Babaamaajimowinan (Telling of news in different places)
Babaamaajimowinan (Telling of news in different places)
AMERICAN INDIAN AND ALASKA NATIVE HERITAGE MONTH AT THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
On Nov, 27, 2012, Deputy Attorney General James M. Cole and Acting Associate Attorney General Tony West spoke at the Justice Department's 2012 American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month Observance Program. The theme of the event was "Serving Our People, Serving Our Nation: Native Visions for Future Generations," reminding everyone of the many ways that American Indians and Alaska Natives have enriched our Nation, and the commitment of all Americans to serve the common good and ensure equal opportunity for all. Kevin K. Washburn, the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs at the Department of the Interior, was the special guest of the Justice Department and gave remarks.
Deputy Attorney General Cole reiterated the Department's commitment to addressing the alarming rate of domestic violence crimes that occur on Indian County. "The status quo is unacceptable. That's why the Justice Department has proposed legislation that would close significant legal gaps and give Indian Country law enforcement officials, investigators, and prosecutors the tools they need to crack down on violence against women. This proposal, included in the legislation to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act that passed the Senate with strong bipartisan support earlier this year. The Administration is encouraging Congress to come together and pass a bipartisan measure that protects all victims. The Violence Against Women Act has been improved each time that it has been reauthorized, and this time should be no different."
Acting Associate Attorney General Tony West reflected on his many visits to Indian Country, and the powerful lessons he learned while on his trips."They remind me of the important trust relationship between the United States and tribal nations, and that the struggle for tribal sovereignty and self-determination has too often been waged in the face of disruption and devastation caused by assimilation and termination policies pursued in the not-so-distant past... And they remind me that, as important as is our shared history, so too is our common destiny: a destiny that is left in our hands to shape, to mold, to build, to create."
Deputy Attorney General Cole's full remarks can be found here: http://www.justice.gov/iso/opa/dag/speeches/2012/dag-speech-121127.html
Acting Associate Attorney General West's full remarks can be found here: http://www.justice.gov/iso/opa/asg/speeches/2012/asg-speech-121127.html
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ENVIRONMENTAL CRIME
Fort Thompson Man Sentenced for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Unlawful Take of a Bald Eagle (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Fort Thompson, S.D., man charged with Possession of A Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Unlawful Taking of a Bald Eagle was sentenced on Nov. 20, 2012. Richard Coleman, 25, was sentenced to 12 months and one day on the Firearm offense and nine months on the Bald Eagle offense with the sentence to run concurrently. The Court ordered $10,000 in restitution for one Mature Bald Eagle and $1,750 for one Snowy Owl. Coleman was indicted for Possession of Firearm and Unlawful Taking of a Bald Eagle, Migratory Birds and Deer by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2012. The conviction stems from an incident that occurred between Dec. 1, 2011, and Jan. 10, 2012, when Coleman, who had previously been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, knowingly possessed a firearm, which he used to intentionally and illegally shoot a Bald Eagle, a Snowy owl and other wildlife. Coleman pleaded guilty on Aug. 28, 2012.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-29-Coleman.html
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PUBLIC CORRUPTION
Last of 11 Defendants Sentenced for Theft and Embezzlement from an Indian Tribal Organization (U.S. Attorney for the District of North Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced that on Nov. 21, 2012, Tanya Jetty was sentenced on charges, in two separate cases, of conspiracy to embezzle from an Indian Tribal organization, embezzlement and theft from an Indian Tribal organization, and false statements. Jetty was sentenced to three months at a residential reentry center and seven months of electronic home monitoring, followed by three years of supervised release. Jetty was also ordered to pay $95, 328 in restitution.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/nd/news/2012/11-21-12-Jetty%20Sentenced.html
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VIOLENT CRIME
Bloomfield Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Second Degree Murder Charge (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)
U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Nov. 29, 2012 that Jasper Fernandez, 38, pleaded guilty to second degree murder under a plea agreement with the U.S. Attorney's Office. Fernandez admitted that he murdered Ms. Venita Jose, 36, on the night of Nov. 4, 2011. Fernandez's plea agreement states that he killed the victim during the course of an argument by forcibly holding the victim's head against the inside of the car until she stopped breathing. The murder occurred shortly after Fernandez left a party where he had been drinking alcohol.
After burying the victim's remains, Fernandez attempted to conceal the murder by driving the victim's vehicle to an apartment complex in Farmington, N.M., located near her residence. Fernandez also took steps to establish an alibi by sending text messages to the victim's phone. Court records reflect that the victim was reported missing as of Nov. 4, 2011, and that her murder was revealed when her remains were discovered on Dec. 16, 2011.
Fernandez remains in custody pending his sentencing hearing, which has yet to be scheduled.
