District of South Dakota

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on February 8, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Wayne Kills Enemy, III, age 29, was sentenced to 28 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, forfeiture of the firearm, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Kills Enemy was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 11, 2020.  He pled guilty on November 23, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on November 4, 2019, in Mission.  On that date, Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services responded to a weapons call at Kills Enemy’s residence.  Investigation revealed that Kills Enemy was in possession of an illegal short-barrel shotgun, and that he was addicted to, and an unlawful user of, methamphetamine.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.            

This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter was sentenced on February 8, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Nathan Blue Bird, Sr., age 38, was sentenced to 98 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.  Restitution may also apply. 

Blue Bird was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 11, 2020.  He pled guilty on November 23, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred in the early morning hours of May 30, 2020, in the South Antelope Community near Mission.  On that date, Blue Bird got into a confrontation with the victim, an adult male, in the street near his residence.  Blue Bird assaulted the victim with a metal baseball bat, repeatedly striking him in the head and face and inflicting fatal injuries. 

The case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Aiding and Abetting.

Vance Taken Alive, age 29, was indicted on December 10, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 9, 2021, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that on June 14, 2019, in Corson County, Taken Alive and another man, assaulted an individual by repeatedly kicking him with shod feet, with the intent to do bodily harm and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury.

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

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, and Possession of Firearms by a Prohibited Person.

Luke Eagleman, III, age 40, was indicted on December 8, 2020.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 9, 2021, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in federal prison and/or a $1,000,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that between January 1, 2007, and September 1, 2020, Eagleman knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute marijuana in South Dakota.  Further, on September 1, 2020, in Eagle Butte, Eagleman possessed 905 grams of marijuana with the intent to distribute it, as well as a rifle and a handgun.  Eagleman has a prior felony conviction and is prohibited from possessing firearms.

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

Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity.  Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers.  It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.

The investigation is being conducted 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 Cameron Cook is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Watertown, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.

Michael Ray Mitchell, age 42, was indicted on January 12, 2021.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on February 3, 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 December 18, 2020, Mitchell, who had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and being an unlawful user of a controlled substance, possessed a Beemiller Incorporated, Hi-Point brand name, Model C9, 9mm Luger caliber, semi-automatic pistol.  Said firearm was shipped and transported in interstate commerce.

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.  Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.  For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, Codington County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Marshals Service, and the Sioux Falls Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on February 1, 2021, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

John Thin Elk, age 43, was sentenced to 160 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.

Thin Elk was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 20, 2020.  He pled guilty on October 29, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on or about February 8, 2019, when Thin Elk knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine.  On that same date, an officer with the Yankton Sioux Tribe was patrolling an area of the reservation when he came upon Thin Elk’s car.  The officer approached the vehicle and found Thin Elk and a female passenger passed out.  A search of the vehicle located drugs which field-tested positive for methamphetamine, which is a Schedule II controlled substance.

This case was investigated by the Yankton Sioux Law Enforcement and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on February 1, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Robert James Riley, age 40, was sentenced to 11 months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Riley was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 9, 2020.  He pled guilty on November 5, 2020. 

The conviction stemmed from Riley possessing a handgun in March 2019 near the South Antelope Community on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation while he was a user of, and addicted to, methamphetamine.  Riley admitted to law enforcement he possessed the handgun before he sold it to a methamphetamine trafficker.  The handgun was seized by law enforcement during a traffic stop, which also uncovered methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and a large amount of U.S. currency.  

Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity.  Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers.  It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Ridgeview, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises, Distribution to a Person Under Age Twenty-One, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, and Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm, was sentenced on February 1, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Jess Brian Ducheneaux, age 58, was sentenced to 72 months in federal prison, followed by 12 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $500, and forfeiture of two firearms.

Ducheneaux was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 11, 2018.  He was found guilty by a federal trial jury on November 12, 2020.

The jury found that between January 1, 2014, and December 17, 2018, Ducheneaux knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine on the Cheyenne River Sioux Indian Reservation.  Ducheneaux received his methamphetamine from local dealers and from an individual who traveled to Colorado to acquire the drug.  Further, the jury found that Ducheneaux knowingly used his residence for the purposes of distributing and using methamphetamine.  Ducheneaux repeatedly distributed methamphetamine to a person under twenty-one years of age and to several individuals who worked at his ranch. 

