District of South Dakota

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Assault on a Federal Officer and Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.

Uriah Lafferty, age 34, was charged on January 22, 2020.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on February 7, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the charges.  The penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The charges relate to Lafferty assaulting three Oglala Sioux Tribe police officers, a deputy U.S. Marshal, and a South Dakota Highway Patrol trooper by trying to run them over with his vehicle in December 2019 near Hermosa, South Dakota, while they were attempting to arrest him on a federal warrant related to another case. 

Additionally, between August 2014 and December 2019, Lafferty conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine.

The charges are merely an accusation and Lafferty 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Marshals Service, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.

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

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

Brandi King, age 30, was indicted on January 14, 2020.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 11, 2020, 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, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on December 7, 2019, King 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 King 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.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Wagner, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Threatening Communications.

Kyle Gullikson, age 29, was indicted on December 3, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on February 7, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 5 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 November 5, 2019, Gullikson knowingly and willfully transmitted threatening messages on Facebook.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.   

Gullikson 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 Pierre, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on February 10, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Andrew Bunch, age 30, was sentenced to 324 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.

Bunch was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 14, 2019.  He pled guilty on November 19, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy beginning in the spring of 2018 and continuing through May 2019, in which Bunch, his friend Nathan Thoe (deceased), Nikki Hopkins and others, intentionally distributed and possessed with intent to distribute 2.2 kilograms of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance in and around the Pierre and Ft. Pierre areas.

During the course of the conspiracy, Bunch, Thoe, and Hopkins made numerous trips to Colorado to obtain methamphetamine.  Bunch and Thoe routinely carried firearms on these trips and used firearms to protect their product.  Hopkins was sentenced on January 27, 2020, to 10 years in federal prison.

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 South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Pierre Police Department, the Stanley County Sheriff’s Office, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.  Assistant U.S. Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.

Bunch 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 Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on February 10, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Loren Goodlow, age 30, was sentenced to 6 months in federal prison, followed by 6 months of home confinement, 3 years of supervised release, 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, 2018.  He pled guilty on November 19, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident in Lower Brule, South Dakota, on August 28, 2018, after Goodlow was arrested on tribal charges.  During the booking process, Goodlow struck a correctional officer.

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 Parmelee, South Dakota, couple has been sentenced by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, based on their convictions in an Involuntary Manslaughter and Child Abuse case.

Dakota Horned Eagle, age 29, pled guilty on November 4, 2019, to Involuntary Manslaughter and Operating a Motor Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol Causing Serious Bodily Injury to a Minor.  On January 27, 2020, he was sentenced to 52 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.

Ashley Stoneman, age 25, pled guilty on November 18, 2019, to Child Abuse.  On February 10, 2020, she was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

The couple was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 23, 2019.

The convictions stemmed from an incident that occurred on July 12, 2019, in Todd County, South Dakota.  On that date, Horned Eagle and Stoneman were consuming alcoholic beverages and socializing at a residence in the He Dog Community.  At approximately 1:00 p.m., they decided to drive back to their residence in nearby Parmelee.  They loaded six children into their vehicle and departed the residence, with Horned Eagle driving and Stoneman riding in the front passenger seat.  None of the children, who ranged in age from two months old to twelve years old, were secured with car seats or seat belts.  Horned Eagle was intoxicated.  A short time later, they were traveling on a gravel road between He Dog and Parmelee, when their vehicle left the roadway and wrecked.  At the time of the wreck, Horned Eagle was driving at least 50 miles per hour (mph) in an area where the posted speed limit is 35 mph.

Two of the children in the vehicle suffered fatal injuries as a result of the wreck.  The other four children in the vehicle sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

This 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.

Horned Eagle and Stoneman were 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 Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender was sentenced on February 10, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Hunter Ritter, age 20, 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.

