District of South Dakota

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Wire Fraud, Mail Fraud, and Money Laundering.

Marietta Ravnaas, age 52, was indicted on August 3, 2021.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on August 10, 2021, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $500,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and up to $700 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that Ravnaas participated in a scheme involving CARES Act unemployment benefits.  Specifically, other participants in the scheme unlawfully obtained, possessed, and shared with one another the personal identifying information (PII) of various individuals.  The PII was used to falsely and fraudulently apply for unemployment benefits from various states.  The Indictment alleges that Ravnaas knowingly allowed the fraudulently obtained unemployment benefits payments to be deposited into her bank account, and then transferred money at the direction of other participants in the scheme.  Ravnaas frequently transferred the funds to other participants using WorldRemit, an international money transfer service.  Ravnaas also kept some of the funds to use for her own purposes.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Social Security Administration-Office of the Inspector General, the Department of Labor-Office of the Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman is prosecuting the case.   

Ravnaas was released on bond pending trial.  A trial date has been set for October 12, 2021.

On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

 

 

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Mission, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.

Carlianna Erickson age 25, was indicted on June 8, 2021.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on August 9, 2021, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to eight 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 4, 2021, in Todd County, South Dakota, Erickson did assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with a law enforcement officer who was employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, and that such conduct involved physical contact.

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

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

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.

Kerry Browning, age 35, was indicted on June 8, 2021.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on August 9, 2021, 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, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on April 11, 2021, in Todd County, Browning, who had previously been convicted of crime punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year, and being an unlawful user of a controlled substance, knowingly possessed a firearm, which had been previously shipped and transported in interstate and foreign commerce.

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 Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges is prosecuting the case.

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

 

 

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Bullhead, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting In Serious Bodily Injury was sentenced on August 09, 2021, by Judge Charles B. Kornmann, U.S. District Court.

Leland Brown, age 45, was sentenced to 12 months plus one day in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Brown was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 9, 2020.  He pled guilty on May 11, 2021.

On April 20, 2020, in Bullhead, Brown was arguing with his significant other.  As the argument escalated, Brown assaulted the victim with shod feet and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Standing Rock Agency - Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.

Brown must self-report to prison by August 31, 2021.

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Porcupine, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on August 2, 2021, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Leonard Martin Brings Plenty, age 73, was sentenced to 20 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.

Brings Plenty was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2019.  He pleaded guilty on December 9, 2020.

In 2016, Brings Plenty sexually molested two young females, ages four and six, at his residence in Porcupine.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.

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

 

 

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on July 30, 2021, by Judge Karen E. Schreier, U.S. District Court.

Ronald Pumpkin Seed, age 36, was sentenced to 7 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Pumpkin Seed was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury in January 2017.  He pleaded guilty on April 30, 2021.

The conviction stems from Pumpkin Seed having sexual contact with a female under the age of 10, between 2011 and 2016 at Pine Ridge.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.

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

 

 

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Bottineau, North Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on July 30, 2021, by Judge Karen E. Schreier, U.S. District Court.

Jeffrey Walters, age 62, was sentenced to four years and nine months in federal prison, followed by three years supervised release, and was ordered to pay $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Walters was indicted for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled substance by a federal grand jury on July 23, 2020.  He pleaded guilty on April 9, 2021.

The conviction stems from Walters possessing, with intent to distribute, 1,288 grams of methamphetamine, 80 grams of cocaine, and 14 grams of marijuana near Buffalo, South Dakota, which was found after Walters came into contact with a Harding County Sheriff’s Deputy in March 2020.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Harding County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.

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

 

 

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Mission, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on July 29, 2021, by Judge Karen E. Schreier, U.S. District Court.

Carmen Dillon, age 49, was sentenced to five and a half years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Carmen Dillon was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on October 22, 2020.  She pleaded guilty on April 23, 2021.

From approximately July 2019 to January 2020, methamphetamine was brought to South Dakota by others.  The defendant tracked packages she knew to contain methamphetamine that were being sent through the mail.  The defendant also accepted such packages and signed for them upon their arrival.  She thereafter distributed methamphetamine in South Dakota.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, 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.

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

 

 

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Custer, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on July 30, 2021, by Judge Karen E. Schreier, U.S. District Court.

