District of South Dakota

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

Quenton James Brown Otter, age 72, was indicted on April 9, 2019.  He 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, Brown Otter knowingly and intentionally distributed a substance containing a detectable amount of Hydrocodone.

The charge is merely an accusation and Brown Otter 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.   

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

 

OMAHA, Neb., – The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and its national, tribal and community partners will host the 17th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at more 6,000 sites nationwide, including 24 locations in South Dakota. To date, 20 counties in South Dakota and the Standing Rock and Lower Brule Reservations, will host drop-off locations where individuals can dispose of expired, unused and unwanted prescription medications. This service is free and anonymous, however DEA cannot accept liquids, needles or other sharp objects.

Every year, America is losing more than 70,000 people to drug overdose deaths. This is the equivalent of the capacity of the Minnesota Vikings’ U.S. Bank Stadium with additional space needed for 4,000 more people. In 2017, an estimated 3.2 million Americans age 12 or older reported misusing prescription pain relievers within the last month, making prescription opioids the second-most abused drug after marijuana in the United States. The majority of prescription drug abusers say they get their drugs free from friends and family, including from the home medicine cabinet.

"In South Dakota, 270 people died of opioid overdose between 2014 and 2017," DEA Omaha Division Special Agent in Charge Richard Salter Jr., said. "These were mothers, fathers, children, friends and neighbors in our communities who didn’t need to die. National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is a way in which members of our communities can do their part to prevent the next overdose death by cleaning out their cabinets and those of their loves ones and getting rid of unused, unwanted and expired medications that have the potential for abuse."

Now in its ninth year, the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day initiative continues to remove high amounts of opioids and other medicines from homes, where they are vulnerable to misuse, theft or abuse by family members and visitors, including children and teens. Since the first National Prescription Drug Take Back Day held in 2010, DEA has collected nearly 11 million pounds of medications.

To locate a DEA Take Back site, visit www.DEATakeBack.com or call 1-800-882-9539.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Yankton, South Dakota, woman convicted of conspiring to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine was sentenced on April 22, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

April Villagomez, age 38, was sentenced to 100 months in custody, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.  She was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Villagomez was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on April 4, 2018.  She pled guilty on January 31, 2019.

Villagomez had co‑conspirators in Arizona mail her packages of methamphetamine and sold it to drug customers in South Dakota.  On March 21, 2018, search warrants were executed on a package mailed to her address and on her home.  The package contained 85.94 grams of methamphetamine, and over $4,000 in cash was located in the home.  It is estimated based upon the number of packages delivered to her home that Villagomez received and distributed over 1,800 grams of methamphetamine during a six-month period.

This case was investigated by the Yankton Police Department, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.  Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two men and one woman from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, convicted of Counterfeiting United States Currency and Possession of Stolen Firearms, were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Shalene Paige Ball, age 29, was sentenced to 7 months in custody, followed by 3 years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $3,000, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Michael Scott Norton, a/k/a Michael Scott Carey, age 59, was sentenced to 59 days in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $1,500, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Chester Lee Kempf, age 62, was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $3,000, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Ball, Kempf, and Norton were indicted by a federal grand jury on June 6, 2018.  Ball pled guilty on December 27, 2018, to Passing Counterfeit U.S. Currency; Kempf pled guilty on January 17, 2019, to Passing Counterfeit U.S. Currency and Possession of a Stolen Firearm; and Norton pled guilty on November 14, 2018, to Making Counterfeit U.S. Currency.

The conviction stemmed from incidents in August and November of 2017, when Ball and Kempf passed counterfeit $100 bills to several businesses in and around Sioux Falls.  The investigation revealed that Norton created the counterfeit bills for Kempf and Ball.  Ball and Kempf then used the fake bills at local businesses to make small purchases and receive genuine currency as change.  The real money was used to purchase illegal drugs.

