TRIBAL JUSTICE NEWS: November 13, 2012

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

United States Attorney Announces Grants to Support Sexual Assault Response Initiative on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation (U.S. Attorney for the District of Montana)

U.S. Attorney Michael W. Cotter, and Dr. Nate St. Pierre, Coordinator of the Rocky Boy’s Children Exposed to Violence Project, announced that the Chippewa Cree tribe was awarded two Department of Justice grants to enhance alternative intervention and treatment programs ($572,208) and tribal sexual assault service programs ($299,974) on the Rocky Boy’s Indian reservation.

The tribal sexual assault services program grant, a grant from the Office on Violence Against Women, will support the newly formed Sexual Assault Response Team (or SART) that has been established on the reservation to combat sexual violence. The SART Initiative in Montana is a pilot initiative stemming from the Justice Department's commitment to build safe and healthy communities in American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

American Indian and Alaska Native women are raped at rates higher than any other race.  Despite the alarming rates, sexual assault is still the most under reported crime. "Together we can provide compassionate and innovative care to sexual assault survivors," said U.S. Attorney Cotter.  "I am hopeful that the grant dollars and the presence of a SART on the Rocky Boy's Reservation will provide another tool to improve intervention and appropriate care for sexual assault victims.  We must earn the trust of sexual assault survivors so he or she will feel safe when reporting crimes."

http://www.justice.gov/usao/mt/pressreleases/20121024163135.html

Federal Assistance to Reduce Unacceptably High Incidence of Domestic Violence Against Native American Women (U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York)

U.S. Attorney Richard S. Hartunian congratulates the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, located along the northern border of New York, on its award of $596,071 under the Department of Justice’s 2012 Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation (CTAS), through the federal Office on Violence Against Women. The funding will be used for a program titled Violence Against Women Tribal Government Training. The grant award coincides with national Domestic Violence Awareness month.

“This grant and the funding it brings will do much to help law enforcement and agencies serving the Saint Regis Mohawk Indian Reservation respond to, reduce, and ultimately prevent domestic violence against Native women,” said Mr. Hartunian. “In these times of reduced resources and dwindling funding programs, it is heartening that the Reservation will receive these funds to address a type of violent crime disproportionately harming Native women.”

Among other things, the funding will be used to train local law enforcement and prosecutors to

improve services and responses to domestic violence, pay for a sexual assault advocate, and provide emergency intervention funds, which help victims when they have to flee their homes because of the violence.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nyn/news/1762-3465-2118672768.pdf

Assistant U.S. Attorney Arvo Mikkanen Recognized for Exceptional Service in Indian Country by Attorney General Holder at Annual Awards Ceremony (U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma)

U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder recognized 282 department employees for their distinguished public service today at the 60th Annual Attorney General’s Awards Ceremony.  Held at the Daughters of the American Revolution Constitution Hall, this annual ceremony recognizes both department employees and others for their outstanding dedication to carrying out the Department of Justice’s missions.  This year, Assistant United States Attorney Arvo Q. Mikkanen from the Western District of Oklahoma received the 2012 “Attorney General’s Award for Exceptional Service in Indian Country.”

“The dedicated work by AUSA Mikkanen has substantially improved the understanding of complicated jurisdictional issues and enhanced the relations between state, tribal, and federal law enforcement agencies,”  said U.S. Attorney Sanford C. Coats.  “Arvo is an example of an Assistant U.S. Attorney who has gone above and beyond the ordinary call of duty in his commitment to address violent crime and improve public safety in Indian Country.”

AUSA Mikkanen received this award in recognition of his exceptional and long standing efforts to enhance law enforcement response to crime in Indian country. In addition to actively handling a caseload of a wide variety of violent and white collar criminal matters arising from Indian country, Mikkanen has been an instructor in over 100 individual seminars, workshops, symposia, and programs in which he has trained many hundreds of attorneys, law enforcement officers, child welfare workers, and victim advocates in issues related to Indian Country jurisdiction, crime and prosecution.


U.S. Attorney Timothy Purdon Observes Domestic Violence Awareness Month at Standing Rock Sioux Reservation (U.S. Attorney for the District of North Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon joined with the Standing Sioux Tribe, the Abused Adult Resource Center, and the Pretty Bird Woman House to participate in a variety of activities on Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2012 in Fort Yates on the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation to commemorate October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Activities at the Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Headquarters included the signing of a Proclamation observing Domestic Violence Awareness Month by Standing Rock Sioux Chairman Charles W. Murphy. Other planned events included a walk in remembrance of the victims of domestic violence, the dedication of a new anti-domestic violence billboard on the reservation, and a food and clothing drive.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nd/news/2012/10-23-12-DV%20Awarenes.html

