District of South Dakota

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man convicted of Tampering with a Witness, Victim, or an Informant was sentenced on January 5, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornamnn.

Todd Stands Alone, f/k/a Todd Brave Crow, age 37, was sentenced to 36 months in custody, 1 year of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Stands Alone was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 11, 2015. He pled guilty on July 18, 2016.

The conviction stems from an incident on the evening of January 23, 2015, when the juvenile victim reported to her family that she had been beaten up by an adult family member while she was babysitting. Upon relaying these events to her family, the victim was immediately told not to report this incident to anyone. Stands Alone told the victim on numerous occasions not to speak to anyone about the incident, harassing the victim to the point that she did not know who she could trust. Stands Alone also persuaded his mother and others in the family to pressure the victim into not speaking to authorities or contact anyone regarding the incident. This harassing behavior continued for multiple days.

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man convicted of Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender was sentenced on January 5, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Jason Martinez, age 41, was sentenced to 120 months in custody, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Martinez was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 21, 2016. A Superseding Indictment was filed on July 19, 2016. He pled guilty on August 15, 2016.

The conviction stems from an incident on December 8, 2016, when Martinez and his girlfriend, the victim, were socializing with several friends at a residence in McLaughlin.

Following an argument, the victim returned to her residence and went down to the basement to gather her belongings. As she was in the basement gathering her things, the victim heard a noise behind her and when she turned and looked, she saw Martinez standing there. Martinez made a disparaging remark to the victim and he started to hit her repeatedly. He hit her all about her head, face, and legs. In addition, Martinez repeatedly threw her down to the ground and struck her repeatedly in the back.

The victim tried to remain curled up in a ball in the corner to avoid further injury, however, Martinez grabbed her, tearing a portion of the victim’s clothes. Martinez continued to strike her about the head, and as a result there was so much blood coming down her face that she was having a hard time seeing. Martinez would not stop hitting her.

As a result of the assault, the victim sustained multiple cuts, bruises, scrapes, and abrasions. The lacerations to her scalp were so deep that her skull was visible through the wound site. The victim needed stitches to close the wound from the various lacerations she had sustained.

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man charged with Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal officer pled guilty to, and was sentenced, on January 4, 2017, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.

Johnny Walking Bull, age 32, was sentenced to 10 months in custody, 12 months of supervised release, and $25 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The conviction stems from an incident that took place on March 19, 2016, when an officer with the Bureau of Indian Affairs received a call regarding an assault that was reported to be taking place at a residence in Lower Brule. While in route, the officer was informed that Walking Bull had left their residence wearing a light blue jacket and blue jeans, and that he had gotten into a blue Dodge Durango heading towards Fort Thompson.

The officer went towards Fort Thompson and observed a blue Dodge Durango coming his way. As the car came closer, the officer observed two males in the car, one of whom was wearing a light blue jacket. He turned his patrol unit around, initiated a stop, made contact with the driver of the Durango and asked him if Walking Bull was with him, to which the driver responded that he was sitting in the passenger seat. The officer asked Walking Bull to step outside the vehicle so he could speak with him, to which Walking Bull used profane language, and refused to follow the officer’s requests. Walking Bull then exited the vehicle, removed his jacket, assumed a fighting stance towards the officer, and clenched his fists.

Walking Bull then lowered his head and started swinging his fists at the officer, missing him. The officer moved into close quarters and both of them ended up wrestling on the ground, with Walking Bull throwing punches at the officer and striking him on the cheek. While on the ground, Walking Bull continued to resist and tried multiple times to get up from the ground. Walking Bull was taken into custody and transported to jail.

The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Lower Brule Agency. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges.

Walking Bull is allowed to self-report on January 20, 2017.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Little Eagle, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on January 4, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Kimo Little Bird, age 35, was sentenced to 27 months in custody, 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Little Bird was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 13, 2016. He pled guilty on October 31, 2016.

The conviction stems from Little Bird failing to register as a sex offender as required by federal law between June 16, 2016, and September 13, 2016. Little Bird had previously been convicted of a sex offense in federal court, which requires him to register as a sex offender for 25 years starting in 2006.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Kenel, South Dakota, man charged with Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on January 4, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Kass Gayton, age 32, was sentenced to 3 years of probation, a $1,000 fine, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Gayton was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 8, 2015. He pled guilty on October 31, 2016.

