Heath Choal Sentenced

A major blow has been dealt to a large-scale methamphetamine distribution conspiracy in the Pierre area, as 51-year-old Heath Choal of Reliance, South Dakota, has been sentenced to seven years in federal prison for his role in the operation.

Choal, who pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance on June 2, 2025, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte on September 15, 2025. In addition to his prison term, Choal will serve three years of supervised release and pay a $1,000 fine, as well as a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

The conviction stems from a drug distribution conspiracy that began in June 2023 and continued until September 2024. Choal obtained methamphetamine from codefendants Misty and Heather Stahlhoefer, who were the primary sources of supply for several individuals in the Pierre area. The Stahlhoefers would acquire up to one pound of methamphetamine per trip, which would then be distributed by themselves and others, including Choal, Whitney Marrowbone, Wendy Mealer, Brent Larvie, and David Rinehart.

The scope of the conspiracy was substantial, involving between 30 and 35 pounds of methamphetamine. Choal’s co-defendants have already been sentenced to federal prison, with Misty Stahlhoefer receiving 21 years, Heather Stahlhoefer receiving 18 years, Marrowbone receiving 11 years, Mealer receiving six years, Larvie receiving four years and six months, and Rinehart receiving two years.

The case was investigated by the FBI’s Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Pierre Police Department, the Chamberlain Police Department, and the Lyman County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case, which was a significant effort to disrupt and dismantle the large-scale methamphetamine distribution network in the Pierre area.

Choal was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service following his sentencing. The sentencing of Choal and his co-defendants marks a major victory in the ongoing fight against methamphetamine distribution in South Dakota. The collective efforts of law enforcement agencies and the U.S. Attorney’s Office have resulted in significant prison terms for those involved in this conspiracy, sending a strong message to those who would engage in such illicit activities.

The investigation and prosecution of this case demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement agencies to addressing the scourge of methamphetamine distribution in communities across the country. As the war on drugs continues, cases like this serve as a reminder of the importance of cooperation and determination among law enforcement agencies and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in bringing those responsible to justice.

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