District of South Dakota

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Parmeleee, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on May 29, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Lionel Eugene Roubideaux, age 55, was sentenced to 15 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.

Roubideaux was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 16, 2018.  He pled guilty on April 1, 2019.

Roubideaux was convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse in December 1987.  As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender for his natural life.  Roubideaux failed to update his registration between March 17, 2018, and August 14, 2018.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on May 28, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Jeffrey W. Provancial, age 27, was sentenced to 14 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.

Provancial was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 11, 2018.  He pled guilty on March 5, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from Provancial failing to register as a sex offender as required by federal law between June 13, 2018, and November 2, 2018.  Provancial had previously been convicted of a sex offense in federal court, which required him to register for the rest of his life.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises was sentenced on May 29, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Jason Leo Fischer, age 35, was sentenced to 13 months in federal prison, 2 years of supervised release, $1,000 fine, forfeiture of a rifle, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Fischer was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 22, 2017.  He pleaded guilty on March 5, 2019.

Between June of 2016 and November of 2017, Fischer used and maintained his residence in Ziebach County for the use and distribution of methamphetamine and marijuana.  He was aware that numerous individuals were using and distributing methamphetamine and marijuana on the premises and he failed to stop them.  When Fischer was arrested, law enforcement located and seized a .22 caliber rifle from the doorway of Fischer’s bedroom, and confiscated numerous items of drug paraphernalia testing positive for methamphetamine and/or marijuana from within the residence. 

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 the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services Narcotics Division and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney SaraBeth Donovan prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Canton, South Dakota, man convicted of Mailing a Firearm was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Kohl Hammer, age 19, was sentenced on May 20, 2019, to 3 years of probation and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Hammer was charged on September 18, 2018.  The charge related to Hammer knowingly mailing a Taurus, model 85B2, .38 Special caliber, double-action revolver in August 2018 at Rapid City, in violation of the rules and regulations of the U.S. Postal Service.

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 was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspector.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Agency Village, South Dakota, man convicted of sexual abuse of a minor was sentenced on May 20, 2019, by U.S. District Jude Charles B. Kornmann.

Sylanus Flute, age 25, was sentenced to 50 months in federal prison, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.  He was ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. 

According to court documents, between February and April of 2017, Flute engaged in sexual acts with a juvenile female under the age of 16.  Flute was over 22 years old when he engaged in the sexual acts.  The sexual acts were nonconsensual. 

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two men and one woman were convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, and were sentenced on May 14, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Victor Manuel Caperon, age 36, from San Diego, California, convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, was sentenced to 130 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.

Amos Hall, a/k/a Amos Lee Hall, IV, age 36, from Watertown, South Dakota, convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Alexis Dumarce, age 31, from Watertown, South Dakota, convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, was sentenced to 50 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.

Caperon was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 13, 2018.  He pled guilty on November 14, 2018. Hall and Dumarce were indicted by a federal grand jury on June 13, 2018. They pled guilty on November 13, 2018.

The convictions stem from a methamphetamine conspiracy in and around the Watertown and Sisseton, South Dakota areas from November 23, 2017, through February 28, 2018. The conspiracy involved over 500 grams of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.  Hall, Dumarce, and two other co-defendants, Dyvon Byrd and Danny Callahan, were selling methamphetamine brought to South Dakota from California by Caperon and co-defendant Josh Paul. Caperon and Paul were found with six pounds of methamphetamine on February 28, 2018, during a traffic stop in Corson County, South Dakota. This methamphetamine was intended for sale in the Watertown and Sisseton areas. 

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

Caperon, Hall, and Dumarce were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.  Byrd, Callahan, and Paul are set to be sentenced on June 3, 2019.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child.

Abraham Joseph Crane, a/k/a Abraham Joseph Pretty Voice, a/k/a Sam Crane, age 64, was indicted on May 14, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 17, 2019, 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 up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that between August 1, 2018, and November 16, 2018, in Todd County, South Dakota, Crane knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, a sexual act with a child under the age of 12.

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

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

Crane 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 Sisseton, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for sexual abuse and obstruction of justice.