Ritter was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 16, 2019.  He pled guilty on November 19, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on August 9, 2019, wherein Ritter assaulted his domestic partner at their home in Mission, by striking her face with his hand and knocking her down.  At the time of this incident, Ritter had two prior convictions in Rosebud Sioux Tribal Court for Domestic Abuse. 

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

Ritter 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 Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on February 10, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Elliot Brave, a/k/a Elliot Ladeaux, age 39, was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison, followed by 7 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Brave was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 11, 2018.  He pled guilty on November 19, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from conduct that occurred in Mission between December 2017 and January 2018.  During that period, Brave was staying at a residence in Mission with a relative and her six children, including the six-year-old victim.  While staying at the residence, Brave would often watch the children while their mother was at work.  On at least one occasion, Brave engaged in sexual contact with the victim.

This 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.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Spearfish, South Dakota, man convicted of five counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse and three counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor following a week-long jury trial in September 2019 in Rapid City, South Dakota, was sentenced on February 10, 2020, by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Stanley Patrick Weber, age 71, was sentenced to five consecutive life sentences in federal prison for the five Aggravated Sexual Abuse charges, and 15 years on each of the three counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor.  All of these sentences are to be served consecutively to each other, and also consecutive to his previous sentence in the District of Montana of 18 years in federal prison.  Weber was also ordered to pay $800,000 in criminal fines and an $800 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Evidence at trial established that Weber, while employed as a pediatrician with the Indian Health Service at Pine Ridge, South Dakota, sexually abused multiple Native American children between 1999 and 2011.

“The district court’s sentence ensures that Stanley Patrick Weber will never roam free again and his remaining days will be spent behind concrete and steel in a federal prison cell,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.  “Our focus today is on the courage and dignity of Weber’s victims, the men who stared down their worst nightmare to come forward and testify about the horrible abuse by him they suffered when they were boys.  Their bravery brought this predator to justice.  They have our gratitude, and our hope is that the finality of this sentence will bring them some measure of peace.  Now, as one nation, one community, and one family, we must come together and do everything in our power to ensure that nothing like this can ever be done to any of our precious children again.”

“As a pediatrician, Dr. Weber took advantage of Native American children enrolled with the Oglala Sioux Tribe and the Blackfeet Nation, and betrayed their innocent trust in him.  The sentencing of Dr. Weber today sends a strong and powerful message that those who sexually abuse children will be held accountable and that we will continue to seek justice for all victims of our programs,” said Curt L. Muller, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.  “We will continue working with our State, Federal, and Tribal law enforcement partners as we investigate and seek justice against those who would victimize our programs and their beneficiaries.”

The investigation was conducted by the Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, Rapid City Police Department, and the Spearfish Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah B. Collins and Eric Kelderman prosecuted and tried the case.  

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a White Horse, South Dakota, man convicted of Domestic Assault by Striking, Beating, and Wounding, was sentenced on February 6, 2020, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.

Shawn Traversie, age 35, was sentenced to 12 months in federal prison, followed by 12 months of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $25.

Traversie was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 9, 2019.  He pled guilty on December 5, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on January 27, 2019, when Traversie had been drinking and got into an argument with his spouse. Traversie left the residence and when he returned, he discovered the door to his residence was locked and became aggravated.  Traversie then kicked the door open, entered the residence, and began assaulting his spouse.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Renee K. Olson, age 57, of Veblin, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. Magistrate William D. Gerdes on February 7, 2020, and pled guilty to an Information that charged her with Mail Fraud. 

According to court documents, Olson served as the Treasurer of the Region VIII Head Start Association.  In September 2014 and continuing to June 2018, Olson devised and intended to devise a scheme and artifice to defraud the Region VIII Head Start Association of money and property, and obtained money and property from the Region VIII Head Start Association by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, omissions, and promises.  In her working capacity, Olson sent out invoices to members of the Title VIII Region, who then paid those invoices and sent those payments to Olson.  Upon receipt, Olson converted those payments and used that money for personal expenses.  The money was intended to be used to train members of Region VIII Head Start.  Instead, Olson deposited those checks into her personal bank account.  For the purpose of carrying out and executing the scheme to defraud, and in furtherance of the scheme and artifice to defraud, Defendant knowingly caused the items to be placed in an authorized depository for mail matter. 

