Virgil Running Bear, Jr., a 40-year-old North Dakota man, was handed a 57-month prison sentence for his role in Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The crime was uncovered in a shocking incident on December 10, 2012, in Ipswich, South Dakota.
A deputy with the Edmunds County Sheriff’s Office was called to investigate a vehicle in a ditch near Ipswich. When reviewing Running Bear’s driver’s license and registration, the deputy discovered that Running Bear had a revoked license and was on federal probation. Despite this, Running Bear was found to be in possession of three firearms and assorted ammunition, which he was prohibited from possessing.
The firearms, which were capable of functioning properly, had been transported through interstate commerce. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, along with the Edmunds County Sheriff’s Office, conducted the investigation into Running Bear’s illicit activities.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn Rich and First Assistant U.S. Attorney Randolph Seiler were instrumental in prosecuting the case. Running Bear was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 15, 2013, and subsequently pled guilty on September 23, 2013.
On December 30, 2013, U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann handed down the 57-month prison sentence. Running Bear was also required to serve three years of Supervised Release and pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Running Bear was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service after the sentencing. This case serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences of possessing firearms as a prohibited person.
The case number is not specified in the press release, but it is clear that the authorities will be keeping a close eye on Running Bear as he serves out his sentence.
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Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Category: Weapons
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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