The jury also found Ducheneaux guilty of possessing approximately six grams of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it, and two firearms while being a felon and a drug user.  On December 17, 2018, law enforcement officers went to Ducheneaux’s residence to arrest him on a federal warrant.  After making contact with Ducheneaux, the officers observed drug paraphernalia and a firearm in plain view in the living room.  The officers obtained a search warrant and seized the six grams of methamphetamine, a scale, pipes, and numerous plastic baggies.  They also recovered a rifle and a loaded shotgun from the residence.  Ducheneaux was convicted of a felony offense in 2005 and was prohibited from possessing firearms. 

Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity.  Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers.  It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations. 

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.

Timothy George Buckman, age 36, was indicted on January 12, 2021.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta L. Wollmann on January 22, 2021, 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, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on December 8, 2020, Buckman did unlawfully assault two individuals with a firearm with the intent to do bodily harm.  Buckman is also a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms.  The charges are merely accusations and Buckman is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.  Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.  For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Involuntary Manslaughter.

Emerald Plenty Chief, age 25, was indicted on January 12, 2021.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 2, 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 April 26, 2020, in Hughes County, South Dakota, Plenty Chief killed another human being by operating a motor vehicle in a grossly negligent manner.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, South Dakota Highway Patrol, Hughes County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Child Abuse.

Xavier Quiver, a/k/a Xavier Medicine Blanket, age 26, was indicted on October 14, 2020.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 2, 2021, 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, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on February 9, 2020, in Todd County, Quiver did abuse, expose, torture, torment, and cruelly punish two children who had not attained the age of seven.

The charges are merely accusations and Quiver 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.   

Quiver was released pending trial.  A trial date has been set for April 6, 2021.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Hot Springs, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Attempted Enticement of a Minor, Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet, and Attempted Receipt of Child Pornography.  

Brian Lynn Spitzer, age 56, was charged on January 12, 2021.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on January 25, 2021, and pleaded not guilty to the charges.  The penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of 15 years up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, a mandatory minimum of 5 years up to lifetime supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The charges relate to Spitzer attempting to sexually exploit an undercover law enforcement agent posing as a 14-year-old female.  The charges are merely an accusation and Spitzer is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins is prosecuting the case.

Spitzer was released on conditions pending trial.  A trial date has been set for March 30, 2021. 

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a White River, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault With a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on February 1, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Anthony Black Wolf, age 33, was sentenced to 43 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. 

Black Wolf was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 9, 2020.  He pled guilty on November 6, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred in the Lower Swift Bear Community, near White River, on January 11, 2020.  On that date, Black Wolf was at his home drinking alcoholic beverages and socializing with a group of individuals that included the victim.  At some point, Black Wolf became angry and picked up an axe.  Black Wolf repeatedly swung the axe at the victim, striking the victim once on each arm and causing severe lacerations.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Waubay, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.

Levi Ambrose Locke, age 29, was indicted on January 12, 2021.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on January 27, 2021, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is ten years imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. 

According to the indictment, on or about October 2, 2020, Locke, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year and being an unlawful user of a controlled substance, knowingly possessed a firearm.

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.

The investigation is being conducted by the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Sioux Tribe’s Law Enforcement and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on February 1, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Trudell Smith, Jr., age 30, was sentenced to time served through May 13, 2021, equal to approximately 21 months in custody, five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Smith was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 14, 2019.  He pled guilty on November 30, 2020.

Smith was convicted of a sex offense in February 2008. 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 27, 2019, and August 13, 2019, Smith 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 Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.

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

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

Patrick Leonard Iron Cloud, Jr., age 40, was indicted on November 10, 2020.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 29, 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 October 2, 2020, in Mission, Iron Cloud, being an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, and having previously been convicted of a of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed a firearm.

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.            

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 Michael Elmore is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting In Serious Bodily Injury.

Mason Drew Reddy, age 25, was indicted on January 12, 2021.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 27, 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 December 4, 2020, in Todd County, South Dakota, Reddy assaulted an individual with a sharp edged instrument with the intent to do bodily harm, and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury.

The charges are merely accusations and Reddy 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 Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.

Matthew M. Horned Eagle, Jr., age 31, was indicted on January 12, 2021.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 27, 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, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on April 13, 2020, in Todd County, South Dakota, Horned Eagle did forcibly assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with a law enforcement officer who was employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and that such conduct involved physical contact.  The Indictment further alleges that on November 27, 2020, Horned Eagle did forcibly assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with a law enforcement officer who was employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and that such conduct involved the use of a dangerous weapon.