Peach Springs man Sentenced to 13 Years in Federal Prison for Stabbing and Shooting (U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona)
U.S. Attorney john S. Leonardo announced that on Nov. 28, 2012, Cooper Price Susanyatame, 20, was sentenced to 161 months in federal prison. Susanyatame pleaded guilty on Aug. 28, 2012, to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon and one count of use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. According to court documents, on Aug. 24, 2011, Susanyatame stabbed two victims multiple times in Peach Springs, Ariz., on the Hualapai Nation Indian Reservation. Both victims survived, but were hospitalized as a result of their injuries. In a separate incident on Dec. 25, 2011, Susanyatame fired one shot at a minor victim who was playing outside on the Hualapai Nation Indian Reservation. The bullet missed the minor victim, but struck her grandmother in the head while she was standing inside her home. The grandmother was immediately flown to a hospital where she received treatment for her injury and survived.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/press_releases/2012/AUG/PR_11212012_Cook.html
Mission Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal Officer (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan v. Johnson announced on Nov. 28, 2012, that Theophilus Gary, 33, was sentenced to 15 months in custody, and one year of supervised release for Assaulting a Federal Officer. The charge stems from an incident on Dec. 30, 2011, when a law enforcement officer responded to a call of a pickup truck in a field. The officer arrived and instructed Gary, who was intoxicated, to shut off the truck and exit the vehicle. When Gary refused, the officer reached into the vehicle to shut it off. Gary pushed away the hand of the officer and sped away, leading to a high speed chase. Multiple times, Gary drove his vehicle at the officer during the case.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-28-Gary.html
Kewa Pueblo Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Federal Child Sex Abuse Conviction (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)
U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Nov. 29, 2012 that Pete Victor Reano, Jr., 47, was sentenced to 30 months of imprisonment for his abusive sexual contact conviction. Reano will be on supervised release for five years after he completes his prison sentence. He also will be required to register as a sex offender. On Aug. 23, 2012, Reano pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a Kewa Pueblo girl under 12 years old.
McLaughlin Man Sentenced for Sexual Abuse of a Child (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a McLaughlin man charged with Sexual Abuse of a Child was sentenced on November 26, 2012. Bradley Speker, 53, was sentenced to 20 years in custody, and five years of supervised release. Speker was indicted for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2012. The crime involved an incident that occurred between the 1st day of January, 2010, and the 1st day of January, 2012, when Speker engaged in a sexual act with a child who had not attained the age of 12. On August 28, 2012, Speker pleaded guilty to the offense.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-29-Speker.html
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Sexual Abuse (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Eagle Butte man charged with Sexual Abuse was sentenced on November 26, 2012. David Low Dog, 27, was sentenced to nine years in custody and five years of supervised release. Low Dog was indicted for First Degree Burglary and Aggravated Sexual Abuse by a federal grand jury on January 18, 2012. The crime involved an incident that occurred on July 9, 2011, when Low Dog entered a house in Eagle Butte and engaged in an unlawful sexual act. On September 4, 2012, he pleaded guilty to a Superseding Information that charged him with Sexual Abuse.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-29-Low%20Dog.html
Lower Brule Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Abuse of a Minor (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
US Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Nov. 21, 2012 that Ty Middletent, age 21, of Lower Brule, pleaded guilty to the indictment that charged him with Sexual Abuse of a Minor. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 15 years in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The conviction stems from an incident in August of 2012 when the Defendant knowingly engaged in sexual intercourse with a minor.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-29-Middletent.html
Winner Man Sentenced for Voluntary Manslaughter (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Winner, South Dakota, man charged with Voluntary Manslaughter was sentenced on November 21, 2012. Taylor White Buffalo, age 19, was sentenced to 72 months in custody, and three years of supervised release.
On April 13, 2012, White Buffalo was intoxicated and upset and encountered the victim. White Buffalo struck, beat, and kicked the victim, causing the victim to suffer blunt force trauma to the head and body. The victim died from his injuries.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-21-White%20Buffalo.html
Lower Brule, SD, Man Pled Guilty to Abusive Sexual Contact (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
US Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Wade Goodface, age 19, of Lower Brule, South Dakota, appeared before US District Judge Roberto A. Lange on November 21, 2012, and pleaded guilty to Abusive Sexual Contact. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 2 years in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both. The conviction stems from an incident in February of 2012 w http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-28-Goodface.htmlhen Goodface knowingly engaged in sexual contact with a minor.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-28-Goodface.html
St. Francis Man Pleads Guilty To Involuntary Manslaughter (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Thomas Hacker, 49, of St. Francis, S.D., appeared before United States District Judge Roberto A. Lange on November 26, 2012, and pled guilty to Involuntary Manslaughter. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 8 years in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both. The conviction stems from an incident that took place on Aug. 25, 2012, when Hacker was driving a vehicle under the influence of alcohol and struck the victim who was walking along the edge of the road. The victim died from injuries sustained in the crash. Hacker's blood alcohol level was determined to be .255 at the time of the crash.
Mescalero Man Sentenced to 37 Months for Federal Involuntary Manslaughter Conviction (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)
U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced that on Nov. 27, 2012, Nathaniel Chee, III, 34, was sentenced to 37 months in prison for Voluntary Manslaughter. Chee's conviction was related to the Oct. 3, 2010 death of his six-year-old daughter. Chee admitted that he had been drinking alcohol before permitting his daughter to ride on the running board of the truck Chee was driving. Chee's daughter fell from the running board and was killed when the truck ran over her. Chee pleaded guilty on June 25, 2010.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-11-28_chee_pr.pdf
Cudi, N.M. Man Pleads guilty to Federal Involuntary Manslaughter Charge (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)
U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Nov. 27, 2012 that Jervis Wilson, 20, pleaded guilty to Involuntary Manslaughter. Wilson pleaded guilty to killing Herman Willeto, 52, while driving under the influence of alcohol on March 2, 2012. Wilson's plea agreement states that on March 2, 2012, Wilson drank alcohol and then drove a vehicle recklessly. Wilson struck a Jeep, causing property damage but not injuring the Jeep's two occupants. Wilson continued to drive, and sideswiped a Dodge sedan. Then Wilson struck a Ford truck that was towing an excavator on a flatbed trailer. Mr. Willeto, the driver of the truck was killed on impact.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-11-27_wilson_pr.pdf
Johnny Ray Rowland Pleads Guilty in U.S. Federal Court (U.S. Attorney for the District of Montana)
U.S. Attorney Michael W. Cotter announced on Nov. 21, 2012 that Johnny Ray Rowland, 38, pleaded guilty to assault with a deadly weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Rowland's arrest stems from an event that occurred on June 21, 2012, after a confrontation stemming from a tussle over a bottle of alcohol. Rowland assaulted the victim with brass knuckles, and stabbed the victim with a knife. Sentencing has been set for Feb. 22, 2013.
