District of South Dakota

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Bullhead, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Stolen Firearm.

Nicholas James Black Cloud, age 20, was indicted on January 11, 2022.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 29, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that on October 25, 2021, in McLaughlin, South Dakota, Black Cloud was in possession of a stolen firearm, which he took from a vehicle.

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

The investigation is being conducted by the Corson County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Fort Pierre, South Dakota, woman and a Pierre, South Dakota, man both convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance were sentenced on June 28, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Shannon Spears, age 44, was sentenced to 121 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release.  John Klein, age 45, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release.  Both Spears and Klein were each also ordered to pay a $1,000 fine, and special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. 

Klein was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 13, 2021.  He pled guilty on March 24, 2022.  Spears was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 14, 2021.  She pled guilty on March 10, 2022. 

The convictions stem from Klein and Spears conspiring with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute methamphetamine in and around central South Dakota.  Klein utilized sources of supply of methamphetamine from Minnesota and Colorado to bring large amounts of methamphetamine to the Pierre area, where he would utilize individuals, including Spears, to distribute that methamphetamine in and around central South Dakota.  It was reasonably foreseeable that over 500 grams of methamphetamine was distributed during the course of the conspiracy.

Klein’s spouse, Taylor Huemoeller, a/k/a, Taylor Klein, who was also involved in the conspiracy, is set to be sentenced on August 15, 2022.  Randy Little Shield was previously sentenced to 10 years in federal custody for his role in the conspiracy.

This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the FBI, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.

Klein and Spears were both immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on June 23, 2022, by Judge Karen E. Schreier, U.S. District Court.

Chester Benjamin Apple, a/k/a Chester Janis, age 39, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Apple was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury in March 2021 and pleaded guilty in December 2021.  The conviction stems from Apple obtaining methamphetamine and distributing it in South Dakota from approximately January 2015 through March 2021.

The case was investigated by the Badlands Safe Trails Task Force, which includes the FBI, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigation, and the Martin, South Dakota, Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Glenham, South Dakota, man convicted of Bank Fraud was sentenced on June 27, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Gabe Outtrim, age 43, was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $144,050.94, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Outtrim was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 3, 2021.  He pled guilty on December 7, 2021.

The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning on approximately September 17, 2018, and continuing through February 21, 2019, when Outtrim, who was the branch manager and vice-president of the CorTrust Bank branch in Leola, South Dakota, knowingly executed a scheme to defraud the bank. 

In his capacity, Outtrim had lending authority to approve loans up to $200,000 without having to send the loan application and supporting documentation to the bank’s loan committee for review and approval.

Outtrim made a nominee loan in the name of an unknowing bank customer and used the loan proceeds for his own benefit. 

This case was investigated by the FBI.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.

Outtrim was allowed to self-surrender by October 4, 2022.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm was sentenced on June 27, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Tahlon Ducheneaux, age 29, was sentenced to 62 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Ducheneaux was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 13, 2021.  He pled guilty on March 28, 2022.

The conviction stems from an incident on March 23, 2021, in Eagle Butte during a traffic stop, in which Ducheneaux was the passenger in the vehicle.  During a search of the vehicle, law enforcement located a red backpack that belonged to Ducheneaux and inside the bag found a pistol and drug paraphernalia.  Ducheneaux is a felon and an unlawful user of a controlled substance, making him a prohibited person.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison Ramsdell announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on June 27, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Shilo Ziegler, age 39, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $3,000 in restitution and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Ziegler was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 9, 2020.  He pled guilty on March 28, 2022.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred sometime prior to December 13, 2015, in Lower Brule, South Dakota.  Ziegler set up a video tablet in a room he knew a minor victim was about to enter and change in after she exited the shower.  A video was later recovered on the same tablet which showed the nude minor.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services, and the FBI.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on June 27, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Francis Kills In Sight, age 28, was sentenced to 26 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Kills In Sight was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 8, 2022.  He pled guilty on March 28, 2022. 

Kills In Sight was convicted of Sexual Contact in November 2014.  As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender and to update his registration within three business days of relocation or changing employment.  Between December 22, 2021, and January 4, 2022, Kills In Sight failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler prosecuted the case.

Kills In Sight was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on June 27, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Jeffery Leo Larvie, age 39, was sentenced to five months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Larvie was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 1, 2022.  He pled guilty on April 4, 2022.