PUBLIC CORRUPTION

Little Eagle Woman Sentenced for Wire Fraud (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Brendan v. Johnson announced on Oct. 24, 2012, that Kara One Feather, 31, was sentenced to six months of prison, three years of supervised release, and $15,572 in restitution for Wire Fraud. One Feather pleaded guilty to the charge on July 23, 2012, in which One Feather used interstate wire communications to defraud a Nebraska man of approximately $15,000 from July 2012, to Jan. 2011 by making false and fraudulent representations to the victim, who wired money to her bank in South Dakota. One Feather will report to the U.S. Marshal’s Services on Oct. 30, 2012, to begin serving her sentence.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-10-24-One%20Feather.html

Whiteagle Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison in Ho-Chunk Bribery Case (U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin)

U.S. Attorney John W. Vaudreuil announced on Oct. 24, 2012, that Timothy Whiteagle, 61, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for his central role in a bribery and scheme involving contracts awarded by the Ho-Chunk Nation. He was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $162, 854 in taxes to the IRS.  From 2002 to 2009, Whiteagle, at times with the assistance of Deborah H. Atherton, 55, acted as a consultant for clients seeking to do business with the Ho-Chunk Nation. Whiteagle received over $3 million dollars from the clients. Whiteagle gave Clarence Pettibone, an elected legislator of the Ho-Chunk Nation, money and valuables, and Whiteagle and Atherton solicited clients seeking Ho- Chunk business to do the same. Whiteagle and Atherton offered and gave the money and valuables to Pettibone to influence and reward him for helping certain clients do business with the Nation. Pettibone knew the money and valuables were given to him to influence and reward him for assisting the clients. Pettibone, in his official capacity as an elected legislator, took steps to help the clients do business with the Ho-Chunk Nation, such as scheduling of clients' proposals on the legislature's agenda, making motions for the Nation to enter into contracts with the clients, delaying legislative action, and opposing proposed contracts between the nation and competitors of the clients. Co-defendants Pettibone and Atherton were previously convicted.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/wiw/press/2012/October%2024,%202012%20-%20Whiteagle%20Sentenced%20to%2010%20Years%20in%20Ho-Chunk%20Bribery%20Case.html

Picuris Pueblo Woman Pleads Guilty to Embezzling $132,000 from Pueblo (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)

U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Oct. 18, 2012 that Norma Mermejo, 61, pleaded guilty to embezzlement and theft from an Indian tribal organization. Mermejo pleaded guilty to embezzling approximately $132,000 belonging to Picuris Pueblo on 144 occasions between Feb. 2008 and April 2010.  Mermejo was employed as a file clerk in the Pueblo’s accounting office, and admitted that she embezzled the money to support her gambling habit and pay for utility bills. A sentencing date has yet to be scheduled.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-10-18_mermejo_pr.pdf

San Carlos Woman Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison for Embezzlement of Tribal Funds (U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona)

U.S. Attorney John S. Leonardo announced on Oct. 15, 2012, that Holley Faye Youvella, 34, was sentenced to twenty-four months in prison, ordered to pay $272, 407 in restitution and perform 100 hours of community service, after pleading guilty to embezzlement of tribal funds. Youvella admitted that between Oct. 2008 and March 2010, while serving as a bookkeeper for Peridot Shopping Center, Inc., she embezzled approximately $268, 106 of the shopping center’s money by cashing fraudulent checks drawn from the shopping center’s checking account, all of which were made payable to herself or a family member. Youvella also admitted that between June 2010 and Aug. 2010, she stole approximately $4,301 by directing multiple fraudulent electronic payments from the shopping center’s checking account to personal credit and utility accounts containing balances owed by Youvella and a family member. Youvella is out of custody and was ordered to self-surrender for service of her sentence on Dec. 10, 2012.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/press_releases/2012/AUG/PR_10162012_Youvella.html

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VIOLENT CRIME

Mescalero Apache Man Sentenced to Fifteen Years in Prison for Federal Child Sexual Abuse Conviction (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)

U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Nov. 5, 2012, that Manuel Coronado Cervantes, 59, was sentenced to a 15-year term of imprisonment to be followed by 10 years of supervised release. Cervantes must also comply with sex offender registration and notification requirements. Cervantes was arrested on Dec. 23, 2010, based on a criminal complaint charging him with sexual abuse of a child. On March 20, 2012, Cervantes pleaded guilty to abusive sexual contact of a child.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-11-05_cervantes_pr.pdf

Crownpoint man Sentenced to Forty-one Months in Prison for Federal Assault Conviction (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)

U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Nov. 5, 2012, that Frederick Jimmie, 22, was sentence to a 41-month term of imprisonment for his assault conviction. Jimmie will be on supervised release for three years and was also ordered to pay $39, 258 in restitution. Jimmie and his co-defendant pleaded guilty to the charge on March 14, 2012, admitting that on Feb. 11, 2011, he and his co-defendant assaulted the victim.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-11-05_jimmie_et_al_pr.pdf