Mail Fraud carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and/or a $250,000 fine, and a period of supervised release of 3 years.  There is also a $100.00 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution will also be ordered.

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

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date of June 9, 2020, has been set.  The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two Colorado Springs, Colorado, men were sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court Judge.

On November 14, 2019, Joshua Cruz, age 30, was sentenced to 7 years in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.

On January 31, 2020, Billy Torrez, age 24, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm.

The charges related to Torrez, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, having a GSG, .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol in his vehicle, found when Torrez and Cruz came into contact with Rapid City police officers. Also found in the vehicle was methamphetamine, which Cruz admitted to being his. 

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

Torrez and Cruz were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Kidnapping, Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation, Child Abuse, Assault With a Dangerous Weapon, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.

Michael T. Farmer, age 28, was indicted on November 13, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 6, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that between October 6, 2019, and October 8, 2019, Farmer kidnapped and held a woman against her will, unlawfully assaulted her by strangling and suffocating her, unlawfully assaulted her with a dangerous weapon, and unlawfully assaulted her resulting in bodily injury.  The Indictment further alleges Farmer did abuse, expose, torture, torment, and cruelly punish a child. 

The charges are merely accusations and Farmer 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.   

Farmer 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 was convicted of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and was sentenced on February 3, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Kok Put Kach, a/k/a “Cookie”, age 35, was sentenced to 10 years in custody, followed by 5 years of supervised release.  He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Kach was indicted for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance by a federal grand jury on November 6, 2018.  He pled guilty on July 2, 2019.

Beginning on an unknown date and continuing through on or about October 2018, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Kach and James Ayur Garang, a/k/a “Ayur,” and a/k/a “Mike”, did knowingly and intentionally combine, conspire, confederate, and agree together, with others known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

Co-defendant, James Ayur Garang, a/k/a “Ayur,” and a/k/a “Mike”, was sentenced to 10 years in custody and 5 years of supervised release.  He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Garang was indicted for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance by a federal grand jury on November 6, 2018.  He pled guilty on September 5, 2019.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Sioux Falls Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man who pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, was sentenced on February 6, 2020, by U.S. District Court Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.  

Vance Hayes, age 29, was sentenced to a total of 5 years in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. 

The conviction stems from Hayes distributing methamphetamine in the Pine Ridge, South Dakota, area during the timeframe of approximately March 2016 to May 2019. Hayes obtained the methamphetamine from a source in Rapid City. 

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Badlands Safe Trails Drug Task Force, which includes agents from the FBI, Bureau of Indian Affairs – Division of Drug Enforcement, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, Martin Police Department, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.  Additional co-conspirators have been sentenced and others are pending trial.

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

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

Gary D. Bledsoe, age 36, was sentenced on January 31, 2020, to 46 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.

Bledsoe was indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2018.  The case related to Bledsoe, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully possessing a 9 mm semi-automatic pistol on July 2, 2018, at Rapid City.  A Rapid City Police officer was dispatched to Bledsoe’s residence for a report of intentional damage to property.  When the officer approached the residence, Bledsoe approached the officer with his right hand behind his back.  Bledsoe ignored commands to show his hands and continued approaching the officer to within a distance of mere feet.  Bledsoe swung his arm forward, brandishing the silver pistol and pointing it at the officer, who was able to successfully disarm Bledsoe and arrest him.

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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama.

Bledsoe was immediately turned over 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 Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor.

Charles Richards, Jr., age 49, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 60 years in a federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The charge relates to Richards sexually abusing a female less than 12 years old at Pine Ridge, between June 15, 2019, and July 2, 2019.