The conviction stems from Larvie failing to register as a sex offender as required by federal law between September 22, 2021, and February 1, 2022.  Larvie had previously been convicted of a sex offense in federal court which requires him to register for the rest of his life.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Fort Pierre, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on June 27, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Lisa Herren, a/k/a Lisa Miller, age 43, was sentenced to 26 months in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Herren was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 8, 2021.  She pled guilty on January 27, 2022.

The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy which began in September 2018, in which Herren conspired with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute methamphetamine in and around Stanley County, South Dakota.  It was reasonably foreseeable that over 50 grams of methamphetamine was distributed during the course of the conspiracy.   

This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Stanley County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Flandreau, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on June 27, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Caley Studsdahl, age 24, was sentenced to three years of probation and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $25.

Studsdahl was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 8, 2021.  She pled guilty on April 4, 2022.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on or about April 21, 2020, when Studsdahl was approached by the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe Acting Chief of Police because there was a tribal warrant for her arrest.  The Acting Chief of Police placed Studsdahl in handcuffs, conducted a search, and placed her in the rear cage of his patrol vehicle.  Before he could close the door, Studsdahl voluntarily and intentionally assaulted the Acting Chief of Police by spitting on his face and said an obscenity directed at him. 

This case was investigated by the FBI.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Bakersfield, California, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on June 27, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Lee Molica, age 61, was sentenced to 90 months in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Molica was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 10, 2021.  He pled guilty on March 11, 2022.

The conviction stemmed from a traffic stop on May 20, 2021, in Buffalo County, South Dakota.  During the stop, law enforcement located two plastic baggies containing approximately 90 grams of methamphetamine, which Molica intended to distribute on the Crow Creek and Lower Brule Indian Reservations.  

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the FBI, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Sisseton, South Dakota, man convicted of assault of a federal employee was sentenced on June 21, 2022, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.

Richard Reuben Simon, age 28, was sentenced to nine months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, and ordered to pay $25 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Simon was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 14, 2021.  He pled guilty on April 4, 2022.

On August 16, 2021, Simon forcibly assaulted, impeded, intimidated, and interfered with the victim, while the victim was employed as a federal health care professional with the Indian Health Service (IHS), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, assigned to perform health care functions, while she was engaged in the performance of her official duties. 

The victim was working in an official capacity as a nurse practitioner for an IHS facility.  During an exam of the Defendant, he made inappropriate comments to and committed a simple assault against the victim, specifically including unlawful physical contact amounting to simple assault. 

This case was investigated by the FBI.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.

Simon was immediately returned to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

Damon Clyde Has Horns, age 41, was indicted on March 8, 2022.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 24, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that between October 6, 2021, and March 8, 2022, in the District of South Dakota, Has Horns, a person required to register as a sex offender by reason of conviction under federal law, knowingly failed to register and update his registration. 

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

The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on June 23, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Rayne Jackson, age 28, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and $60 restitution for drug testing costs.

Jackson was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on July 23, 2020.  She pleaded guilty on January 14, 2022.  During her involvement in the conspiracy, methamphetamine was brought to South Dakota from out-of-state by the defendant, or by others through arrangements with her.  She then dispersed methamphetamine in South Dakota to others for use and distribution.  

This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET), Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  UNET is comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota National Guard, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.  Two co-defendants, Nathan Bellew and Eric Yockey, were previously sentenced.

Jackson was immediately returned to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Kaplan, Louisiana, man convicted of Attempted Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on June 22, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Robert Lee Goodwill, Jr., age 21, was sentenced to two and a half years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Goodwill will also be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

Goodwill was arrested and federally indicted as a result of an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2020 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting internet predators.  Goodwill initiated sexual chats and sought images of child pornography from a person he believed to be a 15-year-old girl, but who was in fact an undercover agent.  Goodwill then negotiated a time and place he would meet the minor to engage in unlawful sex acts.  When Goodwill went to the pre-determined location to meet the minor, he was met by law enforcement and placed under arrest.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison Ramsdell announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child and Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor by Force.

Jeffery Pickner, age 45, was indicted on June 14, 2022.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 24, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that between July 1994 and June 1997, Pickner sexually abused two victims, both of whom were under the age of twelve.  The Indictment further alleges that between November 2015 and September 2016, Pickner sexually abused a third victim by force, who had not attained the age of sixteen.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the FBI.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for his role in bank fraud and money laundering conspiracies. 