The conviction stems from an incident that took place on July 22, 2015, when the Bureau of Indian Affairs law enforcement, acting on a tip from Prairie Knights Casino security, began an investigation into four individuals who were reported to have been selling methamphetamine. Security directed law enforcement’s attention to two vehicles the individuals had been using. A drug dog was used around the outside of the vehicles and “indicated” on both vehicles. Law enforcement applied for, and obtained, federal search warrants for the two vehicles and found methamphetamine.

Gayton had been selling small amounts of methamphetamine on the Standing Rock Reservation.

The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Agency Village, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact with a Person Incapable of Consent was sentenced on January 5, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Harvey Renville, age 63, was sentenced to 72 months in custody, 10 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Renville was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 15, 2016. He pled guilty on December 13, 2016 to a Superseding Information.

The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning in May of 2012, and continuing through December 31, 2012. The victim became acquainted with Renville when he began to care for her family’s horses, and the victim started spending considerable time at his residence.

It was during this time period that the abusive sexual contact occurred. Renville admitted that during one of the times the victim was at his residence, he had direct contact with the victim’s genitalia with his finger and his hand. At the time of the sexual contact, the victim was unable to consent. Renville had been previously convicted of a sex offense, which required him to register as a sex offender.

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that Michele Ann Palm, age 51, of Watertown, South Dakota, appeared before the Honorable Charles B. Kornmann, U.S. District Judge, on January 6, 2017, and pled guilty to an Indictment that charged her with wire fraud.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in prison and/or a $250,000 fine, plus restitution.

Palm was appointed to serve as guardian and conservator for a woman she had known for several years. Beginning in March 2008, Palm wrote checks to herself and made ATM cash withdrawals from the victim’s account, and used the funds for her own purposes rather than for the benefit of the protected person. Because some of the transactions involved interstate electronic wire transmissions, Palm’s theft is a federal offense.

The investigation was conducted by the Watertown Police Department and the U.S. Secret Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman.

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for May 30, 2017. Palm was released pending sentencing.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man and a Rosebud, South Dakota, woman have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Kidnapping.

Benjamin Young, age 35, and Stefanie Long, age 27, were indicted on December 13, 2016. Both have appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in custody 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 or about September 10, 2016, Young and Long kidnapped and held a woman near St. Francis, for the purpose of assaulting her.

The charge is merely an accusation and Young and Long are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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

Long was released on bond, and Young was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been scheduled for March 7, 2017.

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

Heather DuBray, age 45, was indicted on December 13, 2016. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on January 6, 2017, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that on or about November 7, 2016, DuBray did forcibly assault, resist, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with two corrections officers from the Rosebud Sioux Tribe while they were engaged in the performance of their official duties.

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

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Dupree, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault by Striking, Beating, and Wounding was sentenced on January 4, 2017, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.

Kelly Gene Clown, age 41, was sentenced to 6 months in custody, 1 year of supervised release, and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Clown was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 15, 2016, for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon. He pled guilty to Assault by Striking, Beating, and Wounding on October 4, 2016.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that took place near Thunder Butte on May 23, 2015, when Clown assaulted the victim by hitting and kicking him in the face.

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

Clown was ordered to self-report to the U.S. Marshals Service by January 20, 2017, to begin serving his sentence.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Felony Child Abuse and Neglect.

Matthew Harold Iron, Sr., 32, was indicted on December 20, 2016, and appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on December 29, 2016.  He pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The penalty upon conviction is up to 15 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The charge relates to Iron exposing a child under the age of 7 to an environment constituting mistreatment, and threatening him with substantial harm near Kyle. The charge is merely an accusation and Iron is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon.

Lloyd Yankton, Jr., 36, was indicted on December 20, 2016, and appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on December 30, 2016.  He pleaded not guilty to the charge.

