District of South Dakota

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on June 8, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Enoch Fields, age 38, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Fields was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 4, 2019.  He pled guilty on March 5, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from incidents between October 28, 2018, and June 18, 2019, when Fields knowingly possessed and attempted to possess images of child pornography.  Fields admitted possessing child pornography images and video files on his cell phone and in his email account.  

This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, the Sioux Falls Police Department, the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Agency Village, South Dakota, man was sentenced on June 8, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Felix Duane Johnson, Jr., age 27, was sentenced to 30 months in federal custody, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.  Johnson was also ordered to pay $4,373 in restitution to the victim’s family and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

According to court documents, on December 17, 2019, in Roberts County, Johnson unlawfully committed involuntary manslaughter, when a minor child in his care drowned in a bathtub.  The victim was approximately 11 months old at the time of death.

Johnson was the only adult in the residence at the time the child drowned. He was the person responsible for taking care of the children in the home because his girlfriend, the victim’s mother, was working at the time the child drowned.  Johnson admitted that the death of the child was his responsibility and was a result of his gross neglect and lack of due caution and circumspection.  Johnson further admitted that while the child was in the bathtub unattended, he became distracted with his mobile phone and didn’t check on the child, which ultimately led to the drowning.  

The investigation was conducted by Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Law Enforcement and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.   

Johnson was remanded to custody to serve his sentence.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man who pleaded guilty to two counts of Importation of Controlled Substances, heroin and fentanyl, was sentenced on June 4, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.

Nathan Reuer, age 26, was sentenced to time served (approximately 16 months), 3 years of supervised release, restitution costs for drug testing, and a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. 

Beginning on or about February 2018 through early February 2019, the defendant utilized the internet and “darkweb” to order many types of both legal and controlled substances, including heroin and fentanyl.  The packages were sent from outside the United States through the mail system.

This case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations and UNET (a Rapid City based drug task force comprised of members from the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Rapid City Police Department, Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, and SD National Guard).  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case. 

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Violating the Lacey Act was sentenced on June 4, 2020, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.

Dugan Traversie, age 39, was sentenced to 1 year probation, loss of his hunting privileges for one year, ordered to pay $9,000 restitution to Timberlake Elk Ranch, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $25.

Traversie was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 12, 2020.  He pled guilty on June 4, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred sometime between October 28, 2019, and November 4, 2019, when Traversie harvested a white-tailed deer outside of the tribal hunting season, in violation of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe hunting laws and regulations.  After Traversie shot the deer, he left and returned the next day to remove the head and left the carcass behind.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, Game, Fish and Parks Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man convicted of First Degree Murder was sentenced on June 2, 2020, by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.

Clarence Yellow Hawk, age 30, was sentenced to a term of the remainder of his life in federal prison, a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and ordered to pay restitution in an amount to be determined at a later date based on evidence presented at Tuesday’s hearing.  

Yellow Hawk was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 14, 2017.  He was found guilty of First Degree Murder and Discharge of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence following a jury trial in federal court which concluded on May 3, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from a homicide that occurred on May 27, 2017, on the Pine Ridge Reservation.  Scott Benson, Jamie Shoulders, and Clarence Yellow Hawk travelled to a driveway approach off the highway, just north of Sharps Corner where Benson was planning on meeting a man named Christopher Janis and another person.  While Benson was in Janis’ vehicle speaking with him, Shoulders approached the driver’s side door and fired several bullets at Christopher Janis.  Yellow Hawk then took the same gun and fired additional shots at Janis, killing him, before fleeing the scene. 

Scott Benson later pleaded guilty to Accessory After the Fact and was sentenced on May 24, 2018, to 10 years in federal prison.  Jamie Shoulders later pleaded guilty to Second Degree Murder and was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kathryn N. Rich and Gregg Peterman prosecuted the case.

Chief Jegeris represents the ideal of law enforcement excellence.  Always professional, ever vigilant, always looking out for the safety, security, and best interests of the community and everyone in it.  Rapid City will be benefiting from his positive vision and forward-thinking initiatives for years to come.  It has been a true pleasure to work with him and to call him my friend.  He will be greatly missed.

WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice announced nearly $400 million in grant funding through the Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program (CHP).  United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced $2,352,745 in grant funding for twelve law enforcement agencies in South Dakota.  These monies will pay for 19 new law enforcement officers in South Dakota.

The Attorney General announced funding awards to 596 law enforcement agencies across the nation, which allows those agencies to hire 2,732 additional full-time law enforcement professionals.  The awards announced today are inclusive of the $51 million announced in May as part of Operation Relentless Pursuit.  

“From Box Elder to Yankton, these well-timed DOJ grants will go a long way toward increasing the number of police officers protecting and serving communities across South Dakota,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.

