James Michael Youpee, Double Stabbing, Montana 2014

A chilling double stabbing in a Poplar hotel room has resulted in a 42-month prison sentence for the perpetrator, James Michael Youpee, 35, of Poplar, Montana. The incident occurred in April of 2013, when Youpee got into an argument with a woman and then followed her into another hotel room, where he stabbed and cut both her and the male occupant. The male victim suffered life-endangering injuries and was flown to Billings for medical treatment, where he still experiences migraine headaches and pain from the stab wound at the base of his neck.

According to an offer of proof filed by Assistant United States Attorney Laura Weiss, the investigation revealed that Youpee was staying in a Poplar hotel room when he got into an argument with the woman. When she went to another hotel room to use the phone, Youpee followed and forced his way into the room, where he committed the brutal attack. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fort Peck Tribes Department of Law and Justice conducted the investigation.

The charges against Youpee included assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Because there is no parole in the federal system, the truth in sentencing guidelines mandate that Youpee will likely serve all of the time imposed by the court. Youpee does have the opportunity to shorten the term of custody by earning credit for good behavior, however this reduction will not exceed 15% of the overall sentence.

On Thursday, January 23, 2014, U.S. District Judge Brian Morris handed down the 42-month prison sentence, which will be followed by three years of supervised release. This case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of violent crime and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.

The investigation and prosecution of this case are a testament to the commitment of law enforcement and the justice system to protecting the public and seeking justice for victims of violent crime. The community of Poplar and the surrounding areas can rest a little easier knowing that justice has been served in this case.

The case of James Michael Youpee serves as a reminder of the importance of being aware of one's surroundings and taking steps to ensure one's safety, particularly in public places. It is also a reminder of the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions and seeking justice for victims of violent crime.

Defendant: James Michael Youpee

Criminal Charges: Assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury

City and State: Poplar, Montana

Exact Date: January 23, 2014

Sentence or Outcome: 42 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mt/pr/poplar-man-sentenced-double-stabbing