Federal Jury Finds Carrizo Man Guilty of 23 Counts of Sexual Abuse (U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona)
U.S. Attorney John S. Leonardo announced on Nov. 20, 2012, that Jefferson Gatewood, 44, was found guilty of all 23 counts of a superseding indictment, most of which involved aggravated sexual abuse of minors. The evidence at trial showed that Gatewood sexually abused 15 victims, over a span of 30 years. A sentencing date has been set for February 19, 2013.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/press_releases/2012/AUG/PR_11262012_Gatewood.html
Peach Springs Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Assault (U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona)
U.S. Attorney John S. Leonardo announced on Nov. 20, 2012 that Albert Marwin Cook, 39, was sentenced to 55 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Cook pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury prior to sentencing. Cook admitted to assaulting the victim be kicking and hitting her multiple times. Cook also punched the victim's brother who tried to protect the victim. The victim sustained serious bodily injuries.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/press_releases/2012/AUG/PR_11212012_Cook.html
St. Francis Man Sentenced for Larceny (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Nov. 19, 2012 that Steven Whiting, 19, was sentenced to 18 months in custody and $2,508.21 in restitution for Larceny and Aiding and Abetting. The conviction stems from an incident that occurred on Feb. 4, 2012, when Whiting and other individuals took laptops and desktop computers from Spring Creek Elementary School.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-20-Whiting.html
Fort Yates Woman Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal Officer (U.S. Attorney for the District of North Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced on Nov. 19, 2012, that Francine Babicki, 43, was sentenced to six days in custody and two years of supervised release. Babicki was also ordered to home confinement for 12 months. The conviction stems from an event that occurred on June 5, 2011, when law enforcement officers responded to a call reporting Babicki had driven her vehicle into an unattended vehicle. As officers attempted to remove Babicki from her vehicle, Babicki kicked one of the officers. Babicki pleaded guilty to the charger on June 22, 2012.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/nd/news/2012/11-19-12-Babicki%20Sentenced.html
Red Lake Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Woman with a Shovel (U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota)
U.S. Attorney B. Todd Jones announced on Nov. 19, 2012, that Myron Lee Jones, 26, to 18 months in federal prison on one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Jones admitted that on August 23, 2009, he swung a shovel during a fight that involved a number of young adults. He struck the female victim in the back of the head, causing serious bodily injury. Jones was indicted on March 20, 2012, and pleaded guilty on July 25, 2012.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/mn/mjonessentenced.html
Parmalee Man Sentenced for Robbery (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Nov. 19, 2012, that Levi D. Big Crow, 18, was sentenced 46 months in custody and two years of supervised release for Robbery and Aiding and Abetting. On may 8, 2012, Big Crow was with another individual when they robbed the Paul Mart convenience store by entering the store with bandanas on their faces to mask their appearance and brandished weapons. Big Crow attempted to steal things of value, including merchandise and the cash register from the store clerk. Big Crow pleaded guilty to the charge on August 27, 2012.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-19-Big%20Crow.html
Redby Man Sentenced For Burglary on the Red Lake Indian Reservation (U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota)
U.S. Attorney B. Todd Jones announced on Nov. 19, 2012, that Robert Joseph Downwind, 38, was sentenced to 151 months in prison for First Degree Burglary. Downwind pleaded guilty on Feb. 15, 2012. Downwind admitted that on July 24, 2011, at 2:00am, he entered a residence by cutting the screen on an open window. Downwind admitted he intended to steal money and other items while the homeowner slept. While Downwind was inside, the homeowner woke and confronted him. Downwind assaulted the owner, and stole her purse.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/mn/downwindsentenced.html
Ft. Yates Man Pleads Guilty to Assault Charge (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that on Nov. 16, 2012, Andrew Paul Ramsey, 27, pleaded guilty to Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. The conviction stems from an incident on July 14, 2012, which occurred at a home Ramsey shared with the victim. The couple began arguing, and Ramsey stabbed the victim with a knife. The victim was hospitalized and suffered serious bodily injuries. A sentencing date has been set for April 15, 2013.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-20-Ramsey.html
Rosebud Man Pleads Guilty to Assaulting a Federal Officer (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan B. Johnson announced that Blake Bordeaux, 22, pleaded guilty to Assaulting a Federal Officer on Nov. 15, 2012. The conviction stems from an incident that took place on August 27, 2011, when Bordeaux, of Rosebud, assaulted a federal officer. A sentencing date has been set for Jan. 17, 2013.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-16-Bordeaux.html
Arlyn Castro Sentenced in U. S. District Court (U.S. Attorney for the District of Montana)
U. S. Attorney Jessica T. Fehr announced on Nov. 15, 2012, that Arlyn Castro, 29, was sentenced to 324 months in prison followed by 20 years of supervised release. Castro, a resident of Lame Deer, was found guilty of abusive sexual contact. The investigation was a cooperative effort between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the bureau of Indian Affairs.