Pine Ridge Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Tribal Officer (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Nov. 2, 2012, that Bennett Leroy Sierra Jr., 41, was sentenced to 33 months’ imprisonment and two years’ supervised release. The conviction stems from an event that occurred in May 2011, where Sierra kicked a tribal police officer who was arresting him, causing contusions and bruising. Sierra pleaded guilty on June 25, 2012.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/RC-2012-11-09-Sierra.html

Eagle Butte Man Pleads Guilty to Burglary Charge (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Nov. 8, 2012 that Shace Looking Horse, 18, pleaded guilty to Third Degree Burglary. The conviction stems from an incident on June 7, 2012, when Looking Horse and two individuals broke into the Chatter Box Corner Café. Looking Horse aided and abetted the burglary, which included assisting other in entering the store based on a predetermined plan and taking U.S. currency as well as other items from the store. A sentencing date has been set for Feb. 4, 2013.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-08-Looking%20Horse.html

Hualapai Nation Tribal Member Pleads Guilty to Assault on a Federal Officer (U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona)

U.S. Attorney John S. Leonardo announced on Nov. 7, 2012, that Jordan Reed Sumatzkuku, 25, pleaded guilty to assault on a federal officer. According to court records, on Jul 2, 2012, a Hualapai Nation Police Officer tried to arrest Sumatzkuku’s sister, and Sumatzkuku grabbed the officer, and knocked him to the ground. Sumatzkuku swung his fists at the officer, who sustained injuries as a result of the assault.  A sentencing date has been set for Jan. 14, 2013.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/press_releases/2012/AUG/PR_11082012_Sumatzkuku.html

Parmalee Woman Sentenced for Involuntary Manslaughter (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Nov. 7, 2012, that Kenna Young, 20, was sentenced to 30 months in custody, 18 months of supervised release, $16,268 in restitution, and 20 hours of community service for Involuntary manslaughter. The conviction stemmed from an incident that took place on Feb. 20, 2012, when Young was driving a motor vehicle while under ht influence of alcohol. Young’s vehicle crashed, killing the victim and injuring a second passenger. Young pleaded guilty to the charge on August 15, 2012.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-08-Young.html

Tohatchi Man Sentenced to 51 Months in Prison for Federal Assault Conviction (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)

U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Nov. 6, 2012 that Ronald Yazzie, 36 was sentenced to 51 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release for his assault conviction. Yazzie was also ordered to pay $20,755 in restitution to cover the medical costs of the victim. Yazzie and his codefendant were charged with assaulting a man on Feb. 2, 2011. Yazzie admitted to punching and kicking the victim, and driving his vehicle over the victim’s leg. The victim survived, but suffered serious bodily injury.

Two Fort Defiance Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Robbery (U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona)

U.S. Attorney John S. Leonardo announced that Corbert Goldtooth, 41, and Myron Tsosie, 38, were sentenced on Oct. 31, 2012. Goldtooth was sentenced to serve 115 months in prison and Tsosie was sentenced to serve 78 months in prison, as the two were found guilty on April 20, 2012, of two counts of robbery. On July 31, 2011, Goldtooth, Tsosi, and another man approached two young men who were seated on a curb outside of a gas station , and surrounded the men. The defendants each brandished a weapon throughout the robbery, and took personal property from the victims. Shortly thereafter, the defendants were arrested by Navajo police officers.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/press_releases/2012/AUG/PR_10312012_Goldtooth.html

Alex Medicine Horse Sentenced in U.S. District Court (U.S. Attorney for the District of Montana)

U.S. Attorney Michael W. Cotter announced on Oct. 31, 2012, that Alex Medicine Horse, 69, was sentenced to 360 months in prison followed by 10 years supervised release after a jury found Medicine Horse guilty of aggravated sexual abuse. In November 2010, Medicine Horse touched a six-year-old victim at the Children’s Clinic in Billings in a sexual manner.

Northern Arapaho Man Sentenced for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury (U.S. Attorney for the District of Wyoming)

U.S. Attorney Christopher A. Crofts announced on Oct. 30, 2012, that Garrett Blackburn, 20, was sentenced to 16 months of prison followed by two years supervised release for Assault resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. The charge stemmed from an assault which occurred on Feb. 5, 2012, on the Wind River Indian Reservation and involved officers from the Wind River Police Department and Agents of the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Federal Bureau of Investigation

Pipestone Man Sentenced for Kidnapping by Confinement (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Oct. 30, 2012, that Robert Ford, 41, was sentenced to 36 months in custody followed by two years of supervised release for Kidnapping. The charge refers to an incident on June 30, 2011, in which a female member of the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe was assaulted and confined in the bedroom of her own house. The victim reported that Ford assaulted her and barricaded the door, preventing her from leaving. Ford eventually fled the scene after other residents in the home hear sounds of a struggle. Ford was found guilty by a federal jury on July 19, 2012.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/SF-2012-10-30-Ford.html