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

The charge relates to Yankton assaulting a woman near Kyle with a wooden board during an argument, causing multiple injuries.  The charge is merely an accusation and Yankton is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

Darrell Chase In Winter, age 24, was indicted on December 20, 2016.  Chase In Winter appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on December 23, 2016, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The charge relates to Chase In Winter failing to register and update his registration as a convicted sex offender between May 14, 2016, and September 29, 2016.

The charge is merely an accusation and Chase In Winter is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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

Chase In Winter was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial.  A trial date has been set for February 28, 2017.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Second Degree Murder and Discharge of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence.

Thomas Joseph Brewer, 26, was indicted on December 20, 2016, and appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on December 28, 2016.  He pleaded not guilty to the charges.

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

The charges relate to Brewer shooting a man in the stomach after an argument, killing him. The charges are merely an accusation and Brewer is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Patterson is prosecuting the case.

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Okreek, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse, Sexual Abuse of a Minor, and Child Abuse.

Marcos Lorenzo Bear Shield, age 21, was indicted on December 13, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 21, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction for Aggravated Sexual Abuse is life in custody and a lifetime of supervised release. The maximum penalty upon conviction for both Sexual Abuse of a Minor and Child Abuse is up to 15 years in custody and 3 years of supervised release. Each offense carries a maximum fine of $250,000 and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on August 4, 2015, Bear Shield knowingly engaged in and attempted to engage in a sexual act with a minor. The Indictment also alleges that on the same date Bear Shield abused, exposed, tortured, tormented, and cruelly punished the minor victim. The victim had attained the age of twelve years, but had not attained the age of sixteen years, and was at least four years younger than Bear Shield. The charges are merely accusations and Bear Shield is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mission, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.

Yolanda Prue, age 31, was indicted on December 14, 2016.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 21, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that on May 3, 2016, Prue knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute methamphetamine in South  Dakota.

The charge is merely an accusation and Prue 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 Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.   

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

PIERRE, S.D - Attorney General Marty Jackley and United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced today that the Division of Criminal Investigation, the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Spearfish Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations have arrested Nicholaus Tripp, 28, Spearfish, South Dakota, on one count of Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet (18 USC 2422(b).

Tripp was arrested on a criminal complaint on December 23, 2016, and made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on December 27, 2016.  He pled not guilty to the charge.  

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years’ mandatory minimum imprisonment up to life.

The charge relates to Tripp utilizing the internet to attempt to engage in unlawful sexual acts with a minor. 

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

Tripp has been detained pending trial.  A trial date has been set for February 28, 2017.  The charge is merely an accusation and Tripp is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Distribution of a Controlled Substance.

Ebony Hope Justyne Cook, age 20, was indicted on October 12, 2016.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Moreno on December 13, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that on three occasions, July 19, 20, and 22, 2016, in Eagle Butte, Cook knowingly and intentionally distributed methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. 

The charges are merely an accusation and Cook 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 SaraBeth Donovan is prosecuting the case.   

Cook was released on bond pending trial.  Trial is set for February 21, 2017.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man and woman have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Incest.

Daniel Mexican, age 43, and Santana Mexican, age 25, were indicted on December 14, 2016.  They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 16, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that on November 20, 2016, Daniel Mexican and Santana Mexican knowingly engaged in consensual sex with each other, when they are within the degrees of consanguinity which would render a marriage void.

The charge is merely an accusation and Daniel Mexican and Santana Mexican are 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.   

Both Defendants were released on bond pending trial, which has been set for February 21, 2017.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Third Degree Burglary.

Joseph Marshall, age 37, was indicted on December 14, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 20, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that on May 18, 2016, Marshall unlawfully broke into the Ranch House Café with the intent to commit the crime of larceny.

The charge is merely an accusation and Marshall 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.   

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Blunt, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for two counts of Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition.

Robert Dwayne Spaid, age 60, was indicted on December 13, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 21, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that on or about October 27, 2016, Spaid, having previously been convicted of a felony, did knowingly possess a firearm.  The Indictment further alleges that on or about November 23, 2016, Spaid knowingly possessed ammunition.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Hughes County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Valentine, Nebraska, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on December 12, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Chelsey Sherri Little, a/k/a Chelsey Long Crow, age 22, was sentenced to 51 months in custody, 3 years of supervised release, a $500 fine, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Little was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 15, 2016.  She pled guilty on September 27, 2016.

