⏱ 2 min read
Leland Whitefeather, Sr., a 77-year-old man from Red Lake, Minnesota, was sentenced to 66 months in prison for the sexual abuse of minors in his care. The abuse occurred at his home on the Red Lake Indian Reservation between 2009 and 2019. Whitefeather, who was acting as a caretaker to the victims, admitted to knowingly engaging in sexual acts with multiple minors. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Laura M. Provinzino on July 15, 2026.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Red Lake Tribal Police Department, and the case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Evan Gilead and Mary Riverso. The sentence is a result of a collaborative effort between law enforcement agencies to hold accountable those who prey on the innocent.
The FBI and the Red Lake Tribal Police Department have stated that they have no tolerance for child sexual abuse and will continue to work together to protect the community and the children of the Red Lake Nation. The sentence is hoped to be part of the healing process for the victims and their families.
After his release from custody, Whitefeather will be placed on sex offender supervision for a period of five years. The case highlights the importance of protecting children and holding accountable those who commit heinous crimes against them.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Sex Crimes
- Defendant: Minnesota
- Location: MN
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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