Sylvan Larrabee, Sexual Contact with a Minor, SD 2017

DUPREE, SD – Sylvan Larrabee, 24, of Cherry Creek, South Dakota, will spend the next two years in federal prison after being sentenced for Sexual Contact with a Minor. The sentence, handed down January 23, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange, barely scratches the surface of the damage done to a young victim, sources say.

Larrabee was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 25, 2016, and subsequently pled guilty on October 24, 2016. The charges stem from a sickening incident on May 28, 2015, where Larrabee engaged in sexual intercourse twice with a 14-year-old girl at his Dupree residence. The prosecution laid out a disturbing pattern of disregard, revealing Larrabee was repeatedly warned about the victim’s age.

According to court documents, friends of Larrabee cautioned him that the girl was too young. Even more damning, the victim’s mother directly confronted Larrabee, explicitly asking him to stay away from her daughter. He ignored both warnings, choosing to satisfy his own desires at the expense of a child’s innocence. The details paint a picture of predatory behavior and callous indifference.

Beyond the 24 months of custody, Larrabee faces 5 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund – a paltry sum considering the lasting trauma inflicted on the victim. Larrabee was immediately taken into custody by the U.S. Marshals Service following the sentencing.

The investigation was a joint effort between the Cheyenne Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller led the prosecution, presenting a case that, while resulting in a conviction, many believe doesn’t fully reflect the gravity of Larrabee’s actions. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as they become available.

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler, speaking after the sentencing, stated the Department of Justice is committed to protecting vulnerable populations. However, critics argue that sentences for these types of offenses remain far too lenient, failing to adequately deter predators like Larrabee and sending a weak message to potential offenders. The question remains: is 24 months enough justice for a 14-year-old’s stolen innocence?