Bismarck Man Pleads Guilty to Child Abuse in Indian Country (U.S. Attorney for the District of North Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced on Oct. 30, 2012, that Thomas Blackhawk, 34, pleaded guilty to child abuse. The plea stems from an incident that occurred on Feb. 3, 2012, when Blackhawk and a child were staying at Prairie Knights Casino. Blackhawk willfully inflicted bodily injury by hitting and kicking the child. A sentencing date has been scheduled for Feb. 19, 2013.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nd/news/2012/10-30-12-Blackhawk%20Plea.html

Belcourt Man Sentenced for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury (U.S. Attorney for the District of North Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced that on Oct. 29, 2012, Jeffrey L. McCloud, 48, was sentenced on a charge of assault resulting in serious bodily injury. McCloud was sentenced to two years in federal prison, followed y two years of supervised release. McCloud was also ordered to pay $351 in restitution. On July 9, 2011, McCloud struck a woman in the face, knocking her unconscious. McCloud pleaded guilty to the charge on July 16, 2012.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nd/news/2012/10-29-12-McCloud%20Sentenced.html

Kyle Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Liquor on Pine Ridge Indian Reservation (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Thomas Lays Hard, 49, pleaded guilty to Intoxicants Possessed Unlawfully on Oct. 29, 2012. In May 2012, Lays Hard possessed vodka malt liquor. A sentencing date has been set for Jan. 22, 2013.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/RC-2012-11-05-Lays%20Hard.html

Eagle Butte Woman Pleads Guilty to Assaulting a Federal Officer (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Oct. 29, 2012, that Charmagne Means, 27, pleaded guilty to Assaulting a Federal Officer. The conviction stems from an incident on June 3, 2011, when means and a co-defendant interfered in both a high speed chase and arrest of another individual. Means did not obey orders by law enforcement officer to stop as she and her co-defendant ran toward officers who were arresting the other individual. A sentencing date has been set for Jan. 24, 2013.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-10-30-Means.html

Minot Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal Officer (U.S. Attorney for the District of North Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced on Oct. 29, 2012, that Vincent M. Anderson, 34, was sentenced on a charge of assaulting and resisting a federal officer. Anderson was sentenced to two years in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, Anderson was also ordered to pay $625.45 in restitution. On March 5, 2012, a police officer stopped a motor vehicle in which Anderson was a passenger. The officer attempted to detain Anderson, and Anderson resisted the officer, striking him in the face. Anderson pleaded guilty to the charge on June 25, 2012.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nd/news/2012/10-29-12-Vincent%20Anderson%20Sentenced.html

Belcourt Man Sentenced for Assault (U.S. Attorney for the District of North Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced on Oct. 29, 2012, that Kenneth N. Allery Jr., 30, was sentenced to six years and five months in prison, for Assault. Allery was also sentenced to three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $35,229.82 in restitution. The conviction stemmed from an incident occurring on May 30, 2011, when Allery stabbed the victim in the chest with a knife. Allery pleaded guilty to the charge on May 21, 2012.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nd/news/2012/10-29-12-Kenneth%20Allery%20Sentenced.html

Jordan Gerald Lee Jackson Pleads Guilty in U.S. Federal Court (U.S. Attorney for the District of Montana)

U.S. Attorney Michael W. Cotter announced that on Oct. 29, 2012, Jordan Gerald Lee Jackson, 25, pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. During an event occurring on June 18, 2011, Jackson, the victim, and two individuals were drinking alcohol in Jackson’s van. Jackson was driving, and although he swerved off the road once, he continued to drive. Jackson then drove the vehicle off the road, where it flipped and landed upside down, with the victim in the passenger seat. The victim underwent multiple surgeries, as he suffered serious bodily injury, and Jackson’s blood alcohol content was .20. Sentencing has been set for Jan. 22, 2013.

Rosebud Man Pleads Guilty to Robbery (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Oct. 25, 2012, that Raymond Walter Gassman, 18, pleaded guilty to Robbery. The guilty plea stemmed from an event occurring on May 8, 2012, when Gassman and another individual robbed the Paul Mart convenience store; their faces covered with bandanas and holding brandished weapons. Gassman attempted to steal merchandise and money from the cash register. A sentencing date has been set for Jan. 9, 2013.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-10-25-Gassman.html

Ojo Encino Man Arrested on Federal Assault Charges for Shooting Girlfriend (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)

U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Oct. 26, 2012 that Permanuel Castillo, 22, was arrested on federal assault charges for assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. The arrest stems from an incident on Sept. 27, 2012, in which Castillo allegedly shot his girlfriend at the couple’s residence. Castillo is a member of the Navajo Nation, and resides in the vicinity of Ojo Encino, N.M.