“The Department of Justice is committed to providing the police chiefs and sheriffs of our great nation with needed resources, tools, and support.  The funding announced today will bolster their ranks and contribute to expanding community policing efforts nationwide,” said Attorney General William P. Barr.  “A law enforcement agency’s most valuable assets are the men and women who put their lives on the line every day in the name of protecting and serving their communities.”

The COPS Hiring Program is a competitive award program intended to reduce crime and advance public safety through community policing by providing direct funding for the hiring of career law enforcement officers.  In addition to providing financial support for hiring, CHP provides funding to state, local, and tribal law enforcement to enhance local community policing strategies and tactics.  In a changing economic climate, CHP funding helps law enforcement agencies maintain sufficient sworn personnel levels to promote safe communities.  Funding through this program had been on hold since the spring of 2018 due to a nationwide injunction that was lifted earlier this year.

CHP applicants were required to identify a specific crime and disorder problem focus area and explain how the funding will be used to implement community policing approaches to that problem focus area.  Forty three percent of the awards announced will focus on violent crime, while the remainder of the awards will focus on a variety of issues including school-based policing to fund school resource officer positions, building trust and respect, and opioid education, prevention, and intervention.  The COPS Office received nearly 1,100 applications requesting more than 4,000 law enforcement positions. 

The South Dakota awards include:

The complete list of awards can be found here (COPS Grant list).  To learn more about CHP, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/chp.  For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice.  Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on June 1, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Charles Olson, a/k/a Chip Olson, age 48, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Olson was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 16, 2019.  He pled guilty on March 9, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy that occurred between December 1, 2018, and October 16, 2019, in which Olson, knowingly and intentionally, conspired and agreed with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine in and around the Pierre and Ft. Pierre Communities.  As part of the conspiracy, Olson and his co-defendants traveled to Denver, Colorado to pick up methamphetamine.  On June 23, 2019, Olson was involved in a traffic stop, wherein 236 grams of methamphetamine, a scale, pipes, and other items of distribution were found.

This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Pierre Police Department, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Pierre, South Dakota, woman convicted of Theft from a Program Receiving Federal Funds was sentenced on June 1, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Pamela Duncan, age 53, was sentenced to 1 year of probation, restitution in the amount of $4,000, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Duncan was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 17, 2019.  She pled guilty on February 27, 2020.

Between January 2017 and August 2018, in the District of South Dakota, while employed as an agent of the United Sioux Tribes of South Dakota Development Corporation (USTDC), Duncan, not the rightful owner, did embezzle, steal, obtain by fraud, and intentionally misapply property worth at least $5,000, from USTDC, an organization receiving Federal funds. Duncan removed property and applied funds for personal use, such as laptop computers, gym memberships, attorney services, payroll advances, and travel reimbursement.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.

The case was brought as part of The Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities.  The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities.  Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include:  Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.

For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (605) 330-4400.  To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Huntington Beach, California, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on May 11, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Erin M. Hinkle, age 35, was sentenced to 10 years in federal custody, followed by 5 years of supervised release.  She was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Hinkle was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on February 5, 2019.  She pled guilty on January 6, 2020.

Beginning on an unknown date, until on or about February 5, 2019, in the District of South Dakota, Hinkle, knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed together, with others known and unknown, to intentionally distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Department of Criminal Investigation, and the Brookings, South Dakota, Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Oglala, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to a Spouse, Intimate Partner, or Dating Partner was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.

Eric Anduja, age 48, was sentenced on May 18, 2020, to 17 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Anduja was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2019.  The charge related to Anduja antagonizing and pulling the hair of the victim on March 3, 2019, at Pine Ridge.  When the victim defended herself, Anduja was angered and struck the victim repeatedly with a closed fist as she cowered.  As a result of the beating, the victim incurred injuries to include extensive bruising, a black eye, severe facial swelling, and a dislodged tooth filling.  Anduja and the victim had been in a dating relationship since approximately June of 2018.

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

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

The Justice Department announced today that it has entered into an agreement to settle a voting rights lawsuit with the Chamberlain School District in South Dakota. The department’s lawsuit challenges the method of electing the Chamberlain School Board under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act.  Under this agreement, subject to the approval of the federal district court in South Dakota, the School District will change its method of electing its School Board to ensure compliance with the protections of the Voting Rights Act.

The parties’ agreement was filed with the court in conjunction with a lawsuit filed by the department. The department’s complaint alleges that the current at-large method of election for the Chamberlain School Board results in American Indian citizens in the School District having less opportunity than white citizens to participate in the political process and to elect candidates of their choice to the School Board, in violation of Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. The department’s complaint is based on the well-established case law that follows the Supreme Court’s decision in Thornburg v. Gingles, 478 U.S. 30 (1986).  The department’s complaint does not allege that the current method of election was adopted or maintained with discriminatory intent.