Brendon Javon Jacob Rodlund, age 29, was indicted on September 5, 2018.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William Gerdes on May 13, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

According to the Indictment, between on or about the 30th day of April and 1st day of May, 2016, Rodlund knowingly engaged in a sexual act with the victim, while the victim was physically incapable of declining participation in and communicating her unwillingness to engage in the sexual act.  Rodlund also gave false testimony regarding the incident in tribal court. 

The maximum penalties upon conviction for each count are as follows: up to life imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine; a mandatory minimum term of five (5) years, up to life, of supervised release; $100 special assessment for victim/witness fund; $5,000 assessment to the domestic trafficking fund; and restitution may be ordered. 

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

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for escape from custody.

Diana Bald Eagle, age 44, was indicted on May 8, 2019.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica Duffy on May 15, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

According to the indictment, Bald Eagle was in the custody of the U.S. Marshal’s Service by virtue of a federal contract with the Yankton County Jail. Bald Eagle was granted a furlough and an extension, but failed to return to the Yankton County Jail on or about the 14th day of April 2019, therefore, Bald Eagle did unlawfully escape from such custody when she, without authorization, failed to be present at the Yankton County Jail, in Yankton, South Dakota, as ordered.  

The maximum penalties upon conviction are as follows: 5 years imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine; 3 years of supervised release; $100 special assessment for victim/witness fund; and restitution may be ordered. 

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

The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.   

Bald Eagle was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.  A trial date of July 23rd has been set.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Child Abuse.

Victoria Smashed Ice, age 26, was indicted on May 14, 2019.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 17, 2019, 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, 3 years up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on or about April 1, 2019, Smashed Ice assaulted a child with shod feet, she repeatedly kicked the child while wearing cowboy boots with the intent to do bodily harm.  The Indictment further alleges that Smashed Ice abused, exposed, tortured, tormented, and cruelly punished the child.

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

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault of a Dating Partner by Strangulation.

Geordie Long, age 18, was indicted on October 16, 2018.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 15, 2019, 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 August 26, 2019, Long did unlawfully assault an intimate partner and dating partner, by strangulation and suffocation.

The charge is merely an accusation and Long 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.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man and woman have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.

Andrew Bunch, age 29, and Nicole Hopkins, age 35, were indicted on May 14, 2019, for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Bunch was also indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.  They both appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 16, 2019, and both pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictments allege that beginning at a time unknown, but no later than on or about the 1st day of March 2018, and continuing to on or about the 1st day of February 2019, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Bunch and Hopkins, did knowingly and intentionally, combine, conspire, confederate, and agree with persons known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

The charges are merely accusations and Bunch and Hopkins 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.

The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Pierre Police Department, Stanley County Sheriff’s office, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.       

Bunch was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service and Hopkins was released on bond pending trial.  A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Marty, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for failure to register as a sex offender.

Raymond Lloyd Jandreau, age 61, was indicted on May 9, 2017. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica Duffy on May 17, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

According to the Indictment, Jandreau was convicted of a sex offense in South Dakota state court.  This conviction requires him to register for life as a sex offender.  Since July 1, 2016, Jandreau’s whereabouts have been unknown.  His last known address was in Farmington, New Mexico, but that residence was vacated with no sign of Jandreau.  His last known address in the District of South Dakota was in Marty, within the jurisdiction of the Yankton Sioux Tribe Reservation.  

The maximum penalties upon conviction are as follows: 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine; a mandatory minimum term of 5 years, up to life, of supervised release; $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund; $5,000 assessment to the domestic trafficking fund; and restitution may be ordered. 

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

The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Allen, South Dakota, man convicted of False Statement was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Nathaniel “Thomas” Waters, age 46, was sentenced on May 16, 2019, to time served of 6 months, 2 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Waters was indicted for the charge by a federal grand jury in January 2018.  The charge related to Waters making false statements to law enforcement regarding the fire and homicide of his nephew at Waters’ residence at Allen on October 16, 2017.  Waters eventually admitted that his previous statements were false and that he lied during the prior interviews.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Office of Justice Services, the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan Poppen and Ben Patterson prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Agency Village, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for assault with intent to commit murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, and assault resulting in serious bodily injury.