Kelly Campbell, age 28, was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Campbell was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury August 20, 2020.  He pleaded guilty on April 30, 2021.

The conviction stems from Campbell, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, being in possession of a Browning Arms Company, model Nomad, .22 Long Rifle caliber, semi-automatic pistol.  This firearm was found in Campbell’s possession after a pursuit by the Rapid City Police Department on March 20, 2020.

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, Firearms, Tobacco, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Box Elder, South Dakota, woman who pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on July 29, 2021, by Judge Karen E. Schreier, U.S. District Court.

Jennifer Cagle, age 32, was sentenced to 24 1/2 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Jennifer Cagle was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on July 23, 2020.  She pleaded guilty on April 2, 2021.

During her involvement in the conspiracy, the defendant dispersed methamphetamine to others for use and further distribution in the Rapid City area.  Over the course of her involvement, she bought and sold several pounds.  The defendant also obtained firearms during the course of the conspiracy. The defendant also had methamphetamine sent to her through the mail.

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

 

 

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Vale, South Dakota, woman convicted on two counts of Wire Fraud, two counts of Money Laundering, and one count of Bank Fraud, was sentenced on August 2, 2021, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Rena Hymans, age 48, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, ordered to pay a $500 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and $163,969.37 in restitution.

Hymans was indicted for the charges by a federal grand jury August 20, 2020.  She pleaded guilty on January 27, 2021.  Hymans, in her capacity as a South Dakota licensed attorney, transferred unearned money from her client trust account – where she was required to hold it for the benefit of a client - to her own business and personal accounts, and then used the money for her personal benefit between February 2014 and January 2020.

“IRS-CI will continue to investigate those who take advantage of their position of trust while knowingly taking advantage of their clients,” said Tyler Hatcher, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation’s St. Louis Field Office.

The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.

Hymans was ordered to self-surrender to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service on August 24, 2021.

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Sturgis, South Dakota, man who pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on July 28, 2021, by U.S. District Court Judge Karen E. Schreier.

John Thornberry, age 24, was sentenced to 15 1/2  years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

John Thornberry was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on September 17, 2020.  He pleaded guilty on May 7, 2021.  The defendant was stopped by law enforcement in June 2020 and found in possession of multiple firearms.  He was prohibited from possessing those firearms, which he forfeited as part of his plea agreement.

During his involvement in the conspiracy, methamphetamine was brought to South Dakota by others.  The defendant then dispersed methamphetamine to others for use and further distribution, primarily in the Rapid City area.

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 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.

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Obtaining Controlled Substances by Deception was sentenced on August 2, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Michael Brian Whirlwind Soldier, age 47, was sentenced to one month in federal prison, one year of supervised release, a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100, and restitution in the amount of $4,428.98 to the Rosebud Ambulance Service and Crow Creek Ambulance Service.

Whirlwind Soldier was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 9, 2020.  He pled guilty on August 2, 2021.

The conviction stemmed from incidents that occurred between December 17, 2019, and July 28, 2020, in the District of South Dakota, wherein Whirlwind Soldier, while employed as a paramedic with the Rosebud and Crow Creek Ambulance Services, knowingly and intentionally stole hundreds of vials of fentanyl, morphine, and hydromorphone from the ambulance services.  Whirlwind Soldier consumed all of the substances he stole. 

This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.

Whirlwind Soldier was ordered to turn himself into the custody of the U.S. Marshals service within one week of sentencing.

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on August 2, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Todd Eastman, age 33, was sentenced to 16 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Eastman was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2020.  He pled guilty on April 26, 2021.

From 2015 to 2020, Eastman was involved in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in and around the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation in central South Dakota.  Eastman helped to transport the methamphetamine from Nebraska to South Dakota.

This case was investigated by Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Box Elder, South Dakota, man and a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Unauthorized Access to a Protected Computer to Defraud were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Bryan Bernhold, Box Elder, age 26, was sentenced on July 29, 2021, to 1 year probation, 100 hours of community service, restitution to Microsoft, Inc. in the amount of $22,264.98, a $2,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Jacob Sheldon LaFlash, Rapid City, age 26, was sentenced on July 30, 2021, to 2 years of probation, 100 hours of community service, 6 months of home confinement, restitution to Microsoft, Inc. in the amount of $83,652.69, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

LaFlash and Bernhold were indicted by a federal grand jury on January 22, 2020.  LaFlash pled guilty on April 23, 2021, and Bernhold pled guilty on May 7, 2021.

