Darla Thompson, False Statement, South Dakota 2023

Rapid City, SD – In a shocking turn of events, a local woman has been sentenced for making false statements to a federal officer. Darla Thompson, a 48-year-old Sioux Falls resident, was handed a two-year probation sentence, a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and $5,000 in restitution.

The conviction stems from Thompson’s time as the Custer Branch Manager of Sentinel Federal Credit Union from January 2018 to August 2020. During this period, she used her position to apply for and receive a loan in a friend’s name. But that’s not all – Thompson altered the serial number on the collateral for the loan in order to conceal the truth from the bank.

It all came crashing down when the friend became delinquent on the loan. And to make matters worse, Thompson had no permission to use the friend’s name or identity. When questioned about the loan and other matters, Thompson provided false information to a Special Agent with the FBI.

The investigation into Thompson’s actions was a joint effort between the Custer County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case, which was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2021. Thompson pleaded guilty on October 7, 2022.

The sentence was handed down by U.S. Circuit Judge Jonathan A. Kobes on February 1, 2023. Thompson will now have to live with the consequences of her actions, all while facing the harsh reality of her two-year probation sentence.

As the Grimy Times continues to uncover the truth behind this shocking case, one thing is clear – Thompson’s actions will not be taken lightly. With a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $5,000 in restitution, the community will be watching closely to see how Thompson makes amends.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story, as the Grimy Times remains committed to bringing you the latest news and information on the crimes that affect our community.

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