The charges are merely accusations and Horned Eagle 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 Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Highmore, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

Stacy Alan Hansen, age 52, was indicted on October 14, 2020.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 27, 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 the 17th day of August 2020, in Highmore, the 24th day of January 2020, in Pierre, and the 9th day of February 2020, in Miller, Hanson possessed multiple firearms after being previously convicted of a felony.

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.            

The investigation is being conducted by the Hyde County Sheriff’s Office, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Elmore is prosecuting the case.   

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

From Left: AUSA Sarah Collins, AUSA Eric Kelderman, USA Ron Parsons, Paralegal Lori Climis, HHS-OIG Special Agent in Charge Curt Muller, and Retired BIA-OJS Special Agent Fred Bennett

(RAPID CITY, SD) – In a ceremony on January 25, 2021, United States Attorney Ron Parsons presented several federal prosecutors and law enforcement officials with the prestigious Attorney General’s Award, the highest honor given by the Department of Justice, for their exceptional efforts in the multi-district federal prosecution of Stanley Patrick Weber.  

A longtime pediatrician with the Indian Health Service (IHS), Weber was convicted on multiple counts for the sexual abuse of Native American children on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota and Blackfeet Reservation in Montana.  He was first sentenced in Montana by U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris to 18 years in federal prison.  In South Dakota, he was then sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken to five consecutive life sentences plus an additional 45 years, all of which was ordered to also run consecutive to the Montana sentence.  Collectively, Weber was fined more than $1 million.

Fifteen men and women working for federal and tribal law enforcement agencies on the Weber prosecutions were among those honored with the 68th Annual Attorney General’s Award, given to Department of Justice employees and partners for extraordinary contributions to the enforcement of our nation’s laws.  The honorees were selected in late 2020 by then Attorney General William P. Barr.  Typically, the U.S. Attorney General hosts a ceremony to honor recipients at Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C.  The coronavirus pandemic prevented this event in 2020. 

Five of the honorees were present in Rapid City to receive their awards from U.S. Attorney Parsons, including Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah B. Collins and Eric Kelderman, and Paralegal Lori Climis, who handled the successful prosecution for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota.

Retired BIA-OJS Special Agent Fred Bennett also was present to receive his award.  It was Special Agent Bennett, an enrolled member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe working as an investigator serving the Pine Ridge Reservation, who cracked the case that led to this successful result.  He was the first law enforcement officer to convince one of Weber’s victims to go on record about the abuse that occurred.  That critical event launched the investigation.

“This award honors the incredible work done by these talented and dedicated Federal and Tribal law enforcement professionals to bring this predator to justice,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.  “Just as importantly, it is a tribute to the true courage of Weber’s victims in stepping forward to reveal what was done to them as children to the juries who rendered these historic verdicts.”

"This case was always about getting justice for these victims who suffered from the actions of an evil man, a doctor who abused the kids entrusted to his care," added Special Agent Bennett, who recently retired from the Bureau of Indian Affairs after many years of distinguished federal service.

The investigations in both South Dakota and Montana were overseen by Curt Muller, Special Agent in Charge for the Department of Health and Humans Services, Office of Inspector General, who also was present in Rapid City to receive his award.  Three other members of Muller’s team at HHS-OIG who worked on the federal investigation also received the award but were unable to attend: Assistant Special Agent in Charge Anissa D. Andrews and Special Agents Justin W. Reedy and Justin C. Christman.

Also receiving the Attorney General’s award for the Montana facet of the Weber cases were Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeffrey K. Starnes and Lori A. Suek, Paralegal Tammy M. Farris, and Victim-Witness Specialist Keri Leggett from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana and Blackfeet Tribal Police Officers Frank Goings, Charlie Wolftail, and Sarah Wolftail.

Weber began working for IHS in 1986 in Oklahoma but transferred to the Blackfeet Reservation in Browning, Montana in 1992.  While there, Weber used his position of trust in the community to gain access to, and sexually abuse, young Native American boys.  He remained in Browning until 1995 when he transferred to the IHS facility in Pine Ridge, South Dakota, where he remained for nearly 21 years before being put on leave under a cloud of suspicion.  For most of this period, he resided in IHS housing near the hospital and it was there, and in his office at IHS, that investigators learned, decades later, he sexually preyed upon more young Native American boys. 

