District of South Dakota

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender was sentenced on December 5, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Thomas Small Bear, age 42, was sentenced to 33 months in custody, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  

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

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on November 17, 2015.  Small Bear had been drinking with his girlfriend and some friends at his residence in the Ring Thunder Community.  At one point, Small Bear and his girlfriend gave a ride to another friend.  While still in the vehicle, Small Bear’s girlfriend confronted him about sending text messages to other women.  Small Bear got angry, grabbed her and started punching her in the face and kicking her.  As a result of the incident, Small Bear’s girlfriend suffered a cut, bruising, and a bump on the left side of her face.  At the time of this incident, Small Bear had three prior convictions in Rosebud Sioux Tribal Court for Domestic Abuse.  He also had a prior conviction in federal court for Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender, and was on federal probation when he committed the offense on November 17, 2015. 

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

Small Bear 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 Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender was sentenced on December 6, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Jodie Brave, age 46, was sentenced to 27 months in custody, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  

Brave was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 21, 2016.  He pled guilty on September 14, 2016. 

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on December 1, 2015, wherein Brave assaulted his son at their home in Mission.  Brave had been drinking and got in an argument with his domestic partner.  At some point Brave began assaulting his domestic partner, and Brave’s son tried to intervene and stop the assault.  Brave retaliated by pushing his son to the floor.  At the time of this incident, Brave had two prior convictions in Rosebud Sioux Tribal Court for Domestic Abuse, and was on federal supervised release. 

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man has been charged with the federal offenses of First Degree Murder, Second Degree Murder, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury to a Child, and Child Abuse by a Superseding Indictment filed October 18, 2016.

Matthew St. Pierre, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on December 6, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Superseding Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment and/or a $1,000,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $400 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Superseding Indictment alleges that on or about between October 11th and October 12th, 2016, St. Pierre repeatedly struck a child, causing injuries which led to the child’s death.  It is further alleged that such acts resulted in serious bodily injury to the child and were committed while St. Pierre was committing the act of Felony Child Abuse.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Standing Rock Agency and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.   

St. Pierre was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, which is set for February 6, 2017.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on November 28, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Jordan Traversie, age 26, was sentenced to 12 months and a day in custody, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Traversie was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 19, 2016.  He pled guilty on September 14, 2016.

The conviction stemmed from an incident wherein Traversie failed to register as a sex offender from June 1, 2016, and June 14, 2016.  Traversie was initially convicted in federal court in 2014 for Sexual Abuse of a Minor and was sentenced to 18 months of custody, as well as being required to register as a sex offender.  After being released from prison, he updated his registration several time as required.  But on Mother’s Day weekend 2016, he went to Sioux Falls to visit his mother, and was told by his probation officer that if he planned on staying in Sioux Falls, he would need to register an address. Traversie understood his requirement, stayed in Sioux Falls but did not register.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case.

Traversie 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 Second Degree Murder was sentenced on December 5, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Corbyn Big Eagle, age 22, was sentenced to 180 months in custody, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Big Eagle was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 14, 2015.  He pled guilty on September 7, 2016.

The conviction stemmed from an incident on June 16, 2015.  During a social gathering at Big Eagle’s residence in Eagle Butte, a misunderstanding between the victim and another male at the gathering resulted in the victim punching the other man.  A third man at the party then intervened and took the victim to the floor, restraining him.  Big Eagle went to the kitchen, grabbed a large knife, and stabbed the victim once in the chest.  The stab wound was fatal and the victim died. 

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

Big Eagle 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 Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on November 21, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Wambli Meeter, age 34, was sentenced to time served, which had been approximately 12 months in custody and treatment, 2 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and the forfeiture of $185 in U.S. currency.

Meeter was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 14, 2015, for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.  He pled guilty to the charge on December 15, 2015.

Between June 2, 2015 and June 10, 2015, Meeter knowingly and intentionally distributed and possessed with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance, in South Dakota.  On June 2, 2015, in Eagle Butte, Meeter possessed 4.47 grams of methamphetamine in six individual baggies, a syringe fully loaded with a clear liquid that field-tested positive for opiates, and brass knuckles.  On June 10, 2015, in and around the Standing Rock Reservation in South Dakota, Meeter used, purchased, and distributed methamphetamine.

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

Meeter was released after sentencing.

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

Mary Marso, age 64, was indicted on November 9, 2016.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 2, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that on or about December 10, 2015, Marso struck a juvenile student at the Todd County Elementary School in Mission, South Dakota.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Carrie G. Sanderson is prosecuting the case.   

