RAPID CITY, SD – Jonah Burning Breast, 29, of Rapid City, is facing serious federal charges after authorities discovered he was illegally holding a dangerous weapon. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Rapid City Police Department moved on the case in January, leading to a February indictment and a March 8th court appearance.
According to federal prosecutors, Burning Breast knowingly possessed an unregistered and short-barreled 12-gauge, pump-action shotgun. This isn’t a simple paperwork issue; the weapon itself is considered illegal due to its modified construction. Adding to the severity of the charges, Burning Breast has a prior felony conviction on his record, legally barring him from owning or possessing any firearms.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota, led by Alison J. Ramsdell, is prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama will be leading the charge against Burning Breast, arguing for the maximum penalty allowed under federal law. Burning Breast pleaded not guilty to the Indictment before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann.
If convicted, Burning Breast could face up to 15 years in federal prison, alongside a hefty $250,000 fine. The sentence doesn’t stop there: three years of supervised release will follow any prison term, and a mandatory $100 payment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered, depending on any damages caused by the illegal firearm.
This case is being touted as part of “Project Safe Neighborhoods” (PSN), a broad initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence across the nation. The Department of Justice launched a strengthened version of PSN in May 2021, focusing on community trust, preventative programs, and strategic enforcement.
Currently, Jonah Burning Breast remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service while awaiting trial. No trial date has been set as of press time, but the government appears determined to put him away for the maximum sentence. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any developments as they unfold.
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