The department gave notice to the Chamberlain School District of its intent to bring suit under the Voting Rights Act on December 2, 2019, and the parties worked collaboratively to achieve this agreement. Under the agreement, the District will discontinue use of its current at-large method of electing its School Board. Starting in the 2021 election cycle, the seven members of the School Board will be elected from three two-member districts with one at-large position.

“This agreement reflects the department’s continued and resolute commitment to vigorous enforcement of the Voting Rights Act to protect the right to vote for our citizens in all elections,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Civil Rights Division. “We appreciate that the Chamberlain School District has worked very cooperatively with the department to adopt a solution that safeguards the right to vote.”

“This agreement is a victory for good government,” said U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons for the District of South Dakota.  “It upholds two of our most important constitutional pillars: representative democracy and equal protection under the law.”

More information about the Voting Rights Act and other federal voting rights laws is available on the Department of Justice website at https://www.justice.gov/crt/voting-section.

NOTE: The complaint can be found here, and the consent decree can be found here.

WASHINGTON- The Justice Department announced today that it has entered into an agreement to settle a voting rights lawsuit with the Chamberlain School District in South Dakota. The department’s lawsuit challenges the method of electing the Chamberlain School Board under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act.  Under this agreement, subject to the approval of the federal district court in South Dakota, the School District will change its method of electing its School Board to ensure compliance with the protections of the Voting Rights Act.

The parties’ agreement was filed with the court in conjunction with a lawsuit filed by the department. The department’s complaint alleges that the current at-large method of election for the Chamberlain School Board results in American Indian citizens in the School District having less opportunity than white citizens to participate in the political process and to elect candidates of their choice to the School Board, in violation of Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. The department’s complaint is based on the well-established case law that follows the Supreme Court’s decision in Thornburg v. Gingles, 478 U.S. 30 (1986).  The department’s complaint does not allege that the current method of election was adopted or maintained with discriminatory intent.

The department gave notice to the Chamberlain School District of its intent to bring suit under the Voting Rights Act on December 2, 2019, and the parties worked collaboratively to achieve this agreement. Under the agreement, the District will discontinue use of its current at-large method of electing its School Board. Starting in the 2021 election cycle, the seven members of the School Board will be elected from three two-member districts with one at-large position.

“This agreement reflects the department’s continued and resolute commitment to vigorous enforcement of the Voting Rights Act to protect the right to vote for our citizens in all elections,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Civil Rights Division. “We appreciate that the Chamberlain School District has worked very cooperatively with the department to adopt a solution that safeguards the right to vote.”

“This agreement is a victory for good government,” said U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons for the District of South Dakota.  “It upholds two of our most important constitutional pillars:  representative democracy and equal protection under the law.”

More information about the Voting Rights Act and other federal voting rights laws is available on the Department of Justice website at https://www.justice.gov/crt/voting-section.

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice.  Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

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 and Possession of an Unregistered Firearm.

Wayne Kills Enemy, III, age 29, was indicted on February 11, 2020.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 21, 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, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on November 4, 2019, at Mission, Kills Enemy, being an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, and having previously been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, knowingly possessed a firearm.  The Indictment further alleges that at the same location and date, Kills Enemy knowingly possessed a weapon made from a shotgun, with a barrel of less than eighteen inches in length, which was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.

The charges are merely accusations and Kills Enemy 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 the Department’s 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 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.   

Kills Enemy 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 Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.

Jerry Gorisek, age 49, was sentenced on May 11, 2020, to 7 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The charge relates to Gorisek possessing nearly 80 grams of methamphetamine and a loaded firearm while intending to distribute methamphetamine in Rapid City, which was found after Gorisek came into contact with a Pennington County Sheriff Deputy in July 2019.

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.

The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.

Gorisek 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 Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on May 18, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Louie Thunderhawk, age 33, was sentenced to 26 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Thunderhawk was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2019.  He pled guilty on February 24, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy beginning in at least February 2019, where Thunderhawk and others distributed between 200 and 350 grams of methamphetamine in and around the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation in South Dakota.  

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

Thunderhawk will self-report to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service on May 26, 2020.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that two former Crow Creek Sioux Tribe councilmembers were sentenced for their roles in an embezzlement scheme involving tribal funds.  Chief U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange presided over the sentencing hearings. 

Tina Grey Owl, age 64, a former elected councilperson of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, was sentenced to a split sentence of ten months of custody, with five months to be served at a facility designated by the Bureau of Prisons and five months to be served on home confinement.  Grey Owl was ordered to pay restitution, although the total will be determined at a later date, and to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  The total loss associated with Grey Owl’s embezzlement, which was accepted by the court, was approximately $192,300.  Following the term of custody, she will serve two years of supervised release.

Roxanne Lynette Sazue, age 63, the former elected chair of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, was sentenced to a split sentence of five months custody, with one month to be served at a facility designated by the Bureau of Prisons and four months to be served on home confinement.  She was also ordered to pay $43,300 in restitution and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Following the term of custody, she will serve two years of supervised release.