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

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

Richards was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial.  A trial date has been set for April 7, 2020. 

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Hill City, South Dakota, woman convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court Judge.

Julie Cagle, a/k/a Julie Davis, a/k/a Julie Dzuirman, was sentenced on January 31, 2020, to time served, 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The charge related to Cagle, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully possessing a Raven Arms, .25 ACP caliber semi-automatic pistol and a Smith & Wesson, .38 Special caliber revolver at Rapid City in June 2019, which were found after Cagle came into contact with Rapid City police officers.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Kidnapping of a Minor by a Registered Sex Offender and Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity by a Registered Sex Offender.

Christopher Bald Eagle, age 65, was charged on January 7, 2020.  Bald Eagle appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on January 29, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the charges.  The penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of 35 years up to a maximum of 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 Bald Eagle, a previously registered sex offender, transporting a minor female from Pine Ridge, South Dakota, to Denver, Colorado, against her will in December 2019 and sexually assaulting her.  The charges are merely an accusation and Bald Eagle is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Denver Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins is prosecuting the case.

Bald Eagle was detained pending trial.  A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on January 29, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen Schreier.

Fredrick Green, a/k/a Frederick Green, age 47, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.  He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Fredrick Green was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on March 5, 2019.  He pled guilty on November 7, 2019.

From an unknown date, until on or about January 15, 2019, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Fredrick Green did knowingly and intentionally combine, conspire, confederate, and agree together, with others known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute a mixture and substance containing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

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

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

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

Shilo Phillip Hill, age 24, was indicted on July 16, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 31, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 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 April 18, 2019, Hill, having been knowingly convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year and knowingly being an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, knowingly possessed a handgun near Eagle Butte, South Dakota.

The charge is merely an accusation and Hill 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 Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.   

Hill 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, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Theft of Government Property, Supplemental Security Income Benefits Fraud, and two counts of False Statement.

Holli Lundahl, a/k/a Holli Telford, age 63, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in prison, and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for the Theft of Government Property charge.  The maximum penalty upon conviction for the other charges is 5 years in 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 charges relate to Lundahl knowingly converting to her own use money of the U.S. Social Security Administration, namely Title XVI Social Security Supplemental Income payments in excess of $1,000, between 2014 and 2019.  Lundahl also falsely reported her resources and assets, and concealed and failed to disclose her resources and assets in order to continue to receive and spend SSI benefit payments made by the Social Security Administration.  On March 28, 2019, Lundahl failed to disclose to a Social Security Administration Claims Specialist that she had joint access to a checking account that contained in excess of $25,000, and that she had an ownership interest in property located in Texas, which she knew would affect her right to ongoing SSI payments. In December 2018, Lundahl filed a Notice of Appeal with a document that contained a forged date stamp with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Office of the Inspector General – Social Security Administration.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman is prosecuting the case.

Lundahl was released on bond pending trial.  A trial date has been set for April 7, 2020.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced by Karen E. Schreier, U.S. District Court Judge.

Louis Bettelyoun, age 32, was sentenced on January 23, 2020, to 21 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The charge related to Bettelyoun, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully possessing a Bersa S.A., Thunder 380, .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol in March 2019 at Rapid City.   

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

Bettelyoun 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 Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court Judge.

Cory Myers, age 45, was sentenced on January 30, 2020, to 7 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The conviction stems from Myers, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully possessing a stolen Taurus, model PT92 AF, 9mm semi-automatic pistol, and 18 other stolen firearms in January 2019 at Rapid City, which were found after Myers came into contact with Rapid City police officers.   

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

Myers 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 was charged in federal district court with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.

Moses Montileaux Jr. was charged on September 10, 2019.  Montileaux appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on January 27, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the charge.  The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The charge relates to Montileaux, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, being in possession of a 9x19mm Luger caliber semi-automatic pistol.  The charge is merely an accusation and Montileaux 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 Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Rapid City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Manufacturing an Unregistered Firearm and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.