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

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

Lloyd One Star, age 26, was indicted on November 9, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 28, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 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 between January 1, 2015, and March 7, 2016, One Star knowingly and intentionally distributed a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.  Also, on March 7, 2016, One Star and his co-defendant knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute said methamphetamine.

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

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

One Star was released on bond pending trial which has been set for January 24, 2017.

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

Benton Rowland, age 32, was indicted on November 16, 2016.  Rowland appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on November 30, 2016, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is life 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 charges relate to Rowland sexually abusing a minor between 2008 and 2014 at Manderson and Pine Ridge.

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

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

Rowland was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial.  A trial date has been set for February 7, 2017.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that Franklin Long Black Cat, age 23, of Pine Ridge, South Dakota, was found guilty of Assaulting a Federal Officer as a result of a federal bench trial in Rapid City, South Dakota.

The charge carries a maximum penalty of 8 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The charge relates to Long Black Cat assaulting a federal law enforcement officer by spitting on, and physically resisting, a deputy U.S. Marshal on July 1, 2016, at Rapid City.

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

A sentencing date will be set.  Long Black Cat was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Carjacking.

Jon Henri Bryant, Sr., age 60, was indicted on November 9, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica Duffy on November 22, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 25 years 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.

According to the Indictment, on October 25, 2016, Bryant forcefully and violently took a motor vehicle from the victim, who suffered serious bodily injury.  Bryant committed the carjacking with the intent to cause death or serious bodily harm.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, the Sioux Falls Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Marshal’s Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.   

Bryant was returned to the custody of the State of South Dakota pending trial.  A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Baltic, South Dakota, woman convicted of her part in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy was sentenced on November 28, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Tammy Hodgin, age 42, was sentenced to 130 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.

Hodgin was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute 500 Grams or More of Methamphetamine by a federal grand jury on May 10, 2016.  She pled guilty on September 6, 2016.

Hodgin was part of a group of people who began working together in July 2015 to distribute methamphetamine in South Dakota and elsewhere.  Hodgin distributed methamphetamine she received from coconspirators.  On three occasions in July and August, 2015, she sold methamphetamine to confidential sources in Minnehaha County, South Dakota.

This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.

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

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

Jason Poorman, age 40, was indicted on November 9, 2016. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Moreno on November 22, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child is up to life in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, any term of years, up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution also may be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that between March 19, 2004, and May 6, 2005, in Parmalee, South Dakota, Poorman did knowingly engage in a sexual act with a child who had not attained the age of 12 years.

The charges are merely an accusation and Poorman 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 G. Sanderson is prosecuting the case.   

Poorman 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 Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Interstate Domestic Violence was sentenced on November 21, 2016, by U.S. District Court Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Jerrid Lee Morris, age 26, was sentenced to 46 months in custody, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 federal special assessment.

Morris was indicted on the charge by a federal grand jury on September 1, 2015.  He pled guilty on September 2, 2016.

On August 8, 2015, Morris told an adult female dating partner of his that they were traveling from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Omaha, Nebraska, for the purpose of having her dance as a stripper.  However, he really intended to have her engage in prostitution.  When she resisted, Morris placed a knife against her cheek and threatened to harm her.   

This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, Opposing, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on November 22, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Blair Has Horns, age 35, was sentenced to time served of 4 months in custody, 2 years of supervised release with 4 months of home confinement, and a a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Has Horns was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 15, 2016.  He pled guilty on August 30, 2016.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on January 5, 2016. Has Horns was incarcerated on unrelated tribal charges and was an inmate at the Adult Correctional Facility in Rosebud, South Dakota. Has Horns became belligerent with a correctional officer and spit on him.

This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Carrie G. Sanderson prosecuted the case.

Has Horns was immediately released to home confinement.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting a Federal Officer.

Laverne White Horse, age 27, was indicted on October 12, 2016. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 17, 2016, 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 August 13, 2016, in Todd County, South Dakota, White Horse assaulted a federal law enforcement officer.

The charge is merely an accusation and White Horse 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.   

White Horse was released on bond pending trial, which is set for January 3, 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.

James Robert Dowty, age 27, was indicted on November 16, 2016.  Dowty appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on November 22, 2016, and pleaded 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 charges relate to Dowty killing a young female on July 20, 2016, at Pine Ridge by shooting her with a gun.

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

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

Dowty was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial.  