Three other defendants were previously sentenced for their respective roles in the embezzlement scheme.  Roland Robert Hawk, Sr., 51, the former elected treasurer of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, was sentenced to forty-two months of imprisonment and ordered to pay $325,762.50 in restitution.  Francine Maria Middletent, 55, a former elected councilmember of the Tribe, was sentenced to thirty months of imprisonment, and ordered to pay $273,817.55 in restitution and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Jacqueline Ernestine Pease, 34, was sentenced to three years of probation, and ordered to pay $74,100 in restitution and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Pease was not an elected official, yet she worked in the Tribe’s Finance Office, where Hawk was the overall supervisor and where Middletent worked as Chief Financial Officer.

According to court documents, in about March 2014 through February 2019, Roland Robert Hawk, Sr., Francine Maria Middletent, Roxanne Lynette Sazue, Jacquelyn Ernestine Pease, Tina Grey Owl, and Brandon Sazue embezzled, stole, willfully misapplied, willfully permitted to misapplied, and converted to their own use approximately $1,000,000 of monies, funds, credit, goods, assets, and other property belonging to the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe. 

During times relevant to each defendant’s case, Brandon Sazue served as Chair of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, Hawk served as the elected Treasurer of the tribe, Roxanne Sazue was also chair, and Middletent and Grey Owl were elected councilpersons.  When not serving in their respective leadership positions, all defendants, except for Brandon Sazue, worked for Hawk in the Tribe’s Finance Office.  In their respective leadership roles and employment positions, the defendants had the access and opportunity to the funds that were embezzled from the tribe.  

Brandon Sazue, the sixth and final defendant pending sentencing, will be sentenced on June 16, 2020. 

The investigation was conducted by the U.S.  Attorney’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.     

The case was brought pursuant to The Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities.  The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities.  Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include:  Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.

For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (605)330-4400.  To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on May 19, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Ryan Dupris, age 24, was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Dupris was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 10, 2019.  He pled guilty on February 25, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on January 2, 2019, in Eagle Butte, where Dupris knowingly caused a female victim to engage in sexual contact with him by threatening her.

This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Bullhead, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate Partner was sentenced on May 18, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Mario Crow Ghost, age 49, was sentenced to 92 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.

Crow Ghost was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 13, 2019.  He pled guilty on December 4, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on June 3, 2019, when Crow Ghost had been drinking and assaulted two individuals with a sharp object.  The first victim was punctured in the neck with the sharp object, and the second victim received injuries to the back of her leg.  Both victims received medical attention for their injuries.  

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

Crow Ghost 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 convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Tampering with a Witness was sentenced on May 18, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Clinton Haukaas, a/k/a Fuddy Haukaas, age 40, was sentenced to 138 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.  Haukaas was also ordered to forfeit ownership of a rifle seized during the investigation.

Haukaas was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 11, 2018. Multiple superseding indictments were filed with the last being on December 10, 2019.  He pled guilty on February 18, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from a methamphetamine conspiracy that began on or about January 1, 2014, and continued to December 10, 2018, where Haukaas conspired with others to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Further, while in custody awaiting trial, Haukaas possessed a list containing the names of twenty-eight potential witnesses against him. He coordinated the publication of the list on a social media website in an attempt to intimidate the witnesses to prevent their testimony at trial.

This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services; the Bureau of Indian Affairs; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; the City of Pierre, South Dakota, Police Department; the South Dakota Highway Patrol; and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Tyndall, South Dakota, man and a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of an Unregistered Firearm.  The man has further been indicted for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

Jose Eduardo Rodriguez, age 44, and Bonnie Jean Estes, age 24, were indicted on February 11, 2020.  Rodriguez appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 14, 2020, and Estes appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 13, 2020.  Both pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that on or about December 26, 2019, Rodriguez and Estes knowingly possessed a weapon made from a rifle, with a barrel of less than sixteen inches in length, which was not registered to them in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.  The Indictment further alleges that on or about December 26, 2019, Rodriguez, having previously been convicted of a felony, did knowingly possess a firearm.

The charges are merely accusations and Rodriguez and Estes are 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 Murdo Police Department, the Lyman County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.   

Rodriguez and Estes were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial.  A trial date has been set for July 21, 2020.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Faulkton, South Dakota, man convicted of Unlawful Taking of Bald Eagles, Unlawful Taking of Migratory Birds, and Unlawful Use of Restricted Use Pesticide was charged by information on May 7, 2020, and was sentenced on May 13, 2020, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.

Kevin Deiter, age 43, appeared on May 13, 2020, pled guilty to the Information, and was ordered to pay a total of $29,400 in restitution, $9,800 per eagle, a $5,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $40.