Between January of 2015 and March of 2016, Little and others conspired and agreed to knowingly and intentionally distribute methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance, in South Dakota.  Little received distributable quantities of methamphetamine from individuals who knew that she intended to engage in further distribution of the drug.  Little also provided methamphetamine to others knowing that they intended to engage in further distribution of the methamphetamine within the District of South Dakota.  It was reasonably foreseeable to Little that at least 350 grams of methamphetamine would be distributed during the course of the conspiracy.

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mission, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on December 19, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Sarah Jean Roblez, age 27, was sentenced to 46 months in custody, 3 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Roblez was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 15, 2016.  She pled guilty on September 27, 2016.

Between January of 2015 and March of 2016, Roblez and others conspired and agreed to knowingly and intentionally distribute methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance, in South Dakota.  Roblez received distributable quantities of methamphetamine from other individuals who knew that she intended to engage in further distribution of the drug in South Dakota.  Further, Roblez provided methamphetamine to others knowing that they intended to engage in further distribution of the methamphetamine within South Dakota.  It was reasonably foreseeable to Roblez that at least 350 grams of methamphetamine would be distributed during the course of the conspiracy. 

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on December 20, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Norman Lee Ritter, age 49, was sentenced to 108 months in custody, 4 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, a mandatory special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100, and the forfeiture of firearms, ammunition, and $1,203 in U.S. currency seized by law enforcement on September 17, 2015.

Ritter was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 15, 2016.  He pled guilty on October 4, 2016.

Between February of 2015, and March of 2016, Ritter conspired and agreed with other individuals to knowingly and intentionally distribute methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance, in South Dakota.  The conspiracy involved the distribution of between 1.5 and 5 kilograms of methamphetamine.  Ritter received distributable quantities of methamphetamine from individuals who knew that he intended to engage in further distribution.  Ritter then distributed that methamphetamine.  

This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney SaraBeth Donovan prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault by Striking, Beating, and Wounding was sentenced on December 20, 2016, by U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes.

Sinjin Cameron, age 23, was sentenced to 180 days in custody, and a $25 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Cameron was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 14, 2016.  He pled guilty to a Superseding Information on September 19, 2016.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on May 27, 2016, when Cameron had an altercation with the victim.  Though the altercation was mutual, Cameron gained the upper-hand and rendered the victim unconscious, and as the victim laid on the road, Cameron struck the victim on or about the head, causing minor injury to the victim.

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an investigation is underway after an officer-involved shooting on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.

On Tuesday evening, December 27, 2016, an officer with the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety was on patrol in Kyle, South Dakota, on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation when he had contact with a male individual.  The officer had a brief conversation with the man when, at some point during the encounter, the man drew a firearm on the officer.  In turn, the officer drew his own firearm and fired at least three rounds, hitting the individual and resulting in his death. 

Other officers arrived on scene to find the first officer rendering aid to the male individual.  It was subsequently determined the male was in possession of two 9-millimeter caliber firearms, a quantity of methamphetamine, and 200-300 rounds of ammunition. 

Following Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety protocol, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was immediately notified.  FBI agents responded and began an investigation into the facts and circumstances of the shooting.  That investigation is ongoing and an autopsy of the victim is scheduled to occur soon. 

This matter remains under investigation by the FBI.  Pending the results of the investigation, the officer has been placed on paid administrative departmental leave. 

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on December 19, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Robert Earlwin Lofton, Jr., a/k/a Robert Erwin Lofton, Jr., a/k/a Blue Lofton, age 35, was sentenced to 78 months in custody, 5 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and forfeiture of $250 in United States currency, two firearms and ammunition seized by law enforcement.

Lofton was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 13, 2016.  He pled guilty on September 27, 2016.

Between March of 2014 and April of 2016, Lofton and others conspired and agreed to knowingly and intentionally distribute methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance, in South Dakota.  Lofton received distributable quantities of methamphetamine from individuals who knew that he intended to engage in further distribution of the methamphetamine.  Lofton also provided methamphetamine to others knowing that they intended to engage in further distribution of the methamphetamine within the District of South Dakota.  Lofton agreed that at least 350 grams of methamphetamine was distributed during the course of the conspiracy.

