RAPID CITY – In a shocking turn of events, Eric Anduja, 53, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for Voluntary Manslaughter in connection with the killing of his nephew, Alban “Boots” Vitales, on the Pine Ridge Reservation.
The sentencing took place on April 13, 2026 by U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler.
According to court documents, Anduja became intoxicated in May 2025 and got into a heated argument with Vitales. The dispute escalated, resulting in Anduja stabbing Vitales in the neck with a kitchen knife.
Vitales attempted to escape, seeking help from neighbors, but tragically succumbed to his injuries on the front porch of a nearby home.
This high-profile case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office due to the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute that mandates the prosecution of violent crimes committed in Indian Country in federal court.
The case was investigated by the FBI and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paige Petersen led the prosecution.
As a result of the sentencing, Anduja was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Anduja was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund as part of his sentence.
The Pine Ridge Reservation community is still reeling from the tragic loss of life. This case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of violence and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
Related Federal Cases
- Franky Torres, Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, South Dakota 2021 · South Dakota
- Dante Johnson, Voluntary Manslaughter, South Dakota 2019 · South Dakota
- Julian James Hard Heart, Voluntary Manslaughter, South Dakota 2023 · South Dakota
- Malania Rose Fast Horse, Voluntary Manslaughter, South Dakota 2025 · South Dakota
- Malania Rose Fast Horse, Voluntary Manslaughter, South Dakota 2024 · South Dakota
Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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