Kempf was also indicted in another matter by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2018.  He pled guilty on January 17, 2019.  That conviction stemmed from an incident on or about December 9, 2017.  On that day, Ball called 911 to report that Kempf was unresponsive and struggling to breathe.  When police and paramedics arrived, they learned that Kempf had overdosed on heroin and also had a stolen handgun in his possession. 

This case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the cases.

Ball had already served her time in custody prior to sentencing, while Kempf and Norton were turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.  

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Reliance, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault by Striking, Beating, and Wounding plead guilty and was sentenced on April 22, 2019, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.

Roger Bishop, age 27, was sentenced to 3 years of probation, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $25.

Bishop was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 11, 2018.  

The conviction stemmed from an incident on April 14, 2018, when Bishop got into a heated argument with the victim, and threw her to the ground causing her to sprain her wrist.

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

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

Myron Walters, age 59, was indicted on April 9, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 22, 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 January 1, 2016, Walters knowingly possessed and received a firearm after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year.

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

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for 22 counts of Wire Fraud.

Calvin Waln, Jr., a/k/a “Hawkeye” Waln, age 41, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 30 years in federal prison and/or a $1,000,000 fine, as well as 5 years of supervised release.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The charges relate to Waln knowingly writing insufficient funds checks from two financial accounts which he knew had been either depleted of funds or closed prior to writing the checks. 

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

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

Waln was released on bond pending trial.  A trial date has been set for May 28, 2019.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Embezzlement and Theft from a Tribal Organization and Larceny.

Teri Pretty Weasel, age 35, was indicted on March 12, 2019.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 18, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 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 between the 27th day of February, 2015, and the 13th day of March, 2015, Pretty Weasel, being an employee of an Indian tribal organization, that is, the cashier of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Bingo Operations, embezzled and converted to her own use over $1,000 of the moneys, funds, and credits belonging to the Bingo Operations.

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

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

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

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

Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, participating federal agencies in the Guardians Project  include: the Federal Bureau of Investigation; 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; and the U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

Vine Janis, age 38, was indicted on March 12, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 19, 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, up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that between July 6 and July 17, 2017; April 1 through June 18, 2018; and September 1 through October 19, 2018, Janis failed to register and update his registration under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.   

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

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

Michael Charlton, age 18, was indicted on April 9, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 16, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 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 January 29, 2019, Charlton unlawfully entered and took an amount more than $1,000 in United States currency from the Suds-N-Snacks building in Eagle Butte.

The charge is merely an accusation and Charlton 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.   

Charlton was released pending trial.  A trial date has been set for June 18, 2019.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a White Horse, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate Partner.

Shawn Traversie, age 34, was indicted on April 9, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 16, 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 January 27, 2019, Traversie assaulted his intimate partner with shod feet, resulting in substantial bodily injury to the victim.

The charges are merely accusations and Traversie 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 Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.   

Traversie 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 Assault of an Intimate Partner by Strangulation and Suffocation.

Francis Stanford Stricker, age 47, was indicted on March 12, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 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 7, 2018, Stricker unlawfully committed a domestic assault against his intimate partner, by strangling and suffocating her.

The charge is merely an accusation and Stricker 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.   

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

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 Methamphetamine.

Marques Smith, age 37, was indicted on March 12, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 16, 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, up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that beginning no later than on or about January 1, 2011, and continuing to on or about October 11, 2017, Smith knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.   

Smith 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, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.

Franki Lee Zephier, age 32, was indicted on November 14, 2018. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 15, 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, up to a lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that beginning no later than on or about January 1, 2017, and continuing to on or about November 14, 2018, Zephier knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.   

Zephier was released on bond 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 Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

Moses Left Hand Bull, age 28, was indicted on April 9, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 17, 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.

Left Hand Bull was convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor in August 2009.  As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender.  It is alleged that between February 9, 2019, and March 5, 2019, Left Hand Bull, 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 and update his registration.

