District of South Dakota

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Manderson, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly assaulting another man with a knife on October 8, 2012, at Manderson.

Chris Janis, a/k/a Israel Janis, age 39, was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 19, 2013, for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.  Janis appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on April 30, 2013, and pleaded not guilty to the indictment.  The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.  The charges are merely accusations, and Janis 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 Wayne Venhuizen is prosecuting the case.  Janis was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal.  A trial date has been set for July 9, 2013.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on May 1, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.  Douglas LaRoche, age 44, was sentenced to 35 months of imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  He also needs to register as a sex offender.

LaRoche was indicted for the above charge by a federal grand jury on August 22, 2012 and pled guilty to a Superseding Information on January 4, 2013.  The charge stems from an incident occurring on August 12, 2012, when LaRoche consumed alcohol with the victim and others.  During the early evening hours, the victim returned to her home and went to bed.  LaRoche went to the victim’s home and knowingly engaged in and attempted to engage in sexual contact with the victim, who at the time, was incapable of appraising the nature of the conduct and was physically incapable of declining participation in and communicating unwillingness to engage in the sexual contact.

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case. 

LaRoche was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshal’s Service. 

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Long Valley, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly engaging in sexual acts with a minor near Martin, South Dakota, in 2010.

David Amiotte, age 49, was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 16, 2013, for Sexual Abuse of a Minor.  Amiotte appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on April 19, 2013, and pleaded not guilty to the indictment.  The maximum penalty upon conviction is 15 years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.  The charge is merely an accusation, and Amiotte is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Amiotte was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal.  A trial date has been set for June 25, 2013.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Jake Morrison, age 31, of Eagle Butte, South Dakota, appeared before US District Judge Roberto A. Lange on April 30, 2013, and pled guilty to the indictment that charged him with Third Degree Burglary. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both; 3 years of supervised release; and $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. 

The conviction is the result of a January 6, 2013, late night break-in at a downtown business in Timber Lake, South Dakota.

The investigation was conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant US Attorney Mikal Hanson. 

A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date was set for July 22, 2013. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the US Marshal’s Service pending sentencing. 

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Custer, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly unlawfully possessing firearms in March 2013.

Brandon Hattaway, age 29, was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 16, 2013, for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.  Hattaway appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge John E. Simko on April 22, 2013, and pleaded not guilty to the indictment.  The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.  The charge is merely an accusation, and Hattaway is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks, the Custer County Sheriff's Office, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.   Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne Venhuizen is prosecuting the case.  Hattaway was released on bond pending trial.  A trial date has been set for June 25, 2013.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Wakpala man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on April 30, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.  Adrian B. Spotted Horse, age 33, was sentenced to 21 months of imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

Spotted Horse was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2012.  He pled guilty to a Superseding Information on February 7, 2013.  The conviction stems from an incident on May 31, 2012, when Spotted Horse made two separate attempts to force sexual contact on the victim.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy Morley prosecuted the case.

Spotted Horse was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshal.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Pennsylvania man, convicted of the Unlawful Sale of Migratory Waterfowl, was sentenced on April 29, 2013, by US District Judge Charles B. Kornmann. Mike Bishop, age 46, was sentenced to 11 months in custody; $7,200 in restitution (joint and several with co-defendants) to the United States Fish and Wildlife Service for the cost of the Services’ undercover hunt; $3,450 in restitution to South Dakota State Game, Fish and Parks Department for the illegally taking of State of South Dakota waterfowl; and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. 

Bishop, the owner of Windy Hills Outpost, was indicted in April 2012 for Conspiracy to Violate the Lacey Act, Failure to Lawfully Tag Migratory Birds, the Sale and Possession of Wildlife in Violation of Migratory Bird Act, and False Labeling on Waterfowl Tags. He pled guilty to a Superseding Information charging him with the Unlawful Sale of Migratory Waterfowl on April 29, 2013.

The conviction stems from incidents that occurred in the fall of 2008 and 2009, in Marshall County, when Bishop and others who worked for Bishop as guides, unlawfully provided migratory waterfowl to undercover US Fish and Wildlife Service officers for meals at the lodge before the undercover officers had even gone hunting. Additionally, the officers observed Bishop and his guides take ducks and geese that were not lawfully tagged, shoot ducks over the possession limit, guide hunters who did not have valid hunting licenses, and alter dates on tags to show the migratory birds were taken on a series of days and not on a single day.