United States Attorney Randolph Seiler announces that Karl Knutson, age 28, currently serving time in prison for making false claims to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency Livestock Indemnity Program for cattle lost during the October 2013 winter storm Atlas, has agreed to settle the civil claims associated with his conduct.  Knutson recently reached an agreement with the government wherein he will pay $15,000 in civil penalties for his violations of the False Claims Act.

The False Claims Act, (31 U.S.C. § 3729) imposes a civil penalty of not less than $5,500 and not more than $11,000 for each false claim, plus three times the amount of damages which the government sustained, on persons who knowingly submit false claims to the government. Earlier this year, Knutson admitted to knowingly submitting false claims, claiming to have lost 129 head of cattle during the storm, knowing he had only lost no more than 13, and was sentenced (on the criminal charge) to 12 months of imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release, ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and a fine of $7,380.04.  The settlement agreement resolves the civil liability for his conduct. 

The United States Attorney’s Office places a high priority on both criminal and civil enforcement in cases involving all types of fraud committed against the government, and works with various law enforcement agencies to identify and investigate these matters. The investigation in this case was conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General (OIG).  Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin Patterson and Cheryl Schrempp DuPris prosecuted the criminal and civil cases respectively.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Second Degree Murder.

Marlin Iron Crow, age 43, was indicted on November 16, 2016.  Iron Crow appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on November 22, 2016, and pleaded 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 charge relates to Iron Crow killing another man by assaulting him in the head on November 11, 2016, at Porcupine.

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

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

Iron Crow 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 Kadoka, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for eight counts of Wire Fraud, Aggravated Identity Theft, and eight counts of Bank Fraud.

Tammy Twiss, a/k/a Tammy Eisenbraun, age 38, was indicted on November 16, 2016. Twiss appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on November 18, 2016, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 30 years in custody and/or a $1,000,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The charges relate to Twiss using her ex-husband’s name, along with his parents’ banking information, to conduct fraudulent wire transfers. Twiss electronically withdrew in excess of $20,000 from her ex-in-laws’ bank account.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Postal Service.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen is prosecuting the case.

Twiss was released on bond pending trial.  A trial date has been set for January 24, 2017.

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

Tyson Curtis LeCompte, a/k/a Tyson Garreaux, age 22, was indicted on November 9, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Moreno on November 10, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 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 be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on October 19, 2016, in the District of South Dakota, LeCompte knowingly escaped from the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service, in that he failed to return to the Hughes County Jail in Pierre, South Dakota following a funeral furlough, as ordered by the U.S. District Court.

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

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

LeCompte was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, the date of which has not been set.

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

Jeremiah James Little Wounded, age 36, was indicted on November 9, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Moreno on November 16, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in custody and/or a $1,000,000 fine, a lifetime of supervised release, and payment of $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on July 7, 18, and 22, 2016, at Eagle Butte, Little Wounded knowingly and intentionally distributed a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. 

The charges are merely accusations and Little Wounded 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.   

Little Wounded was released on bond pending trial, the date of which has not been set.

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

Jordan Paul Cass, age 31, was indicted on November 9, 2016. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Moreno on November 15, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in custody and/or a $1,000,000 fine, a lifetime of supervised release, and $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on August 1, 23, and 24, 2016, at Eagle Butte, Cass knowingly and intentionally distributed a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. 

The charges are merely accusations and Cass 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.   

Cass was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, which has not been set.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury on one count of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, two counts of Distribution of a Controlled Substance, and four counts of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.

Charlie Warren Marshall, age 26, was indicted on November 9, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 16, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

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

The Indictment alleges that between January 1, 2015, and November 8, 2016, in the District of South Dakota, Marshall conspired with others to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, and actually distributed methamphetamine on two specific occasions.  The Indictment further alleges that Marshall unlawfully received and possessed firearms when he was prohibited from doing so because he was an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance.

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

The investigation is being conducted 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 is prosecuting the case.   

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Dupree, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for two counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, and four counts of Assaulting, Resisting, Opposing, and Impeding a Federal Officer.

Miles Condon, age 25, was initially indicted on October 12, 2016, on a four count Indictment.  On November 9, 2016, the indictment was superseded, to add another count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, and two more counts of Assaulting a Federal Officer.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Moreno on November 16, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Superseding Indictment. 