On October 20, 2014, Lofton was arrested at the Cheyenne River Motel in Eagle Butte, with marijuana, drug paraphernalia, $250, and a pistol firearm and ammunition in his possession.  On April 21, 2016, Lofton was arrested on the federal charges, at his residence in Eagle Butte.  During the execution of a search warrant, law enforcement found methamphetamine in the residence, as well as a pistol firearm and ammunition in a vehicle parked in the driveway.  All of the above items were seized by law enforcement. 

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Dupree, South Dakota, man convicted of Distribution of a Controlled Substance was sentenced on December 19, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Ptan Clown, a/k/a P’tan Hoksila Clown, age 36, was sentenced to 8 months in custody, 3 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Clown was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 19, 2016.  He pled guilty on October 4, 2016.

Between May 29, 2016 and June 8, 2016, Clown knowingly and intentionally distributed various amounts of methamphetamine for varying amounts of cash on three separate occasions.  Methamphetamine is a Schedule II Controlled Substance. 

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Wadsworth, Nevada, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Child Abuse.

Wakan Waci Blindman, age 36, was indicted on November 9, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 20, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in custody and/or a $500,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on September 10, 2016, Blindman knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute marihuana, a Schedule I controlled substance.  He also had his one-year-old son in his vehicle while engaging in the distribution of drugs.

The charges are merely accusations and Blindman 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 Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mitchell, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Kidnapping, Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer, and Assault with a Dangerous Weapon.

Corey Johnson, age 30, was indicted on December 14, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 20, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in custody and/or a $750,000 fine, 11 years of supervised release, and $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on November 2, 2016, Johnson knowingly and willfully kidnapped and assaulted a victim with a dangerous weapon.  The indictment also alleges that Johnson forcibly assaulted, resisted, opposed, impeded, and interfered with two U.S. Marshals.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that all five defendants involved in the burglary of the DaVita Dialysis Center in Rosebud, South Dakota, in January 2016 have now been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.  

On May 17, 2016, all five defendants were indicted for Third Degree Burglary.  A Superseding Indictment was filed on June 14, 2016, charging one count of Third Degree Burglary and one count of Larceny.

Seryl Leroy Pomani, Jr., a/k/a Leroy Pomani, age 28, of Rosebud, pled guilty to Third Degree Burglary in July 2016.  He was sentenced on September 6, 2016, to 5 months in custody (in addition to the 4 months he spent in tribal custody prior to his initial appearance in federal court) to be followed by 2 years of supervised release.

Michelle Iron Cloud, age 30, of Mission, pled guilty to Third Degree Burglary in September 2016.  She was sentenced on December 6, 2016, to time served equal to approximately 3 months in custody (in addition to the approximately three months she spent in tribal custody prior to her initial appearance in federal court) followed by 18 months of supervised release.

Jonathan Anthony Jones, a/k/a DJ Jones, age 36, of Rosebud, pled guilty to Third Degree Burglary in September 2016.  He was sentenced on December 12, 2016, to 3 months in custody, followed by 3 months’ home confinement or placement in a residential reentry center, followed by 2 years of supervised release.

Robert Pomani, age 24, of Rosebud, pled guilty to Larceny in September 2016.  He was sentenced on December 19, 2016, to 4 months in custody, followed by three years of supervised release.  At the time of the offense, Robert Pomani was on federal supervised release and was sentenced to an additional 4 months in custody for violating the terms of his supervised release.

Alicia Good Shield, age 30, of Rosebud, pled guilty in October 2016 to a Superseding Information charging Receiving Stolen Property.  On December 20, 2016, she was placed on probation for a period of 18 months.

The defendants were ordered to pay restitution of at least $5,615.66, jointly and severally, for damage caused and items stolen.  Additionally, each defendant was ordered to pay a special assessment of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The convictions stem from burglaries that occurred in January 2016.  The Defendants broke into the DaVita Dialysis Center and stole multiple items that had been donated and were displayed inside the building.  These items included star quilts and dream catchers.  The Defendants subsequently sold several star quilts to unwitting third parties.  They then used the proceeds of those sales to purchase methamphetamine and marijuana, which they shared amongst themselves.