Keyvon Hamilton Hogan Jr., age 22, was indicted on April 5, 2022.  He made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollman on June 22, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.  Keyvon Hamilton Hogan  Jr. has been charged with three co-defendants: Antyon Hamilton Hogan Jr., age 24; Marvin Antuon Williams, age 31; and Giovanni Hamilton, age 23.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 30 years in custody for Bank Fraud Conspiracy, 20 years in custody for Money Laundering Conspiracy, and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution and forfeiture may also be ordered.

According to the Indictment, in 2020 and continuing until April 2022, all of the defendants conspired and agreed with others to knowingly conduct and attempt to conduct bank fraud and financial transactions affecting interstate and foreign commerce.  Specifically, the co-conspirators knowingly conspired to execute and attempt to execute a scheme and artifice to defraud financial institutions throughout the Sioux Falls area and elsewhere, including, but not limited to, First Premier Bank, Wells Fargo Bank, Levo Credit Union, First National Bank, First Bank and Trust, U.S. Bank, American Bank and Trust, American State Bank, Navy Federal Credit Union, Pima Federal Credit Union, JP Morgan Chase, and Security National Bank of South Dakota.   These defendants, as alleged, schemed to obtain money, funds, and other property owned by, and under the custody and control of, the aforementioned financial institutions, by means of false or fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises. 

After obtaining funds through fraud, the co-conspirators and others engaged in depositing, transferring, wiring, and withdrawing currency, and funds at financial institutions, which involved the proceeds of specified unlawful activity – that is, the bank fraud identified above.  These defendants knew that the transactions were designed in whole or in part to conceal and disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, or control of the proceeds of the fraud scheme.  While conducting and attempting to conduct such financial transactions, it is alleged that the defendants knew that the property involved in the financial transactions represented the proceeds of some form of unlawful activity. 

The charges are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

The investigation is being conducted by the following agencies: 

-        Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation;

-        Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations;

-        Sioux Falls Police Department;

-        U.S. Postal Service; and

-        South Dakota Highway Patrol.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.

Antyon Hogan, Williams, and Keyvon Hogan were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending further proceedings and trial.  Giovanni Hamilton was released on bond.  A trial date of August 30, 2022, has been set.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Longmont, Colorado, man convicted of Impeding the Internal Revenue Service was sentenced on June 21, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Lawrence L. Piersol.

Loren Brown, age 86, was sentenced to three years of probation, a $3,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Brown was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 17, 2017.  He pled guilty on August 10, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning in April of 2004 when Theodore Nelson and his son, Steven Nelson, created over 25 sham trusts to hide their income and assets from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), thus evading the assessment and payment of federal income taxes.  The Nelsons used forms created by Brown.  The trusts were designed, in part, to make it difficult for the IRS to determine the Nelsons’ federal income tax liability.  The Nelsons appointed John Sheridan and Loren Brown as trustees and successor trustees for the trusts until Sheridan’s death in 2011.  In this manner, the Nelsons were able to put many layers between themselves and their assets/income.  Brown’s agreement to act as successor trustee helped the Nelsons hide their income and assets from the IRS. 

The Nelsons reside in Letcher, South Dakota.  Loren Brown and his co-defendant, Randy L. Garriss, acted as signors for South Dakota bank accounts associated with Nelson trusts and performed most of their actions on behalf of the Nelsons’ tax evasion in South Dakota.

Among other acts, Brown and Garriss corruptly endeavored to obstruct and impede the due administration of the internal revenue laws by mailing to the IRS a Protest and Demand for Administrative Review on behalf of the Nelsons.  Garriss signed on his own behalf and that of Brown as trustees for Steve Nelson and the Nelsons’ trusts.  The letter was received by the IRS on January 5, 2016.

This case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a woman from Kersey, Colorado, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for her role in Kidnapping, Carjacking, and Using, Carrying, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.

Lourdes Bonilla, age 23, was indicted on May 19, 2022.  She made her initial appearance before U.S. Judge Daneta Wollmann on June 24, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.  Juan Francisco Alvarez-Sorto, age 24, and Deyvin Morales, age 27, made their initial appearances before U.S. Judge Daneta Wollmann on June 9, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment

The maximum term of imprisonment upon conviction for each count is as follows: up to life for Kidnapping; up to fifteen (15) years for Carjacking; and a mandatory minimum of seven (7) years up to life for Using, Carrying, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.  Each count also has a maximum fine of $250,000. 