John Matthew Pilcher, age 48, was indicted on March 5, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William Gerdes on May 13, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

According to the Indictment, on or about the 10th day of November 2018, Pilcher assaulted the victim with a dangerous weapon, namely a knife or a sharp-edged object, with the intent to commit murder, and the assault did result in serious bodily injury. 

The maximum penalties upon conviction for each count are as follows:  20 years and 10 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine; a mandatory minimum term of five (3) years of supervised release; $100 special assessment for victim/witness fund; and restitution may be ordered.

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

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

Pilcher was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.  A trial date of June 25, 2019, has been set.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sisseton, South Dakota, man convicted of felon in possession of a firearm and two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon was sentenced on May 14, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann. 

Anthony Janisch, age 29, was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.  He was ordered to pay $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  

According to court documents, on or about June 20, 2017, Janisch, having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did unlawfully possess a firearm. Janisch also brandished that firearm during the aggravated assault of two women and made specific threats to victims.  The firearm was loaded and he put it to the head of one of the victims, while making threats. 

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

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sisseton, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for aggravated sexual abuse by force, threat, or fear, and assault of partner by strangulation or suffocation.

Joshua John Max, age 35, was indicted on February 5, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William Gerdes on May 13, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

According to the Indictment, on or about the 25th day of April, 2015, Max knowingly engaged, and attempted to engage in, a sexual act by using force, by threatening, and by placing in fear of death and serious bodily injury, and unlawfully assaulted an intimate partner by strangling and suffocating. 

The maximum penalties upon conviction for each count are as follows:  up to life imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine; a mandatory minimum term of five (5) years, up to life, of supervised release; $100 special assessment for victim/witness fund; $5,000 assessment to the domestic trafficking fund; and restitution may be ordered.

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

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

Max was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.  A trial date of June 25, 2019, has been set.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman convicted of Larceny was sentenced on May 13, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Whitney Bagola, age 25, was sentenced to credit for time served, 3 years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $5,107.68, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Bagola was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 23, 2019.  She pled guilty on February 22, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on January 7, 2019, when Bagola entered a vehicle valued at more than $1,000 that was not hers and drove off in it.  She abandoned the vehicle approximately 150 miles later, after the car ran out of gas.    

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

Bagola 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 Third Degree Burglary was sentenced on May 13, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Jonathan Yellow Eyes, age 23, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Yellow Eyes was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 11, 2018.  He pled guilty on February 19, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred in the early morning hours of December 6, 2017, wherein Yellow Eyes broke into and burglarized the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Head Start Administration Building in Rosebud.  While inside the building, Yellow Eyes stole multiple items, including the keys to a vehicle that belonged to the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Head Start.  Yellow Eyes subsequently exited the building, located the vehicle, and stole it.  The vehicle was later found abandoned in Sioux Falls.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Moose Lake, Minnesota, man convicted of two counts of abusive sexual contact of a child under twelve years was sentenced on May 13, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann. 

Roland Joseph Brant, age 64, was sentenced to 262 months in federal prison and ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  

According to court documents, between February and July 2007, in Roberts County, South Dakota, Brant knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, sexual acts with two children who had not attained the age of 12. 

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man convicted of felon in possession of a firearm by prohibited person was sentenced on May 13, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann. 

Jesse Boyd Brown Otter, age 37, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.  He was ordered to pay $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  

According to court documents, on or about the 28th day of December, 2017, in the District of South Dakota, Jesse Boyd Brown Otter, having previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and being an unlawful user of a controlled substance, did knowingly possess a firearm and ammunition. 

The Indictment alleges that Brown Otter possessed a Bond Arms, Model “Cowboy Texas Defender” 45 Long Colt caliber/410 gauge derringer-style handgun, bearing serial number 33176, and a Bond Arms, Model “Snake Slayer” 45 Long Colt caliber/410 gauge derringer-style handgun, bearing serial number 61571, and 4 rounds of Starline 45 Long Colt ammunition.