The investigation was conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case. 

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on December 20, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Walter Hanson, Jr., age 31, was sentenced to 48 months in custody, 3 years of Supervised Release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

          Hanson was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 13, 2016.  He pled guilty on October 4, 2016.

          The conviction stemmed from an incident on January 13, 2016, when some people met up with Hanson and started drinking and socializing, while driving around Eagle Butte, and then going towards Cherry Creek.  Along the way, Hanson and the other male got into a verbal argument.  Hanson used a knife to slit the victim’s throat just below the jaw line.  Hanson got out of the car and ran away while the victim went inside his mother’s home to get help.  A total of 29 sutures were used to close the laceration.

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury was sentenced on December 19, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Darrell Clown, age 49, was sentenced to 37 months in custody, 2 years of Supervised Release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

          Clown was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 13, 2016.  He pled guilty on September 27, 2016.

          The conviction stemmed from an incident on December 10, 2015, when Clown and his intimate partner, who had just reconciled in late November of 2015, argued because the Defendant was jealous and was also upset about a job offer she had received that he did not agree with.   Clown began drinking, became more irate, and started punching the victim in the face with his fist.  He also hit her in the arms and legs with a broomstick.  Clown then pinned the victim down on the floor and punched her in the face.  He then began to choke her, rendering her unconscious. 

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on December 16, 2016, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Lydia Dowty, age 21, was sentenced to 8 months’ custody, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Dowty pleaded guilty to the charge on August 26, 2016.  The conviction stemmed from Dowty possessing a .45 caliber pistol on April 1, 2016, at Rapid City.  Dowty was under the influence of methamphetamine at the time, and was prohibited from possessing firearms.

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Pennsylvania man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault by Striking, Beating, and Wounding.

Marwan Sadekni, age 67, was indicted on November 9, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 14, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 1 year in custody and/or a $100,000 fine, 1 year of supervised release, and a $25 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that Sadekni, between January 23, 2015, and January 31, 2015, and again on February 25, 2015, unlawfully struck a coworker at the Indian Health Service Hospital in Rosebud, South Dakota.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Todd County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Carrie Sanderson is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a North Hills, California, man convicted of Access Device Fraud was sentenced on December 15, 2016, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Nelson Sargsyan, age 49, was sentenced and ordered to pay $8,809.90 in restitution, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Sargsyan pleaded guilty to the charge on July 8, 2016.  The conviction stems from Sargsyan, as an over-the-road truck driver based out of California, using a “skimmed” credit card number that belonged to the U.S. Forest Service to obtain fuel for his semi-truck.  Sargsyan obtained approximately $8,808.90 in fuel and services that financed his trucking business across the United States between January and April 2014.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Forest Service.  U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Misprision of a Felony.

Tiffanee Garnier, a/k/a Tiffanee Alford, a/k/a Love, age 30, was indicted on November 16, 2016.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollman on December 9, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 3 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 1 year of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

Garnier is charged with having knowledge of the murder of Vincent Brewer III, on October 16, 2016, which she concealed by assisting Brewer’s assailants in fleeing the scene, and not notifying the authorities.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Rapid City Police Department.  Assisting from the District of Colorado were the Rocky Mountain Safe Streets Task Force, Aurora Police Department, and the Lakewood Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys’ Kathryn N. Rich and Sarah B. Collins are prosecuting the case.

Garnier is in the custody of the U.S. Marshals.  A trial date has been set for February 14, 2017.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, woman, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Misprision of a Felony.

Tyler Schae Brewer a/k/a Ty Schae Brewer, age 26, was indicted on October 4, 2016.  She has appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollman and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 3 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 1 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

On September 29, 2016, Brewer had knowledge of the murder of Annie Colhoff, which she concealed by assisting Colhoff’s assailant in fleeing the scene, and did not notify the authorities.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Pennington County Sheriff’s office, and the Rapid City Police Department.  Assisting from the District of Colorado were the Rocky Mountain Safe Streets Task Force, Aurora Police Department, and the Lakewood Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys’ Kathryn N. Rich and Sarah B. Collins are prosecuting the case.