Fruitland, N.M. Man to Serve 48 Months in Prison for Federal Voluntary Manslaughter Conviction (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)

U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Oct. 25, 2012, that Uriah Upshaw, 20, was sentenced to 48 months in prison for Voluntary Manslaughter. Upshaw will be on supervised release for three years following his prison sentence. Upshaw was convicted of physically assaulting the victim. According to court filings, the victim was intoxicated and initiated a physical altercation with Upshaw. When the fight ended, Upshaw went to the victim’s house later that night, and the altercation resumed, where Upshaw repeatedly struck the victim, killing him.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-10-26_upshaw_pr.pdf

Red Lake Man Pleads Guilty to Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury (U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota)

U.S. Attorney B. Todd Jones announced on Oct. 25, 2012, that James Jourdain, 25, pleaded guilty to Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. Jourdain admitted that on Sept. 18, 2011, he assaulted a woman on the Red Lake Indian Reservation by kicking her repeatedly with his feet, resulting in serious bodily injury. The victim was transported to the hospital because as a result of Jourdain’s assault. A sentencing date has not yet been determined.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/mn/jourdainplea.html

Tyler Dale Medicine Horse, Jr. Sentenced in U.S. District Court (U.S. Attorney for the District of Montana)

U.S. Attorney Michael W. Cotter announced on Oct. 25, 2012, that Tyler Dale Medicine Horse, Jr., 27, was sentenced to 22 months prison and 10 years of supervised release in connection with his guilty plea to sexual abuse of a minor. The incident occurred on March 4 and 5, 2012, in which Medicine Horse was drinking alcohol with the 15-year-old victim.

Oglala Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Abuse (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)

On Oct. 25, 2012, U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Richard Two Bulls, 50, of Oglala, pleaded guilty to Sexual Abuse of a Minor. Between April 2009 and April 2010, Two Bulls engaged in a sexual act with a female under the age of 16. Sentencing has been set for Jan. 25, 2013.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/RC-2012-10-25-Two%20Bulls.html

Tse Bonito, N.M., Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Assault Conviction (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)

U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Oct. 24, 2012, that Kyle R. Westbrook, 27, was sentenced to 18 months of prison and three years of supervised release for assault. Westbrook pleaded guilty on April 12, 2012 to assaulting his girlfriend with a metal tent pole. Two days later, Westbrook told law enforcement authorities that he used the tent pole to hit the victim because he was intoxicated and angry.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-10-24_westbrook_pr.pdf

Pinehill, N.M. Man Sentenced to 51 Months for Assaulting Tribal Police Officer with a Dangerous Weapon (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)

U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Oct. 24, 2012, that Warren R. Dooley, 52, was sentenced to 51 months of prison, and three years of supervised release, following a federal assault conviction. Dooley pleaded guilty to assaulting a tribal police officer in an incident that occurred on May 4, 2011, in which a tribal police officer arrived at Dooley’s residence regarding a domestic violence call. Dooley was in his vehicle and refused to get out. Instead, Dooley drove away at a high rate of speed, and the officer pursued him. Dooley turned around, and accelerated toward the officer’s patrol car. Dooley pursued the officer and rammed his car into the officer’s patrol car, flipping the patrol car on its side. Dooley stopped ramming the patrol car once his own car caught on fire.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-10-24_dooley_pr.pdf

Parmalee Man Pleads Guilty to Assaulting a Deputy United State Marshall (U.S. attorney for the District of South Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Oct. 23, 2012, that Richard Wolf Guts, 27, pleaded guilty to Assaulting a Federal Officer. In June 2012, Wolf Guts assaulted a Deputy U.S. Marshal in the Andrew W. Bogue U.S. Courthouse by spitting on him and physically resisting him. A sentencing date has been set for Feb. 25, 2013. http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/RC-2012-10-25-Wolf%20Guts.html

Mission Man Sentenced for Assault (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Oct. 24, 2012, that Travis Creig Lewis, charged with Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Aiding and Abetting, was sentenced to 42 months in custody, three years of supervised release, and $1,000 in restitution. The conviction stems from an incident that took place on Oct. 12, 2011, when Lewis was involved in aiding and abetting the beating of a man, who was beaten with a bat and shod feet. Lewis pleaded guilty to the charge on July 30, 2012.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-10-24-Lewis.html

Mission Man Pled Guilty to Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Oct. 22, 2012, that Byron Eagleman, 31, pleaded guilty to Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. The conviction stems from an incident that took place on April 30, 2012, when Eagleman, who was highly intoxicated, cut and stabbed the victim while the victim attempted to prevent a fight between Eagleman and another individual. A sentencing date has been set for Jan. 10, 2013.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-10-24-Eagleman.html

Arthur Dion Longee Pleads Guilty in U.S. Federal Court (U.S. Attorney for the District of Montana)

U.S. Attorney Michael W. Cotter announced on Oct. 22, 2012, that Arthur Dion Longee, 25, pleaded guilty to sexual abuse of a minor. The charges stem from an incident that occurred on July 15, 2011, in which Longee, after attending a party with the victim, sexually assaulted her after she had fallen asleep. Sentencing for Longee has been set for Jan. 22, 2013.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/mt/pressreleases/20121023084835.html

Colorado River Man Sentenced to Eight Years Federal Prison (U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona)