Notwithstanding years of suspicion on the part of other IHS employees, Weber sexually molested numerous male child patients managing, at the same time, even to attain promotions in Pine Ridge to supervisory positions at the hospital ultimately becoming the acting clinical director until he left while under investigation in 2016.  After four years of demanding, painstaking investigation and preparation, the Districts of Montana and South Dakota joined to successfully deliver justice to this serial child abuser. 

The severity of the federal sentences imposed for Weber’s egregious abuse helped to assuage some of the national outrage that his conduct engendered.  The significance of the prosecutions was reflected in the attention the cases received from media outlets such as the Wall Street Journal and the investigative public television program Frontline.  Notably, South Dakota Public Broadcasting Correspondent Victoria Wicks received the prestigious 2020 National Edward R. Murrow Award for her reporting on Weber’s trial from Rapid City.

Weber’s prosecution also directly resulted in the creation of the Presidential Task Force on Protecting Native American Children in the Indian Health Service System, whose mission was to help restore confidence in IHS after these crimes shook the faith and trust of Native American communities.  The Task Force presented its findings and recommendations on July 26, 2020.  (The report may be found here).

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Yankton, South Dakota, man convicted of Transportation of Child Pornography was sentenced on January 25, 2021, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Joshua Robert Hein, age 49, was sentenced to 130 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.

Hein was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 9, 2019.  He pled guilty on June 26, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from incidents between November 1, 2018, and February 21, 2019, when Hein, using his cell phone and the internet, uploaded graphic image and video files depicting child pornography into his Google account.  Hein knew the files contained child pornography. 

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Brookings, South Dakota, man convicted of Distribution and Receipt of Child Pornography was sentenced on January 25, 2021, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Tyler Powers, age 26, was sentenced to 75 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.

Powers was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 8, 2019.  He pleaded guilty on July 20, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from internet activity on May 30, 2019, when Powers downloaded child pornography onto his computer.  When law enforcement searched his residence, they discovered an extensive collection of child pornography on an external hard drive. 

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Highmore, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, Sale or Transfer of Firearms to a Prohibited Person, and False Statements During Purchase of a Firearm.

Elissa May Schultz, age 40, was indicted on October 14, 2020.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 21, 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 August 27, 2020, at Highmore, Schultz knowingly possessed a firearm while being an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance.  Schultz is also charged with making false or fictitious statements on ATF 4473 forms, while purchasing firearms on March 5, 2019, and January 24, 2020.  Schultz is further charged with transferring firearms to a prohibited person on January 24, 2020.

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.            

The investigation is being conducted by the Hyde County Sheriff’s Office, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Elmore is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Christopher Golden, age 50, was found guilty of Receipt of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography following a federal court trial in Rapid City, South Dakota.  The verdict was returned on January 21, 2021.

The convictions carry a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, up to life of supervised release, a $5,000 special assessment to the Victims of Trafficking Fund, a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and restitution.

Evidence at trial established Golden knowingly received and possessed sexually explicit images of minor females between June 2014 and September 2018.  Golden was arrested in Rapid City in 2018 on a Colorado fugitive warrant for sexual exploitation of a child.  At the time of his arrest, Golden had five devices containing child pornography and multiple devices on which he had installed data shredding applications and other anonymizing software.

The investigation was conducted by the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, the Meade County Sheriff’s Office, and members of the Black Hills Fugitive Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama prosecuted and tried the case.

A sentencing date will be scheduled.  Golden was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for First Degree Murder and Use of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence that Causes Death.

Casey Lynn Crow Ghost, age 42, was indicted on January 12, 2021.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on January 15, 2021, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is life in prison, a $250,000 fine, five years of supervised release, $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and forfeiture of the firearm used in the offenses.  Restitution may also be ordered. 

The Indictment alleges that on December 12, 2020, Crow Ghost willfully, deliberately, maliciously, and with premeditation and malice aforethought, did unlawfully murder a female victim by shooting her with a handgun in McLaughlin.

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Aberdeen, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Controlled Substance was sentenced on January 14, 2021, by U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes.

Johnathan Bravo Barrera, age 26, was sentenced to one year of probation, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $25.