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

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

Brown Otter was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman convicted of Theft from an Indian Tribal Organization was sentenced on May 13, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Memoree Ducheneaux, age 28, was sentenced to 1 year of probation, restitution in the amount of $1,461.93, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Ducheneaux was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 14, 2018.  She pled guilty on February 20, 2019.

Between November 25, 2016, and August 13, 2017, Ducheneaux was employed at the Lakota Thrifty Mart in Eagle Butte.  During the course of her employment, Ducheneaux knowingly stole, embezzled, and converted to her own use, funds totaling an amount of $1,461.93 belonging to the Lakota Thrifty Mart, an Indian tribal organization.

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

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a physician working in Aberdeen, South Dakota, convicted of distributing oxycodone, was sentenced on May 14, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Troy Edward Adolfson, age 47, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release.  He was also ordered to pay a fine of $20,000, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Adolfson was indicted for Distribution of a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on June 6, 2018.  He pled guilty on November 14, 2018.

While working at a hospital in Aberdeen, Adolfson wrote prescriptions for oxycodone to others, who filled the prescriptions and gave the pills to Adolfson.  He gave these people some of the oxycodone and a cash “tip” for filling the prescriptions.  He illegally prescribed approximately 1,400 pills of oxycodone in this manner.

This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.

Adolfson was ordered to report on August 13, 2019, to begin serving his sentence.

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

Lorraine Marie Prairie Chicken, age 34, was indicted on May 8, 2019. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on May 10, 2019, 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, life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that beginning on an unknown date and continuing until on or about October 17, 2018, Prairie Chicken knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others, to distribute a mixture and substance containing at least 500 grams of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga is prosecuting the case.

Prairie Chicken was released on bond pending trial, which has not been set.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mankato, Minnesota, man and a Delano, California, man were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Jay Leslie Haggard, age 32, was found guilty of two counts of Contributing to the Delinquency of a Child as a result of a federal jury trial in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, on March 7, 2019. He was sentenced on March 8, 2019, to time served, 1 year of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $50.

Ryan Lawrence Juan, age 24, pled guilty to two counts of Furnishing Alcoholic Beverages to a Child and one count of Failure to Appear on March 1, 2019. He was sentenced, on May 9, 2019, to time served and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $75.

Haggard and Juan was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 6, 2017.

The convictions stemmed from an incident between August 22, 2017, and August 23, 2017, when Haggard and Juan met two juvenile females and provided them with alcoholic beverages.

The conviction on the Failure to Appear charge stemmed from Juan failing to appear for his initial appearance set for September 17, 2018, with Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Clarence Yellow Hawk, age 29, of Kyle, South Dakota, was found guilty of First Degree Murder and Discharging a Firearm During a Crime of Violence as a result of a federal jury trial in Rapid City, South Dakota.  Yellow Hawk was found not guilty of Possessing a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number.  The jury returned the verdicts on May 3, 2019. 

The convicted charges carry penalties of mandatory life in prison and a $250,000 maximum fine, as well as a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and restitution.

Throughout the day on May 27, 2017, Clarence Yellow Hawk, a/k/a “Whodi” and Jamie Shoulders were with Scott Benson.  During the mid-afternoon, Yellow Hawk and Shoulders traveled with Benson to meet with Christopher “Chris” E. Janis and another person.  Benson drove his vehicle, Yellow Hawk rode in the front passenger seat, and Shoulders rode in the back seat.  Benson parked his vehicle at a driveway approach approximately two miles north of Sharps Corner.  Upon arriving, Benson exited the driver’s seat and entered the back seat of the minivan occupied by Chris Janis (driver’s seat) and his passenger.  While Benson was in the minivan, Shoulders took a handgun from the car and walked to the minivan’s driver-door window, by Janis.  Shoulders shot Chris Janis through the window using the handgun, which broke the glass, and then fired at least one additional shot at him.  As shots rang out, Benson and the passenger began fleeing the minivan.  Yellow Hawk exited Benson’s vehicle, approached the minivan and picked up the handgun Shoulders dropped, and shot Janis several additional times.  Chris Janis died from his multiple gunshot wounds.  Yellow Hawk and Shoulders fired at least 7 rounds at Janis.

