21-Year-Old Lower Brule Man Charged with Drug Trafficking and Possession of a Firearm
In a shocking turn of events, Thomas James Eagle Thunder, a 21-year-old man from Lower Brule, South Dakota, has been indicted for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
According to the indictment, Eagle Thunder knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute marijuana, a Schedule I controlled substance, commencing on or about August 1, 2017. The indictment also alleges that on or about February 15, 2018, Eagle Thunder knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute marijuana.
Furthermore, the indictment alleges that Eagle Thunder, being an unlawful user of, and addicted to a controlled substance, knowingly received and possessed several firearms, which had been shipped and transported in interstate and foreign commerce.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $750,000 fine, up to 9 years of supervised release, and up to $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Eagle Thunder was released on bond pending trial, which has been set for August 21, 2018.
Mandatory Facts:
- Defendant: Thomas James Eagle Thunder
- Criminal Charges: Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person
- City and State: Lower Brule, South Dakota
- Date: June 12, 2018 (indicted)
- Sentence or Outcome: Released on bond pending trial
- Dollar Amounts: $750,000 fine, up to $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund
Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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