The convictions stemmed from incidents between October 27, 2017, and May 1, 2018, when both LaFlash and Bernhold knowingly and with intent to defraud accessed a protected computer without authorization to further their intended fraud and thereby obtain the benefits of Microsoft 0365.

Microsoft Office 365 (“O365”) was the brand name that Microsoft used for proprietary software and related services.  O365 was sold in yearly subscriptions for home and business users and allowed users to access the services of that software from anywhere, anytime, on any device.  O365 was typically sold for $99 for a one-year subscription, which included upgrades during the subscription period.  

LaFlash and Bernhold discovered a means of gaining access to O365 on the Microsoft computers without paying for it.  After they established a seller account on eBay, they advertised for sale "Microsoft Office 365 Lifetime License” on eBay for $8.99 and $9.99.  LaFlash and Bernhold also established a PayPal account to receive money for the sale of O365.  However, they were not authorized by Microsoft to sell any software or other services for any length of time.  Between October 26, 2017, and May 1, 2018, LaFlash sold 4,592 fraudulent O365 user accounts and received $71,129.59 from the unauthorized and fraudulent sale of O365 on eBay.  Bernhold sold 2,787 fraudulent O365 user accounts and received $22,264.98 from the unauthorized and fraudulent sale of O365 on eBay.

LaFlash and Bernhold accessed the Microsoft protected computers on different dates and in so doing, created more than 7,000 fraudulent O365 user accounts through wire signals that affected interstate and foreign commerce.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.

 

 

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Porcupine, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault on a Federal Officer was sentenced on July 28, 2021, by Judge Karen E. Schreier, U.S. District Court.

Griffin Lee Cross, age 26, was sentenced to 2 years of probation and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Cross was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury in September 2020.  He pleaded guilty on April 23, 2021.

The conviction stems from an Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety Officer responding to a report of an intoxicated individual at a residence near Porcupine on February 12, 2020.  Cross was intoxicated and the officer arrested him.  While escorting Cross to the patrol vehicle, Cross threw his head back, making contact with the officer’s forehead and causing the officer to fall backwards. 

This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Criminal Investigations Division.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.

 

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Mission, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on August 2, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Renae Jo Pacheco, a/k/a Renae Jo Hopkins, age 52, was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervise release, $1,000 fine, and $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Pacheco was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on August 11, 2020.  She pled guilty on May 10, 2021.

Between 2015 and 2020, Pacheco was involved in a conspiracy with several family members and others to distribute between 500 and 1500 grams of methamphetamine on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation in central South Dakota.

This case was investigated by Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.

Pacheco was ordered to self-surrender on August 9, 20201, to the U.S. Marshals Service.

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, man who pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on July 28, 2021, by U.S. District Court Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Michael Sherard, age 34, was sentenced to 15 1/2 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Michael Sherard was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on August 20, 2020.  He pleaded guilty on April 5, 2021.

During his involvement in the conspiracy the defendant travelled to Nebraska to obtain methamphetamine, which he then transported to South Dakota.  Upon arrival in the Rapid City area, the defendant then dispersed methamphetamine to others for use and further distribution.

This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET), Drug Enforcement Agency, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, 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.

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

 

 

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Manderson, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on July 28, 2021, by Judge Karen E. Schreier, U.S. District Court.

Jon Cole Clifford, age 35, was sentenced to 16 months in federal prison with credit for time served, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Clifford was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury in December 2019.  He pleaded guilty on April 30, 2021.

The conviction stems from Clifford stabbing his brother in July 2019, during an argument near Manderson.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama prosecuted the case.

 

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man was sentenced of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance on August 2, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Anthony Story, age 43, was sentenced to 63 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.

Story was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 11, 2020.  A jury found Story guilty after a two-day trial on May 19, 2021.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on August 14, 2019, in Eagle Butte, wherein Story knowingly possessed 37 grams of methamphetamine with intent to distribute the drug.  Story was arrested while he was sleeping inside a camper in Eagle Butte next to a lightbulb fashioned into a pipe, and a small bag holding the methamphetamine and a digital scale.  Law enforcement officers discovered Story and the methamphetamine while searching for another individual.  Plastic bags holding the methamphetamine were submitted to the South Dakota Forensic Laboratory for DNA testing.  The DNA profiles obtained from swabs of the plastic bags were found to match Story’s DNA profile.