Christopher Bittner, age 25, was charged on January 22, 2020.  Bittner appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on January 27, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the charges. 

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

The charges relate to Bittner making an unregistered shortened 12-gauge pump-action shotgun, as well as possessing other firearms and marijuana in November 2019 at Rapid City.  The charges are merely an accusation and Bittner 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 reduceviolent 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 Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court Judge.

Isadore White Calf, age 56, was sentenced on January 29, 2020, to 20 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

White Calf was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury in July 2018.  The charge related to White Calf forcibly sexually assaulting a female in February 2017 at Pine Ridge.

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

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

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.

Aaron Brian James Neck, age 43, was indicted on October 16, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 31, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that on August 21, 2019, Neck 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 charge is merely an accusation and Neck 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.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Flasher, North Dakota, man has been charged by information for Unlawful Taking of Bald Eagle, Unlawful Taking of Migratory Birds, and Unlawful Use of Restricted Use Pesticide.

David Alan Meyer, age 58, was charged on January 16, 2020.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on January 30, 2020, and pled guilty to the Information.

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

In March and April 2016, a joint 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 to 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.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.    Meyer was released on bond pending sentencing, scheduled for April 2, 2020.

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 28, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Logan James Fast Horse, age 22, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, $335.42 in restitution, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Fast Horse was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 14, 2019.  He pled guilty on November 6, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on April 5, 2019, when Fast Horse 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.

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

Fast Horse 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 Involuntary Manslaughter and Influencing a Federal Officer by Threat.

Steven Burning Breast, age 24, was indicted on November 13, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 31, 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 April 22, 2019, in Todd County, South Dakota, Burning Breast killed two individuals by operating a motor vehicle in a grossly negligent manner.  The Indictment further alleges that on October 16, 2019, Burning Breast threatened to murder a law enforcement officer who was employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe.   

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Bennett County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, couple have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana, Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, Possession of an Unregistered Firearm, and Maintaining a Drug Involved Premises Near a Playground.

Brady James Claymore, age 32, was indicted on January 14, 2020, for Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana, Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, and Possession of an Unregistered Firearm. The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $1,000,000 fine, at least 3 years up to a lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

Michelle Rose Helper, age 35, was indicted on January 14, 2020, for Maintaining a Drug Involved Premises Near a Playground. The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 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.

Claymore and Helper appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on January 30, 2020, and pled not guilty to the indictments.

Claymore’s Indictment alleges that beginning on the 1st day of January, 2010, and continuing to September 24, 2019, in South Dakota, Claymore, knowingly and intentionally, combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 kilograms or more of marijuana.  It further alleges that he possessed several firearms, including an unregistered short-barreled shotgun, while knowingly being an unlawful user of and addicted to marijuana in McLaughlin, South Dakota. 

Helper’s Indictment alleges that between 2011 and 2019, she intentionally and knowingly used and maintained a place in McLaughlin, South Dakota, for the purposes of distributing and using marijuana within 1,000 feet of a playground.

The charges are merely accusations and Claymore and Helper are 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 Mobridge Police Department, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.   

Claymore and Helper were released on bond pending trial.  A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man convicted of Retaliation against a Federal Officer by Threat was sentenced on January 28, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Jarraid Crazy Bull, a/k/a Jerraid Crazy Bull, age 34, was sentenced to approximately 9 months of imprisonment, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Crazy Bull was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 17, 2018.  He pled guilty on November 6, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on July 31, 2017, when Bureau of Indian Affairs law enforcement officers responded to a call of Crazy Bull threatening an individual.  When law enforcement arrived to the scene in Lower Brule, Crazy Bull fled from the officers.  Law enforcement then pursued Crazy Bull and located him hiding in a yard where he was placed under arrest.  Upon his arrest, Crazy Bull threatened to shoot the officers involved and further threatened one of the officers again while enroute to the correctional facility. 