U.S. Attorney John S. Leonardo announced on Oct. 22, 2012, that Jesse Thomas Quijada, 21, was sentenced to 97 months federal prison and lifetime supervised release. Quijada pleaded guilty on July 16, 2012, to aggravated sexual abuse, regarding an incident occurring in June 2009, in which Quijada broke into a woman’s home and sexually assaulted her. Quijada was 17 years old at the time of the offenses, but consented to be proceeded against as an adult.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/press_releases/2012/AUG/PR_10222012_Quijada.html

Former Shiprock Corrections Officer Sentenced for Sexually Assaulting Inmate (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)

U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Oct. 22, 2012 that Sylvester Bruce, 45, was sentenced to one year and one day in federal prison followed by three years supervised release. Bruce, a former corrections officer with Navajo Nation’s Shiprock Detention Center, pleaded guilty to charges related to the sexual abuse of an inmate during the summer and fall of 2010. In addition to his prison sentence, Bruce will never serve in law enforcement again and will submit to federal and state sex offender registration requirements.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-10-22_bruce_pr.pdf

St. Michael Man Sentenced for Involuntary Manslaughter (U.S. Attorney for the District of North Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Timothy Purdon announced that on Oct. 22, 2012, Douglas Allen Baker was sentenced to three year of prison followed by three years of supervised release for his convictions of involuntary, manslaughter. Baker was also ordered to pay $15,714.08 in restitution for the victim’s funeral expenses, $6,132.86 to Blue Cross Shield for medical expenses, and $1,621.00 to Geico Direct for the loss of the victim’s vehicle. On Sept. 8, 2011, Baker was driving his vehicle with a blood alcohol level of .210, when he collided head on with an on-coming vehicle, killing the driver of that vehicle. Bake pleaded guilty to the charge on July 24, 2012.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nd/news/2012/10-22-12-Baker%20Sentenced.html

Terri Grace Red Wolf Sentenced in U.S. District Court (U.S. Attorney for the District of Montana)

U.S. Attorney Michael W. Cotter announced on Oct. 18, 2012, that Terri Grace Red Wolf, 30, was sentenced to 30 months in prisons and three years of supervised release in connection with her guilty plea to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Her conviction stems from an incident occurring on Feb. 5, 2011, when Red Wolf was driving a van while intoxicated. Red Wolf crossed the center line and hit a vehicle. The victim swerved to avoid Red Wolf, but was still hit, and underwent several surgeries. Red Wolf’s blood alcohol content was .28, and her driver’s license was already suspended because of a recent DUI arrest. Restitution has yet to be determined.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/mt/pressreleases/20121019151343.html

Macy Man Sentenced for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (U.S. Attorney for the District of Nebraska)

U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Gilg announced on Oct. 18, 2012, that Waylon Blackbird, 22, was sentenced to 27 months of prison and three years of supervised release for his conviction of assault with a dangerous weapon. The conviction stems from an incident occurring on Nov. 5, 2011, when Blackbird was at a party with his girlfriend when he demanded that she leave with him. Blackbird began to argue with his girlfriend, which escalated to a physical attack, where Blackbird assaulted the victim while she was on the ground.

Upper Fruitland Man to Serve Eleven Years in Prison for Manslaughter and Abusive Sexual Contact Convictions (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)

U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Oct. 18, 2012, that Lamuel Thomas, 27, was sentenced to 11 years of prison for his convictions on involuntary manslaughter and abusive sexual contact. Thomas will also be on supervised release for ten years after completing his prison sentence, and will be required to register as a sex offender. On July 17, 2012, Thomas pleaded guilty to killing a 70-year-old Navajo woman on Nov. 9, 2012, while driving under the influence of alcohol. He also pleaded guilty to sexually molesting a 13-year-old child on March 2, 2011.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-10-18_thomas_pr.pdf

Laguna Pueblo Man Indicted for Domestic Assault by a Habitual Offender Charge (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)

U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Oct. 18, 2012, that Timothy Luke Perea, 41, was arraigned on an indictment charging him with domestic assault by a habitual offender. Perea entered a not guilty plea. The indictment alleges that Perea assaulted a woman on March 6, 2011. It further alleges that Perea previously had been convicted of assault against a spouse or intimate partner on two occasions in 1997. Perea has been detained pending trial.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-10-18_perea_pr.pdf

Man Sentenced to Five Years for Assaulting a Child (U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington)

U.S. Attorney Michael C. Ormsby announced on Oct. 17, 2012, that LaShaun Roman Nose, 33, was sentenced to five years in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release for Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury. The indictment stems from an incident occurring in May 2011, when Yakuma Nation tribal police officers responded to a call of child abuse, and observed a toddler who had suffered multiple injuries. An investigation showed that Roman Nose repeatedly struck the toddler with numerous objects because the child had experienced difficulties with potty training. Roman Nose was found guilty on May 31, 2012.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/wae/news/2012/2012_10_17_RomanNose_Sentence.html

