FARGO, ND – Austin Ray Lester, 29, of Tokio, North Dakota, will spend the next 33 years in federal prison for his role in the horrific death of a three-year-old child. Lester was sentenced on August 5, 2025, by Chief Judge Peter D. Welte in United States District Court for the District of North Dakota, following a guilty plea to Involuntary Manslaughter, two counts of Child Neglect in Indian country, and Assault of a Child with a Dangerous Weapon in Indian country.
The sentence brings a degree of closure to a case steeped in brutality and neglect. Court documents reveal Lester, along with co-defendant Krissy Louise Hinsley, systematically abused and neglected the young victim within the boundaries of the Spirit Lake Reservation in 2022. Their actions directly led to the child’s death, a tragedy that has shaken the community.
Hinsley, who previously pled guilty to two counts of Child Neglect in Indian country, was sentenced by Judge Welte to 10 years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Both Lester and Hinsley were jointly ordered to pay $62,553.39 in restitution to the North Dakota Department of Human Services, covering the medical expenses incurred before the child’s death. The financial penalty, however, offers little solace for the loss of a young life.
“This is a tragic child abuse case,” stated Acting United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl. “This three-year-old child was the victim of fatal abuse and neglect at the hands of her caregivers, Lester and Hinsley. They left her alone at home, where she was exposed to dangerous conditions while Lester and Hinsley used narcotics. This is shameful, deliberate, and horrific conduct.” Puhl vowed that her office would continue to pursue lengthy sentences for those who inflict such cruelty on vulnerable children.
FBI Minneapolis SAC Alvin M. Winston Sr. echoed Puhl’s sentiment, stating that Lester’s 33-year sentence “represents a step towards justice for the life lost, and a warning to those who endanger our most vulnerable community members.” Winston affirmed the FBI’s commitment to working with partners to ensure the safety and security of children on the Spirit Lake Reservation. The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with prosecution handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori H. Conroy.
The details of the abuse paint a grim picture of callous indifference. Lester and Hinsley prioritized their own drug use over the well-being of a defenseless child, leaving her exposed to preventable dangers. This sentencing serves as a harsh reminder that such neglect will not be tolerated and that those responsible will be held accountable, even if the damage is irreversible. The case highlights the ongoing struggle to protect children in vulnerable communities and the urgent need for increased resources and vigilance.
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Key Facts
- State: North Dakota
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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