The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Assistant US Attorney Mikal Hanson prosecuted the case. 

Bishop will report to the United States Marshal’s Service on May 28, 2013, to begin serving his sentence.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Candice Waln, age 34, of St. Francis, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange on April 30, 2013, and pled guilty to Making False Statements to a Federal Agency.  The maximum penalty upon conviction is 5 years in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both; 3 years of supervised release; and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The conviction stems from an incident that took place on November 9, 2012, when federal agents arrived at Waln’s residence to serve an arrest warrant on an individual.  Waln told the agents that individual was not present and was in another community when in fact he was actually hiding nearby.

The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Marshal’s Service and Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy M. Maher.

A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date was set for July 22, 2013.  The defendant was released pending sentencing.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Laun McCloskey, age 19, of Rosebud, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange on April 30, 2013, and pled guilty to Abusive Sexual Contact.  The maximum penalty upon conviction is life in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both; life of supervised release; and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The conviction stems from an incident that took place on March 16, 2013, when McCloskey had sexual contact with a minor.

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

A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date was set for July 22, 2013.  The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending sentencing.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a McLaughlin man convicted of Felon in Possession of a Firearm was sentenced on April 29, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann. Jess Porras, age 52, was sentenced to 6 months in custody, 1 year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

Porras was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 16, 2012. On January 2, 2013, he pled guilty to Count I of the indictment.

The conviction stems from an incident in December 2011 when the Defendant was providing guiding services to a group of hunters from Minnesota. After a member of the hunting party missed several shots at a deer, the Defendant, knowing he had previously been convicted of a felony and was prohibited from possessing firearms, grabbed the hunter's rifle and shot the deer.

This case was investigated by U.S. Fish & Wildlife Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy Morley prosecuted the case.

Porras is to self-report to the U.S. Marshal’s Service by 2:00 p.m. on May 21, 2013.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury was sentenced on April 29, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange. Leonard Edwards, age 23, was sentenced to 27 months of imprisonment, 2 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. 

Edwards was indicted for the above offense by a federal grand jury on November 15, 2012.  He pled guilty on February 5, 2013.  The charge stems from an incident when Edwards, on August 25, 2012, was at a party at a home in Lower Brule.  Present were Edwards, the victim, and others.  Later in the evening, the victim decided to leave the party and took a bottle of alcohol with him.  Edwards followed the victim outside.  Once outside, Edwards walked up to the victim and struck him in the face with a closed fist.  The victim fell to the grounds, knocked unconscious.  As a result, the victim suffered multiple fractures to the jaw that required surgery to repair.

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case. 

Edwards was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshal’s Service.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Irvin Scott Yazzie, age 24, of Lower Brule, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange on April 30, 2013, and pled guilty to the indictment that charged him with Assault with a Dangerous Weapon.  The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both; 3 years of supervised release, and an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation.  Restitution and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund may also be ordered. 

The charge stems from an incident when Yazzie and his girlfriend, who were staying at a residence in Lower Brule, began arguing about their relationship.  During the course of the argument, Yazzie assaulted the victim by striking her with his fists and a black aluminum pole.  The victim suffered bruising as a result of the assault.

The investigation was being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.  Yazzie  was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal’s Service pending sentencing on July 22, 2013.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Bullhead man convicted of Domestic Assault by a Habitual Offender was sentenced on April 29, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann. Willard Paul Farrell, III, age 25, was sentenced to 33 months of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

Farrell was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2012. On January 2, 2013, he pled guilty to Count I of the indictment that charged him with Domestic Assault by a Habitual Offender.

The conviction stems from an incident in January 2011 when the Defendant ran up to the victim, unprovoked, and assaulted her on a public street. The Defendant and the victim had previously been in a domestic relationship, and at the time of the incident, the victim had a restraining order in place to prevent the Defendant from having contact with or harassing her.