The charge is merely an accusation and Left Hand Bull is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.   

Left Hand Bull 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 Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on April 15, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Benjamen T. Flute, a/k/a Benjamin T. Flute, age 39, was sentenced to 24 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.

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

Flute was convicted of Second-Degree Rape in Caddo County, Oklahoma, in December 2007.  As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender and to update his registration within three business days of relocation or changing employment.  In 2017, Flute was convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender in the District of South Dakota, after he moved from Oklahoma to Mission and did not update his registration.  In September 2018, Flute was residing in Rapid City, South Dakota.  He subsequently moved to Mission but did not update his registration.

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

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

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

Carlton Felicia, age 20, was indicted on February 13, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 18, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty for each count 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 July 1, 2018, Felicia and another individual assaulted the victim with shod feet, which resulted in serious bodily injury to the victim.

Grant Whitney, his co-defendant, previously appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 21, 2019, and plead not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Lower Brule Agency.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Wood, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Prohibited Person in Possession of Firearms.

David Blue Bird, age 25, was indicted by superseding indictment on March 12, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 15, 2019, and pled not guilty.

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

The Superseding Indictment alleges that on or about the 8th day of September, 2018, through the 26th day of January, 2019, Blue Bird did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more methamphetamine and, being an unlawful user of methamphetamine, did knowingly receive and possess three firearms.

The charges are merely an accusation and Blue Bird is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

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

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.   

Blue Bird 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 has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

Damon Clyde Has Horns, age 38, was indicted on March 12, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 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, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

Has Horns was convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse in March 2001.  As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender.  It is alleged that between December 3, 2018, and March 12, 2019, Has Horns, 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 and update his registration.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.   

Has Horns 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 Sexual Abuse.

Jesse James Leader Charge, age 24, was indicted on January 23, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 15, 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 of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on January 1, 2017, Leader Charge knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, a sexual act with a victim, who at the time was physically incapable of declining participation in, or communicating an unwillingness to engage in, the sexual act.

The charge is merely an accusation and Leader Charge 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.   

Leader Charge 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 Criminal Contempt was sentenced on April 17, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Charles Black Spotted Horse, age 26, was sentenced to 2 months in federal prison and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $10.

Black Spotted Horse was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 23, 2019.  He pled guilty on February 7, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on December 26, 2018, when Black Spotted Horse disobeyed and resisted an order and command of the U.S. District Court, in that he failed to self-report for arrest and left the federal building.

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

Black Spotted 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 convicted of two counts of being a Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm, and Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, was sentenced on April 15, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Mark Edward O’Leary, III, age 35, was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison on each count to run concurrently, followed by 3 years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $100,700, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $300.

O’Leary was indicted by a federal grand jury for the Possession of a Firearm charges on August 16, 2017, and on the Wire Fraud charge on February 14, 2018. He pled guilty on January 4, 2019.

The convictions stem from separate incidents. The firearms incident occurred on June 9, 2017, where O’Leary, being an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, methamphetamine, did knowingly receive and possess 14 firearms. The second incident occurred between February 4, 2011, through June 6, 2017, where O’Leary passed at least 544 checks drawn on a bank account not belonging to him. The checks were used for personal items for O’Leary and the purchases or deposits were not authorized by the owner of the bank account.

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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.

O’Leary was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on April 16, 2019, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.

Jade LaRoche, age 39, was sentenced to time served, which was 351 days of custody, 1 year of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $25.

LaRoche was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 12, 2018.  He pled guilty on February 26, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on May 17, 2018, when LaRoche was being held at the Lower Brule jail and became indignant with an officer who was ensuring LaRoche was complying with medication protocol.  LaRoche attempted to push the officer out of his way and a shoving match ensued.  The altercation continued when both LaRoche and the officer fell, and a brief wrestling match was had until LaRoche was detained and placed into a cell.