Bravo Barrera was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 11, 2020. He pled guilty on October 26, 2021.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on October 23, 2019, in Corson County, South Dakota. On that date, Dewey County and McPherson County Sheriff’s Department deputies initiated a traffic stop of Barrera’s vehicle, after observing him drive over the fog line several times. The deputies’ observations during the traffic stop led them to believe Barrera was engaged in illegal activities. A drug detection canine was deployed around the vehicle and alerted to the presence of drugs inside the vehicle. A search of the vehicle uncovered 3.5 pounds of marijuana, a Schedule I controlled substance, that Barrera knowingly and intentionally possessed.

This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, and the Corson County and Dewey County Sheriff’s Offices. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two Winner, South Dakota, women have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.

Andrea Kindt, age 39, was indicted on November 20, 2020, and Amber Heth, age 39, was indicted on December 8, 2020.  Kindt appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 6, 2021, and pled not guilty to the Indictment. Heth appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 8, 2021, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum five years, up to 40 years in prison and/or a $5,000,000 fine, at least four years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered. 

The Indictments each allege that beginning at a time unknown, but no later than on or before March 1, 2020, Kindt and Heth knowingly and intentionally, combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with persons known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in and around Winner.

The charges are merely accusations and Kindt and Heth are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.   

Kindt was released pending trial. Heth was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial.  A trial date has been set for March 16, 2021.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two Sioux Falls, South Dakota, residents were sentenced on December 28, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.  

David Charles Peters, age 41, convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Possession of a Firearm by a Person Convicted of a Misdemeanor Crime of Domestic Violence, was sentenced to 40 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.

Molly Lynn Lorang, age 51, convicted of Transfer of a Firearm to a Prohibited Person, was sentenced to two years of probation and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Peters and Lorang were indicted by a federal grand jury on January 7, 2020.  Both pled guilty on October 9, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on October 6, 2019, when a rural Minnehaha County landowner confronted Peters and Lorang about trespassing on his property.  Peters retrieved a pump shotgun from his vehicle and racked the chamber to intimidate the landowner.  After words were exchanged, Peters and Lorang drove their vehicle towards the landowner before swerving to miss him.  After receiving the report, the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office found two firearms in Lorang’s possession: a pump shotgun and a handgun. 

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.  Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.  For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.

The investigation was investigated by the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, the Sioux Falls Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.

Peters has been allowed to self-surrender to the U.S. Marshals Service by February 16, 2021.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on January 11, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Reno Chadwick Roubideaux, age 46, 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.

Roubideaux was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 14, 2020.  He pled guilty on November 5, 2020.

Roubideaux was convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor in June 1994.  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 August 8, 2020, and September 14, 2020, Roubideaux failed to register and update his registration.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Second Degree Murder, Discharge of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence, and Tampering With Evidence.

Tanyan Wakita Iron, a/k/a Sonny Iron, age 18, was indicted on September 9, 2020.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 7, 2021, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that on August 9, 2020, in St. Francis, South Dakota, Iron murdered a woman by shooting her in the head with a handgun.  The Indictment further alleges that Iron attempted to hide the handgun from investigators following the fatal shooting.

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.            

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 Mike Elmore is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on January 11, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Joseph Blue Bird, age 33, was sentenced to 21 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.

Blue Bird was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 11, 2020.  He pled guilty on November 6, 2020.

Blue Bird was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in February 2014.  As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender.  Blue Bird was convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender in 2017, and again in 2018.  On March 6, 2020, Blue Bird was released from custody to begin a period of supervised release but did not subsequently update his sex offender registration.  An arrest warrant was subsequently issued and on May 6, 2020, Blue Bird was arrested in Mobridge, South Dakota.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on January 11, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Sandy Mangelson, age 34, was sentenced to time served through April 12, 2021, equal to approximately 13 months in custody, five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Mangelson was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 1, 2020.  He pled guilty on November 5, 2020.

Mangelson was convicted of Sexual Contact With a Child Under Sixteen in November 2005 and Gross Sexual Imposition (with a child) in 2007.  As a result of those convictions, 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 5, 2019, and December 10, 2019, Mangelson failed to register and update his registration.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a man and a woman from Brookings, South Dakota, convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, were sentenced on January 11, 2021 by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Jeremy Dean Riemersma, age 41, was sentenced to 70 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.

Jody Marie Riemersma, age 42, was sentenced to 12 months and a day months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

The Riemersmas were indicted by a federal grand jury on April 2, 2019.  They both pled guilty on May 11, 2020. 