The maximum penalty upon conviction of the two non-officer related assault charges is up to 10 years in custody.  The maximum penalty upon conviction of the four officer-related assault charges is up to 8 years in custody.  In each instance, the maximum fine is up to a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund on each count.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The original Indictment alleged that on August 3, 2016, in Dupree, Condon unlawfully assaulted the victim with a golf club, and that the victim sustained serious bodily injury as a result of the assault.  The Indictment also alleges that on August 3, 2016, and again on September 7, 2016, in Dupree, Condon forcibly assaulted, resisted, opposed, impeded, intimidated and interfered with a federal law enforcement officer who was engaged in, and on account of, the performance of his official duties, and that said conduct involved physical contact with the federal officer. 

The Superseding Indictment alleges additional offenses, including that on October 13, 2016, Condon forcibly assaulted, resisted, opposed, impeded, intimidated and interfered with law enforcement officers who were assisting a federal officer in arresting the defendant on the original indictment, and that said conduct involved physical contact with the federal officers.  The Superseding Indictment also alleges that the defendant kicked a federal corrections officer with shod feet after he arrived at the jail following his arrest.   

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Ziebach County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.   

Condon was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial which has been set for December 13, 2016.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, woman convicted of Child Abuse was sentenced on November 7, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Leonna Lynn Poorman, a/k/a Leona Lynn Poorman, age 29, was sentenced to 5 months in custody, followed by 2 years of supervised release with 5 months of home confinement, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Poorman was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 17, 2016.  She pled guilty on August 16, 2016.

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on February 8, 2015. On February 6, 2015, Poorman began drinking alcohol at a home near St. Francis, and she brought her five children, all under age seven, with her to the home.  Poorman drank alcohol and partied at the home from February 6, 2015, to the morning of February 8, 2015.  The children stayed in a back bedroom of the home and no adult remained sober to help care for them.

In the early morning of February 8, 2015, Poorman was intoxicated and went to sleep in the same bed with her three-month-old child.  Her other four children were on the bed or on the floor sleeping.  At approximately 9:00 A.M., Poorman found the three-month-old child deceased in the bed she was sharing with her.  The Defendant had a blood alcohol content of .107% at approximately 10:00 A.M. that day.

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury was sentenced on November 14, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Justin Stone Arrow, age 37, was sentenced to 15 months in custody, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Stone Arrow was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 13, 2016, for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury, and Child Abuse. He plead guilty to Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury on August 24, 2016.

In the early morning of March 10, 2016, Stone Arrow was drinking alcoholic beverages with his adult sister and a minor, age 13, at a home in the Milk’s Camp Community, Gregory County, South Dakota. An argument ensued between Stone Arrow and the minor, and Stone Arrow struck the minor in the face with his fists. Stone Arrow’s sister interrupted the altercation and began caring for the minor. The minor was taken to the Gregory County hospital, where he received four sutures for a laceration under his right eye.

This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Carrie G. Sanderson prosecuted the case.   

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler reported today that local law enforcement authorities have been receiving reports of residents being targeted in a telephonic scam. 

Unsuspecting citizens have been receiving telephone calls from persons claiming to be a police officer, clerk of courts personnel, and even a federal district court judge.  The caller claims the citizen was supposed to report for jury duty in federal or state court, and failed to report as directed.  The citizen is being told by the bogus caller that they must send money to a specified account or person in order to avoid being arrested.

U.S. Attorney Seiler wants citizens to know the claims being made in these calls are totally false and, if contacted, citizens should not send money to anyone as instructed in the fraudulent call.

If you feel you have been a target of this scam you should immediately contact the Rapid City Police Department at 605.394.4131 or the United States Marshal’s Service in Rapid City at 605.342.6331.

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.

Frank White Thunder, age 29, was indicted on May 17, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 8, 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 of 5 years up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

On April 29, 2008, White Thunder was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact.  As a result of his conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender.  It is alleged that between April 24, 2016, and May 17, 2016, White Thunder, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of a conviction under Federal Law, failed to properly register as a sex offender.

The charge is merely an accusation and White Thunder 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.   

White Thunder 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 Howes, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Malicious Mischief. 

Lawrence Parker, III, age 25, was indicted on November 8, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Moreno on November 10, 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 June 4, 2016, at Eagle Butte, Parker willfully and maliciously damaged the screen on an Automated Teller Machine.

The charge is merely an accusation and Parker 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.   

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

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

Kyle Marks, age 32, was indicted on November 9, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 14, 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, at least 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that between September 1, 2016, and October 12, 2016, Marks failed to register and update his registration as a sex offender.

The charge is merely an accusation and Marks 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.   

Marks 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 an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Third Degree Burglary and Larceny.