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

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

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

Roland Hawk, Sr., age 50, was indicted on April 9, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 16, 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, up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on August 16, November 1, and November 30, 2018, Hawk knowingly engaged in and attempted to engage in a sexual act with an individual by the use of force. The Indictment further alleges that between August 1, and December 31, 2018, Hawk knowingly engaged in and attempted to engage in sexual contact with the individual to abuse, humiliate, and degrade that person, or to arouse and gratify his own sexual desire without consent of the individual.

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

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Cherry Creek, South Dakota, man convicted of Sexual Abuse was sentenced on April 15, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Keeler Condon, age 33, was sentenced to 87 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.

Condon was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 17, 2018.  He pled guilty on January 23, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on May 25, 2018, when Condon had sexual intercourse with a female who was not able to consent to the sexual act because of her high level of intoxication.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of Firearms by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on April 5, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Richard Joseph Long, Jr., age 45, was sentenced to 54 months in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Long was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 4, 2018.  He pled guilty on January 17, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on or about between November 20, 2017, and December 6, 2017, when Long broke into his father's home and stole firearms and other property.  Long was caught attempting to sell one of the firearms to a pawnshop in Sioux Falls.  The pawn business was aware of the items reported stolen and immediately contacted the police.  Long was prohibited from possessing any guns because he had previously been convicted of a felony.

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

Long 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 with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.

Dana Standing Bear, age 40, was indicted on March 19, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann and pleaded not guilty to the charges.  The penalty upon conviction is a minimum of 5 years up to 40 years in federal prison and/or a $5,000,000 fine, a minimum of 4 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 Standing Bear knowingly being in possession of two 9mm semi-automatic pistols as well as methamphetamine in February 2019 at Rapid City.  The charges are merely an accusation and Standing Bear is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

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

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Patterson is prosecuting the case.

Standing Bear was detained pending trial.  A trial date has not been set. 

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Minnesota man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Felon.

Mark Schmidt, age 54, was indicted on January 23, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 4, 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, up to 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on or about December 5, 2018, Schmidt, a convicted felon, knowingly possessed a Smith & Wesson, model 28 Highway Patrolman, .357 Magnum caliber, double-action revolver and twenty-three rounds of Blazer brand, .357 Magnum caliber ammunition.

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

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on April 1, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Rain Blaine, age 19, was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison, 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Blaine was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 14, 2018.  He pled guilty on January 8, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on June 24, 2018, when Blaine became upset with an individual during a conversation and stabbed the victim in the abdomen.  Blaine then dropped the knife and began to physically assault the victim with his hands and feet.  The victim had to be airlifted to Sioux Falls, where he was treated for his injuries.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.

Benjamin Big Eagle, a/k/a Benji Big Eagle, age 32, was indicted on November 14, 2018.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 4, 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, up to a lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that beginning no later than on or about January 1, 2017, and continuing to on or about November 14, 2018, Big Eagle knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.   

Big Eagle was released on bond pending trial.  A trial date has been set for May 28, 2019.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Maintaining a Drug Involved Premises.

TaLonna Bear Eagle, a/k/a TaLonna LeRae Dupris, age 24, was indicted on March 12, 2019.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 5, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that beginning at a time unknown but no later than on or about April 24, 2018, and continuing through March 12, 2019, Bear Eagle conspired with others to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and maintained a place for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.   

Bear Eagle was released on bond.  A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Waylon Young Bird, 49, of Eagle Butte, South Dakota, was found guilty of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance as a result of a two-day federal jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota. 

The conviction carries a mandatory minimum of 10 years up to life in prison and an $11,000,000 fine, a mandatory minimum of 5 years up to life of supervised release once released from prison, and $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  

 Young Bird was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 15, 2018. 