According to the indictment, on or about May 6, 2022, near Red Shirt, in the District of South Dakota, the defendants, Juan Francisco Alvarez-Sorto, a/k/a Juan Francisco Alvarez, a/k/a “Juanito R.,” a/k/a “Juan Jr.,”  Deyvin Morales, a/k/a Deyvin Eliabid Escriba Morales, a/k/a Deybi Eleabit Escriba Morales, a/k/a “Guate,” a/k/a “Watay,” a/k/a “Chapine,” and Lourdes Alondra Bonilla, a/k/a “Bhabie Doze,” a/k/a “Princess_Doze,” did willfully and knowingly kidnap and abduct a victim.  At the time, the victim was engaged in the performance of their official duties as a professional support employee with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The defendants also took the victim’s vehicle, with force, violence, and intimidation, and brandished a rifle during the commission of the charged criminal conduct.  It is alleged that the defendants aided and abetted each other in committing the charges set forth in the indictment.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.   

The defendants were all detained pending further court proceedings in South Dakota.  A trial date of August 16, 2022, has been set.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

Floyd Black Spotted Horse, Jr., age 35, was indicted on June 14, 2022.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 21, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that between February 16, 2022, and April 29, 2022, in the District of South Dakota, Black Spotted Horse, a person required to register as a sex offender by reason of conviction under federal law, knowingly failed to register and update his registration. 

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 U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler 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 Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mitchell, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography.

Justin Douglas Brende, age 42, was indicted on June 14, 2022.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on June 16, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 40 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that between November 1, 2020, and October 3, 2021, Brende knowingly received and distributed, and attempted to receive and distribute, child pornography that has been mailed, shipped, and transported in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce by any means, including by computer.  

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Mitchell Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.   

Brende was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial which has been set for August 23, 2022.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor was sentenced on June 21, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Jaret Wooden Knife, age 24, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Wooden Knife was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 8, 2022.  He pled guilty on March 28, 2022.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on January 10, 2020, in Mission, when Wooden Knife knowingly engaged in a sexual act with a minor female.

This case was investigated by the FBI.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Fort Pierre, South Dakota, man convicted of Sexual Exploitation of a Child was sentenced on June 21, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

James Cadwell, age 40, was sentenced to 28 years in federal prison, followed by seven years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Cadwell was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 10, 2020.  He pled guilty on March 3, 2022.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on October 26, 2020, in Pierre, South Dakota, when the minor victim was in Cadwell’s care. Cadwell knowingly persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced his minor victim to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of recording such conduct, and said recordings were produced by mobile phone and shared by computer.

This case was investigated by the FBI, the Pierre Police Department, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.  Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man was acquitted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor as a result of a federal jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota, beginning on Tuesday, June 14, 2022, and concluding on Friday, June 17, 2022.

Luis Torres, a/k/a “Bubba”, age 22, was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 10, 2021. 

The charges related to the sexual abuse of a 13-year-old girl in rural Eagle Butte.

The investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service.  The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that Randy L. Garriss, age 68, of Lamar, Colorado, was found guilty of Conspiracy to Defraud the United States and Attempts to Interfere with Administration of Internal Revenue Laws as a result of a federal jury trial in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. 

The charges carry a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and up to a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. 

Garriss was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 6, 2017. 

The convictions stemmed from incidents beginning in April of 2004 when Theodore Nelson and his son, Steven Nelson, created over 25 sham trusts to hide their income and assets from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), thus evading the assessment and payment of federal income taxes.  The trusts were designed to make it difficult for the IRS to determine the Nelsons’ federal income tax liability.  The Nelsons appointed John Sheridan and Loren Brown as trustees and successor trustees for the trusts until Sheridan’s death in 2011.  In this manner, the Nelsons were able to put many layers between themselves and their assets and income.  In 2011, Garriss joined the conspiracy as a trustee for the Nelsons’ trusts.  Garriss’ actions as trustee helped the Nelsons hide their income and assets from the IRS.  Among other acts, Garriss also corruptly endeavored to obstruct and impede the due administration of the internal revenue laws by mailing anti-tax documents to the IRS on behalf of the Nelsons.  Garriss signed on his own behalf and that of Brown as trustees for Steve Nelson and the Nelsons’ trusts. 