As a result of the assault, the victim sustained numerous scrapes and bruises, along with a fractured cheekbone.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy Morley prosecuted the case.

Farrell was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshal.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Morgan Bagola, age 21, of Bullhead, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann on April 30, 2013, and pled guilty to Count II of the indictment that charged him with Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.  The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both; 3 years of supervised release, and an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation.  Restitution and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund may also be ordered. 

The charge stems from an incident wherein Bagola used a bat to break several windows of a home.  Bagola then fought with one of the other persons present.  The victim suffered serious bodily injury, including a broken ankle, laceration on his head, and a large welt on his back.

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich is prosecuting the case.  Bagola was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal’s Service pending sentencing which has been set for August 12, 2013.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that two White River, South Dakota women have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon.

Ashley Vanderwalker, age 24, and Jarashae Vanderwalker, age 20, were indicted by a federal grand jury on April 12, 2013. They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 25, 2013 and pled not guilty to the indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years’ in custody, 3 years’ of supervised release; and a $100 Special Assessment. Restitution may also be ordered.

The charge is merely an accusation and both women are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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

Ashley Vanderwalker and Jarashae Vanderwalker were both released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Mission, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on April 29, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.  Dadra Connors, age 35, was sentenced to 30 months in custody, 2 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Connors was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 18, 2012, and pled guilty to the charge on January 9, 2013.

The conviction stems from an incident that took place on May 20, 2012, when Connors drove her truck at the victim as he was walking across a gravel road.  The victim dove into the ditch to avoid being hit.  During the process, a second victim was ejected from the cargo area of Connors' truck and was injured.

The investigation was conducted by Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy M. Maher.

Connors was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Verle Janis a/k/a Verl Janis, age 31, of McLaughlin, South Dakota appeared before U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann on April 23, 2013 and pled guilty to a Superseding Information that charged him with Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding a Federal Officer. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 8 years' imprisonment, a $250,000 fine or both, and a period of supervised release of 3 years.

The conviction stems from an incident in January of 2013 when a Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) officer was dispatched to the Bear Soldier West housing project in McLaughlin. Upon arrival, he observed several individuals in the residence and requested a warrant check. He was advised that Janis was on probation with conditions that prohibited alcohol. When the officer attempted to place the Defendant in handcuffs, he became uncooperative and refused to comply. The BIA Officer removed his taser and the Defendant momentarily complied and was placed in the back seat of the patrol unit.

The BIA Officer then secured several personal items left in the house by the Defendant and upon opening the back door to the patrol unit, was kicked in the shoulder by the Defendant. The BIA Officer was forced to remove the Defendant from the patrol unit in order to place him in leg restraints. As he attempted to secure the Defendant, the Officer was kicked in the leg several times.

The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy Morley.

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for July 22, 2013. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending sentencing.

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

Jason Long, age 42, was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 13, 2013 for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.

Long appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 25, 2013 and pled not guilty to the Indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years of imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, or both; a mandatory period of supervised release of at least 3 years up to life; and an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation. Restitution and a $100 special assessment may also be ordered.

The charge is merely an accusation and Long is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich is prosecuting the case.

Long was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal Service. A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession and Sale of a Stolen Firearm, Drug User in Possession of a Firearm, Larceny and Tampering with a Witness.

Jody Albert Hunt, age 34, was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 12, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 24, 2013 and pled not guilty to the indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both; 3 years of supervised release; and a $100 special assessment. Restitution may also be ordered.

The charges relate to an allegation that Hunt, while he was a drug user, stole firearms and other property from a ranch near Eagle Butte. Later, Hunt attempted to get a witness to submit false information about the case.

The charges are merely an accusation and Hunt is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikal Hanson is prosecuting the case.

Hunt was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal. A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Stang, Oklahoma man charged with Failure to Pay Legal Child Support was sentenced on April 23, 2013 by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Rodney L. Bolin, age 38, was sentenced to time served, 1 year of unsupervised probation, a $100.00 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and child support restitution in the amount of $49,213.50.