On March 21, 2017, the U.S.  Fish and Wildlife Service received notification from the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department that three dead bald eagles were recovered in Faulk County.  In the area where the bald eagles were recovered, law enforcement noted impression marks from silage bags that had been removed, a dead skunk, a dead mink, two partially intact chicken eggs, and a collection of chicken egg shell fragments. During the investigation Dieter admitted to injecting the chicken eggs with carbamate carbofuran and placing them near the silage bags in order to keep skunks and mink from destroying the silage bags. It was determined that the three bald eagles and the skunk and mink that were recovered had each died of carbamate carbofuran poisoning.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on May 11, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Alex Geoffery Lang, age 25, was sentenced to 114 months in federal custody, followed by 5 years of supervised release.  He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Lang was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on January 7, 2020.  He pled guilty on January 28, 2020.

Beginning at an unknown date and continuing until on or about January 7, 2020, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Lang, knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed together, with others known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute a mixture and substance containing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, Sioux Falls Police Department, Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Criminal Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mobridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on May 11, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Jeremy Wyatt Bearsheart, age 44, was sentenced to 5 years of probation, a $3,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Bearsheart was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 14, 2019.  He pled guilty on November 4, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy beginning on or about August 1, 2014, and continuing to on or about March 1, 2015, wherein Bearsheart knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine around Mobridge.

This case was investigated by the Mobridge Police Department and Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Little Eagle, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on May 11, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Lucenda Layetta Bobtail Bear, age 38, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Bobtail Bear was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2019.  She pled guilty on November 5, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy in 2018, wherein Bobtail Bear conspired with others to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation in South Dakota. In exchange for drugs and money, Bobtail Bear allowed her home to be used for the distribution of methamphetamine.  

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that a former contractor was sentenced for an embezzlement scheme involving tribal funds, which he pleaded guilty to on September 23, 2019.  Dustin Martin Kirk, age 48, of Sisseton, South Dakota, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, and ordered to pay $384,289 in restitution and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Following his release from custody, Kirk will serve 3 years of supervised release.   U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann presided over the sentencing hearing.

According to court documents, between August 2016 and December 2018, Kirk and his now-defunct business, Siouxland Lumber & Materials, LLC, embezzled, stole, and converted nearly $400,000 of monies, funds, credits, goods, assets, and other property belonging to Dakota Nation Development Corporation and the Sisseton-Wahpeton Housing Authority, both of which are entities of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Sioux Tribe and Indian Tribal Organizations.

At times material to this case, the Dakota Nations Development Corporation (“DNDC”) and the Sisseton-Wahpeton Housing Authority (“SWHA”) were separate agencies of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Sioux Tribe, a tribal government that received federal assistance in excess of $10,000 during each calendar year of 2016, 2017, and 2018.  On behalf of the tribe, DNDC administered tax credit housing.  DNDC was a legal entity and it filed the incorporating documents with the South Dakota Secretary of State.  SWHA administered federal housing programs, and it is governed by a tribal board.

Kirk established Siouxland Lumber & Materials, LLC, on April 29, 2016.  The company dissolved on May 4, 2018.  Defendant was the sole owner of Siouxland Lumber, and he used his company and its bank account for personal expenses and to withdraw money for non-business related purchases, including gambling. 

Kirk was ordered to self-report to the U.S. Marshal’s Service or Bureau of Prisons to begin serving his term of imprisonment on June 2, 2020.

The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case.     

The case was brought pursuant to The Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities.  The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities.  Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include:  Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.

For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (605)330-4400.  To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.

SIOUX FALLS — In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.

“The men and women of law enforcement are heroes,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.  “They serve on the front lines of public safety, risking their lives on a daily basis to protect the innocent and safeguard our communities.  They have our enduring gratitude.”

“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”

In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices.  Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.  

Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.

Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019.

Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.

The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT).  The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Spearfish, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet was sentenced on April 23, 2020, by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court Judge.

Michael Carlson, age 58, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Carlson also will be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

Carlson was arrested and federally indicted following multiple chats and text messages with a person Carlson believed to be a 14/15 year-old girl, but who was in fact an undercover agent.  Carlson proceeded to negotiate the time and place he would meet the minor to engage in unlawful sex acts.  When Carlson went to the pre-determined location to meet the minor, he was instead 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 Spearfish Police Department, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Lake Andes, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Controlled Substance was sentenced on May 4, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Winston Houseman, age 25, was sentenced to three months in custody, followed by one year of supervised release, and a $5,000 fine.  He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Houseman was indicted for Possession of a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on September 5, 2018.  He pled guilty on January 6, 2020.

On or about July 29, 2017, in Indian country, in the District of South Dakota, Houseman, did knowingly and intentionally possess a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.  Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.

Houseman 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 convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on April 27, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Michael Shawn Thomas, age 50, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release.  He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Thomas was indicted for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on July 9, 2019.  He pled guilty on February 12, 2020.