Daniel LeBeau, age 30, was indicted on November 8, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Moreno on November 11, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction for the Burglary is up to 10 years in custody, and is 5 years for the Larceny.  Each offense carries a maximum fine of $250,000, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The indictment alleges that between June 2, 2016, and June 13, 2016, at Eagle Butte, LeBeau unlawfully entered or remained in an unoccupied structure and after doing so, took or carried away the personal property of another.   

The charges are merely accusations and LeBeau 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.   

LeBeau 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 two Winner, South Dakota, men convicted of Criminal Trespass were sentenced on November 10, 2016, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.

Jeremy Schroeder and Kirby Kartak, both age 37, were sentenced to jointly and severely pay the Rosebud Sioux Tribe $600 in restitution, to each pay a $300 fine, to write letters of apology to the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, and to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $5.

Schroeder and Kartak were indicted by a federal grand jury on April 13, 2016.  Both pled guilty at a joint plea and sentencing hearing on November 10, 2016.

The convictions stem from an incident that occurred on December 2, 2014. Schroeder and Kartak, non-Indians, drove heavy equipment into the Oyate Whacanku Spirit Camp located near Rosebud, South Dakota, and removed approximately 30 large hay bales which were being utilized to form a windbreak at the camp.  Schroeder claimed to have an ownership interest in the hay, which was harvested on a separate tract of land owned by the tribe. Schroeder had previously leased the land on which the hay was harvested.

The Spirit Camp was established on land owned in trust by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. The Spirit Camp was designed as a cultural and spiritual camp for activities associated with tribal opposition to the construction of the TransCanada Keystone XL Pipeline. Several tipis and a sweat lodge were erected at the camp and the camp was blessed by tribal spiritual leaders.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Criminal Chief Dennis R. Holmes prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a McAllen, Texas, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender was sentenced on November 14, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Dimas DeLeon, a/k/a Leo Castro, age 30, was sentenced to 23 months in custody, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

DeLeon was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 19, 2016.  He pled guilty on August 29, 2016.

The conviction stemmed from an incident wherein DeLeon failed to register as a sex offender from May 1, 2016, to July 1, 2016.  DeLeon had initially been convicted in federal court in Texas in 2009 of Sexual Assault of a Child and was sentenced to prison, as well as being required to register as a sex offender. 

In May 2016, DeLeon moved from Texas to Pierre, South Dakota, where he resided with his brother and then girlfriend.  According to the SD Division of Criminal Investigation Sex Offender Registry, DeLeon never registered either his address or his employment in the state of South Dakota.  He also never notified the state of Texas that he was relocating to South Dakota.

The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case. 

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Robbery and Use and Brandishing of a Firearm during the Commission of a Crime of Violence was sentenced on November 8, 2016, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Charles Colhoff, a/k/a Charles H. Goings, a/k/a Chuckie Colhoff, age 28, was sentenced to 7 years in custody, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Colhoff pleaded guilty to the charges on July 22, 2016. The conviction stems from Colhoff and another individual using a firearm to rob two females of personal items in Pine Ridge on June 4, 2015.

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. Attorney Eric Kelderman prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Loup City, Nebraska, man convicted of Attempted Trafficking with Respect to Involuntary Servitude and Forced Labor was sentenced on November 10, 2016, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Marcus Lee Dorsey, age 36, was sentenced to 4 years of imprisonment, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Dorsey was one of four men who were arrested and federally indicted as a result of an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2015 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting persons willing to pay to have sex with underage girls obtained through the Internet. 

The conviction stemmed from Dorsey responding to an online advertisement posted by Division of Criminal Investigation undercover agents, which purported to offer young girls for sex. Following several messages with a person Dorsey believed to be associated with a 15-year old girl, but who was in fact an undercover agent, he proceeded to negotiate the time and place they would meet, along with the price he would pay, which was $70.

The undercover operation and arrests were a joint effort between the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins prosecuted the case.

Dorsey was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshal's Service.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Kenel, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm was sentenced on November 10, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.

Kelly Moore, age 39, was sentenced to 92 months of custody, followed by 3 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  In addition, two firearms found in Moore’s possession at the time of his arrest were ordered forfeited.

Moore was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 8, 2015.  He pled guilty to both charges on August 22, 2016.

The conviction stems from a search warrant that was executed on Moore’s residence by Bureau of Indian Affairs police on July 22, 2015.  Found during the search of the residence were two firearms, ammunition, prescription pills, drug packaging material, scales, and drug paraphernalia.  In addition, Moore had 5 small baggies in his pocket, 4 of which contained Methamphetamine.  Moore was placed under arrest and subsequently admitted to being involved in a conspiracy to distribute Methamphetamine across the Standing Rock Indian Reservation.  As part of the conspiracy, Moore admitted to selling approximately 350 grams of Methamphetamine.