Federal Jury Convicts Tohajilee Man on Five Violent felony Offenses Arising out of June 3, 2011 Crime Spree (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)

U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Oct. 17, 2012 that a federal jury found Jerome Yazzie, 36, guilty on burglary, robbery, kidnapping, and firearms charges after a three-day-trial. The evidence at trial established that on June 3, 2011, Yazzie forced his 15-year-old daughter and her 18-year-old boyfriend to accompany him as he engaged in a crime spree that included burglarizing two residences in Tohajilee at gunpoint, committing a robbery, kidnapping a young man, and discharging his firearm. A sentencing date has not yet been determined.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-10-18_yazzie_pr.pdf

Navajo Man From Tse-Yah-Toh, N.M., Pleads Guilty to Federal Child Sex Abuse Charges (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)

U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Oct. 17, 2012, that Kenneth Mike Etsitty, 58, pleaded guilty to three counts of aggravated sexual abuse of a child under the age of 12. Etistty was arrested on May 15, 2012, and admitted to forcing a child victim to engage in sexual acts on multiple occasions from Jan. 2007 to Nov. 2011. Under the terms of the plea agreement, Etsitty will be sentenced to 18 years of imprisonment followed by a supervised release term to be determined by the court.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-10-17_etsitty_pr.pdf

Colorado River Man Indicted for Second-Degree Murder (U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona)

U.S. Attorney John S. Leonardo announced on Oct. 16, 2012 that Loren Kaysang Tahbo, 33, was indicted for second-degree murder and two counts of assault. The indictment alleges that on Aug. 10, 2012, Tahbo stabbed a man on the Colorado River Indian Tribes Indian reservation, prior to killing him in a second location. Tahbo is currently being held in tribal custody and will be transferred into federal custody. 

http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/press_releases/2012/AUG/PR_10172012_Tahbo.html

Jicarilla Apache Man Pleads Guilty to Second Degree Murder Charge Involving Death of a 3-year-old (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)

U.S. Attorney General Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Oct. 16, 2012 that Jay Rutherford Paiz, 31, pleaded guilty to second degree murder. Paiz’s plea agreement reflects that he admitted killing his 3-year-old son on July 20, 2008, following an EMS response to Paiz’s residence, as Paiz’s son was unresponsive and covered in bruises. Paiz admitted beating this child with a belt. Paiz also admitted that the child victim hit his head on the well when Paiz threw him on the bed, and Paiz was intoxicated at the time. Paiz’s son died of head injuries on July 23, 2008, and Paiz was immediately indicted. Under the terms of his plea agreement, Paiz faces a sentence of not less than 15 years and not more than 25 years of imprisonment.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-10-16_paiz_pr.pdf

Eagle Butte Man Sentenced on Domestic Assault Charge (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Oct. 16, 2012, that Curtis Grant Thompson, Sr., 50, charged with Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender, was sentenced to 41 months in custody, three years of supervised release, and $3,030 restitution. The conviction stemmed from an incident in April 2012 when Thompson and his girlfriend began arguing and a physical altercation ensued. Thompson hit and kicked the victim several times, and the victim received a major laceration above the eye and two broken ribs as a result. Thompson had been convicted of domestic abuse on at least two separate prior occasions in Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Court. .

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-10-16-Thompson.html

Pine Ridge Man Sentenced for Drug Distribution (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that David Mousseau, 33, was sentenced to two years of probation on Oct. 15, 2012. Mousseau was indicted for Distribution of a Controlled Substance and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance on May 15, 2012. The charges related to Mousseau selling 29.5 grams of marijuana to a confidential informant on Nov. 15, 2010. Mousseau pleaded guilty on June 19, 2012.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/RC-2012-10-29-Mousseau.html

Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Failing to register as a Sex Offender (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Oct. 15, 2012, that Terry Black Lance, 50, was sentenced to 30 months in custody for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. Black Lance, a Sioux Falls man, was convicted of sexual abuse in 1993, requiring him to register as a sex offender. Records indicate that he failed to register as a sex offender under federal law from Dec. 2011 through March 2012, and Black Lance pleaded guilty to the charge on July 23, 2012.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/SF-2012-10-18-Black%20Lance.html

New Town Man Sentenced for Assault of Casino Security Officer (U.S. Attorney for the District of North Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced on Oct. 15, 2012, Thomas J. Edwards Jr., 28, was sentenced on a charge of assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Edwards pleaded guilty to the charge on March 29, 2012. Edwards was sentenced to four years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. The conviction stemmed from an incident occurring on April 5, 2011, when Edwards was at the Four Bears Casino. Edwards was contacted by the casino security officers because of an outstanding tribal arrest warrant. Edwards ran from the security officers and entered a vehicle. While backing up in the vehicle, Edwards ran over the leg of a security officer, which resulted in multiple fractures to the officer’s leg.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nd/news/2012/10-15-12-Edwards%20Sentenced.html