The investigation was conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.   

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on July 28, 2021, by U.S. District Judge Lawrence L. Piersol.

Steven Roubideaux, age 51, was sentenced to 20 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.

Roubideaux was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 2, 2021.  He pled guilty on May 3, 2021.

The conviction stems from Roubideaux failing to register as a sex offender as required by federal law between May 17, 2020, and May 28, 2020.  Roubideaux had previously been convicted of a sex offense in state 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.

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

 

 

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that an Archdale, North Carolina, man who pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on July 28, 2021, by U.S. District Court Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Erick Anaya, age 31, was sentenced to 12 1/2 years in federal prison, followed by five years of  supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Erick Anaya was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on October 22, 2020.  He pleaded guilty on April 28, 2021.

During his involvement in the conspiracy, the Defendant transported approximately 30 pounds of methamphetamine to South Dakota from California.  The defendant then dispersed methamphetamine to others for further distribution.  The Defendant also collected money from people in South Dakota and transported that money back to the suppliers.

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

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

 

 

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Huron, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.

Yeh Thwin, age 23, was indicted on April 6, 2021.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on July 28, 2021, 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, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on or about November 12, 2020, Thwin, having previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed a Glock GmbH, Model 22C Gen 3, .40 Smith and Wesson caliber, semi-automatic pistol.  That pistol had been shipped and transported in interstate and foreign commerce.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.   

Thwin was released on bond pending trial which has been set for October 5, 2021.

Acting United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Dupree, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assault by Striking, Beating, or Wounding was sentenced on July 27, 2021, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.

Cache Patricia Hebb, age 25, was sentenced to 6 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $25.

Hebb was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 10, 2019.  She pled guilty on July 27, 2021.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred in Dupree on July 3, 2019, wherein Hebb used a hairbrush to discipline a child.  Hebb used unreasonable force and caused bruising to the child.

This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.

Hebb was ordered to self-surrender to the U.S. Marshals Service on August 10, 2021.   

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Whitewood, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.

Travis Longfox, age 29, was sentenced on July 26, 2021, to 36 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The conviction stems from Longfox, who is a previously convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms, being found in possession of a Kel-Tec .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol, which was found after Longfox came into contact with law enforcement in July 2019 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, Firearms, Tobacco, and Explosives, and the Rapid City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.

Longfox was immediately remanded to the custody of the US Marshals Service.

Acting United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance (methamphetamine) and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments was sentenced on July 26, 2021, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Lisa Cuff, age 30, was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison for each count to be served concurrently, followed by five years of supervised release on each count to run concurrently, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.

Cuff was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 20, 2020.  She pled guilty on March 8, 2021.

The conviction regarding methamphetamine distribution stemmed from incidents beginning on an unknown date and continuing until approximately July 2020, when Cuff, along with at least one other person reached an agreement or came to an understanding to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of a substance containing methamphetamine in the District of South Dakota. Methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance.

The conviction regarding money laundering stemmed from incidents beginning on an unknown date and continuing until approximately July 2020, when Cuff knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed together, and with others, to knowingly conduct and attempt to conduct money transfers at financial institutions and transporting case drug proceeds, which involved the proceeds of a conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.

This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tamara Nash and Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Todd County, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for failure to register as a sex offender.

Eugene Hollow Horn Bear, age 61, was indicted on July 14, 2021.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 26, 2021, 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, mandatory minimum 5 years of supervised release, up to life, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that between November 2, 2020, and April 23, 2021, in the District of South Dakota, Hollow Horn Bear, 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 a registration.

The charge is merely an accusation and Hollow Horn Bear 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.   

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on July 26, 2021, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Timothy Tod Hartman, age 36, was sentenced to 80 months in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Hartman was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 20, 2020.  He pled guilty on May 6, 2021.

The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning on or about February 25, 2020, when Hartman knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of actual methamphetamine, which is a Schedule II controlled substance.    

Hartman had been under surveillance as part of an ongoing drug investigation.  A traffic stop was attempted, but Hartman drove off.  Knowing where he lived, officers went to his residence and arrested him.  They found him with a Glock pistol, with an extended magazine containing 20 rounds, almost 10 grams of marijuana, 13 grams of methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia.  A search of Hartman’s apartment also revealed 61 grams of methamphetamine and a stolen handgun.