On or about June 22, 2019, in the District of South Dakota, Thomas, did knowingly and intentionally possess with the intent to distribute, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), a Schedule II controlled substance.

This case was investigated by Drug Enforcement Administration and the Sioux Falls Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Haak prosecuted the case.

Thomas 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 convicted of Transportation of Child Pornography was sentenced on May 4, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Derek Robert Schroeder, age 29, was sentenced to 210 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.  His cell phone was forfeited and he will be required to register as a sex offender upon release.

Schroeder was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 9, 2019.  He pled guilty on January 6, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from Schroeder uploading thousands of digital files containing child pornography into his Dropbox account.  The files were uploaded between August 2017 and January 2018.  Schroeder admitted knowing the files contained sexually explicit depictions of children and that he used his cell phone and the internet to transport the files in interstate commerce.

This case was investigated by the Homeland Security, the Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Sioux Falls Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.

Schroeder 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 man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on May 1, 2020, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.

Joseph Romero, age 33, was sentenced to 12½ years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. 

Romero joined a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy with other individuals in January 2017.  During the course of the conspiracy, Romero received methamphetamine directly from different individuals and distributed the methamphetamine in Rapid City.  Over the course of the conspiracy, at least 500 grams of methamphetamine was distributed in the Rapid City area.   

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate Partner was sentenced on May 4, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Shane Goodlow, age 47, was sentenced to time served through May 8, 2020, 3 years of supervised release, 6 months home confinement, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Goodlow was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 16, 2019.  He pled guilty on February 12, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on May 5, 2019, when Goodlow and his intimate partner got into an argument.  When the victim tried to leave, Goodlow struck the victim causing a bump to her head and a laceration to her mouth.  Goodlow fled the scene prior to the arrival of law enforcement and was arrested a short time later.  The victim was seen at the hospital and required stitches to close her wound.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Spirit Lake, Iowa, man convicted of Felon in Possession of Firearm was sentenced on April 27, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Andrew James Houtsma, age 31, was sentenced to 3 months in custody, followed by 3 years of supervised release.  He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Houtsma was indicted for Felon in Possession of a Firearm by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2019.  He pled guilty on February 10, 2020.

On or about May 31, 2018, in the District of South Dakota, Houtsma, having previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess a firearm, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.

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

This case was investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Brookings Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that two former Crow Creek Sioux Tribe councilmembers and one former employee were sentenced for their roles in an embezzlement scheme involving tribal funds. 

Roland Robert Hawk, Sr., 51, was the former elected treasurer of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe.  Hawk was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison, and ordered to pay $325,762.50 in restitution and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Following his release from custody, Hawk will serve 3 years of supervised release.  Hawk was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

Francine Maria Middletent, 55, was a former elected councilmember of the same Tribe.  Middletent was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, and ordered to pay $273,817.55 in restitution and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Following her release from custody, Middletent will serve 3 years of supervised release.  Middletent was released on bond and ordered to report to the federal prison designed by the Bureau of Prisons at a later date.

Jacqueline Ernestine Pease, 34, was sentenced to 3 years of probation, and ordered to pay $74,100 in restitution and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Pease worked in the Tribe’s Finance Office, where Hawk was the overall supervisor and where Middletent worked as Chief Financial Officer.

Chief U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange presided over each of the sentencing hearings.  Chief Judge Lange called the embezzlement scheme “terrible” and “despicable,” stating that the crimes involved a high level of “intentionality.” 

“Crow Creek citizens need to know that their government works and that theft and embezzlement will not be tolerated.  This case should go a long way toward restoring that confidence,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.  

According to court documents, in about March 2014 through February 2019, Roland Robert Hawk, Sr., Francine Maria Middletent, Roxanne Lynette Sazue, Jacquelyn Ernestine Pease, Tina Grey Owl, and Brandon Sazue embezzled, stole, willfully misapplied, willfully permitted to misapplied, and converted to their own use approximately $1,000,000 of monies, funds, credit, goods, assets, and other property belonging to the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe.  Between Hawk and Middletent, the tribe sustained a loss of nearly $700,000. 

During times relevant to each defendant’s case, Brandon Sazue served as Chair of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, Hawk served as the elected Treasurer of the tribe, Roxanne Sazue was also chair, and Middletent and Grey Owl were elected councilpersons.  When not serving in their respective leadership positions, all defendants, except for Brandon Sazue, worked for Hawk in the Tribe’s Finance Office.  In their respective leadership roles and employment positions, the defendants had the access and opportunity to the funds that were embezzled from the tribe.  

The maximum penalties for each defendant upon conviction are as follows:  5 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both; 3 years, of supervised release; $ 100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund; and restitution may be ordered.  Other than Hawk, all of the defendants were released on bond pending sentencing.