On June 5, 2012 Bolin was indicted by a federal grand jury for failing to pay over $42,693.00 in past due child support. Bolin was previously ordered by the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Court, Lake Traverse Indian Reservation to pay $600.00 per month for his minor children, commencing June 1, 2003. He made a payment in March of 2012, but prior to that date, he had not made a child support payment since September of 2009. At the time of indictment, the total arrearage amount was $42,693.48. He pled guilty to the charge on April 23, 2013.

This case was investigated the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas J. Wright prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Marty LaRoche, age 20, of Lower Brule, South Dakota appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 25, 2013 and pled guilty to the Information that charged him with Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding a Federal Officer.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 1 year of imprisonment, a $100,000 fine, or both; 1 year of supervised release and an additional year of supervised release upon revocation. Restitution and a $25 special assessment may also be ordered.

The charge stems from an incident on February 8, 2013, wherein Marty LaRoche did forcibly assault, resist, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with an officer, constituting simple assault. The officer was employed as a federal law enforcement officer with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Department of Interior, engaged in the performance of his official duties.

The investigation was 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. Marshal Service pending sentencing which has been set for June 25, 2013.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that David Roberts Jr., age 30, of Eagle Butte, South Dakota appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 24, 2013 and pled guilty to the Superseding Information that charged him with Simple Assault of a Minor.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to one year of custody, a $100,000 fine, and a $25 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The conviction is the result of an assault of a minor victim that occurred in Eagle Butte in May of 2012.

The investigation was conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikal Hanson.

A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date was set for June 24, 2013.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Spring Creek, South Dakota man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse.

Francis Kills In Sight, age 19, was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 16, 2012. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 24, 2013 and pled not guilty to the indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in custody, life of supervised release, and a $100 Special Assessment. Restitution may also be ordered.

The charge is merely an accusation and Kills In Sight 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 Timothy M. Maher is prosecuting the case.

Kills In Sight was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending trial. A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon.

Jason Riley, age 35, was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 8, 2011. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 24, 2013 and pled not guilty to the indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years’ in custody, 3 years’ of supervised release; and a $100 Special Assessment. Restitution may also be ordered.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy M. Maher is prosecuting the case.

Riley was released to a third party custodian pending trial. A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Redfield, South Dakota woman convicted of Theft of Government Funds and Misuse of Benefits by a Representative Payee was sentenced on April 23, 2013 by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Jana Harford, age 40, was sentenced to 1 year of unsupervised probation, $7,433.90 in restitution, and a $200 special assessment.

Harford was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 14, 2012. A jury found her guilty on both counts on October 23, 2012.

The conviction is a result of the Defendant defrauding the Old Age, Survivor, and Disability Insurance Program administered by the Social Security Administration. Harford misused Title II disability benefits she received as the representative payee between December 2010 and June 2011.

This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Seiler prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Pierre, South Dakota woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Theft of Government Funds.

Brandis Rose Rose, age 37, was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 12, 2013. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 22, 2013 and pled not guilty to the indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in custody, a $250,000, or both; 3 years of supervised release; and a $100 special assessment. Restitution may also be ordered.

The charge relates to an allegation that Rose embezzled, stole, purloined or knowingly converted to her own use Title II funds from the Social Security Administration. The charge is merely an accusation and Rose is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

The investigation is being conducted by the Office of the Investigator General, Social Security Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.

Rose was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Ft. Yates, North Dakota man convicted of Assault With a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on April 23, 2013 by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Andrew Ramsey, age 27, was sentenced to 57 months custody, 3 years of supervised release and a $100 special assessment.

Ramsey was indicted for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury by a federal grand jury in August of 2012. On November 16, 2012, he pled guilty to Count I of the Indictment.

The conviction stems from an incident on July 14, 2012, which occurred at a home the Defendant shared with the victim. The couple began arguing and the Defendant chased after the victim with a knife, ultimately stabbing the victim in the abdomen. As a result of the assault the victim was hospitalized and required surgery to repair her injuries.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy Morley prosecuted the case.

Ramsey was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshal.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Quentin Edward Doerr, age 40, of Bismarck, North Dakota appeared before U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann on April 23, 2013 and pled guilty to the charge of transportation of child pornography. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in prison with a minimum of 5 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.

