Federal prosecutors have handed down a severe sentence to Dru Peterson, a former Lower Brule, South Dakota resident, for his role in the distribution of methamphetamine. The 29-year-old was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier on March 20, 2017.
Peterson’s downfall began on August 27, 2015, when Yankton Sioux Tribal Police responded to a report of suspicious activity at the Fort Randall Casino. The investigation led officers to Peterson and two co-defendants, Wanda Fields and Lacey Crow. Upon searching the vehicle, they uncovered 32.07 grams of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.
The fourth defendant, Renee Peterson, had been inside the casino when she arrived at the car while officers were conducting their questioning. She consented to a search, which led to her arrest as well. All four individuals faced charges, with Peterson being the central figure in the case.
Peterson was indicted for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on March 9, 2016. He pleaded guilty on December 28, 2016. Along with his prison sentence, he has been ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and is subject to three years of supervised release following his release from custody.
This case was a collaborative effort between the Yankton Sioux Tribal Police and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri prosecuted the case, ensuring justice for the victims of Peterson’s drug activities.
Peterson’s co-defendants have also entered guilty pleas and are awaiting sentencing. The sentence handed down to Peterson serves as a stark reminder of the consequences faced by those who engage in illegal drug trafficking within our communities.
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Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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