“One of IRS Criminal Investigation’s highest priorities is to combat abusive tax avoidance schemes and the individuals who promote them,” said Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher, IRS Criminal Investigation.  "The guilty verdict of Randy Garriss for his agreement to conspire against and impede the IRS with Ted Nelson, Steve Nelson, and Loren Brown shows how IRS Criminal Investigation will work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to bring tax cheats to justice."

This case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigations.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.

 A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for September 12, 2022.  The defendant was released on bond until sentencing.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Sexual Abuse of a Minor.

McKinley Two Bulls-Hunter, age 24, was indicted on May 19, 2022.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta L. Wollmann on June 15, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.  The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 15 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, at least five years, up to life, of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that between April 2021 and July 2021, in Pine Ridge, Two Bulls-Hunter knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, a sexual act with a minor female.  The charge is merely an accusation and Two Bulls-Hunter is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelsey Blair is prosecuting the case.   

Two Bulls-Hunter was released on bond pending trial.  A trial date has been set of August 23, 2022. ###

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Spearfish, South Dakota, woman convicted of Theft of Government Funds was sentenced on June 13, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Christi Marie Johnson, age 37, was sentenced to five years of probation, $16,594.50 in restitution, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Johnson was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 9, 2021.  She pled guilty on March 9, 2022.

The conviction stemmed from incident between on or about June 15, 2017, and May 7, 2018, when Johnson willfully and knowingly embezzled, stole, purloined, and converted to her own use money from departments and agencies of the United States, namely Title II program benefits payments made to her deceased stepfather, to which Johnson knew she was not entitled.  Title II is administered by the U.S. Social Security Administration.

This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on June 13, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Lyle Walter Iron Horn, age 41, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.

Iron Horn was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 14, 2021.  He pleaded guilty on March 15, 2022.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on February 20, 2021, in McLaughlin, South Dakota, in which Iron Horn assaulted an individual with shod feet.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Office of Justice Services, Standing Rock Agency.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor and Commission of a Crime of Violence While Failing to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on June 13, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Alton Bear Heels, age 30, was sentenced to 13 years in federal prison, followed by seven years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.

Bear Heels was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 8, 2021.  He pleaded guilty on March 10, 2022.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred in April 2021, in Todd County, South Dakota, when Bear Heels knowingly engaged in a sexual act with a minor who had attained the age of 12 years but had not attained the age of 16 years.  In addition, at the time of the above-described conduct, Bear Heels was a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act by virtue of a conviction under Indian tribal law.

This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on June 13, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Jesse James Leader Charge, age 27, was sentenced to 13 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Leader Charge was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 14, 2021.  He pleaded guilty on March 10, 2022.

Leader Charge was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in October 2019.  As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender and to update his registration within three business days of relocation or changing employment.  Between May 6, 2021, and September 14, 2021, Leader Charge failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact by Force was sentenced on June 13, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Justis Running Bear, age 23, was sentenced to six years in federal prison, followed by six years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Running Bear was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 13, 2021.  He pleaded guilty on March 14, 2022.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on March 28, 2021, in Todd County, South Dakota, when Running Bear did knowingly engage in sexual contact with the victim by use of force.

This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on June 13, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Theresa White Lightning, a/k/a, Theresa Red Fox, age 37, was sentenced to eight months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release.

White Lightning was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 8, 2021.  She pleaded guilty on December 6, 2021.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on May 27, 2020, in McLaughlin in which White Lightning assaulted two Bureau of Indian Affairs police officers while they were performing a lawful arrest.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Office of Justice Services, Standing Rock Agency.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, woman convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter was sentenced on June 13, 2022, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Esther Flute, a/k/a, Esther Flute-Rencountre, age 61, was sentenced to five years and 11 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Flute was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 14, 2021.  She pled guilty on March 7, 2022.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on August 2, 2021, in Lower Brule.  Flute used two weapons to cause multiple wounds to the victim in an extended assault, which resulted in the victim’s death.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a former Box Elder Police Department officer who resided at Ellsworth Air Force Base, near Rapid City, South Dakota, was sentenced on May 27, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Ricardo Edward Franc Olandez, age 35, was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2021 for numerous counts of sexual abuse.  Olandez pleaded guilty to Aggravated Sexual Abuse on November 5, 2021.  Olandez was sentenced to 13 years and four months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The conviction relates to Olandez forcing a minor female to engage in sexual acts with him in 2021 on the Ellsworth Air Force Base. 