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

The case was brought pursuant to The Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities.  The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities.  Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include:  Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.

For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (605)330-4400.  To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on May 4, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Kristen Pretty Weasel, age 38, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Pretty Weasel was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 10, 2019.  She pled guilty on February 11, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy beginning in 2016 and continuing through 2018, in which Pretty Weasel knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.  Pretty Weasel primarily distributed methamphetamine on the Cheyenne River Sioux Indian Reservation in South Dakota, and she traveled to acquire methamphetamine in Rapid City, South Dakota.  

This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services; the City of Faith, South Dakota, Police Department; and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.

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

Attorney General William Barr has directed U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country to investigate reports of housing-related sexual harassment resulting from the current COVID-19 pandemic.

As the country adopts drastic measures to slow the spread of COVID-19, many Americans have lost their jobs and many more have seen their wages curtailed. These losses have forced some to seek abatements or suspensions of their rent. Although many landlords have responded with understanding, the Attorney General reports that other landlords have responded to requests for accommodations with demands for sexual favors and other acts of unwelcome sexual conduct. Such behavior is illegal under the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin and disability. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by the Act. Sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, and others with power over housing often impacts society’s most vulnerable populations.

“For landlords or property managers to try to use the power they have over tenants in these unprecedented times to extort sexual favors, or even commit assaults, is beyond reprehensible,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.  “No person should have to tolerate unwanted sexual advances in order to keep a roof over his or her head.  Our office is dedicated to uncovering such violations wherever they exist and vigorously enforcing the law.”

The Attorney General’s directive reaffirms the Department of Justice’s commitment to the Sexual harassment Initiative launched in October 2017. The initiative seeks to identify barriers to reporting sexual harassment in housing, increase awareness of its enforcement efforts, and collaborate with federal, state, and local partners to increase reporting and help survivors quickly and easily connect with federal resources.

If you think you are a victim of sexual harassment by a landlord or other person who has control over housing, contact the Civil Rights Division by calling (844) 380-6178, or by emailing fairhousing@usdoj.gov.

Individuals who believe they may have been victims of discrimination may also file a complaint with the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 325 S. 1st Avenue, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, 57104, ATTN: Alison J. Ramsdell, Civil Rights Coordinator, or by calling (605) 330-4400.

For more information, visit www.justice.gov/crt/sexual-harassment-housing-initiative.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by Prohibited Person was sentenced on April 27, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Sheldon Chuck Cortez, age 27, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release.  He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Cortez was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury on December 3, 2019.  He pled guilty on February 6, 2020.

On or about September 17, 2019, in the District of South Dakota, Cortez, knowing he had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess a firearm and ammunition, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.

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/opa/pr/attorney-general-william-p-barr-announces-launch-project-guardian-nationwide-strategic-plan

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.

Cortez 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 Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.

Sara Bailey, a/k/a Sara Johnson, age 41, was sentenced on May 1, 2020, to 20 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The conviction stemmed from Bailey conspiring with others to distribute nearly 2000 grams of heroin between May and August 2018 at Rapid City.  Bailey’s distribution of heroin included injecting and providing heroin to a 15-year-old during the same time period.       

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET), which is comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the South Dakota National Guard.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Velva, North Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by Prohibited Person was sentenced on April 27, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Jeffrey A. Cool, age 59, was sentenced to time served and 3 years of supervised release.  He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Cool was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury on January 8, 2020.  He pled guilty on February 3, 2020.

On or about September 2, 2018, in the District of South Dakota, Cool, then being an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, did knowingly possess firearms, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.

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/opa/pr/attorney-general-william-p-barr-announces-launch-project-guardian-nationwide-strategic-plan

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on May 4, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Calvin Donald Edwards, Jr., age 41, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Edwards was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 14, 2020.  He pled guilty on February 10, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on July 1, 2019, wherein Edwards knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute approximately 39 grams of methamphetamine in Eagle Butte.

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

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

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

Georgianne Madison, II, age 38, was indicted on March 9, 2020.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on April 30, 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 June 10, 2019, Madison assaulted an individual with a knife and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury.

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

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

Madison 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 Tax Evasion was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.

Joseph Bennington, age 42, was sentenced on April 27, 2020, to 15 months in federal prison, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $124,645.00 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service.

“Tax evasion is a serious crime,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “It will be met with a serious federal response, as this prison sentence confirms.”

The conviction stemmed from Bennington failing to make an income tax return, as required by law, and failing to pay income taxes owed by him for the year 2017.  Bennington also failed to file and pay income taxes for tax years 2008-2016, despite earning substantial income during the same period of time. Additionally, Bennington concealed his true income by cashing checks he received from Black Hills Auto Auction Inc. instead of depositing the checks into his bank account.

