PINE RIDGE, SD – Tierra Lee Swift Bird, 21, of Pine Ridge, stands accused of assaulting a law enforcement officer, a charge leveled by a federal grand jury indictment unsealed this week. The incident allegedly occurred October 15, 2016, in Pine Ridge, and marks another instance of violence against those sworn to uphold the law in a region already grappling with high crime rates.
According to the indictment, Swift Bird allegedly assaulted an officer with the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety while the officer was performing official duties. United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced the indictment on March 21, 2017, but details of the alleged assault remain scarce. The Grimy Times is committed to uncovering the full story behind this incident.
Swift Bird appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on April 21, 2017, and entered a plea of not guilty. The prosecution, spearheaded by Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen, now faces the task of building a case that proves Swift Bird’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Swift Bird was released on bond, awaiting the scheduled trial date.
If convicted of Assault on a Federal Officer, Swift Bird faces a hefty penalty: up to 8 years in federal custody, a potential fine of $250,000, and three years of supervised release following incarceration. She could also be ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and restitution may be ordered by the court.
The investigation into the alleged assault is a joint effort between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. This collaboration highlights the complex jurisdictional issues often present in cases involving tribal lands and federal law enforcement. The Grimy Times will continue to monitor the investigation and report on any developments.
It’s crucial to remember that this indictment represents merely an accusation. Tierra Lee Swift Bird is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. A trial date is currently set for June 27, 2017, where the evidence will be presented and a jury will decide her fate. The Grimy Times will be there to cover the proceedings.
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Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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