A chilling scene played out on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation in the early morning hours of May 3, 2023, leaving a woman with serious facial injuries. Colten Tyrone Small, also known as Colton Swan, 24, of Box Elder, pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
The gruesome attack unfolded in a residence in Box Elder, where Small allegedly punched the victim, identified as Jane Doe, in the face while holding a butcher knife. A witness to the assault told law enforcement that Small sliced Doe’s face in the residence, leaving her with severe injuries.
According to court documents, Small and Doe had been arguing, and the fight escalated, leading to the use of a deadly weapon. The presence of fentanyl and alcohol at the scene added to the complexity of the case.
The victim, Jane Doe, was treated for her injuries at Northern Montana Hospital. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about the prevalence of violence on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation.
Colten Tyrone Small faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release on each charge. The court will determine the final sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Small was detained pending further proceedings and is set to be sentenced on January 29, 2025. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case, with assistance from the FBI and Rocky Boy’s Law Enforcement.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing violence and substance abuse in communities. As the investigation continues, the community is left to grapple with the aftermath of this disturbing incident.
Related Federal Cases
- Larry Ray Denny Jr, Domestic Assault by Habitual Offender, Montana 2023 · Texas
- Sean Evan Thomas Bad Bear, Assault by Strangulation, Montana 2019 · Alaska
- Earl Landon Old Chief, Jr., Assault on a Federal Officer, Montana 2022 · Maryland
- Gilbert Raymond Martinez, Assault with 9mm Pistol, Montana 2024 · Texas
- Gilbert Raymond Martinez, Assault with Weapon, Montana 2024 · Indiana
Key Facts
- State: Montana
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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