This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on July 26, 2021, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Eric Wallace Hedrick, age 47, was sentenced to 120 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.

Hedrick was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 9, 2019.  He pled guilty on May 6, 2021.

The conviction stemmed from incidents between December 28, 2018, and May 28, 2019, when Hedrick knowingly possessed child pornography that had been mailed, shipped, and transported in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce by any means, including by computer.  Hedrick used his cell phones and tablet to search the internet for images and videos containing child pornography.  Hedrick’s sentence was enhanced due to a prior sex offense conviction in 2006.

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

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Stony Point, New York, man was charged in federal district court with ten counts of Failure to Withhold, Properly Account For, and Pay Over Tax.

Asher Wagh, age 45, was charged on February 21, 2021.  Wagh appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on July 21, 2021, and pleaded not guilty to the charges.  The maximum penalty upon conviction is 5 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The charges relate to Wagh, while co-owner of Captech International LLC, collecting payroll taxes but willingly failing to pay over the taxes to the Internal Revenue Service between 2015 and 2017.  The charges are merely an accusation and Wagh is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Internal Revenue Service- Criminal Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.

Wagh was released pending trial.  A trial date has not been set. 

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.

Kyle Martin, age 29, was sentenced on July 12, 2021, to 22 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The conviction stems from Martin, who is a previously convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms, being found in possession of a Smith & Wesson, model 581, .357 Magnum caliber, double-action revolver, which was found after Martin came into contact with law enforcement in March 2020 in Rapid City.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhood (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, Firearms, Tobacco, and Explosives, and the Rapid City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Middletown, New Jersey, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Receipt of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography.

James W. Williams, age 26, was indicted on May 20, 2021.  Williams appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on July 16, 2021, 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, up to lifetime supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for each charge.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The charges relate to Williams receiving and possessing computer images of child pornography between November 2019 and December 2020 in South Dakota.  The charges are merely accusations and Williams is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is a joint effort between Homeland Security Investigations, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama is prosecuting the case.   

Williams was released on bond pending trial.  A trial date has been set for September 21, 2021.

 

Acting United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Worthington, Minnesota, man and an Albert Lea, Minnesota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a 500 Grams or More of Methamphetamine, were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Lawrence L. Piersol.

Quentin L. Guyton, age 33, was sentenced on January 5, 2021, to 120 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.

Ojulu Omot, a/k/a “Al,” age 27, was sentenced on July 16, 2021, to 132 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.

Guyton and Omot were indicted by a federal grand jury on February 4, 2020.  Guyton pled guilty on October 13, 2020, and Omot pled guilty on April 29, 2021. 

The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning on an unknown date until on or about February 4, 2020, in the District of South Dakota, when Guyton and Omot knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed together with each other, and others known and unknown, to intentionally distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine.  Methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance. 

Guyton and Omot joined in an agreement or understanding to distribute methamphetamine.  They knew the purpose of the agreement or understanding and they could foresee that the quantity of mixture or substance containing methamphetamine exceeded 500 grams.

During the course of the conspiracy, Guyton supplied Omot for the purpose of reselling it in South Dakota and elsewhere. 

This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Buffalo Ridge Drug Task Force in southwestern Minnesota.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.

Guyton and Omot were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service following their respective sentencings.  

Acting United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Spring Creek, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, was sentenced on July 19, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Charles Little Elk III, a/k/a Charlie Little Elk, age 38, was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Little Elk was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2020.  He pled guilty on April 6, 2021.

The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy that occurred between January 2017 and January 2019.  During this time, Little Elk conspired with several others to distribute between 350 and 500 grams of methamphetamine on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation in central South Dakota.

This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death or Serious Bodily Injury was sentenced on July 12, 2021, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Ignacio Joaquim Veytia, age 24, was sentenced to 240 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.

Veytia was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 6, 2020. He pled guilty on April 21, 2021.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on or about June 18, 2019, when Veytia, knowingly and intentionally distributed fentanyl and said fentanyl resulted in the serious bodily injury of a victim.  The victim smoked the fentanyl provided by Veytia and sustained an overdose, which was reversed by the administration of Narcan.  Fentanyl is a Schedule II controlled substance.

