Left Hand Bull Charged

Mary Left Hand Bull, a 26-year-old woman from St. Francis, South Dakota, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The indictment, announced by United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler, alleges that Left Hand Bull knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

The indictment was handed down on November 9, 2016, and Left Hand Bull appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on March 20, 2017, where she pled not guilty to the charges. Her co-defendant, Lloyd One Star, was also named in the indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.

The investigation into Left Hand Bull’s activities was conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuting the case. The charge against Left Hand Bull is merely an accusation, and she is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The incident allegedly occurred on March 7, 2016, when Left Hand Bull and One Star possessed the controlled substance with the intent to distribute it.

The case against Left Hand Bull highlights the ongoing struggle against methamphetamine distribution in South Dakota. The drug, a Schedule II controlled substance, has been linked to numerous crimes and social problems in the state. Law enforcement agencies have been working to combat the distribution of methamphetamine, and the indictment of Left Hand Bull is a significant step in this effort.

Left Hand Bull was released on bond pending trial, which has been set for April 25, 2017. The trial will determine whether she is guilty of the charges against her, and if so, what sentence she will receive. The maximum penalty of up to 20 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine is a significant one, and it reflects the seriousness with which law enforcement agencies are treating methamphetamine distribution.

In addition to the potential prison time and fine, Left Hand Bull may also be required to pay restitution to any victims of her alleged crimes. The $100 payment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund is also mandatory upon conviction. The case against Left Hand Bull is a reminder that law enforcement agencies are committed to combating drug distribution and related crimes, and that those found guilty will face significant penalties.

RELATED: Oregon Man Vows to Execute Senator in Voicemail Threat

RELATED: Oregon Man Threatens to Execute Senator