Benson returned to the driver’s seat of his vehicle, Yellow Hawk got into the front seat, and Shoulders got into the back seat.  Benson initially drove south towards Sharps Corner, then around the area before returning to another person’s house, where Yellow Hawk, Shoulders and Benson split up.  During the drive, Yellow Hawk threw the firearm out the window, which was later recovered by law enforcement. The firearm used by Yellow Hawk and Shoulders to shoot Chris Janis belonged to Scott Benson.

“This judgment rendered by the jury represents justice for Chris Janis,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.  “And it is our hope that it will bring some measure of peace to his grieving family.”

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

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date has been set for August 20, 2019.  Jamie Shoulders pled guilty to Second Degree Murder.  He will also be sentenced on August 20, 2019.  Both Yellow Hawk and Shoulders are in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mitchell, South Dakota, woman convicted of conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine was sentenced on May 6, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Reva Dawn Janis-Bauer, age 45, was sentenced to 210 months in federal prison, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.  She was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Janis-Bauer was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on August 7, 2018.  She pled guilty on February 22, 2019.

Janis-Bauer sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant in Sioux Falls in May and June of 2018, totaling approximately 60 grams.  On June 17, 2018, a search of her vehicle and a motel room she was renting revealed over 1,000 grams of methamphetamine.

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

Janis-Bauer was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two South Dakota men convicted of conspiring to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl were sentenced on May 6, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Stuart Harlon Siecke, age 28, of Worthing, South Dakota, was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison, to be followed by 4 years of supervised release.  He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Dean Joseph Bourn, age 37, of Vermillion, South Dakota, was sentenced to 88 months in federal prison, to be followed by 4 years of supervised release.  He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Both men were indicted with others for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on February 5, 2019.  They both pled guilty on February 22, 2019.

Siecke and Bourn were obtaining fentanyl from co-conspirators in Minneapolis for redistribution in South Dakota.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, and the police departments of Vermillion, Yankton, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.

Both men 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, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault With a  Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting In Serious Bodily Injury.

Tiffany Spotted War Bonnet, age 44, was indicted on April 9, 2019.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 7, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that on March 4, 2019, Spotted War Bonnet assaulted an individual with a sharp metal object with the intent to do bodily harm, and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury.

The charges are merely accusations and Spotted War Bonnet 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.   

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

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

Dylan Blue Thunder, a/k/a Dylan Black Lance, age 19, was indicted on April 9, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 7, 2019, 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 March 29, 2019, Blue Thunder stabbed an individual with a knife in the neck with the intent to commit murder, and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury.

The charges are merely accusations and Blue Thunder 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.   

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

OMAHA, Neb., – The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) collected nearly 469 tons of unwanted medication at the 17th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day event, April 27, with a record-setting 6,398 sites hosted by more than 5,000 law enforcement partners. In South Dakota, 1,634 pounds of potentially dangerous and unwanted drugs were discarded at 25 sites with assistance from 24 local, state, tribal and federal partners. The DEA Omaha Division, which includes Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota and four counties in Illinois and Wisconsin, collected 32,713 pounds of medication on April 27.

"National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is more than just a day for people to turn in unwanted, unused and expired medication," DEA Omaha Division Diversion Program Manager William Stockmann said. "Take Back Day provides us with a time to remind our communities about the potential for misuse and abuse of prescription medication. It’s important for each of us to do our part in making sure that medications are properly safeguarded and eventually discarded, removing the temptation for misuse by family and friends."

Individuals unable to attend the Take Back Day event can locate year-round, secure drop-off locations by visiting https://apps2.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubdispsearch/spring/main?execution=e1s1. Or, to safely dispose of unwanted medication, remove medicine from its original container, mix it with an undesirable substance, such as used coffee grounds or kitty litter, place the mixture into a sealable bag and then throw the contents into the trash.

