MIDLAND, SD – Thomas Lee Richard, 50, of Eureka, California, will spend the next 24 years and 5 months behind bars after being sentenced for the horrific crime of Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity. The sentence was handed down by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken of the U.S. District Court on September 23, 2016, a small measure of justice for a terrifying ordeal.
According to court documents, Richard was indicted on June 16, 2015, and ultimately pleaded guilty on May 26, 2016. The investigation revealed a calculated and disturbing scheme: Richard picked up a minor female in Minnesota with the explicit intention of transporting her across state lines – through South Dakota – to California for the purpose of illegal sexual activity. This wasn’t a spontaneous act; it was a premeditated journey to exploit a vulnerable child.
The chilling plot began to unravel thanks to the quick thinking of concerned citizens. While stopped at the 1880 Town tourist attraction in Midland, South Dakota, the minor was able to signal for help from passersby, effectively halting Richard’s depraved plan. Their intervention undoubtedly saved this young victim from further harm and alerted authorities to the unfolding horror.
U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced the sentence, emphasizing the severity of Richard’s actions. In addition to the 293-month (24 year, 5 month) prison term, Richard will face a lifetime of supervised release following his incarceration. He was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund – a paltry sum considering the damage inflicted.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force spearheaded the investigation, meticulously gathering evidence to build a solid case against Richard. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins skillfully prosecuted the case, ensuring justice was served. The ICAC Task Force’s involvement highlights the growing threat of online predators and the importance of collaborative law enforcement efforts.
Richard was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to begin serving his sentence. This case serves as a stark reminder of the predators who lurk amongst us and the crucial role vigilant citizens and dedicated law enforcement play in protecting the most vulnerable members of our society. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on similar instances of exploitation and abuse.
RELATED: Elkton Predator Gets 50 Years for Child Abuse
RELATED: OB/GYN Hadden Gets 20 Years for Decades of Abuse
Related Federal Cases
- Meth Man Morris Gets 10 Years Federal Time · Minnesota
- Live Nation Faces Trial Over Monopoly Practices · Washington
- Amgen Pays $71M for Pushing Drugs Off-Label · Washington
- Amgen Inc. $71M Settlement · Washington
- Man Sentenced for Transporting Woman for Prostitution · Minnesota
Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Sex Crimes|Human Trafficking|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News