The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning on an unknown date, until on or about April 1, 2019, in the District of South Dakota, when the Riemersmas knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed together with each other, and others known and unknown, to intentionally distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine.  Methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance.

This case was investigated by the Division of Criminal Investigation and various law enforcement agencies in Minnesota.  Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.

Jeremy and Jody Riemersma were ordered to self-surrender to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service by February 16, 2021.  

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man charged with Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death pled guilty and was sentenced on January 5, 2021, by District Judge Lawrence L. Piersol.

Aaron Anthony Wodzinski, age 24, was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Wodzinski was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 10, 2020.

The conviction stems from an incident that took place in November 2018, when Wodzinski knowingly and intentionally distributed heroin to an individual in Sioux Falls who used that heroin, overdosed, and died.

The investigation was conducted by the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, United States Customs and Border Patrol, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga. 

Wodzinski was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on January 5, 2021, by U.S. District Judge Lawrence L. Piersol.

Matthew Edmond Donegan, age 23, 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.

Donegan was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 4, 2020.  He pled guilty on October 21, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on December 16, 2019, when Donegan was arrested in possession of 144 grams of methamphetamine, which was tested and found to be 97% pure.  Donegan intended for some, or all, of that methamphetamine to be distributed.

This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department, the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman convicted of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm was sentenced on January 4, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Bonnie Jean Estes, age 25, was sentenced to time served through January 19, 2021, equal to approximately eight months in custody, three years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Estes was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 11, 2020.  She pled guilty on November 5, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on December 26, 2019, in Jones County, South Dakota.  On that date, Estes was a passenger in a vehicle driven by Jose Rodriguez.  While driving through Murdo, South Dakota, Rodriguez attracted the attention of a Murdo Police Officer, who attempted to initiate a traffic stop.  Rather than stop, Rodriguez led officers on a high-speed chase that ended when Rodriguez’s vehicle became stuck in a field in Lyman County.  Rodriguez and Estes fled the vehicle on foot, but were apprehended after a short pursuit.  Multiple firearms, including an illegal short-barrel rifle, were located in the vehicle, along with multiple rounds of ammunition.

Rodriguez was also indicted based on his involvement in the incident.  On June 30, 2020, he pled guilty to Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and was sentenced on September 21, 2020, to 52 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.            

This case was investigated by the Murdo Police Department, the Lyman County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assault by Striking, Beating, or Wounding was sentenced on January 4, 2021, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.

Thomasine Noela Charging Bear, age 35, was sentenced to time served through July 21, 2021, equal to approximately 12 months in custody, one year of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Charging Bear was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 11, 2020.  She pled guilty on October 15, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on June 19, 2020, in Mission.  On that date, Charging Bear stabbed her domestic partner in the neck with a razor blade.

This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on January 4, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Colt Shaw, age 31, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison on each count to run concurrent, four years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200. Forfeiture of firearms was also ordered.

Shaw was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 10, 2020.  He pled guilty on October 19, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy that began in at least January 2019, wherein Shaw was involved with others to distribute over 300 grams of methamphetamine in and around the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Further, on November 8, 2019, at Mission, Shaw was in possession of two firearms, while being a regular user of methamphetamine.

Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity.  Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers.  It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition was sentenced on January 4, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

David D. Larvie, Jr., age 38, was sentenced to 60 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.

Larvie was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 13, 2019.  He was convicted on September 30, 2020, following a two-day jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota.

The charge stems from an incident that occurred on October 25, 2019.  On that evening, law enforcement responded to a report that a shot had been fired from a vehicle driven by Larvie in the South Antelope Community, near Mission.  Law enforcement subsequently located the suspect vehicle and arrested Larvie.  Larvie had a plastic bag containing .22 caliber ammunition in his pants pocket and a search of the vehicle revealed a .22 caliber revolver. 

Larvie has three prior felony convictions.  He was convicted of Third Degree Burglary and Failure to Appear in U.S. District Court in 2003.  He was convicted of Use of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence in U.S. District Court in 2008.  As a result of these convictions, it is illegal for Larvie to possess firearms or ammunition.  Larvie will forfeit ownership of the firearm and ammunition to the United States.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.            

This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on January 4, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Scirgio Iron Shell, age 28, was sentenced to time served through May 3, 2021, equal to ten months in custody, five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Iron Shell was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 11, 2020.  He pled guilty on October 19, 2020.