For more information on National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, including April 27 results, please visit, takebackday.dea.gov, or contact Omaha Division Public Affairs Specialist Emily Murray at 402-964-7950.

The next National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is set for Saturday, October 26.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man was acquitted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender as a result of a federal jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota, beginning mid-morning on May 2, 2019, and concluding in the afternoon of May 2, 2019.

Phillip Running, age 32, was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 13, 2019.

The charge alleged that between December 14, 2018, and December 20, 2018, Running, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under law, failed to register and update his registration.

The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service.  The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Jared Bourland, age 38, of Eagle Butte, South Dakota, was found guilty of Assault by Striking, Beating, or Wounding, and Simple Assault as a result of a federal jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota. 

The charge of Assault by Striking, Beating, or Wounding carries a maximum penalty of 1 year in federal prison and/or a $100,000.00 fine, 1 year of supervised release, and a $25.00 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  The Simple Assault charge carries a maximum penalty of 6 months in federal prison and/or a $5,000.00 fine, 1 year of supervised release, and a $10.00 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.   

Bourland was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 14, 2017.  The charges stemmed from an incident on December 28, 2016, when law enforcement was doing a welfare check at the Bourland residence, based on a call from Bourland’s mother-in-law.  When law enforcement arrived, the victim was upset and crying.  The victim told law enforcement that Bourland would not let her leave and when asked if she wanted to leave, the victim stated yes, collected her items, and left the residence.  Later that night, the victim later disclosed that she had been strangled, kicked, and punched by Bourland.  She was transported to the Indian Health Services where she was treated for her injuries.

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

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date has not been set.  The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a White River, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on April 29, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Roy Brushbreaker, III, age 24, was sentenced to 18 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.

Brushbreaker was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 15, 2018.  He pled guilty on February 6, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on January 28, 2017, in the Horse Creek Community near White River.  On that date, Brushbreaker was consuming alcoholic beverages and socializing at a house in Horse Creek.  At one point, Brushbreaker was alone in the house with the 15-year-old victim, who had also been consuming alcoholic beverages.  The victim went into a bedroom to change clothes, and Brushbreaker followed her and began touching her and making sexual advances.  He stopped when he heard someone come into the house.

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

Brushbreaker 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 Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

Kameron Lamont Jackson, age 26, was indicted on November 14, 2018.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 26, 2019, 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.

Jackson was convicted of Attempted Sexual Abuse of a Minor and Abusive Sexual Contact in May 2013.  As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender for a period of 25 years.  It is alleged that between October 3, 2018, and November 14, 2018, Jackson, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under Federal Law, failed to properly register as a sex offender.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.   

Jackson 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 St. Francis, South Dakota, woman convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter was sentenced on April 29, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Chelsea Okiya Wi Nixon, age 22, was sentenced to 13 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.

Nixon was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 11, 2018.  She pled guilty on February 7, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on August 18, 2018, when Nixon had ingested methamphetamine and stayed up late the evening prior. Nixon fell asleep while bottle-feeding her child. A relative entered the room Nixon was sleeping in, and observed Nixon’s shoulder covering the child’s face. The cause of death was reported as “asphyxia due to smothering by mother.”

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two men and four women from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, convicted of Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud, were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Brande Black, age 40, was sentenced on September 24, 2018, to 18 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.

Wakinyan Gay, age 20, was sentenced on October 22, 2018, to 18 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $11,135.90, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Cornell Butler, age 46, was sentenced on December 10, 2018, to time served, 5 years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $3,093.13, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Vanessa Carr, age 38, was sentenced on December 27, 2018, to time served, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Brandy Scholl, a/k/a Brandy Bentine, age 39, was sentenced on January 28, 2019, to 41 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $32,189.07, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Brittany Hockett, age 28, was sentenced on April 12, 2019, to time served, 4 years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $17,110.04, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

All Defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury on April 4, 2018.  Black pled guilty on June 25, 2018; Gay pled guilty on July 26, 2018; Butler pled guilty on July 30, 2018; Carr pled guilty on October 3, 2018; Scholl pled guilty on November 5, 2018; and Hockett pled guilty on February 1, 2019.