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.

Crazy Bull was released on conditions following his sentencing hearing.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number.

Jesse Runnels, age 37, was charged on December 17, 2019.  Runnels appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on January 27, 2020, and pleaded not guilty to the charges.  The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The charges relate to Runnels, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, being in possession of a Smith & Wesson 9mm semi-automatic pistol, which had an obliterated serial number.  The charges are merely an accusation and Runnels 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 Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Rapid City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Francis Stanford Stricker, age 48, of Wagner, South Dakota, was found guilty of Simple Assault following a two-day jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota.  The verdict was returned on January 30, 2020.

The charge carries a maximum sentence of up to 6 months in prison and/or a $5,000 fine, and $10 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.

Stricker was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 12, 2019.  The charge stems from an incident that occurred on August 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.    

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.  

A sentencing date has been set for April 20, 2020.  Stricker was released pending sentencing.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Greeley, Colorado, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced by Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

John Schrum, age 47, was sentenced on January 27, 2020, to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Schrum was indicted by a federal grand jury in November 2018.  The charge related to Schrum and another person obtaining and transporting at least 500 grams of methamphetamine from Colorado, for distribution in western South Dakota between 2017 and 2018.  During a traffic stop on July 6, 2018, Schrum possessed a .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, which he is prohibited from possessing, and agreed to forfeit all interests in the firearm.  The co-conspirator’s case is still pending.

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 federal, state and local agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (“UNET”), which is a local drug task force comprised of various agencies, including the South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigation, Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Rapid City Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Kelderman.

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

“There is no legitimate reason for anyone to possess or distribute fentanyl analogues. They are weapons of mass destruction, capable of killing a human being almost immediately upon ingestion or contact in extremely minute amounts.”

The opioid crisis has impacted almost every community in South Dakota. In an effort to combat this deadly drug epidemic, the Drug Enforcement Administration used its statutory authority in February 2018 to issue a temporary emergency two-year order that made all fentanyl-related substances illegal. Working hand-in-hand with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement here in South Dakota, this office has vigorously prosecuted anyone caught trafficking in fentanyl or fentanyl-related substances. Nationally, as well as locally, we have seen a substantial supply impact from DEA’s temporary scheduling of fentanyl-related substances during the past two years, with a 50 percent decrease in fentanyl-related substances encountered across the United States.

However, the DEA’s emergency prohibition of fentanyl analogues expires at midnight on February 6, 2020, unless Congress acts to extend it.  This is a looming catastrophe.  Fentanyl and its analogues are responsible for dozens of overdoses and multiple deaths in South Dakota.  Without action by Congress, law enforcement will not have all of the tools needed to protect South Dakotans from the onslaught of these extraordinarily dangerous substances.

Fentanyl and its chemical analogues are illegally distributed in the United States through two primary methods.  Many are designed and manufactured in China, ordered over the Dark Web by drug dealers, and then shipped to them using the U.S. mail and private delivery companies.  Increasingly, however, the Mexican cartels responsible for making most of the methamphetamine and heroin smuggled across our southern border and sold in the U.S. have begun making fentanyl and related substances themselves and selling them through their distribution networks.

There is no legitimate reason for anyone to possess or distribute fentanyl analogues.  They are weapons of mass destruction, capable of killing almost immediately upon ingestion or contact in extremely minute amounts.

On behalf of the United States Department of Justice, I am urging Congress to give us the tools we need to continue our efforts against the distribution of fentanyl analogues here in South Dakota.  This fight is far from over.  We need every tool we have to target these fatally dangerous drugs.  Congress must take action immediately to extend the scheduling of these dangerous substances.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a White River, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on January 28, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Andrea Ruth Barrera, age 32, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, a $500 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Barrera was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2019.  She pled guilty on November 4, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy beginning on September 1, 2018, and continuing until July 16, 2019, wherein Barrera, knowingly and intentionally, combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine. On March 5, 2019, during the conspiracy, Barrera possessed a loaded handgun and approximately forty-one rounds of ammunition along with a small amount of methamphetamine and several items of drug paraphernalia near Mission, South Dakota.  