Lac Vieux District Member Sentenced in Child Sexual Assault (U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan)

U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Miles, Jr. announced on Oct. 12, 2012 that Aaron Timothy VanZile, 30, was sentenced to 360 months in federal prison for aggravated sexual abuse of a child under 12. VanZile is also ordered to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence. On May 10, 2012, VanZile pleaded guilty to the charge, which stemmed from an incident on May 5, 2011, in which VanZile, after ingesting alcohol and controlled substances, left the party he was attending and entered the home of another person without permission. Once inside the home, VanZile sexually assaulted to 9-year-old victim.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/miw//news/2012/2012_1012_AVanZile.html

Bay Mills Man Sentenced in Child Sexual Assault (U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan)

U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Miles, Jr. announced on Oct. 12, 2012, that Jay Emerson Hunter, 22, was sentenced to four years in federal prison for aggravated sexual abuse of a child under 12. Hunter is also ordered to serve five years of supervised release, and will be forced to register as a sex offender. Hunter pleaded guilty on May 14, 2012 to charges stemming from an incident occurring between Fall 2010 and Spring 2011, where Hunter would sexually assault the eight-year-old victim he was babysitting. Hunter admitted to sexually assaulting the victim on three separate occasions.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/miw//news/2012/2012_1012_JHunter.html

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DRUG ENFORCEMENT

Pine Ridge Man Sentenced for Drug Conspiracy (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Nov. 2, 2012, that Dustin Santos, 32, was sentenced to 30 months in custody and three years of supervised release. Santos was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on Dec. 21, 2010. The charge relates to Santos conspiring with others to distribute methamphetamine in South Dakota between 2008 and 2010. Santos pleaded guilty to the charge on June 25, 2012.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/RC-2012-11-09-Santos.html

Drug and Gun Dealers Sentenced (U.S. Attorney for the District of Nebraska)

U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Gilg announced on Oct. 18, 2012 that Francisco Sanchez- Gastelum, 40, was sentenced to 14 years imprisonment and Manual Menchaca, 37, was sentenced to 12 and a half years. Between Oct. 7, 2011 and Feb. 28, 2012, Menchaca and Jorge Montejano were involved in selling guns and methamphetamine to an undercover officer. The operation ended after law enforcement executed a search warrant at Sanchez-Gastelum’s residence and discovered almost four pounds of methamphetamine. Montejano was previously sentenced to 170 months in prison for his involvement in this case and for violating his supervised release. 

http://www.justice.gov/usao/ne/press_releases/oct/10-18-12%20drug%20and%20gun.html

One Colorado River Indian Tribes Methamphetamine Trafficker Sentenced; Another Pleads Guilty (U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona)

U.S. Attorney John S. Leonardo announced on Oct. 15, 2012, that Rhesa Briann Cuadras, 33, was sentenced in federal court to 60 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Cuadras pleaded guilty on July 12, 2012, to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. On Oct. 16, 2012, Monica Lee Gonzales, 40, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. According to court documents, both Cuadras and Gonzales sold methamphetamine in or near Parker, Ariz., between May and Nov. 2012. A sentencing date for Gonzales has been set for Jan. 7, 2013.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/press_releases/2012/AUG/PR_10172012_Cuadras_&_Gonzales.html

Wanblee Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Marijuana (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Oct. 11, 2012 that Royce Gone, 32, pleaded guilty to Distribution of a Controlled Substance. On April 3, 2012, Gone distributed more than 5 grams of marijuana at Wanblee, SD. A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date was set Jan. 14, 2013. The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/RC-2012-10-15-Gone.html

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ENVIRONMENTAL CRIMES

Navajo Man From Arizona Pleads Guilty to Violating Migratory Bird Treaty Act (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)

U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Oct. 22, 2012 that Daniel Chee Walley, 47, pleaded guilty to violating the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Walley was arrested on Sept. 14, 2012, based on an indictment alleging that he unlawfully sold and bartered parts of a Swainson’s hawk tail without previously obtaining permission from the Sec. of the Dept. of the Interior, in violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Walley admitted that he unlawfully sold the feathers, as alleged in the indictment. A sentencing hearing has yet to be scheduled.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-10-22_walley_pr.pdf

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BOOTLEGGING

Pine Ridge Man Sentenced for Possessing Alcohol on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)

U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Darrell Spotted Elk Sr., 57, charged with Intoxicants Possessed Unlawfully in Indian Country, was sentenced to three months of prison on Oct. 15, 2012. Spotted Elk, Sr., possessed and sold intoxicating liquor to an Indian person near Pine Ridge on Dec. 31, 2011. The possession and sale of alcohol is prohibited on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation by Oglala Sioux tribal law. Spotted Elk, Sr., pleaded guilty to Intoxicants Possessed Unlawfully in Indian Country on June 29, 2012.

http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/RC-2012-10-17-Spotted%20Elk.html