In January of 2012, Doerr possessed video recorded depictions of himself engaged in sexually explicit conduct with a minor female. Doerr traveled from South Dakota to his home in North Dakota with the video file of child pornography in his computer.

The investigation was conducted by the Spink County Sheriff's Office, the Bismarck Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper.

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for July 29, 2013. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending sentencing.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Verle Janis a/k/a Verl Janis, age 31, of McLaughlin, South Dakota appeared before U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann on April 23, 2013 and pled guilty to a Superseding Information that charged him with Assaulting, Resisting and Impeding a Federal Officer. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 8 years' imprisonment, a $250,000 fine or both, and a period of supervised release of 3 years.

The conviction stems from an incident in January of 2013 when a Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) officer was dispatched to the Bear Soldier West housing project in McLaughlin. Upon arrival, he observed several individuals in the residence and requested a warrant check. He was advised that Janis was on probation with conditions that prohibited alcohol. When the officer attempted to place the Defendant in handcuffs, he became uncooperative and refused to comply. The BIA Officer removed his taser and the Defendant momentarily complied and was placed in the back seat of the patrol unit.

The BIA Officer then secured several personal items left in the house by the Defendant and upon opening the back door to the patrol unit, was kicked in the shoulder by the Defendant. The BIA Officer was forced to remove the Defendant from the patrol unit in order to place him in leg restraints. As he attempted to secure the Defendant, the Officer was kicked in the leg several times.

The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy Morley.

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for July 22, 2013. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending sentencing.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Ace Makes Him First, age 38, of Little Eagle, South Dakota appeared before U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann on April 23, 2013 and pled guilty to Count II of the Indictment that charged Domestic Assault By A Habitual Offender. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 5 years' imprisonment, a $250,000 fine or both, and a period of supervised release of 3 years.

The conviction stems from an incident in December of 2011 when the Defendant and the victim, who were involved in a domestic relationship, got into an altercation where the Defendant struck the victim about the head and face causing her lip to become swollen and split. The Defendant had been found guilty on two or more separate occasions for offenses that would have been, if subject to federal jurisdiction, an assault against a spouse and intimate partner in Standing Rock Tribal Court. All of the offenses occurred against the same victim.

The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy Morley.

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for July 22, 2013. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending sentencing.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Sexual Abuse of a Minor.

Aaron Grass Rope, age 20, was indicted on April 12, 2013. Grass Rope appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 24, 2013 and pled not guilty to the Indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is any term of years up to 15 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both; any term of years, not less than 5, or up to life of supervised release and a mandatory minimum term of 5 years up to life of supervised release upon revocation. Restitution and a $100 special assessment may also be ordered.

The charge is merely an accusation, and Grass Rope is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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

Grass Rope was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal Service. A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota man convicted of two counts of Disorderly Conduct was sentenced on April 18, 2013 by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.

Frankie Delgado, age 53, was sentenced to a $1,000 fine and a $10 special assessment.

Delgado was indicted for 3 counts of Abusive Sexual Contact by a federal grand jury in December 2011. He pled guilty to a Superseding Information charging him with two counts of Disorderly Conduct on April 18, 2013.

The conviction stems from two incidents that occurred in May 2011 in Eagle Butte.

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikal Hanson prosecuted the case.

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

Bevan Ray Bordeaux, age 26, was indicted on April 12, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 18, 2013 and pled not guilty to the indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both; 3 years of supervised release; and a $100 special assessment on each count. Restitution may also be ordered.

The charges relate to an allegation that Bordeaux assaulted an Eagle Butte man on December 28, 2012 with shod feet and that the assault resulted in serious injury to the victim.

The charges are merely accusations, and Bordeaux is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikal Hanson is prosecuting the case.

Bordeaux was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that two men and one woman from Eugene, Oregon have been indicted by a federal grand jury for two counts of Conspiracy and Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana.

Justin Jones, age 23; Glenn Shea, age 20; and Jesse Parker, age 23, were indicted by a federal grand jury on March 13, 2013. They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 22, 2013 and pled not guilty to the indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 5 years of custody, a $250,000 fine, or both; 2 years of supervised release; and a $100 special assessment. Restitution may also be ordered.