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man and woman have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, Possession of a Firearm by a Person Convicted of a Misdemeanor Crime of Domestic Violence, and Transfer of a Firearm to a Prohibited Person.

David Charles Peters, age 40, and Molly Lynn Lorang, age 50, were indicted on January 7, 2020.  They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on January 24, 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 for each Defendant.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on or about October 6, 2019, Peters, who had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and having previously been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, knowingly possessed two firearms which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.

The Indictment also alleges that between July 5, 2019, and October 6, 2019, Lorang knowingly sold and otherwise disposed of a firearm to Peters, knowing that Peters had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and having previously been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

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 charges are merely accusations and Peters and Lorang are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

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

Both Peters and Lorang were released on bond pending trial which has been set for March 31, 2020.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of one count of distribution of a controlled substance resulting in serious bodily injury and one count of obstructing justice by retaliating against a witness, victim or informant and aiding and abetting was sentenced on January 28, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Jacob Francis Lottman, age 27, was sentenced to 300 months in federal prison for the distribution count and 60 months in federal prison for the obstruction count, to be served consecutively, followed by 3 years of supervised release on each count, to be served concurrently.  He was also ordered to pay $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

According to the court documents, Lottman knowingly and intentionally distributed fentanyl, a controlled substance, resulting in the serious bodily injury of a victim in Sioux Falls, who overdosed on the fentanyl sold to him.  The overdose victim was revived by first responders with a dose of Naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, which prevented his death.

In addition, following his indictment and arrest on the fentanyl charge, Lottman, along with Reymundo Sauceda and Juan Chavez-Benitez, knowingly engaged and attempted to engage in conduct which caused bodily injury to a witness, with the intent to retaliate against that witness for information given by the witness to law enforcement relating to the commission of a federal offense.  The witness was beaten while also in custody on federal charges.

In connection with the beating, Sauceda was sentenced on December 7, 2019, to 60 months in federal prison and Chavez-Benitez was sentenced on November 4, 2019, to 24 months in federal prison for their involvement.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, the Sioux Falls Police Department, and the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Haak and Connie Larson prosecuted the cases.

Lottman 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 Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on January 27, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Marques Smith, a/k/a CC, age 37, was sentenced to 235 months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Smith was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 12, 2019, and a Superseding Indictment was filed on October 16, 2019.  He was found guilty after a three-day jury trial commencing on October 22, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy beginning around January 1, 2011, and continuing to October 11, 2017.  Smith knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine in South Dakota.  The trial testimony showed the conspiracy involved distributing methamphetamine in Sioux Falls and on the Crow Creek, Lower Brule, and Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservations.  Smith and his co-conspirators traveled to Kansas City, Missouri; Colorado Springs, Colorado; Minneapolis, Minnesota; and Grand Island, Nebraska, to acquire methamphetamine, which would be distributed in South Dakota.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Division of Drug Enforcement, South Dakota Highway Patrol, Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, Sioux Falls Police Department, Minnehaha County Sherriff’s Office, Pierre Police Department, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on January 27, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Nicole Marie Hopkins, age 35, was sentenced to 120 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.

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

The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy beginning in the fall of 2018 and continuing through May 2019, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, in which Hopkins, her boyfriend Nathan Thoe, and others, intentionally distributed and possessed with intent to distribute between 500 grams and 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

During the course of the conspiracy, Hopkins and Thoe made numerous trips to Colorado to obtain methamphetamine.  Thoe routinely carried a firearm on these trips. On the last trip in January 2019, Thoe and Hopkins were pulled over at a rest stop on I-90 near White Lake, South Dakota. Thoe disregarded commands to comply and reached for a handgun on the back of his hip and was shot and killed by law enforcement officers. At her feet, Hopkins had two BB guns that resembled handguns, which she stated, were for going out “Bonnie and Clyde style.”  As a result of the stop, officers recovered 18 grams 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 South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Pierre Police Department, the Stanley County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol.  Assistant U.S. Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.