This case was investigated by the Department of the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Colorado man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.

Preston Yankton, age 35, was indicted on December 14, 2021.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 13, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on November 7, 2021, and November 8, 2021, in Todd County, South Dakota, Yankton did assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with a law enforcement officers who were employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and that such conduct involved physical contact.

The charges are merely accusations and Yankton 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 Abby Roesler is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Cavour, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet was sentenced on June 13, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

David Robert Farrell, age 40, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Farrell was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 4, 2021.  He pled guilty on March 14, 2022.

The conviction stemmed from incidents between April 22 and April 27, 2021, when Farrell knowingly used his cell phone to persuade and entice a 15-year-old female to meet with him at a hotel in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for the purpose of having sexual activity.  Farrell had been texting with a person he knew to be a 15-year-old female.  Unknown to him, and before the criminal conduct occurred, an undercover law enforcement officer assumed the identity of the 15-year-old female online.  Some of his communications were sexual in nature and he expressed his intent to meet with the 15-year-old at a hotel in Sioux Falls for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Wagner, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for two counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor and one count of Abusive Sexual Contact.

Zander Zephier, age 21, was indicted on May 3, 2022.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta L. Wollmann on June 8, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 15 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and up to $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on or about January 1, 2021, Zephier knowingly engaged, and attempted to engage, in a sexual act and sexual contact with a minor female who had not attained the age of 16 years and was at least four years younger than Zephier. 

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Yankton Sioux Law Enforcement.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman is prosecuting the case.   

Zephier was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial which has been set for August 16, 2022.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

Stanford Points At Him, age 55, was indicted on March 8, 2022.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 8, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, a mandatory minimum 5 years of supervised release, up to life, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that between November 1, 2021 and February 8, 2022, Points At Him, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of a conviction under federal law, knowingly failed to register and update his registration.

The charge is merely an accusation and Points At Him is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler is prosecuting the case.   

Points At Him was released on bond pending trial.  A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

Dwight Black Spotted Horse, age 37, was indicted on May 10, 2022.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 8, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, a mandatory minimum term of 5 years of supervised release up to life, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that between August 20, 2021 and April 13, 2022, Black Spotted Horse, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of a conviction under federal law, knowingly failed to register and update his registration.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler 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.

Acting United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Browns Valley, Minnesota man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on June 6, 2022, by Charles B. Kornmann.

Frank Stewart, age 62, was sentenced to twenty seven years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Stewart was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on April 6, 2021.  He pled guilty on December 7, 2021.

In the summer of 2019 Stewart joined an agreement or understanding to distribute methamphetamine, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere.  During his involvement, he obtained methamphetamine from a co-conspirator and sold it to other co-conspirators. He personally distributed more than 500 grams of methamphetamine during his involvement in the conspiracy.

This case was investigated by South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison Ramsdell announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number.

Roland Hawk, Jr., age 20, was indicted on December 14, 2021.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 6, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that on May 28, 2021, in Fort Thompson, South Dakota, Hawk assaulted a victim with a pistol as the victim was sleeping.  The Indictment further alleges that the serial number on the pistol had been removed.

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Office of Justice Services, Crow Creek Agency, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.   

Hawk was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial.  A trial date been set for July 26, 2022.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mobridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on June 6, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Spencer Jacob Rinehart, age 29, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison, five years of supervised release, a fine in the amount of $1,000, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Rinehart was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 13, 2021.  He pled guilty on December 7, 2021.

Between January 1, 2017, and April 29, 2020, Rinehart knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in Mobridge, South Dakota.

This case was investigated by the Mobridge Police Department, the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Corson County Sheriff’s Office, the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mobridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on June 6, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Justin Jerome Howard, age 39, was sentenced to 12 months in federal prison, five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Howard was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 13, 2021.  He pled guilty on January 4, 2022.