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

Moore was immediately remanded to the custody of the Bureau of Prisons to begin serving his sentence.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Wounded Knee, South Dakota, man convicted of First Degree Burglary was sentenced on November 9, 2016, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Gary Rowland Jr., age 32, was sentenced to 18 months of imprisonment, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and restitution in an amount to be determined.

Rowland pleaded guilty on August 5, 2016. The conviction stems from Rowland breaking into a residence and stealing a DVD player, DVDs, and a pair of headphones, and pouring gasoline in the entryway and starting the trailer on fire.

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. Attorney Ben Patterson prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that three Eagle Butte, South Dakota, residents have been indicted by a federal grand jury for sixteen counts of Forgery and one count of Larceny.

Gillis Bear Stops, Jr., age 40, Chelsea White Eyes, a/k/a Chelsea Elk Eagle, age 40, and Daryl Eagle Horse, a/k/a Daryl Hawk Eagle, age 29, were indicted on October 12, 2016.  They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Moreno 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 between May 29, 2016, and August 27, 2016, in Eagle Butte, the three defendants falsely made, completed, altered, or passed a total of 16 checks, with an intent to defraud the victim.  They received over $1,000.00 in cash.     

The charges are merely an accusation and each of the three defendants 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.   

Each of the three defendants were released on conditions pending trial.  A trial has been scheduled for December 31, 2016.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of Stolen Firearms was sentenced on November 8, 2016, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Michael Sullivan, age 29, was sentenced to 18 months of imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $1336.00 in restitution.

Sullivan was charged on August 18, 2015, and pleaded guilty on August 5, 2016.  

The conviction stems from Sullivan being in possession of a Ruger 9mm pistol and a KAHR .40 caliber pistol, that he knew were stolen from a local pawn shop.

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon was sentenced on November 8, 2016, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Leslie Gayle White Calf, age 33, was sentenced to 18 months of imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

White Calf was charged on January 26, 2016, and pleaded guilty on July 22, 2016.  The conviction stems from White Calf kicking a woman in the face and head several times, while wearing work-style boots at a home in Pine Ridge.

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. Attorney Sarah B. Collins prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation was sentenced on November 9, 2016, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.

Tommy Blue Bird, age 28, was sentenced to 78 months of imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Blue Bird was charged on May 24, 2016, and pleaded guilty on August 5, 2016.  The conviction stems from Blue Bird striking a woman with his fist and other objects, as well as strangling her over a period of four days.

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. Attorney Ben Patterson prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mobridge, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, Assault Resulting in Substantial Injury to an Intimate Partner, and Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender. 

Tracy Peters, age 50, was indicted on November 8, 2016.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Moreno on November 9, 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 November 3, 2016, Peters assaulted an intimate or dating partner with a dangerous weapon, and that said assault resulted in serious bodily injury to the victim.  The Indictment further alleges that Peters has been convicted on at least two separate prior occasions for assaults against an intimate partner. 

The charge is merely an accusation and Peters 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.   

Peters was released from custody on conditions pending trial.  A trial date has not been set.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter was sentenced on November 8, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Donovan Dale Wright, age 49, was sentenced to 30 months in custody, followed by 3 years of supervised release, $1,524.25 in restitution, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Additional restitution may apply.

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

The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred in the early morning hours of January 30, 2016.  Wright had been drinking in Rosebud the previous evening.  At approximately 3:30 a.m., he was driving northbound on BIA Route 1 near Rosebud, South Dakota, on his way home to Mission, when he struck a pedestrian, Robin Heath Star Boy, who was walking along the highway.  Star Boy died as a result of the collision.  Wright immediately drove to the Rosebud Police Department, reported what had happened, and assisted a police officer in locating Star Boy’s body.  At the time of the collision, Wright’s blood-alcohol content was at least .150%.  The legal limit is .08%.

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

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

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that two Eagle Butte, South Dakota, women convicted of Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury were sentenced on November 7, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Lisa Lone Eagle, age 36, was sentenced to 63 months in custody.  Kendra Belt a/k/a Kendra Counting, age 41, was sentenced to 37 months in custody.  Both women will be on supervised release for a period of 3 years following their release from custody.  Both were ordered to pay a special assessment of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution was left open for a period of 30 days. 