The charges are merely an accusation and Jones, Shea, and Parker are presumed innocent unless and until they are proven guilty.

The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller.

Jones, Shea, and Parker were released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that two men and one woman from Eugene, Oregon have been indicted by a federal grand jury for two counts of Conspiracy and Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana.

Justin Jones, age 23; Glenn Shea, age 20; and Jesse Parker, age 23, were indicted by a federal grand jury on March 13, 2013. They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 22, 2013 and pled not guilty to the indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 5 years of custody, a $250,000 fine, or both; 2 years of supervised release; and a $100 special assessment. Restitution may also be ordered.

The charges are merely an accusation and Jones, Shea, and Parker are presumed innocent unless and until they are proven guilty.

The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller.

Jones, Shea, and Parker were released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Winnebago, Nebraska man has been indicted by a federal grand jury.

Lawrence Bassette, age 28, was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 13, 2013 for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 22, 2013 and pled not guilty to the indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years' imprisonment, a $250,000 fine or both, and a period of supervised release of 3 years.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy Morley is prosecuting the case.

Bassette was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal. A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Mitchell, South Dakota man was sentenced on April 22, 2013 by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Lonnie Dean Hunter, age 53, was sentenced to 27 months in prison to be followed by one year of supervised release for felony possession of a firearm.

Hunter was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 4, 2012 for being a felon in possession of a firearm and a felon in possession of ammunition. He pled guilty to the first offense on January 28, 2013, and the other offense was dismissed.

On December 3, 2011, Hunter possessed a bolt-action rifle. He is prohibited from possessing firearms due to a previous felony conviction.

This case was investigated by the Davison Co. Sheriff’s Department, the SD Department of Game, Fish & Parks, and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Haak prosecuted the case.

Hunter was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshal.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Emily Rose Yellow Earrings, age 49, of Little Eagle, South Dakota appeared before U.S. Magistrate William D. Gerdes on April 19, 2013 and pled guilty to a Superseding Information that charged her with Assault By Striking, Beating and Wounding and Simple Assault. The maximum penalty on each count upon conviction is 6 months imprisonment, a $5,000 fine or both, and a $10 assessment. Restitution may also be ordered.

The conviction stems from an incident during the early morning hours of March 6, 2010 when the Defendant was attending a social gathering. Also present at the gathering was the victim and the Defendant's brother, who had previously been in a relationship. The Defendant became upset because she was under the mistaken belief that her brother and the victim had been in an argument earlier in the evening. The Defendant spoke to the victim, became enraged, and struck the victim on top of the head. A struggle ensued and the victim was again struck by the Defendant in the face.

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy Morley.

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for July 10, 2013. The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Ideal, South Dakota man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender and False Statement.

Loren Running Horse, age 42, was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 12, 2013. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 22, 2013 and pled not guilty to the indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years’ in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both; life of supervised release; and a $100 Special Assessment. Restitution may also be ordered.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshal Service and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers is prosecuting the case.

Running Horse was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending trial. A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that seven individuals from South Dakota and one person from Minnesota have all been charged with the Unlawful Taking of Migratory Birds and Lacey Act Violations by an Information filed on March 25, 2013.

The individuals include:

• Jaron Anderson, age 22, Brookings

• Ben Burgess, age 29, Sioux Falls

• Nicholas Connor, age 20, Winfred

• Aaron Eich, age 28, Sioux Falls

• Scott Nenaber, age 34, Alpena

• Chris Paclik, age 21, Brookings

• Travis Vacek, age 32, Sioux Falls

• Austin Lueck, age 21, Lane Benton, Minnesota

Seven of the defendants appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge John E. Simko on April 18, 2013 and pled not guilty to the charge. Nenaber made his initial appearance on April 19, 2013. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 1 year of imprisonment, a $100,000 fine, or both; 1 year of supervised release and an additional year of supervised release upon revocation. Restitution and a $25 special assessment may also be ordered.

The charge is merely an accusation, and they are all presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the cases.

All eight were released on bond pending trial, which has been set for June 25, 2013.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a California man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a Child.