The jury found that from January 1, 2016 until May 15, 2018, Young Bird had knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine, which is a Schedule II controlled substance on, the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation.  The Jury also convicted Young Bird of knowingly and intentionally possessing with the intent to distribute a detectable amount of methamphetamine from a March 9, 2018, traffic stop. During this stop, Young Bird was found to have just under 10 grams of methamphetamine hidden in his sock in eight little baggies.  Also found during the stop were 74 unused baggies, a straw fashioned into a scoop and a spoon.

The investigation was conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for May 16, 2019.  The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on April 1, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Rain Blaine, age 19, was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison, 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Blaine was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 14, 2018.  He pled guilty on January 8, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on June 24, 2018, when Blaine became upset with an individual during a conversation and stabbed the victim in the abdomen.  Blaine then dropped the knife and began to physically assault the victim with his hands and feet.  The victim had to be airlifted to Sioux Falls, where he was treated for his injuries.

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

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

# # #

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Isaiah H. Rangel, age 50, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, appeared before District Judge Karen E. Schreier, on April 3, 2019, and pled guilty to an Indictment that charged him with Aiding and Assisting in the Preparation of False and Fraudulent Tax Returns.       

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 3 years in federal prison and/or a $100,000 fine, a period of supervised release of not more than 1 year, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Between January 29, 2015, and April 15, 2015, Rangel, a resident of South Dakota, operated a tax preparation business known as 1st Global Tax.  Rangel willfully assisted in the preparation of a false and fraudulent Income Tax Return of a taxpayer for calendar year 2014.

The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper.

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for June 24, 2019.  The defendant was released pending sentencing.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.

Dana Standing Bear, age 40, was indicted on March 19, 2019.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann and pleaded not guilty to the charges.  The penalty upon conviction is a minimum of 5 years up to 40 years in federal prison and/or a $5,000,000 fine, a minimum of 4 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 Standing Bear knowingly being in possession of two 9mm semi-automatic pistols, as well as methamphetamine in February 2019 at Rapid City.  The charges are merely an accusation and Standing Bear is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

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

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Rapid City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Patterson is prosecuting the case.

Standing Bear was detained pending trial.  A trial date has not been set. 

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on April 1, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Machela Chauncey, a/k/a Machela Ryon, age 29, was sentenced to 5 years in federal prison, 4 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Chauncey was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 14, 2018.  She pled guilty on January 23, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from a conspiracy that occurred between October 1, 2016 through January 31, 2017, where Chauncey knowingly and intentionally conspired and distributed methamphetamine on the Rosebud Indian Reservation.

This case was investigated by the Rosebud Police Department and Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.

Chauncey 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 and woman were charged in federal district court with Possession of a Stolen Firearm and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.

Cory Myers, age 44, and Esmeralda Stands, age 37, were indicted on March 19, 2019.  Myers was also charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. Vasknetz and Stands appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann and pleaded not guilty to the charges.  The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in federal prison and/or a $1,000,000 fine, lifetime supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The charges relate to Myers and Stands knowingly possessing stolen firearms as well as methamphetamine.  Law enforcement located approximately 30 firearms in a hotel room being occupied by Myers and Stands.  The firearms had been reported stolen from a storage unit in Rapid City several days prior to law enforcement recovering them in the hotel room. 

The charges are merely an accusation and Myers and Stands 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Patterson is prosecuting the case.

Myers and Stands were detained pending trial.  A trial date has been set for April 30, 2019. 

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Box Elder, South Dakota, woman convicted of Theft of Government Property was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Amy N. Garcia, age 34, was sentenced on April 1, 2019, to 6 months in federal prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $4,904.38 in restitution to Dakota Plains Legal Services.