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

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

Justin Whiting, age 19, was indicted on January 14, 2020.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 27, 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, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on December 5, 2019, Whiting, knowing he was an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, knowingly possessed a firearm. The Indictment further alleges that Whiting possessed the firearm on the grounds of St. Francis Indian School.

The charges are merely accusations and Whiting 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.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mitchell, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy for Sex Trafficking was sentenced on January 27, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Timothy Allan Bingham, age 58, was sentenced to 84 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.  Bingham also needs to register as a sex offender.

Bingham was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 6, 2018.  He pled guilty on November 7, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from incidents between July 16, 2018, and July 23, 2018, when Bingham conspired with Walter Jandreau to knowingly and intentionally coerce a 16 year-old girl to engage in a commercial sex act.  Bingham picked up Jandreau and the juvenile and took them back to his residence.  Bingham provided methamphetamine to Jandreau in exchange for sexual contact with the minor. 

Jandreau was sentenced on December 2, 2019, to 210 months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Lake Andes, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse and Abusive Sexual Contact.

Frank Sanchez, age 65, was indicted on December 3, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on January 24, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that between June 1, 1996, and September 1, 1996, Sanchez knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, a sexual act with a child who had not attained the age of 12 years. The Indictment also alleges that between June 1, 1996, and September 1, 1996, Sanchez knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, sexual contacts with the same child who had not attained the age of 12 years.

The Indictment also alleges that between June 1, 2006, and September 1, 2006, Sanchez knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, sexual contact with a second child who had not attained the age of 12 years.

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

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

Sanchez was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, which has been set for March 31, 2020.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux City, Iowa, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on January 28, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Veronica Arciniega, age 42, was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Arciniega was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 16, 2019.  She pled guilty on November 7, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from a methamphetamine conspiracy beginning in at least February 2019, where Arciniega, who had the source of methamphetamine in Iowa, brought ounces of methamphetamine to a home in the Sicangu Village.  Arciniega and others distributed the 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.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Todd County, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Assault by Striking, Beating, and Wounding.

Tyler Reagle, age 37, was indicted on January 22, 2020.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 24, 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 January 8, 2020, in Todd County, Reagle, having previously been convicted of a felony, knowingly possessed multiple firearms.  The Indictment further alleges that, on the same date, Reagle assaulted his domestic partner.

The charges are merely accusations and Reagle 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 Todd County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.   

Reagle was released on bond pending trial.  A trial date has been set for March 23, 2020.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.

Adam Michael Tanner, age 46, was indicted on September 10, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 23, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that between March 1, 2018, and September 10, 2019, Tanner knowingly and intentionally, combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, a schedule II controlled substance.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force and the Pierre Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges is prosecuting the case.   

Tanner 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 Influencing a Federal Officer by Threat.

Anthony One Star, Jr., a/k/a Tony One Star, a/k/a Sonny One Star, age 32, was indicted on January 22, 2020.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 24, 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 December 15, 2019, One Star threatened to murder a law enforcement officer who was employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe.

The charge is merely an accusation and One Star 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.   

One Star 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 two Rapid City, South Dakota, men convicted of Interference with Commerce by Robbery and Conspiracy were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Corbin Conroy, age 41, was sentenced on January 23, 2020, to 7 years in federal prison on each count, to run concurrent, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Wesley Dillon, age 19, was sentenced on November 22, 2019, to 4 years in federal prison on each count, to run concurrent, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The convictions stem from Conroy and Dillon brandishing a firearm and forcibly taking money from a casino employee at Rapid City in March 2019.

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