Lone Eagle and Belt were indicted by a federal grand jury on September 15, 2015, for Assault With Intent to Commit Murder, Assault With a Dangerous Weapon, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.  Lone Eagle pled guilty to Assault With a Dangerous Weapon on August 4, 2016.  Belt pled guilty to Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury on August 8, 2016. 

Lone Eagle and Belt are half-sisters.  Lone Eagle had lived at the victim’s residence for approximately a year and half.  On the evening of September 5, 2015, Lone Eagle was drinking with the victim at his home.  Lone Eagle left for a short time and returned with Belt. Other people were also at the residence.   After Lone Eagle returned, she became angry with the victim.  Lone Eagle pulled down shelves in the living room.  Lone Eagle then punched the victim at least eight (8) times.  Belt joined Lone Eagle in hitting the victim.

The victim ended up on the floor of the living room.  Lone Eagle was wearing cowboy boots and kicked and stomped the victim in the head, face, neck, and upper torso multiple times.  Lone Eagle also hit the victim with the head of a sledgehammer.  Belt also kicked the victim while he was down on the floor, and attempted to strangle the victim.  At some point, the victim lost consciousness. 

At that point, the two women thought the victim was dead.  They attempted to hide the victim’s body in the crawlspace of the residence, but were unable to do so.  At that point they put a blanket over the victim, poured   kerosene on the blanket, and attempted to light the blanket on fire.  They were unsuccessful in setting the blanket on fire. 

The victim regained consciousness, got up, and went and laid down.  Lone Eagle went to where the victim was lying, and hit him five or six more times. The victim was eventually able to get up and escape the residence. He collapsed nearby where he was discovered by a neighbor. 

This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.  Lone Eagle and Belt were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that two Eagle Butte, South Dakota, women convicted of Assault With a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury were sentenced on November 7, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Lisa Lone Eagle, age 36, was sentenced to 63 months in custody.  Kendra Belt a/k/a Kendra Counting, age 41, was sentenced to 37 months in custody.  Both women will be on supervised release for a period of 3 years following their release from custody.  Both were ordered to pay a special assessment of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution was left open for a period of 30 days. 

Lone Eagle and Belt were indicted by a federal grand jury on September 15, 2015, for Assault With Intent to Commit Murder, Assault With a Dangerous Weapon, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.  Lone Eagle pled guilty to Assault With a Dangerous Weapon on August 4, 2016.  Belt pled guilty to Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury on August 8, 2016. 

Lone Eagle and Belt are half-sisters.  Lone Eagle had lived at the victim’s residence for approximately a year and half.  On the evening of September 5, 2015, Lone Eagle was drinking with the victim at his home.  Lone Eagle left for a short time and returned with Belt. Other people were also at the residence.   After Lone Eagle returned, she became angry with the victim.  Lone Eagle pulled down shelves in the living room.  Lone Eagle then punched the victim at least eight (8) times.  Belt joined Lone Eagle in hitting the victim.

The victim ended up on the floor of the living room.  Lone Eagle was wearing cowboy boots and kicked and stomped the victim in the head, face, neck, and upper torso multiple times.  Lone Eagle also hit the victim with the head of a sledgehammer.  Belt also kicked the victim while he was down on the floor, and attempted to strangle the victim.  At some point, the victim lost consciousness. 

At that point, the two women thought the victim was dead.  They attempted to hide the victim’s body in the crawlspace of the residence, but were unable to do so.  At that point they put a blanket over the victim, poured   kerosene on the blanket, and attempted to light the blanket on fire.  They were unsuccessful in setting the blanket on fire. 

The victim regained consciousness, got up, and went and laid down.  Lone Eagle went to where the victim was lying, and hit him five or six more times.  The victim was eventually able to get up and escape the residence. He collapsed nearby where he was discovered by a neighbor. 

This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.  Lone Eagle and Belt were 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, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Appear. 

Daryl Eagle Horse, a/k/a Daryl Hawk Eagle, age 29, was indicted on November 8, 2016.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Moreno on November 9, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 2 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 term of imprisonment imposed for the Failure to be Appear charge must be consecutive to the sentence of imprisonment for the criminal offense for which she failed to appear in court.

The Indictment alleges that between November 1, 2016, and November 2, 2016, Eagle Horse, after having been released from custody on charges of Forgery and Larceny, failed to appear in Federal District Court for further court proceedings as required.

The charge is merely an accusation and Eagle Horse 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.   

