A Rosebud man is facing federal charges after allegedly assaulting a federal law enforcement officer in Todd County, South Dakota. Laverne White Horse, 27, was indicted on October 12, 2016, on one count of Assaulting a Federal Officer, a charge that carries a maximum penalty of up to 8 years in federal custody and/or a $250,000 fine.
The indictment, returned by a federal grand jury, alleges that on or about August 13, 2016, White Horse attacked or threatened a federal officer while the agent was carrying out official duties. The incident, details of which remain under seal, occurred on tribal land and triggered an immediate investigation by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.
White Horse appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 17, 2016, where he formally entered a plea of not guilty. He was released on bond and is awaiting trial, which is currently scheduled for January 3, 2017, in federal court.
If convicted, White Horse could face up to 8 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. The court may also impose restitution, depending on the circumstances uncovered during trial.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson, representing the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota. Federal authorities have not disclosed whether weapons were involved or whether the officer sustained injuries during the altercation.
The charge against Laverne White Horse is merely an accusation, and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The investigation remains active as federal and tribal law enforcement continue to cooperate ahead of the trial date.
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Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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