RAPID CITY, S.D. – A federal judge has handed down a harsh sentence to a Pine Ridge man convicted of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
Justin Bradford, 46, a resident of Pine Ridge, South Dakota, received a 19-year and seven-month prison sentence, followed by five years of supervised release for the conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance charge. He also received 15 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release for the possession of a firearm by a prohibited person charge. The prison sentences and periods of supervision are to be served concurrently.
Bradford was ordered to pay a total of $200 in special assessments to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The sentencing took place on May 15, 2024, after Bradford pleaded guilty on March 10, 2024, to the charges brought against him. The indictment was handed down by a federal grand jury in October of 2022.
The case began in September of 2022, when law enforcement searched Bradford’s residence in connection with a homicide that occurred. Although Bradford was not involved in the death of the individual, the shooter intended to purchase methamphetamine from Bradford at the time of the shooting. During the search, law enforcement seized three firearms and several different kinds of ammunition, which Bradford was not lawfully allowed to possess as a convicted felon.
Bradford was also charged with conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine from 2019 through 2022. He managed and organized at least three individuals involved in the conspiracy.
This case is part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program, a joint effort between law enforcement and the community to reduce violent crime and gun violence. The program is based on core principles of fostering trust and legitimacy in the community, supporting community-based organizations, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring results.
The case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Bradford was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service following the sentencing.
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Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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