Thomas Tatar, age 26, was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 15, 2012. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 22, 2013 and pled not guilty to the indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 30 years’ in custody, 5 years of supervised release; and a $100 Special Assessment. Restitution may also be ordered.

The charge is merely an accusation and Tatar is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy M. Maher is prosecuting the case.

Tatar was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending trial. A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Todd County man has been indicted by a federal grand jury.

Andre DeShazier, a/k/a Andre DaShazier, age 55, was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 12, 2013 for Assault by Striking, Beating and Wounding.

DeShazier appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 19, 2013 and pled not guilty to the Indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 1 year of imprisonment, a $100,000 fine; 1 year of supervised release and an additional year of supervised release upon revocation. Restitution and a $25 special assessment may also be ordered.

The charge is merely an accusations, and DeShazier is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement, U.S. Marshal’s Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Maher is prosecuting the case.

DeShazier was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal Service. A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Toni Good Shield, a/k/a Toni Little Thunder, age 29, of Rosebud, South Dakota appeared before U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange on April 16, 2013 and pled guilty to Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 5 years in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both; 3 years of supervised release; and a $100 special assessment.

The conviction stems from an incident that took place on February 7, 2013 when Good Shield kicked the victim causing a fracture to her left leg and a bloody nose.

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

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for July 8, 2013. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending sentencing.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Toni Good Shield, a/k/a Toni Little Thunder, age 29, of Rosebud, South Dakota appeared before U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange on April 16, 2013 and pled guilty to Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 5 years in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both; 3 years of supervised release; and a $100 special assessment.

The conviction stems from an incident that took place on February 7, 2013 when Good Shield kicked the victim causing a fracture to her left leg and a bloody nose.

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

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for July 8, 2013. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending sentencing.

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

Kenneth Black Wolf, age 24, was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 12, 2013 for Maiming, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.

Black Wolf appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 19, 2013 and pled not guilty to the Indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both; 3 years of supervised release and an additional 2 years of supervised release upon revocation. Restitution and a $100 special assessment may also be ordered.

The charges are merely accusations, and Black Wolf is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers is prosecuting the case.

Black Wolf was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal Service. A trial date has not been set.

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

Ricky Eagle Elk, age 43, was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 12, 2013 for Sexual Abuse.

Eagle Elk appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 19, 2013 and pled not guilty to the Indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is life in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both; a mandatory minimum term of 5 years up to life of supervised release and an additional minimum term of 5 years of supervised release upon revocation. Restitution and a $100 special assessment may also be ordered.

The charge is merely an accusation, and Eagle Elk 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. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers is prosecuting the case.

Eagle Elk was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal Service. A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Wilbur Flute, age 39, of Rapid City, South Dakota appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on April 12, 2013 and pled guilty to Failure to Register. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years' imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine.

Flute failed to update his sexual offender registration as required from November 28, 2012, to February 27, 2013.

The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman.

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date will be scheduled. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending sentencing.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota man was indicted by a federal grand jury for burning down a woman’s house after the two had an argument.

Emmanuel Lee Warrior, a/k/a Mani Warrior, was indicted on March 19, 2013 for Arson. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on April 11, 2013 and pled not guilty to the indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is life imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine.

The charge is merely an accusation and Warrior 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 Sarah B. Collins is prosecuting the case.

Warrior was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal. A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Oglala, South Dakota man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly damaging a vehicle belonging to the U.S. General Services Administration in March 2011.

Eldon Ray Tobacco, age 25, was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 29, 2012 for Destruction of Government Property. Tobacco appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on April 11, 2013 and pled not guilty to the indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is one year of imprisonment and a $100,000 fine.

The charge is merely an accusation and Tobacco 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 Wayne Venhuizen is prosecuting the case.

Tobacco was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has been set for June 18, 2013.

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly living in the United States illegally after previously being deported to Mexico twice.

Abraham Cortez-Morales, age 25, was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 19, 2013 for Illegal Reentry after Deportation.

Cortez-Morales appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on April 12, 2013 and pled not guilty to the indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 2 years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.

The charge is merely an accusation and Cortez-Morales is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman is prosecuting the case.

Cortez-Morales was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal. A trial date has been set for June 18, 2013.