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Convicted Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to Decade in Prison
RAPID CITY, SOUTH DAKOTA — A 22-year-old man from Pine Ridge, South Dakota, was sentenced to a decade in federal prison for his involvement in a large-scale fentanyl distribution operation on the Pine Ridge Reservation.
Benny Benson was convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance after an investigation by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety and the FBI uncovered his role in the operation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen.
According to court documents, Benson distributed over 900 grams of fentanyl and approximately 210 grams of cocaine on the Pine Ridge Reservation. He was a supervisor of the conspiracy and possessed a firearm during his involvement.
On January 3, 2025, U.S. Circuit Judge Karen E. Schreier sentenced Benson to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Benny Benson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service following his sentencing.
The investigation and prosecution of this case highlights the ongoing struggle against fentanyl trafficking in Indian Country. The Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety and the FBI remain committed to working together to disrupt and dismantle these operations.
This case is a reminder of the devastating impact of fentanyl trafficking on our communities. Law enforcement and prosecutors will continue to work tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice.
**Mandatory Facts:**
Defendant/Respondent: Benny Benson
Criminal Charges: Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance
City and State: Rapid City, South Dakota
Exact Date: January 3, 2025 (sentencing)
Sentence or Outcome: 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100
Dollar Amounts: $100 (special assessment)
Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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