The convictions stemmed from incidents beginning on or about July 18, 2017, and continuing through August 30, 2017.  The Defendants knowingly and willfully conspired and agreed together and with each other, to execute a scheme to defraud one or more financial institutions in the District of South Dakota.

In furtherance of the conspiracy, one or more of the conspirators stole legitimate checks from the unsecured mailboxes of various individuals and businesses in the Sioux Falls area, altered the stolen checks by removing some of the original information regarding the payee and the payment amount of the checks, then adding fraudulent payee information and fraudulent payment amounts in order to defraud the financial institutions.

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

Black, Gay, and Scholl were 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 possessing a stolen firearm was sentenced on April 30, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

William Willis, age 35, was sentenced to 53 months in custody, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

WIllis was indicted for Possession of a Stolen Firearm by a federal grand jury on August 7, 2018.  He pled guilty on February 4, 2019.

On February 13, 2018, the Sioux Falls Police Department received a report that Willis had stolen his former employer’s 9mm handgun.  That evening, Sioux Falls Police Department officers stopped Willis’ vehicle for a traffic violation.  An officer performed a pat-down search and located the firearm concealed beneath Willis’ coat in his back waistband. 

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Ravinia, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury was sentenced on April 30, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Jacob Neault, age 26, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Neault was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2018.  He pled guilty on February 4, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on April 24, 2018, when Neault unlawfully shook a two-month old child.  The said assault caused serious injury, including severe head, brain, and eye trauma. 

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman convicted of Theft of Government Property was sentenced by Daneta Wollmann, U.S. Magistrate Judge.

Monica Tyon, age 52, was sentenced on April 26, 2019, to pay a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $4,755 in restitution.

The conviction stemmed from Tyon willfully and knowingly receiving approximately $4,755 in General Assistance funds, for which she was not eligible, between 2015 and 2018 while being employed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe Ambulance Services.

This case was investigated by the Office of Inspector General, U.S. Department of the Interior.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cassandra DeCoste and Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.

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

Meinrad Medicine, age 58, was indicted on March 12, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on May 2, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $1,000,000 fine, 3 years up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that between December 21, 2016, and March 27, 2017, Medicine knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute a substance containing a detectable amount of Hydrocodone and Oxycodone and did distribute the same.

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

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

Medicine was 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 has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse, Assault of a Spouse by Strangulation, and Child Abuse.

Boyer Thomas LaForge, Jr., age 31, was indicted on April 9, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 26, 2019, 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, up to life, of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on February 4, 2019, LaForge knowingly caused his intimate partner to engage in a sexual act by use of force, and further assaulted the victim by strangling and suffocating her.  The Indictment further alleges that LaForge did abuse, expose, torture, torment, and cruelly punish a child who had not attained the age of 18.

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

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

LaForge 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 Cherry Creek, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.

Myron Flying By Jr., age 25, was indicted on April 9, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 30, 2019, 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 January 19, 2019, Flying By Jr. assaulted an individual and said assault resulted in serious bodily injury.

The charge is merely an accusation and Flying By Jr. is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.   

Flying By Jr. was released on conditions pending trial.  A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Timothy Burns, age 50, of Brookings, South Dakota, was found guilty of five counts of wire fraud as a result of a five-day federal jury trial in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. 

Each charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  

Burns and co-defendant Tobias Ritesman were indicted by a federal grand jury on January 9, 2018, after an extensive investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Ritesman started a company called Ritesman Enterprises, Inc. in approximately 2012.  Ritesman had three companies that operated under its umbrella: Tinkers and Thinkers, Tiger Consulting, and Global Aquaponics, Inc.  In approximately June 2016, Ritesman formed SD Food Security, LLC.

Burns owned and operated multiple businesses in the Brookings area:  Oakwood Equity Group, LLC, Concrete Contractors, Inc., and Multiply, LLC, d/b/a CF Promo, CF Gear, and I-29 Sports.  Burns held these companies under a parent company called Syntech, Inc.  