“Tax evasion is not a victimless crime,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Adam Steiner, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. “Today’s sentence exhibits that the IRS and U.S. Attorney’s Office are duty bound to protect the integrity of the U.S. tax administration system, and to make sure everyone complies with their tax obligations.”

The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson  prosecuted the case.

Bennington was ordered to self-surrender to the U.S. Marshals Service on June 29, 2020, to begin serving his custody sentence.  

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Flasher, North Dakota, man convicted of Unlawful Taking of Bald Eagles, Unlawful Taking of Migratory Birds, and Unlawful Use of Restricted Use Pesticide was sentenced on April 2, 2020, by U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes.

David Alan Meyer, age 58, was ordered to pay a total of $58,800 in restitution, $9,800 per eagle, a $50,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $50.

"Today's sentencing is a testament to the commitment of federal, tribal and state law enforcement agencies to protect our nation's bald eagles," said Edward Grace, Assistant Director of the Office of Law Enforcement. "Illegal poisoning can have a significant impact on their populations. Working with our tribal, state and federal partners, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is dedicated to protect our nation's fish and wildlife resources."  

Meyer was charged on January 16, 2020.  He pled guilty to the Information on January 30, 2020.

In March and April 2016, a joint Standing Rock Sioux Tribe Game and Fish Department, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Environmental Protection Agency investigation revealed that David Meyer, owner of Meyer Buffalo Ranch on the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation had supervised the misapplication of 39,000 pounds of Rozol prairie dog bait, a restricted use pesticide, on over 5,400 acres of his property. 

Over a dozen workers were interviewed and confirmed they were supposed to put the poison in the holes, but due the high demand on the amount of poison that needed to be dispensed and the large land tract, workers got sloppy and the poison was not dispensed as required by the label. Because of the misapplication, the EPA emergency response team was dispatched to oversee the cleanup of the ranch land by Meyer.  During the course of the investigation, six bald eagles were recovered and confirmed to have died as a result of the poison.

“The defendant put the health of workers and wildlife at risk by illegally obtaining and using a restricted-use pesticide,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Lance Ehrig of the EPA’s Denver Area Office. “This case serves as a stark reminder that restricted use pesticides must be applied by certified personnel and as intended. Those who circumvent and ignore the laws that protect public health and wildlife will be held accountable by the EPA and our law enforcement partners.” 

This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe Game and Fish Department, and the North Dakota Department of Agriculture.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sturgis, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on April 17, 2020, by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court Judge.

Sean Gertsch, age 28, was sentenced to 3 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The conviction stemmed from an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2019 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting internet predators. 

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a duo from Chicago, IL, convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Ronald Tyree Thigpen, a/k/a “T,” a/k/a “TJ,” a/k/a “Ty,” a/k/a “Tyree,” age 38, was sentenced on April 15, 2020, to 135 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.  Ann Platt, a/k/a “D,” a/k/a “Deanna,” a/k/a “Pretty Eyes”, age 42, was sentenced on January 27, 2020, to 120 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.  They were both also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Thigpen and Platt were indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on April 2, 2019.  Thigpen pled guilty on January 21, 2020, and Platt pled guilty on November 7, 2019.

Thigpen and Platt worked together to distribute heroin in Sioux Falls.  During the course of their conspiracy, the two trafficked heroin from Chicago for redistribution to customers in Sioux Falls.  Investigators learned that heroin supplied by this group was responsible for the death of a Sioux Falls woman in March 2018.

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

Thigpen and Platt were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Martin, South Dakota, man convicted of Theft of Firearms was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.

Sidney Marshall, age 26, was sentenced on April 17, 2020, to 5 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $1,962.30 in restitution.

The conviction stemmed from Marshall breaking into True Value Hardware in Martin and stealing multiple firearms in August 2018.

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’ssignature 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Martin Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.

Marshall was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Office.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Wagner, South Dakota, man convicted of Simple Assault was sentenced on April 20, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Francis Stanford Stricker, age 48, was sentenced to 2 years of probation, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $10.

Stricker was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 12, 2020.  He was found guilty following a two-day jury trial on January 30, 2020, in Pierre, South Dakota. 

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on April 7, 2018, in Mission, South Dakota.  On that date, Stricker grabbed his girlfriend, knocked her down, and assaulted her with his hands while she attempted to fight him off and escape.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.  Stricker was immediately released.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Third Degree Burglary and Larceny.

Debonair Donavan Wright, age 19, was indicted on November 13, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 22, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that on June 10, 2019, in Todd County, South Dakota, Wright unlawfully entered Mike’s Pawn Shop and stole property valued over $1,000.

The charges are merely an accusation and Wright 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.   

Wright 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, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on April 20, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Nicole Ducheneaux, age 34, was sentenced to 34 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Ducheneaux was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 13, 2019.  She pled guilty on January 30, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy that began in 2015 and continued through 2019, wherein Ducheneaux, knowingly and intentionally, worked with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation.

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

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