Brewer was released on bond pending trial.  A trial date has been set for January 3, 2017.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, woman, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Misprision of a Felony.

Stevie Ray Makes Good, age 24, was indicted on November 16, 2016.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollman on December 9, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 5 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 1 year of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

On October 19, 2016, Makes Good knowingly made false statements when she informed law enforcement she was not present at the scene of the September 29, 2016, shooting of Annie Colhoff in Pine Ridge.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Pennington County Sheriff’s office, and the Rapid City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys’ Kathryn N. Rich and Sarah B. Collins are prosecuting the case.

Makes Good was released on bond pending trial.  A trial date has been set for February 14, 2017.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Felony Child Abuse and Neglect was sentenced on December 12, 2016, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Joseph Clifford, age 72, was sentenced to 1 year of unsupervised probation and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The conviction stems from Clifford abusing a child, who had not attained the age of seven years, between December 2011 and February 2014 at Pine Ridge.

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

Tyrell Thin Elk, age 34, was indicted on October 12, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on December 12, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, a mandatory minimum period of supervised release of at least 5 years, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that between August 23, 2016, and August 28, 2016, Thin Elk, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of a conviction, failed to register and update his registration as required by law.

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

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man convicted of Child Abuse was sentenced on December 12, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Fritz Eagleshield, III, age 40, was sentenced to 3 years of probation and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Eagleshield was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 17, 2016.  He pled guilty on August 22, 2016.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on December 27, 2015, when a Lieutenant with the Bureau of Indian Affairs was driving through McLaughlin as part of his patrol shift, and noticed a vehicle in an alleyway that was running and appeared suspicious. Upon approaching the vehicle, he noticed the driver’s seat was empty, but saw a small boy huddled in the back seat of the vehicle wearing only a t-shirt and boxer shorts.  The boy was breathing and conscious, but shivering, as the outside temperature was -3°F.   

Child Protection Services (CPS) was notified, and an investigator arrived and identified the young boy.  The CPS worker also informed the Lieutenant that the victim is autistic and a special needs case.  The CPS worker took the victim from the vehicle to find family placement for him. 

The Lieutenant went to Eagleshield’s residence, where he was placed under tribal arrest.  He admitted to law enforcement that the boy found in the car was his son, and that he must have forgotten him in the vehicle when he went for cigarettes earlier in the evening.  Eagleshield further admitted that he was responsible for his son and that his actions amounted to child abuse.

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Manderson, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Sexual Abuse of a Minor.

Ryder White Hawk Sierra, age 27, was indicted on November 16, 2016.  White Hawk Sierra appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on December 9, 2016, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The charge relates to White Hawk Sierra sexually abusing a minor between August and September 2016 at Wounded Knee.

The charge is merely an accusation and White Hawk Sierra is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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

White Hawk Sierra was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial.  A trial date has been set for February 14, 2017.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that Michael Shane Thompson, age 45, of Lake Andes, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. District Court Judge Karen E. Schreier on December 15, 2016, and pled guilty to an Indictment that charged him with being a Felon in Possession of Firearms.    

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in custody, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release.

On February 11, 2016, Yankton Sioux Tribe law enforcement officers responded to a call at Thompson’s residence.  During a search of the residence, officers found firearms.  Thompson knew of and had access to the firearms.  Thompson was previously convicted of a felony and, as such, he was precluded from possessing firearms. 

The investigation was conducted by Yankton Sioux Tribal Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri.

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for March 6, 2017.  The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Kenel, South Dakota, man charged with Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on December 12, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Charles Wells, age 27, was sentenced to 37 months in custody, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Wells was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 8, 2015.  He pled guilty on September 20, 2016.

The conviction stems from an incident that took place on July 22, 2015, when the Bureau of Indian Affairs law enforcement, acting on a tip from Prairie Knights Casino security, began an investigation into four individuals who were reported to have been selling methamphetamine.  Security directed law enforcement’s attention to two vehicles the individuals had been using.  A drug dog was used around the outside of the vehicles and “indicated” on both vehicles.  Law enforcement applied for, and obtained, federal search warrants for the two vehicles and found methamphetamine. 