Iron Shell was convicted of Attempted Possession of Child Pornography in June 2017.  As a result of the conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender for a period of 15 years.  Between September 10, 2019, and August 11, 2020, Iron Shell failed to properly update his registration.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on January 4, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Dayton Thin Elk, a/k/a Dayton Haukaas, age 25, was sentenced to 15 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.

Thin Elk was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2020.  He pled guilty on October 19, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on April 27, 2020, in Todd County, South Dakota. On that date, he was arrested for driving under the influence.  After being transported to the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Adult Correctional Facility, Thin Elk was combative and spit on a corrections officer.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm.

Patrick Medearis, age 36, was indicted on July 16, 2020.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 29, 2020, 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 22, 2020, at Mission, Medearis being an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, and having previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed a firearm. 

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.            

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 Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.   

Medearis was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, which has been set for March 2, 2021.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man who pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on December 17, 2020, by U.S. District Court Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.  

Richard Nowell, age 59, was sentenced to one year, plus one day, in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. 

From approximately April 2019 to late August 2019, Nowell brought methamphetamine to South Dakota while working as an over the road truck driver. Nowell then dispersed the methamphetamine to others for use or additional distribution.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Agency and the South Dakota Highway Patrol.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.    

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on December 28, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Charles Little Bear, Jr., age 54, was sentenced to six 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.

Little Bear was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 20, 2020.  He pled guilty on November 9, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from Little Bear failing to register as a sex offender as required by federal law between July 19, 2019, and April 9, 2020.  Little Bear had previously been convicted of a sex offense in federal court, which requires him to register for 25 years after his release from custody.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.

Bud Theus, II, age 68, was indicted on October 14, 2020.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on December 29, 2020, 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 May 8, 2020, Theus, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and then knowing he had been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and being an unlawful user of a controlled substance, and then knowing he was an unlawful user of a controlled substance, knowingly did possess a revolver, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce and foreign commerce, in Corson County, South Dakota.

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.

The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Corson County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Receipt of Child Pornography was sentenced on December 10, 2020, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Michael Hanson, age 63, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, $3,000 in restitution, and a $5,000 special assessment to the Victims of Trafficking Fund.  Hanson will also be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

The conviction stems from Hanson receiving computer images of child pornography, as well as obscene matter, at Rapid City between September 2010 and June 2019.

The investigation was conducted by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Porcupine, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Carjacking, Use and Brandishing of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence, and Possession of a Stolen Firearm.

Curtis Horse, age 29, was indicted on December 8, 2020.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on December 16, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment. 

The penalty upon conviction is 15 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, followed by three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The charges relate to Horse stealing a motor vehicle and firearm at gunpoint at Rapid City, South Dakota, in November 2020.  The charges are merely an accusation and Horse is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.  Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.  For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/attorney-general-william-p-barr-announces-launch-project-guardian-nationwide-strategic-plan

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman is prosecuting the case.

Horse was detained pending trial.  A trial has been set for February 23, 2021. 

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rushford Village, Minnesota, man convicted of Attempted Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on December 18, 2020, by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court Judge.

Josef Pettit, age 24, was sentenced to 18 months 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.  Pettit will also be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

The conviction stemmed from an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2019 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting internet predators.  Pettit was arrested and federally indicted following multiple text messages he exchanged with a person Pettit believed to be a 15-year-old girl, but who was in fact an undercover agent.  Pettit requested sexually explicit images from the 15-year-old undercover persona and proceeded to negotiate the time and place he would meet the minor.  When Pettit went to the pre-determined location, he was met by law enforcement agents and placed under arrest.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Tampering with a Witness and Retaliation Against a Witness.

Whitney Bagola, age 26, was indicted on December 8, 2020.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 23, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in 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 on April 20, 2020, in South Dakota, Bagola physically assaulted a potential witness, by punching and kicking, in order to intimidate and retaliate against the potential witness.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Box Elder, 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 on December 14, 2020, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Johnathan Adkins, age 21, was sentenced to 9 ½ years in federal prison. As to the Robbery conviction, Adkins was sentenced to 2 ½ years in federal prison and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. As to the Firearm conviction, Adkins was sentenced to 7 years in federal prison, to be served consecutively to the Robbery sentence, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The convictions relate to Adkins and two other individuals robbing the Quality Inn and Big D at Rapid City in January 2020, and brandishing a pistol at an employee at each establishment.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/attorney-general-william-p-barr-announces-launch-project-guardian-nationwide-strategic-plan

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

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