Garcia was charged on July 26, 2016.  The conviction stems from Garcia, a former secretary and paralegal for Dakota Plains Legal Services (DPLS) in Pine Ridge, South Dakota, altering and cashing five old DPLS checks issued to her.   While Garcia was employed by DPLS she was paid by direct deposit, but was provided a payroll check for her records that was identical to a printed check with one exception, the word “VOID” was printed where the numeric dollar amount would normally appear.  Between May and June 2016, Garcia took copies of the five voided checks and altered the checks by removing the word “VOID” and the original date on the checks, and then inserting a dollar amount and new date.  Garcia then cashed the checks at various locations.  In total, Garcia fraudulently stole $4,904.38 in funds rightfully belonging to DPLS.  DPLS receives federal funding in order to provide civil legal representation to low income persons.

“Our office takes conduct like this very seriously,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.  “Anyone who steals from the United States government or steals from a federal program will spend some time in federal prison.”

Jeffrey E. Schanz, Inspector General of the LSC, Office of Inspector General, stated: “We hope the prosecution of Amy Garcia offers a strong deterrent to others contemplating stealing Legal Services Corporation (LSC) funds that are intended to provide much needed legal services to an underprivileged population. We appreciate the leadership offered by the U.S Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota in prosecuting individuals who steal funds meant to serve the civil legal needs of the poor in our country.”

This case was investigated by the Legal Services Corporation, Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.

Garcia was ordered to self-surrender to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service on a future date.

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

Clara Poor Bear, age 28, was indicted on August 14, 2018.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on March 28, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 40 years in prison and/or a $5,000,000 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 between October 1, 2016 and January 31, 2017, Poor Bear knowingly and intentionally conspired and distributed methamphetamine on the Rosebud Reservation.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.   

Poor Bear was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial.  A trial date has been set for May 28, 2019.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Wagner, South Dakota, man convicted of Obtaining Controlled Substances by Fraud was sentenced on April 1, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Robert Fox, Jr., age 36, was sentenced to 5 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.

Fox was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 6, 2018.  He pled guilty on January 3, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from incidents between January 20, 2016, and February 1, 2016, when Fox, who had previously been convicted of a felony, knowingly and intentionally obtained hydrocodone, a Schedule II controlled substance.  Fox, complaining of back pain stemming from an injury in 2005, was prescribed a 20-day supply of Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen (80 tablets).  Fox subsequently lied and made misrepresentations to multiple medical providers at various medical facilities in an effort to obtain additional hydrocodone tablets.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.

Fox 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 Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury was sentenced on April 1, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

James Charger, age 21, was sentenced to 54 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.

Charger was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 13, 2018.  He pled guilty on December 2, 2018.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on February 6, 2018, when Charger stabbed another person with a knife in the chest and upper body at least nine times.  The victim was flown by emergency air transport to Rapid City Regional Hospital, where he was treated for his injuries and survived.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sturgis, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Possession of an Unregistered Firearm.

Kelly Vasknetz, age 47, was indicted on March 19, 2019.  Vasknetz appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann 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 supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.

The charge relates to Vasknetz knowingly being in possession of a double-barrel shotgun with a barrel of less than 18 inches in length that was not registered to him.  The charge is merely an accusation and Vasketnz 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.

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Sturgis Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Patterson is prosecuting the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on March 26, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Garrett Alan Heck, age 23, was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day 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.

Heck was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 11, 2018.  He pled guilty on January 23, 2019.

Heck was convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse in July 2012.  As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender.  It is alleged that between April 27, 2018, and July 2018, Heck, 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.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that three Pierre, South Dakota, individuals have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.

Jacob Seibel, age 25, Christa Seibel, age 22, and Darrell Hamann, age 25, were indicted on March 12, 2019.  Jacob Seibel and Christa Seibel appeared on March 18, 2019, and Hamann appeared on March 22, 2019, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.  All three pled not guilty to the Indictments.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in prison and/or a $1,000,000 fine, at least 3 years, up to life, of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for each Count.    

The Indictments allege that between September 1, 2018, and September 5, 2018, Jacob Seibel, Christa Seibel and Hamann knowingly and intentionally conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, in South Dakota. 

The charges are merely accusations and Jacob Seibel, Christa Seibel and Hamann are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, Pierre Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.   