Eagle Horse 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 an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate Partner was sentenced on November 7, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Emmanuel Gomez, a/k/a Manny Gomez, age 29, was sentenced to 27 months in custody, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.     

Gomez was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 17, 2016, for Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate Partner. Gomez pled guilty to the Indictment on August 30, 2016. 

Gomez and the victim had been in a relationship for about six years, and have a daughter together.  They all lived together in the Swiftbird Community on the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Reservation. 

On November 22, 2015, Gomez was consuming alcohol at Bob's Steakhouse.  The victim was at home.  Gomez came home around 7:30 p.m.  very intoxicated.  He immediately began to argue with the victim and called her names.  The victim kept quiet, hoping not to provoke Gomez.  Gomez got up from the couch, went at the victim and grabbed her by her hair. Gomez hit the victim repeatedly in the face with his fist.  The victim fell back onto the couch.  Gomez fell down on the floor in front of her, and tried to get up and come back towards the victim. 

At that point, she began fighting back and started hitting Gomez.  Gomez bit the victim on the upper right thigh.  The victim yelled at Gomez in an attempt to get him to stop biting her.  When that did not work, the victim started hitting him in the face until he stopped biting her.

The victim pushed Gomez back and was able to get off the couch.  Gomez got up at the same time he victim did, continued to hit her on the arms, and bit her right arm.  The victim shoved Gomez back, causing him to fall backwards. She was able to get away at that point and ran out of the house without shoes or a coat.  She then went to a nearby friend's house.

The victim sustained two nasal fractures during the assault which required surgery.  The victim also had bruises and swelling to the left eye as well as to the bridge of her nose.  Her forehead, arms, left hip area, and right foot were bruised, and she had a large bruise and bite mark to her inner right thigh.

This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.  Gomez was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte man, convicted of Assault By Strangulation and Suffocation, was sentenced on November 7, 2016, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.

Ronnie Antelope, Sr., a/k/a Ronald Noisy Hawk, Sr., age 55, was sentenced to 30 months in custody, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Antelope was also ordered to pay $1,995.00 in restitution to the victim for lost wages as a result of the assault.    

Antelope was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 17, 2016, for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, and Assault By Strangulation and Suffocation.  Antelope pled guilty to Assault By Strangulation and Suffocation on August 15, 2016. 

Antelope and the victim were in a relationship, and began living together in early 2016.

On April 17, 2016, Antelope drove to the victim’s place of employment.  Antelope was intoxicated and began accusing the victim of being with other men.  Antelope also began creating an issue with others who were present and the police were called.  When law enforcement arrived, Antelope became argumentative with the officer and was arrested.  After Antelope was taken into custody, his vehicle was turned over to the victim.

The next afternoon, the victim went to drop Antelope’s vehicle off at the jail on her way to work, thinking that Antelope would still be in custody.  However, Antelope had already been released from custody by the time she arrived.  Antelope drove the victim to where she worked.    

When they got to the victim’s work, Antelope refused to let her out of the vehicle.  He accused her of being with other men she worked with and then drove away with her still in the car.  They went to various places throughout the day, and whenever the victim would get out of the vehicle, Antelope would go with her.  During the day, Antelope began consuming alcohol, and continued to accuse the victim of being interested in other men. 

When they returned home and the victim was getting out of the car, Antelope reached over from the driver's side, grabbed the door, and pulled it shut on the victim’s lower left leg.  Antelope grabbed the victim by the throat and squeezed.  The victim had trouble breathing, began crying, and begged Antelope to stop.  The victim nearly passed out.

The next thing the victim remembered was running away from the car.  Antelope pursued her, caught her, and threw her to the ground.  The victim landed on her left hand or arm.  Antelope then grabbed the victim by her hair and dragged her back toward their residence.  She continued to struggle in an effort to get away.

At that point, a neighbor exited their residence, told Antelope to stop, and said that she had called the police.  Antelope let go of the victim and went inside the house.  The victim was taken inside the neighbor’s home to wait for the police to arrive.

The victim sustained fractures to her right jaw bone and lower left arm.  There were visible scratches on her neck and an injury to her leg. She also had bruises on her left cheek and right forearm.

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

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

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

Corey Johnson, age 30, was indicted on October 14, 2015.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 4, 2016, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is 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 September 13, 2015, Johnson did forcibly assault, resist, impose, impede, intimidate and interfere with a Bureau of Indian Affairs Officer by the use of physical contact.

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

Johnson was detained in U.S. Marshal custody pending trial.  A trial date has not been set.