ETHETE, WY – Tremayne Thunder, 43, of Ethete, Wyoming, is headed to federal prison for 21 months after being convicted of illegal firearm possession. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl delivered the sentence this week, adding three years of supervised release and a $100 court assessment to the term. For Thunder, it’s just the latest chapter in a long rap sheet.
The bust originated with the Wind River Police Department on July 4th, 2022. Officers responded to a report that Thunder had allegedly pointed a rifle at a juvenile. While investigating that claim, they discovered a firearm situated next to Thunder inside his vehicle. The incident immediately flagged Thunder as a prohibited person, given his prior felony convictions.
Those convictions aren’t minor offenses. Court records show Thunder previously pleaded guilty to kidnapping and aggravated assault and battery. Federal law clearly prohibits individuals with felony convictions from possessing firearms – a law the feds are increasingly focused on enforcing, particularly in areas with higher violent crime rates. This wasn’t a simple oversight; it was a dangerous gamble.
The FBI joined the Wind River Police Department in the investigation, solidifying the case against Thunder. Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy W. Gist prosecuted the matter, presenting evidence that left little room for doubt. The prosecution highlighted not only the illegal possession but also the initial allegation of threatening behavior with the weapon, painting a picture of a volatile individual.
The 21-month sentence, while seemingly standard, sends a clear message: possessing a firearm while being a convicted felon carries significant consequences. The three years of supervised release are designed to monitor Thunder’s activities after his release, and the $100 assessment is a financial penalty for his actions. But will it be enough to prevent future offenses? That remains to be seen.
This case underscores the ongoing efforts by federal and local law enforcement to keep guns out of the hands of those who pose a threat to public safety. The Wind River Reservation, like many rural areas, faces unique challenges with crime, and the collaboration between the FBI and local police is crucial in tackling these issues. The feds will continue to prioritize these cases, ensuring that those who break the law are held accountable.”
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