PIERRE, SD – Derek McCloskey, 30, of St. Francis, South Dakota, is headed to federal prison after a chaotic high-speed chase and subsequent drug bust. U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte handed down a seven-year sentence on September 9, 2025, for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding Federal Officers, and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
The case unfolded on May 16, 2024, when a vehicle pursuit erupted, drawing in a multi-agency task force including the United States Marshals Service, Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, and Bennett County Sheriff’s Office. For nearly two hours, McCloskey led officers on a reckless chase across multiple counties, intentionally ramming several law enforcement vehicles and causing significant damage. It wasn’t just a getaway; it was a deliberate attempt to evade justice at any cost.
During the desperate flight, McCloskey and his passenger didn’t just try to outrun the law – they actively dumped evidence. Large quantities of methamphetamine, along with a rifle, were tossed from the vehicle in a clear attempt to destroy crucial evidence. Officers eventually recovered approximately 25 grams of pure methamphetamine and the firearm. A deeper dive into McCloskey’s phone records revealed a pattern of drug distribution activity focused within the Rosebud Indian Reservation, confirming he wasn’t just a user, but a dealer.
McCloskey was initially indicted by a federal grand jury in May 2024 and ultimately pleaded guilty on June 2, 2025. Judge Schulte didn’t just send him to prison. In addition to the seven-year sentence, McCloskey will face four years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, $24,965.83 in restitution to cover damages and expenses, and a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. The financial penalties are a small measure of accountability for the disruption and danger he caused.
The investigation was a collaborative effort, spearheaded by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Bennett County Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services, U.S. Marshals Service, and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kirk Albertson and Meghan Dilges secured the conviction. Following the sentencing, McCloskey was immediately taken into the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to begin serving his sentence.
This case serves as a stark reminder that those who endanger law enforcement and flood tribal lands with dangerous drugs will face the full force of federal prosecution. The multi-agency cooperation demonstrates a commitment to tackling drug trafficking and ensuring the safety of communities within the Rosebud and Oglala reservations.
Related Federal Cases
- Eagle Butte Meth Dealer & Escapee Gets 25 Months · South Dakota
- Sioux Center Meth Dealer Lopez-Granillo Gets 6+ Years · Minnesota
- Jason Fagin Gets 65 Months for Check Fraud, Meth Payoffs · Minnesota
- Eagle Butte Man Gets 13 Months for Meth House · South Dakota
- Meth King Carey Gets 20 Years · South Dakota
Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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