Mount Pleasant Man convicted for Sexual Assault, Unlawful Imprisonment, Witness Tampering on Indian Reservation (U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan)
U.S. Attorney Barbara L. McQuade announced on Nov. 15, 2012, that Waylon James Pego, 28, was convicted of three counts of Unlawful Imprisonment, two counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault, three counts of Domestic Assault by a Habitual Officer, two counts of Assault Causing Serious Bodily Injury, two counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with the Intent to Bodily Injury, three counts of Interfering with Electronic Communications, and one count of Witness Tampering. The charges stemmed from incidents involving three separate victims between 2007 and 2012, in which Pego strangled the victims, held them against their will, threatened two of them with weapons, broke their telephones when they attempted to call for help, threatened to kill them, sexually assaulted one of them, and attempted to influence one's testimony before the grand jury. The crimes occurred on the Isabella Reservation in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan.
Newcomb, N.M. Man Sentenced to Thirty Months for Federal Assault Conviction (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)
U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Nov. 15, 2012 that Delsanto Ray Allen, 24, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for his assault conviction. Allen will serve two years of supervised release after he completes his prison sentence. According to the indictment, Allen assaulted a woman and caused her to fall off a vehicle on Nov. 1, 2011. Allen pleaded guilty to Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury on May 3, 2012.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-11-15_allen_pr.pdf
Church Rock, N.M., Man to Serve Five-Year Prison Sentenced for Federal Child Sexual Abuse Conviction (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)
U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Nov. 14, 2012, that Johnson John, 65, was sentenced to five years in prison for Aggravated Sexual Abuse. John will be on supervised released five years after he completes his prison sentence, and will be required to register as a sex offender. On June 26, 2012, John pleaded guilty to sexual abuse of a minor, admitting to attempting to sexually assault a 12-year-old girl.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-11-14_john_pr.pdf
Rosebud Man Convicted of Sexual Abuse (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Anthony Fast Horse, 58, was convicted of Sexual Abuse on Nov. 14, 2012. Fast Horse was indicted by a federal grand jury for the charge on March 13, 2012. The conviction stems from an incident that took place between Dec. 1, 2012, and Dec. 31, 2012, in which Fast Horse sexually abused the victim. A sentencing date has been set for Feb. 4, 2013.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-14-Fast%20Horse.html
Wyoming Man Sentenced for Assaulting Family Member and Assaulting a Federal Officer (U.S. Attorney for the District of Wyoming)
U.S. Attorney Christopher A. Crofts announced on Nov. 13, 2012, Allen Standing Elk, 30, was sentenced to 18 months of prison followed by three years of supervised release for assaulting a family member and assaulting a federal law enforcement officer on the Wind River Indian Reservation. The case involved two separate incidents on Nov. 21, 2011, and Dec. 17, 2011, wherein Standing Elk assaulted a detention officer in the Wind Rover Police Department's detention center, and later caused a compound fracture to a family member's forearm by hitting him with a stick. Standing Elk was also ordered to pay $17,268.82 in restitution to the Wyoming Medical center in connection with medical treatment for one of his victims.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/wy/news/2012/11november/12-069_november15.html
Logan Quinn Sandau Pleads Guilty in U.S. Federal Court (U.S. Attorney for the District of Montana)
U.S. Attorney Michael W. Cotter announced on Nov. 13, 2012, that Logan Quinn Sandau, 24, pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. The conviction stems from an event occurring on June 9, 2012, when Sandau struck the victim with his car after having an altercation with the victim. The victim sustained serious bodily injuries, and multiple witnesses watched the event transpire, identifying Sandau as the driver. A sentencing date has been set for Feb. 19, 2013.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Sexual Abuse (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Nov. 13, 2012, that Cody Dean High Elk, 29, was sentenced to 72 months in custody and three years of supervised release for Sexual Abuse of a Person Incapable of Consenting. The conviction arose from a Sept. 2002 indictment, when High Elk sexually assaulted the victim at a time when the victim was incapable of consenting. High Elk pleaded guilty to the charge on Aug. 14, 2012.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-14-High%20Elk.html
Acoma Pueblo Man Indicted on a Domestic Assault by a Habitual Offender Charge (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)
U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Nov. 9, 2012 that Eric Thomas Valley, 42, was indicted on three assault charges, including domestic assault by a habitual offender. Valley was arrested after an event on Oct. 10, 2012, when Valley allegedly assaulted his domestic partner. According to the indictment, Valley previously had been convicted of battery on a household member in Magistrate's Court in Cibola County, N.M., June 2005, and battery against a household member in Acoma Tribal Court in May 2009.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-11-09_valley_pr.pdf
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. Sentencing 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, $16,268.87 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 the influence of alcohol. Young's vehicle crashed, killing the victim and injuring a second passenger. Young pleaded guilty to the charge on Aug. 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 jointly and severally 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.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-11-06_yazzie_pr.pdf
AMERICAN INDIAN AND ALASKA NATIVE HERITAGE MONTH AT THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
On Nov, 27, 2012, Deputy Attorney General James M. Cole and Acting Associate Attorney General Tony West spoke at the Justice Department's 2012 American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month Observance Program. The theme of the event was "Serving Our People, Serving Our Nation: Native Visions for Future Generations," reminding everyone of the many ways that American Indians and Alaska Natives have enriched our Nation, and the commitment of all Americans to serve the common good and ensure equal opportunity for all. Kevin K. Washburn, the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs at the Department of the Interior, was the special guest of the Justice Department and gave remarks.