This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Transportation of Child Pornography and Distribution of Child Pornography.

Spencer Peter Goth, age 23, was indicted on July 7, 2021. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on July 21, 2021, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and up to $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that between April 12, 2018, and December 29, 2020, Goth knowingly transported child pornography using any means, including by computer and using the internet. Goth uploaded graphic image and video files depicting one or more minors in sexually explicit conduct into his Dropbox account.

The Indictment also alleges that between May 1, 2017, and May 13, 2021, Goth knowingly received and distributed, and attempted to distribute any child pornography that had been mailed, shipped, and transported in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce by any means, including by computer.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and the Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on July 19, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Moses Left Hand Bull, age 29, was sentenced to 22 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Left Hand Bull was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 14, 2020.  He pled guilty on May 17, 2021.

Left Hand Bull was convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor in September 2009.  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.  In June 2020, Left Hand Bull was released from custody and began a period of supervised release.  He thereafter failed to register and update his registration.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.

Left Hand Bull was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Interference with Commerce by Robbery and Use and Brandishing of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.

Shannon Larive, age 27, was sentenced on July 12, 2021, to 12 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Between March 16, 2020, and March 21, 2020, Larive and his co-defendants were involved in the armed robbery of three casinos in Rapid City and one attempted armed robbery. During each armed robbery, Larive brandished a firearm and demanded money from an employee of the casino. Those employees, fearing injury, complied with the demands and gave the cash from the register to Larive. Larive and his co-defendants would then flee the scene. Larive was later apprehended by law enforcement following a vehicle and foot pursuit. Officers recovered dozens of .22 caliber rounds of ammunition from Larive’s vehicle, as well as a .22 caliber pistol that Larive had discarded during the foot pursuit.

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, Firearms, Tobacco, and Explosives, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.

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

 

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.

Keanu Dillon, age 29, was sentenced on July 19, 2021, to 3 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The conviction stems from Dillon, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, being in possession of a Taurus, model 856, .38 Special caliber, double-action revolver, which was found after Dillon came into contact with law enforcement in Rapid City in April 2020.

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, Firearms, Tobacco, and Explosives, and the Black Hills Fugitive Taskforce. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on July 19, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Patrick Luke Black Spotted Horse, age 32, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon.  He was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.  The sentences will be served concurrently.  Black Spotted Horse was also ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.

Black Spotted Horse was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 11, 2022.  He pled guilty on May 3, 2021.

The conviction for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon stemmed from an incident that occurred in Norris, South Dakota, on June 14, 2020.  On that date, Black Spotted Horse was consuming alcoholic beverages and socializing with a group of individuals that included the victim, an adult male.  Black Spotted Horse and the victim got into an argument, at which point Black Spotted Horse produced a knife and stabbed the victim in the chest.  He then fled the scene.   

Black Spotted Horse was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in March 2010.  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 2013 and 2018, Black Spotted Horse was convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender on four separate occasions.  In January 2020, Black Spotted Horse was released from custody and began a period of supervised release.  He initially registered and resided at a residence in Rapid City.  In April 2020, he moved from his registered address, but did not update his registration.  His whereabouts were unknown until his arrest on June 14, 2020.

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

Black Spotted Horse was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

Acting United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assault by Striking, Beating, or Wounding was sentenced on July 19, 2021, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.

Leilih Smart, age 33, was sentenced to 12 months in federal prison, to be followed by 12 months of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $25.

Smart was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 13, 2019.  She pled guilty on April 8, 2021.    

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on December 31, 2018, in Eagle Butte.  The Defendant wounded a 22-month-old child by holding the child’s hands under running tap water, which was between 139- and 150-degrees Fahrenheit.  The child suffered extensive bilateral burns on his wrists and hands.  

This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.

Smart was ordered to self-report to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service by August 18, 2021.

Acting United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Robbery was sentenced on July 19, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.  

Colton White Feather, age 26, was sentenced to 52 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.  The dollar amount of restitution was left open for 60 days.

White Feather was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 12, 2021.  He pled guilty on April 26, 2021. 