All three defendants were released on bond 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 Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.

Alicia Medicine Eagle, age 38, was indicted on March 13, 2019.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on March 25, 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, up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on October 14, 2016, and October 26, 2016, Medicine Eagle possessed methamphetamine with intent to distribute it to others.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.   

Medicine Eagle was released on bond.  A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Third Degree Burglary was sentenced on March 26, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Preston White Feather, age 23, was sentenced to 14 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.

White Feather was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 12, 2018.  He pled guilty on January 23, 2019.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred in the early morning hours of April 9, 2018, wherein White Feather broke into and burglarized the Todd County High School in Mission, and stole property belonging to the school, valued at over $4,000.

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

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Manderson, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Elijah West, age 21, was sentenced on March 25, 2019, to 24 months in federal prison, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The conviction stems from West knowingly being in possession of a Ruger .22 caliber revolver, while unlawfully using and distributing methamphetamine in February 2018 at Pine Ridge.

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 was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin Patterson and Heather Sazama prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man convicted of Discharging a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Charles Kieffe, age 34, was sentenced on March 22, 2019, to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $3,854.54 in restitution and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Kieffe was indicted by a federal grand jury in May 2018.  The charge related to Kieffe pursuing a vehicle on March 23, 2018, near Kyle.  After getting a short distance in front of the victims’ vehicle, Kieffe stopped his vehicle causing the victims to slam on their vehicle’s brakes.  Kieffe exited his vehicle and discharged a .270 caliber rifle at the victims’ vehicle, striking the windshield and the passenger’s side window.  The victims quickly spun their vehicle around and sped away from Kieffe.  Kieffe confessed to law enforcement that he intentionally discharged the firearm at the victims’ vehicle, thinking someone who had sold him $1,500 worth of bad drugs was inside the vehicle.  One of the victims sustained a shrapnel injury to her leg and property damage to her vehicle.

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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man convicted of Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender was sentenced on March 26, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Michael Farmer, age 31, was sentenced to 14 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.

Farmer was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 11, 2018.  He pled guilty on December 21, 2018.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on July 19, 2017, when Farmer, who has four prior convictions of domestic assault, had been out all night following an argument the previous day, came home and forced his intimate partner out of the residence.  While removing the victim from the home, Farmer struck her on the arms and legs causing bruising. 

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

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

SIOUX FALLS, SD – In observance of Women’s History Month, United States Attorney Ron Parsons is pleased to honor and highlight the first and only woman to serve as the Presidentially-appointed U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota, the Honorable Karen E. Schreier.

Annette Abbott Adams

The first U.S. Attorneys were appointed in 1789 and it was not until 129 years later that the first woman became a U.S Attorney.  Her name was Annette Abbott Adams.  She was appointed by the court and then nominated by President Wilson in 1918 to serve as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of California.  It was not until 39 years later, in 1957, before the next woman was appointed as a U.S. Attorney, Kathleen Ruddell, who was nominated by President Eisenhower to serve in the Eastern District of Louisiana.

Karen E. Schreier

It took some time, but the District of South Dakota eventually caught up with history.  In 1993, Karen E. Schreier was appointed by President Clinton and confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the 36th U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota.  She served in that capacity for six years until 1999, when she was appointed by President Clinton and confirmed by the Senate as the first and only woman to serve as a U.S. District Judge in the District of South Dakota.  Judge Schreier presided as Chief Judge of the District of South Dakota from 2006 to 2013, and continues to serve as the principal U.S. District Judge for the Southern Division.

Thanks in large part to the pathfinding accomplishments of leaders such as Judge Schreier, women now make up 56 percent (18 out of 32) of Assistant U.S. Attorneys serving in the District of South Dakota and approximately 60 percent of its total staff.  The U.S. Attorney’s Office is proud to commemorate Women’s History Month and to encourage the study, observance, and celebration of the vital role of women in American history.