Wells had been selling methamphetamine on the Standing Rock Reservation.

The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley. 

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Colorado man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Second Degree Murder, Discharge of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence, and Possession of Ammunition by a Prohibited Person.

Orlando Guadalupe Jose Ephron Villanueva de Macias, a/k/a "Chris," age 36, was indicted on November 16, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollman on December 9, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100.00 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

On September 29, 2016, Villanueva de Macias shot and killed Chunta Suta Wi Colhoff, a/k/a Annie Colhoff, with a firearm in Pine Ridge, South Dakota.  Also on September 29, 2016, Villanueva De Macias illegally possessed ammunition.

The charges are merely an accusation and Villanueva de Macias is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Rapid City Police Department.  Assisting from the District of Colorado were the Rocky Mountain Safe Streets Task Force, Aurora Police Department, and the Lakewood Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys’ Kathryn N. Rich and Sarah B. Collins are prosecuting the case.

Villanueva de Macias is in the custody of the U.S. Marshals.  A trial date has been set for February 14, 2017.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Bullhead, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on December 12, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

William Left Hand, age 31, was sentenced to 24 months in custody, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Left Hand was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 15, 2014.  He pled guilty on September 12, 2016.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on the night of February 22, 2012, when the victim received a telephone call from Left Hand, who invited her over to his mother’s house to play dice and socialize.  The victim agreed and Left Hand came to pick her up. 

As the evening continued, Left Hand started making advances towards the victim that made her feel uncomfortable.  Left Hand eventually asked the victim if they were going to “hook up” that night.  Left Hand then tried to hug the victim, who pushed him away.  He then asked the victim if they were just going to be friends, and the victim replied yes. Left Hand and the victim, along with others, continued to socialize.  Later in the evening, despite knowing how the victim felt, Left Hand proceeded to touch the victim’s breasts and genitalia, without her permission.

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Scottsbluff, Nebraska, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on November 28, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Rogelio (Roy) Guel, Jr., age 41, was sentenced to 63 months in custody, followed by 3 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Guel was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 15, 2016, for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.  He pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance on September 14, 2016.

Between January of 2015 and March of 2016, Guel and others conspired and agreed to knowingly and intentionally distribute methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance, in South Dakota.  Guel received distributable quantities of methamphetamine from individuals who knew that he intended to engage in further distribution of the methamphetamine.  He also provided methamphetamine to others knowing that they intended to engage in further distribution of the methamphetamine within the District of South Dakota.  It was reasonably foreseeable to Guel that at least 350 grams of methamphetamine would be distributed during the course of the conspiracy.

This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and the Northern Plains Safe Trials Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney SaraBeth Donovan prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an O’Kreek, South Dakota, woman convicted of Possession of Methamphetamine was sentenced on November 28, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Corrine Ford, age 25, was sentenced to 3 years of probation, a $1,000 fine, a special assessment of $25 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and the forfeiture of a pistol firearm.

Ford was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 9, 2015, for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.  She pled guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance, charged in a Superseding Information, on September 14, 2016.

On or about July 11, 2015, Ford knowingly and intentionally possessed methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance, in Todd County, South Dakota.  On July 14, 2015, a search warrant was executed at Ford’s residence.  Authorities found and seized from Ford’s vehicle a pistol firearm and ammunition.  Ford denied ownership of the firearm and ammunition, and denied knowing that they were in her vehicle.  Ford admitted to using methamphetamine, and other individuals confirmed that she has used methamphetamine. 

This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney SaraBeth Donovan prosecuted the case.

Ford was released after sentencing.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on December 6, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Robert Chauncey, age 66, was sentenced to 25 months in custody, followed by 6 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, forfeiture of $1,701.63, and a special assessment of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Chauncey was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 10, 2015.  He pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance (methamphetamine), on September 14, 2016.

The conviction stemmed from a traffic stop on December 2, 2014, in which the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services stopped a vehicle owned and driven by Chauncey.  Marijuana, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and digital scales, as well as $1,701.63 in United States currency, was found on Chauncey’s person.  Chauncey admitted that he intended to distribute the 11.89 grams of methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance, within the State of South Dakota. 

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

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