Abusive Sexual Contact Lands Mankato Man in Prison
A disturbing incident on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation in Gregory County, South Dakota, has led to a harsh punishment for a Mankato, Minnesota, man. Ethan Schnitker, 41, has been sentenced to two years in federal prison for Abusive Sexual Contact, a charge that stems from an incident on October 3, 2021.
According to the indictment, Schnitker had sexual contact with a minor victim without her permission while they were visiting the area. The victim was under Schnitker’s care at the time, making his actions all the more heinous. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting our children from harm.
The sentencing took place on June 30, 2025, before Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court. Schnitker was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, further demonstrating the gravity of the offense.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. The project marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims.
The FBI and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services investigated the case, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne Venhuizen prosecuting the charges. Schnitker was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service, where he will serve his two-year sentence.
The harsh punishment handed down to Schnitker serves as a warning to those who would seek to harm our children. It is a testament to the dedication of law enforcement and prosecutors who work tirelessly to bring these offenders to justice.
Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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