Deputy Attorney General Cole reiterated the Department's commitment to addressing the alarming rate of domestic violence crimes that occur on Indian County. "The status quo is unacceptable. That's why the Justice Department has proposed legislation that would close significant legal gaps and give Indian Country law enforcement officials, investigators, and prosecutors the tools they need to crack down on violence against women. This proposal, included in the legislation to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act that passed the Senate with strong bipartisan support earlier this year. The Administration is encouraging Congress to come together and pass a bipartisan measure that protects all victims. The Violence Against Women Act has been improved each time that it has been reauthorized, and this time should be no different."
Acting Associate Attorney General Tony West reflected on his many visits to Indian Country, and the powerful lessons he learned while on his trips."They remind me of the important trust relationship between the United States and tribal nations, and that the struggle for tribal sovereignty and self-determination has too often been waged in the face of disruption and devastation caused by assimilation and termination policies pursued in the not-so-distant past... And they remind me that, as important as is our shared history, so too is our common destiny: a destiny that is left in our hands to shape, to mold, to build, to create."
Deputy Attorney General Cole's full remarks can be found here: http://www.justice.gov/iso/opa/dag/speeches/2012/dag-speech-121127.html
Acting Associate Attorney General West's full remarks can be found here: http://www.justice.gov/iso/opa/asg/speeches/2012/asg-speech-121127.html
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ENVIRONMENTAL CRIME
Fort Thompson Man Sentenced for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Unlawful Take of a Bald Eagle (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Fort Thompson, S.D., man charged with Possession of A Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Unlawful Taking of a Bald Eagle was sentenced on Nov. 20, 2012. Richard Coleman, 25, was sentenced to 12 months and one day on the Firearm offense and nine months on the Bald Eagle offense with the sentence to run concurrently. The Court ordered $10,000 in restitution for one Mature Bald Eagle and $1,750 for one Snowy Owl. Coleman was indicted for Possession of Firearm and Unlawful Taking of a Bald Eagle, Migratory Birds and Deer by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2012. The conviction stems from an incident that occurred between Dec. 1, 2011, and Jan. 10, 2012, when Coleman, who had previously been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, knowingly possessed a firearm, which he used to intentionally and illegally shoot a Bald Eagle, a Snowy owl and other wildlife. Coleman pleaded guilty on Aug. 28, 2012.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-29-Coleman.html
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PUBLIC CORRUPTION
Last of 11 Defendants Sentenced for Theft and Embezzlement from an Indian Tribal Organization (U.S. Attorney for the District of North Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced that on Nov. 21, 2012, Tanya Jetty was sentenced on charges, in two separate cases, of conspiracy to embezzle from an Indian Tribal organization, embezzlement and theft from an Indian Tribal organization, and false statements. Jetty was sentenced to three months at a residential reentry center and seven months of electronic home monitoring, followed by three years of supervised release. Jetty was also ordered to pay $95, 328 in restitution.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/nd/news/2012/11-21-12-Jetty%20Sentenced.html
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VIOLENT CRIME
Bloomfield Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Second Degree Murder Charge (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)
U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Nov. 29, 2012 that Jasper Fernandez, 38, pleaded guilty to second degree murder under a plea agreement with the U.S. Attorney's Office. Fernandez admitted that he murdered Ms. Venita Jose, 36, on the night of Nov. 4, 2011. Fernandez's plea agreement states that he killed the victim during the course of an argument by forcibly holding the victim's head against the inside of the car until she stopped breathing. The murder occurred shortly after Fernandez left a party where he had been drinking alcohol.
After burying the victim's remains, Fernandez attempted to conceal the murder by driving the victim's vehicle to an apartment complex in Farmington, N.M., located near her residence. Fernandez also took steps to establish an alibi by sending text messages to the victim's phone. Court records reflect that the victim was reported missing as of Nov. 4, 2011, and that her murder was revealed when her remains were discovered on Dec. 16, 2011.
Fernandez remains in custody pending his sentencing hearing, which has yet to be scheduled.