Howard, a person required to register as a sex offender by reason of a conviction under federal law, knowingly failed to register and update his registration between August 17, 2021, and August 29, 2021, while living near Kenel, South Dakota.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Mobridge Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on June 6, 2022, by U.S. District Court Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Elliot Robert Blue Coat, age 45, was sentenced to 20 months in federal prison, five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Blue Coat was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 9, 2021.  He pled guilty on March 15, 2022.

Blue Coat, a person required to register as a sex offender by reason of a conviction under federal law, knowingly failed to register and update his registration between July 16, 2021, and September 16, 2021, while living in Mobridge, South Dakota. 

This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service, the Mobridge Police Department, the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office, the Walworth County Sheriff’s Office, the Corson County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that three individuals, one who resides in South Dakota and two who reside in Colorado, have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Kidnapping, Carjacking, and Using, Carrying, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.

Juan Francisco Alvarez-Soto, age 23 and originally from El Salvador; Deyvin Morales, age 27 and originally from Guatemala; and Lourdes Alondra Bonilla, age 23 and originally from Colorado, were indicted on May 19, 2022.  The defendants appeared before a magistrate judge in the District of Colorado, and each defendant pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.  The three defendants will be transported to the District of South Dakota for further court proceedings.

The maximum term of imprisonment upon conviction for each count is as follows: up to life for Kidnapping; up to fifteen (15) years for Carjacking; and a mandatory minimum of seven (7) years up to life for Using, Carrying, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.  Each count also has a maximum fine of $250,000. 

According to the indictment, on or about May 6, 2022, near Red Shirt, in the District of South Dakota, the defendants, Juan Francisco Alvarez-Sorto, a/k/a Juan Francisco Alvarez, a/k/a “Juanito R.,” a/k/a “Juan Jr.,”  Deyvin Morales, a/k/a Deyvin Eliabid Escriba Morales, a/k/a Deybi Eleabit Escriba Morales, a/k/a “Guate,” a/k/a “Watay,” a/k/a “Chapine,” and Lourdes Alondra Bonilla, a/k/a “Bhabie Doze,” a/k/a “Princess_Doze,” did willfully and knowingly kidnap and abduct a victim.  At the time, the victim was engaged in the performance of their official duties as a professional support employee with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The defendants also took the victim’s vehicle, with force, violence, and intimidation, and brandished a rifle during the commission of the charged criminal conduct.  It is alleged that the defendants aided and abetted each other in committing the charges set forth in the indictment.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.   

The defendants were all detained pending further court proceedings in South Dakota.  A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Larchwood, Iowa, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Production of Child Pornography.

Shane Allan Nelson, age 36, was indicted on May 3, 2022.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 1, 2022, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 30 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on or about between March 13, 2020, and March 18, 2020, Nelson knowingly employed, used, persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced a minor female to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of such conduct, knowing that such depictions would be transported in interstate or foreign commerce or mailed.  Such depictions would also be produced using materials that had been mailed, shipped, and transported in interstate and foreign commerce, including by computer.

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

The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Iowa Internet Against Children Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on May 24, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Alexander Salway, age 38, was sentenced to 20 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Salway was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 18, 2021, and pleaded guilty on December 3, 2021. The conviction stems from Salway, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, illegally possessing a Taurus, model PT111 Millennium Pro, 9mm semi-automatic pistol, which was found after Salway came into contact with law enforcement in January 2021 in Rapid City.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. 

The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Rapid City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.

Salway was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on May 24, 2022, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Tyler Allen, age 28, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Allen was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 18, 2021, and pleaded guilty on July 23, 2021.  The conviction stems from Allen, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, illegally possessing an FEG, model PA-63, 9x18mm Makarov caliber, semi-automatic pistol, which was found after Allen came into contact with law enforcement in January 2021 in Rapid City.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. 

The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Rapid City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.

Allen was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.

Michael Wilson, age 37, was indicted on May 19, 2022.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on May 24, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The charge stems from Wilson, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, knowingly possessing a Taurus 9mm semi-automatic pistol in February 2022 in Rapid City.  The charge is merely an accusation and Wilson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Rapid City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.

Wilson was detained pending trial.  A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.

Julion Graham, age 26, was indicted on May 19, 2022.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on May 24, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The charge stems from Graham, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, knowingly possessing a Bersa, .380 ACP semi-automatic pistol in April 2022 in Rapid City.  The charge is merely an accusation and Graham is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Rapid City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.

Graham was detained pending trial.  A trial date has not been set.