Ritesman purportedly sought to build an aquaponics facility in Brookings.  The purpose of this facility would be to raise fish and produce.  Global Aquaponics, Inc. would contribute $5.6 million to the project and own 51% of the facility.  SD Food Security, LLC would contribute $5.4 million to the project—raised primarily by selling investment shares—and own 49% of the facility. 

As part of their fundraising efforts, Ritesman and Burns each circulated a private placement memorandum that contained false and misleading information about the aquaponics facility.  In addition, Ritesman and Burns each made false and fraudulent representations about the facility, either directly or through the salespeople they hired, in an effort to solicit investors for the project.  Bank records show that Ritesman and Burns were each stealing investor money and using it for their own purposes rather than for the aquaponics facility, which was never built.

On April 18, 2019, Ritesman pled guilty to all counts he was charged with: ten counts of wire fraud and eight counts of mail fraud. 

“Ritesman and Burns used the idea of what could be an innovative agricultural facility to defraud dozens of investors for their own personal gain,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.  “In South Dakota, a state with such strong agricultural roots, such criminal activity will be caught and prosecuted.”

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.

A presentence investigation was ordered for both Ritesman and Burns.  Ritesman’s sentencing is set for July 15, 2019.  Burns’ sentencing is set for July 22, 2019. 

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

Juan Antonio Garcia, Jr., age 32, and Byron Alexander Perez, a/k/a Kelvin Aquino, age 34, were indicted on April 2, 2019.  Garcia appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on April 10, 2019, and Perez appeared before Judge Duffy on April 24, 2019.  They both pled not guilty to the Indictment during their arraignments.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 40 years in federal prison and/or a $5 million fine, life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on beginning at an unknown date and continuing to on or about January 7, 2019, both Garcia and Perez knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed together, and with others, to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance.  

The charge is merely an accusation and Garcia and Perez are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration.  Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara P. Nash is prosecuting the case.   

Both Garcia and Perez were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, which has been set for June 18, 2019.

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

Frank Iron Heart, age 39, was indicted on February 13, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 24, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 6 months in federal prison and/or a $1,000 fine, and $10 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on December 18, 2018, Iron Heart willfully and unlawfully disobeyed and resisted a subpoena issued by the U.S. District Court requiring him to appear at a federal hearing in Pierre, South Dakota.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.   

Iron Heart was released on his own recognizance pending trial.  A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Distribution of a Controlled Substance.

Carlene Cloke, age 65, was indicted on March 12, 2019.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 23, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $1,000,000 fine, 3 years, up to life, of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that between December 21, 2016, and March 27, 2017, Cloke knowingly and intentionally distributed a substance containing a detectable amount of Hydrocodone and Oxycodone.

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

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Ft. Thompson, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Maintaining a Drug Involved Premises.

Michael George Fallis, age 41, was indicted on April 9, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 24, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that beginning at a time unknown but no later than December 1, 2015, and continuing to November 14, 2018, in South Dakota, Fallis knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, and unlawfully and knowingly used and maintained a place for the purposes of distributing and using methamphetamine.

The charges are merely accusations and Fallis 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 Bureau of Indian Affairs.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Yates, North Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Distribution of a Controlled Substance and Theft by an Employee of an Indian Gaming Establishment.

Candace Crow Ghost, age 41, was indicted on March 12, 2019.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 23, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $1,000,000 fine, 3 years up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that between December 21, 2016, and March 27, 2017, Crow Ghost knowingly and intentionally distributed a substance containing a detectable amount of Hydrocodone and Oxycodone, and further embezzled funds from the Grand River Casino, a gaming establishment operated by the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, in excess of $1,000.

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

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

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

The case was brought as part of The Guardians Project, a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities.  The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities. 

Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the participating agencies include: Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Bullhead, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Distribution of a Controlled Substance.

Karen Crow Necklace, age 66, was indicted on March 12, 2019.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 23, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $1,000,000 fine, 3 years up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that between December 21, 2016, and March 27, 2017, Crow Necklace knowingly and intentionally distributed a substance containing a detectable amount of Hydrocodone and Oxycodone.

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

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

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