Peach Springs man Sentenced to 13 Years in Federal Prison for Stabbing and Shooting (U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona)
U.S. Attorney john S. Leonardo announced that on Nov. 28, 2012, Cooper Price Susanyatame, 20, was sentenced to 161 months in federal prison. Susanyatame pleaded guilty on Aug. 28, 2012, to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon and one count of use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. According to court documents, on Aug. 24, 2011, Susanyatame stabbed two victims multiple times in Peach Springs, Ariz., on the Hualapai Nation Indian Reservation. Both victims survived, but were hospitalized as a result of their injuries. In a separate incident on Dec. 25, 2011, Susanyatame fired one shot at a minor victim who was playing outside on the Hualapai Nation Indian Reservation. The bullet missed the minor victim, but struck her grandmother in the head while she was standing inside her home. The grandmother was immediately flown to a hospital where she received treatment for her injury and survived.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/press_releases/2012/AUG/PR_11212012_Cook.html
Mission Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal Officer (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan v. Johnson announced on Nov. 28, 2012, that Theophilus Gary, 33, was sentenced to 15 months in custody, and one year of supervised release for Assaulting a Federal Officer. The charge stems from an incident on Dec. 30, 2011, when a law enforcement officer responded to a call of a pickup truck in a field. The officer arrived and instructed Gary, who was intoxicated, to shut off the truck and exit the vehicle. When Gary refused, the officer reached into the vehicle to shut it off. Gary pushed away the hand of the officer and sped away, leading to a high speed chase. Multiple times, Gary drove his vehicle at the officer during the case.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-28-Gary.html
Kewa Pueblo Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Federal Child Sex Abuse Conviction (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)
U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Nov. 29, 2012 that Pete Victor Reano, Jr., 47, was sentenced to 30 months of imprisonment for his abusive sexual contact conviction. Reano will be on supervised release for five years after he completes his prison sentence. He also will be required to register as a sex offender. On Aug. 23, 2012, Reano pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a Kewa Pueblo girl under 12 years old.
McLaughlin Man Sentenced for Sexual Abuse of a Child (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a McLaughlin man charged with Sexual Abuse of a Child was sentenced on November 26, 2012. Bradley Speker, 53, was sentenced to 20 years in custody, and five years of supervised release. Speker was indicted for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2012. The crime involved an incident that occurred between the 1st day of January, 2010, and the 1st day of January, 2012, when Speker engaged in a sexual act with a child who had not attained the age of 12. On August 28, 2012, Speker pleaded guilty to the offense.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-29-Speker.html
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Sexual Abuse (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Eagle Butte man charged with Sexual Abuse was sentenced on November 26, 2012. David Low Dog, 27, was sentenced to nine years in custody and five years of supervised release. Low Dog was indicted for First Degree Burglary and Aggravated Sexual Abuse by a federal grand jury on January 18, 2012. The crime involved an incident that occurred on July 9, 2011, when Low Dog entered a house in Eagle Butte and engaged in an unlawful sexual act. On September 4, 2012, he pleaded guilty to a Superseding Information that charged him with Sexual Abuse.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-29-Low%20Dog.html
Lower Brule Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Abuse of a Minor (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
US Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Nov. 21, 2012 that Ty Middletent, age 21, of Lower Brule, pleaded guilty to the indictment that charged him with Sexual Abuse of a Minor. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 15 years in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The conviction stems from an incident in August of 2012 when the Defendant knowingly engaged in sexual intercourse with a minor.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-29-Middletent.html
Winner Man Sentenced for Voluntary Manslaughter (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Winner, South Dakota, man charged with Voluntary Manslaughter was sentenced on November 21, 2012. Taylor White Buffalo, age 19, was sentenced to 72 months in custody, and three years of supervised release.
On April 13, 2012, White Buffalo was intoxicated and upset and encountered the victim. White Buffalo struck, beat, and kicked the victim, causing the victim to suffer blunt force trauma to the head and body. The victim died from his injuries.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-21-White%20Buffalo.html
Lower Brule, SD, Man Pled Guilty to Abusive Sexual Contact (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
US Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Wade Goodface, age 19, of Lower Brule, South Dakota, appeared before US District Judge Roberto A. Lange on November 21, 2012, and pleaded guilty to Abusive Sexual Contact. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 2 years in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both. The conviction stems from an incident in February of 2012 w http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-28-Goodface.htmlhen Goodface knowingly engaged in sexual contact with a minor.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-28-Goodface.html
St. Francis Man Pleads Guilty To Involuntary Manslaughter (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Thomas Hacker, 49, of St. Francis, S.D., appeared before United States District Judge Roberto A. Lange on November 26, 2012, and pled guilty to Involuntary Manslaughter. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 8 years in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both. The conviction stems from an incident that took place on Aug. 25, 2012, when Hacker was driving a vehicle under the influence of alcohol and struck the victim who was walking along the edge of the road. The victim died from injuries sustained in the crash. Hacker's blood alcohol level was determined to be .255 at the time of the crash.
Mescalero Man Sentenced to 37 Months for Federal Involuntary Manslaughter Conviction (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)
U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced that on Nov. 27, 2012, Nathaniel Chee, III, 34, was sentenced to 37 months in prison for Voluntary Manslaughter. Chee's conviction was related to the Oct. 3, 2010 death of his six-year-old daughter. Chee admitted that he had been drinking alcohol before permitting his daughter to ride on the running board of the truck Chee was driving. Chee's daughter fell from the running board and was killed when the truck ran over her. Chee pleaded guilty on June 25, 2010.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-11-28_chee_pr.pdf
Cudi, N.M. Man Pleads guilty to Federal Involuntary Manslaughter Charge (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)
U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Nov. 27, 2012 that Jervis Wilson, 20, pleaded guilty to Involuntary Manslaughter. Wilson pleaded guilty to killing Herman Willeto, 52, while driving under the influence of alcohol on March 2, 2012. Wilson's plea agreement states that on March 2, 2012, Wilson drank alcohol and then drove a vehicle recklessly. Wilson struck a Jeep, causing property damage but not injuring the Jeep's two occupants. Wilson continued to drive, and sideswiped a Dodge sedan. Then Wilson struck a Ford truck that was towing an excavator on a flatbed trailer. Mr. Willeto, the driver of the truck was killed on impact.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-11-27_wilson_pr.pdf
Johnny Ray Rowland Pleads Guilty in U.S. Federal Court (U.S. Attorney for the District of Montana)
U.S. Attorney Michael W. Cotter announced on Nov. 21, 2012 that Johnny Ray Rowland, 38, pleaded guilty to assault with a deadly weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Rowland's arrest stems from an event that occurred on June 21, 2012, after a confrontation stemming from a tussle over a bottle of alcohol. Rowland assaulted the victim with brass knuckles, and stabbed the victim with a knife. Sentencing has been set for Feb. 22, 2013.