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on December 24, 2020.  White Feather entered a convenience store in Eagle Butte wearing a black baseball cap, a grey hoodie sweatshirt pulled up over his head, a dark blue bandana across his face, jeans, and white tennis shoes. The combination of the hoodie pulled up over his head, the baseball cap, and the bandana covered much of his face.  White Feather was brandishing a knife.  White Feather went behind the counter, grabbed one of the store clerks, and yelled at him to open the cash register.  The clerk complied and backed away.  White Feather grabbed money out of the cash register.  He also demanded cigarettes, which were put on the counter by a clerk and taken by White Feather.  White Feather then ran out of the store.      

This case was investigated by Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Appear was sentenced on July 19, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Coren Clown, age 29, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Clown was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 10, 2021. He pled guilty on April 26, 2021.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on February 2, 2021. Clown failed to appear for his jury trial on a charge of Sexual Abuse of a Person Incapable of Consent.

This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm.

Tahlon Ducheneaux, age 28, was indicted on July 13, 2021.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 19, 2021, 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, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered. 

The Indictment alleges that on March 23, 2021, in Eagle Butte, Ducheneaux, knowing he was a convicted felon, did knowingly possess a firearm.  

The charge is merely an accusation and Ducheneaux 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 Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.   

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault by Striking, Beating, or Wounding was sentenced on July 19, 2021, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.

Gordon Blue Arm Sr., age 66, was sentenced to 12 months in federal prison, with no supervised release to follow, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $25.

Blue Arm was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 11, 2020.  He pled guilty on July 19, 2021. 

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on February 27, 2020, in Eagle Butte.  The Defendant assaulted a man by striking the man multiple times in the face and arm with a walking stick, causing fractures to his face, jaw, and lower arm. 

This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Todd County, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.

Alejandro Santistevan, age 21, was indicted on September 9, 2020.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on July 16, 2021, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that on May 18, 2020, in Todd County, South Dakota, Santistevan did assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with two law enforcement officers who were employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, and that such conduct involved physical contact.

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

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

Santistevan was released on bond pending trial.  A trial date has been set for August 31, 2021.

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Questa, New Mexico, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on July 15, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Holly Swallow, age 42, was sentenced to 54 months in federal prison, five years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims fund in the amount of $100.

Swallow was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 11, 2019.  She pled guilty on April 26, 2021. 

Between 2016 and 2019, in the states of South Dakota, New Mexico, and Colorado, Swallow knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine.  She supplied between 500 grams and 1,500 grams of the drug to individuals on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation in South Dakota.  

The investigation was conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.   

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Waubay, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on July 12, 2021, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Levi Ambrose Locke, age 29, was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison, three years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Locke was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 12, 2021.  He pled guilty on April 12, 2021.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on or about October 2, 2020, when Locke, who had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year and was also an unlawful user of a controlled substance, possessed a Sturm Ruger .22 long rifle, semi-automatic rifle, which had been shipped and transported in interstate and foreign commerce. 

Locke knew he was prohibited from owning firearms due to his previous conviction.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.

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

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Watertown, South Dakota, man convicted of Making and Subscribing a False Tax Return was sentenced on July 12, 2021, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Dean Minnerath, age 70, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, one year of supervised release, $50,000 fine, restitution in the amount of $1,358, 990, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

An Information was filed on December 30, 2020 and Minnerath pled guilty to that information on January 8, 2021.

The conviction resulted from the filing of his 2014 Individual Income Tax Return.  Minnerath, who owned and operated Discount Seeds, Inc., understated his income by claiming personal expenses as business expenses.   Investigation of his financial records indicated Minnerath failed to include over $1,000,000 in income he received and therefore owed additional income tax of $404,445.  As part of a plea agreement with the government, Minnerath agreed to pay additional income tax he owed for tax years 2009 through 2013.  By the time of the sentencing hearing, Minnerath paid $1,358,990 in income tax.

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

Minnerath has been allowed to self-surrender to the U.S. Marshals Service by August 3, 2021.

Acting United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance (methamphetamine) was sentenced on July 12, 2021, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Darius Adrian Two Eagle, age 29, was sentenced to 360 months in federal prison, five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Two Eagle was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 6, 2020. He pled guilty on March 29, 2021.

The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning on an unknown date and continuing until approximately October 2020, when Two Eagle, along with at least one other person reached an agreement or came to an understanding to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of a substance containing methamphetamine in the District of South Dakota. Methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance.

This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.

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