100,000 fine, 1 year of supervised release and an additional year of supervised release upon revocation, and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered. 

The charges are merely accusations, and Meyer is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
         
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.        

Meyer was released on bond pending trial which has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Shy Bettelyoun, age 30, of Wanblee, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy, on November 8, 2013, and pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Distribution of a Controlled Substance.
         
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years of imprisonment and/or a $1,000,000 fine.
         
On or about August 2009 through February 20, 2013, Bettelyoun conspired with other persons to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in and around the Pine Ridge Indian reservation. 
         
The investigation was conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Rapid City Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ted L. McBride.
         
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date has not been set.  The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.