Federal Jury Finds Carrizo Man Guilty of 23 Counts of Sexual Abuse (U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona)
U.S. Attorney John S. Leonardo announced on Nov. 20, 2012, that Jefferson Gatewood, 44, was found guilty of all 23 counts of a superseding indictment, most of which involved aggravated sexual abuse of minors. The evidence at trial showed that Gatewood sexually abused 15 victims, over a span of 30 years. A sentencing date has been set for February 19, 2013.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/press_releases/2012/AUG/PR_11262012_Gatewood.html
Peach Springs Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Assault (U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona)
U.S. Attorney John S. Leonardo announced on Nov. 20, 2012 that Albert Marwin Cook, 39, was sentenced to 55 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Cook pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury prior to sentencing. Cook admitted to assaulting the victim be kicking and hitting her multiple times. Cook also punched the victim's brother who tried to protect the victim. The victim sustained serious bodily injuries.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/press_releases/2012/AUG/PR_11212012_Cook.html
St. Francis Man Sentenced for Larceny (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Nov. 19, 2012 that Steven Whiting, 19, was sentenced to 18 months in custody and $2,508.21 in restitution for Larceny and Aiding and Abetting. The conviction stems from an incident that occurred on Feb. 4, 2012, when Whiting and other individuals took laptops and desktop computers from Spring Creek Elementary School.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-20-Whiting.html
Fort Yates Woman Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal Officer (U.S. Attorney for the District of North Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced on Nov. 19, 2012, that Francine Babicki, 43, was sentenced to six days in custody and two years of supervised release. Babicki was also ordered to home confinement for 12 months. The conviction stems from an event that occurred on June 5, 2011, when law enforcement officers responded to a call reporting Babicki had driven her vehicle into an unattended vehicle. As officers attempted to remove Babicki from her vehicle, Babicki kicked one of the officers. Babicki pleaded guilty to the charger on June 22, 2012.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/nd/news/2012/11-19-12-Babicki%20Sentenced.html
Red Lake Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Woman with a Shovel (U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota)
U.S. Attorney B. Todd Jones announced on Nov. 19, 2012, that Myron Lee Jones, 26, to 18 months in federal prison on one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Jones admitted that on August 23, 2009, he swung a shovel during a fight that involved a number of young adults. He struck the female victim in the back of the head, causing serious bodily injury. Jones was indicted on March 20, 2012, and pleaded guilty on July 25, 2012.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/mn/mjonessentenced.html
Parmalee Man Sentenced for Robbery (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Nov. 19, 2012, that Levi D. Big Crow, 18, was sentenced 46 months in custody and two years of supervised release for Robbery and Aiding and Abetting. On may 8, 2012, Big Crow was with another individual when they robbed the Paul Mart convenience store by entering the store with bandanas on their faces to mask their appearance and brandished weapons. Big Crow attempted to steal things of value, including merchandise and the cash register from the store clerk. Big Crow pleaded guilty to the charge on August 27, 2012.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-19-Big%20Crow.html
Redby Man Sentenced For Burglary on the Red Lake Indian Reservation (U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota)
U.S. Attorney B. Todd Jones announced on Nov. 19, 2012, that Robert Joseph Downwind, 38, was sentenced to 151 months in prison for First Degree Burglary. Downwind pleaded guilty on Feb. 15, 2012. Downwind admitted that on July 24, 2011, at 2:00am, he entered a residence by cutting the screen on an open window. Downwind admitted he intended to steal money and other items while the homeowner slept. While Downwind was inside, the homeowner woke and confronted him. Downwind assaulted the owner, and stole her purse.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/mn/downwindsentenced.html
Ft. Yates Man Pleads Guilty to Assault Charge (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that on Nov. 16, 2012, Andrew Paul Ramsey, 27, pleaded guilty to Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. The conviction stems from an incident on July 14, 2012, which occurred at a home Ramsey shared with the victim. The couple began arguing, and Ramsey stabbed the victim with a knife. The victim was hospitalized and suffered serious bodily injuries. A sentencing date has been set for April 15, 2013.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-20-Ramsey.html
Rosebud Man Pleads Guilty to Assaulting a Federal Officer (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan B. Johnson announced that Blake Bordeaux, 22, pleaded guilty to Assaulting a Federal Officer on Nov. 15, 2012. The conviction stems from an incident that took place on August 27, 2011, when Bordeaux, of Rosebud, assaulted a federal officer. A sentencing date has been set for Jan. 17, 2013.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-16-Bordeaux.html
Arlyn Castro Sentenced in U. S. District Court (U.S. Attorney for the District of Montana)
U. S. Attorney Jessica T. Fehr announced on Nov. 15, 2012, that Arlyn Castro, 29, was sentenced to 324 months in prison followed by 20 years of supervised release. Castro, a resident of Lame Deer, was found guilty of abusive sexual contact. The investigation was a cooperative effort between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the bureau of Indian Affairs.
Mount Pleasant Man convicted for Sexual Assault, Unlawful Imprisonment, Witness Tampering on Indian Reservation (U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan)
U.S. Attorney Barbara L. McQuade announced on Nov. 15, 2012, that Waylon James Pego, 28, was convicted of three counts of Unlawful Imprisonment, two counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault, three counts of Domestic Assault by a Habitual Officer, two counts of Assault Causing Serious Bodily Injury, two counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with the Intent to Bodily Injury, three counts of Interfering with Electronic Communications, and one count of Witness Tampering. The charges stemmed from incidents involving three separate victims between 2007 and 2012, in which Pego strangled the victims, held them against their will, threatened two of them with weapons, broke their telephones when they attempted to call for help, threatened to kill them, sexually assaulted one of them, and attempted to influence one's testimony before the grand jury. The crimes occurred on the Isabella Reservation in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan.
Newcomb, N.M. Man Sentenced to Thirty Months for Federal Assault Conviction (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)
U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Nov. 15, 2012 that Delsanto Ray Allen, 24, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for his assault conviction. Allen will serve two years of supervised release after he completes his prison sentence. According to the indictment, Allen assaulted a woman and caused her to fall off a vehicle on Nov. 1, 2011. Allen pleaded guilty to Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury on May 3, 2012.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-11-15_allen_pr.pdf
Church Rock, N.M., Man to Serve Five-Year Prison Sentenced for Federal Child Sexual Abuse Conviction (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)
U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Nov. 14, 2012, that Johnson John, 65, was sentenced to five years in prison for Aggravated Sexual Abuse. John will be on supervised released five years after he completes his prison sentence, and will be required to register as a sex offender. On June 26, 2012, John pleaded guilty to sexual abuse of a minor, admitting to attempting to sexually assault a 12-year-old girl.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-11-14_john_pr.pdf
Rosebud Man Convicted of Sexual Abuse (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Anthony Fast Horse, 58, was convicted of Sexual Abuse on Nov. 14, 2012. Fast Horse was indicted by a federal grand jury for the charge on March 13, 2012. The conviction stems from an incident that took place between Dec. 1, 2012, and Dec. 31, 2012, in which Fast Horse sexually abused the victim. A sentencing date has been set for Feb. 4, 2013.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-14-Fast%20Horse.html
Wyoming Man Sentenced for Assaulting Family Member and Assaulting a Federal Officer (U.S. Attorney for the District of Wyoming)
U.S. Attorney Christopher A. Crofts announced on Nov. 13, 2012, Allen Standing Elk, 30, was sentenced to 18 months of prison followed by three years of supervised release for assaulting a family member and assaulting a federal law enforcement officer on the Wind River Indian Reservation. The case involved two separate incidents on Nov. 21, 2011, and Dec. 17, 2011, wherein Standing Elk assaulted a detention officer in the Wind Rover Police Department's detention center, and later caused a compound fracture to a family member's forearm by hitting him with a stick. Standing Elk was also ordered to pay $17,268.82 in restitution to the Wyoming Medical center in connection with medical treatment for one of his victims.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/wy/news/2012/11november/12-069_november15.html
Logan Quinn Sandau Pleads Guilty in U.S. Federal Court (U.S. Attorney for the District of Montana)
U.S. Attorney Michael W. Cotter announced on Nov. 13, 2012, that Logan Quinn Sandau, 24, pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. The conviction stems from an event occurring on June 9, 2012, when Sandau struck the victim with his car after having an altercation with the victim. The victim sustained serious bodily injuries, and multiple witnesses watched the event transpire, identifying Sandau as the driver. A sentencing date has been set for Feb. 19, 2013.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for Sexual Abuse (U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota)
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced on Nov. 13, 2012, that Cody Dean High Elk, 29, was sentenced to 72 months in custody and three years of supervised release for Sexual Abuse of a Person Incapable of Consenting. The conviction arose from a Sept. 2002 indictment, when High Elk sexually assaulted the victim at a time when the victim was incapable of consenting. High Elk pleaded guilty to the charge on Aug. 14, 2012.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/sd/pressreleases/Pierre-2012-11-14-High%20Elk.html
Acoma Pueblo Man Indicted on a Domestic Assault by a Habitual Offender Charge (U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico)
U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced on Nov. 9, 2012 that Eric Thomas Valley, 42, was indicted on three assault charges, including domestic assault by a habitual offender. Valley was arrested after an event on Oct. 10, 2012, when Valley allegedly assaulted his domestic partner. According to the indictment, Valley previously had been convicted of battery on a household member in Magistrate's Court in Cibola County, N.M., June 2005, and battery against a household member in Acoma Tribal Court in May 2009.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-11-09_valley_pr.pdf
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. Sentencing 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, $16,268.87 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 the influence of alcohol. Young's vehicle crashed, killing the victim and injuring a second passenger. Young pleaded guilty to the charge on Aug. 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 jointly and severally 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.
http://www.justice.gov/usao/nm/pr/2012/2012-11-06_yazzie_pr.pdf
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