Tristan Alvie Habben, Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Prohibited Person, South Dakota 2024

RAPID CITY, SD – Tristan Alvie Habben, 22, of Rapid City, is headed to federal prison after being sentenced for illegally possessing a handgun and ammunition. U.S. Chief District Judge Roberto A. Lange handed down the 38-month sentence on April 26, 2024, followed by three years of supervised release. The sentence includes a $100 payment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Habben, a convicted felon, was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2023 and subsequently pleaded guilty on January 31, 2024, to Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Prohibited Person. The charges stem from an August 2023 incident where authorities found Habben in possession of a Taurus model PT740, .40 Smith & Wesson caliber, semi-automatic pistol, along with corresponding Winchester .40 Smith & Wesson caliber ammunition.

Federal law clearly prohibits convicted felons from owning or possessing firearms and ammunition. Habben’s prior conviction made him ineligible, yet he knowingly violated that law, bringing another dangerous weapon into the community. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), alongside the Rapid City Police Department, led the investigation that brought Habben to justice.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Lindrooth prosecuted the case, presenting evidence that secured the conviction. Sources within the investigation state that the firearm was recovered during a routine check on Habben, who was already known to law enforcement. The quick action of both agencies prevented a potentially dangerous situation from escalating.

This case is being touted as a success under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence nationwide. While officials highlight PSN’s focus on community trust and strategic enforcement, critics argue the program often relies heavily on reactive policing rather than preventative measures. The DOJ launched a strengthened version of PSN in May 2021, emphasizing focused enforcement priorities and measurable results.

Following the sentencing, Habben was immediately taken into custody by the U.S. Marshals Service. The ATF and Rapid City PD continue to investigate potential connections between Habben and other criminal activity, hoping to dismantle any larger network he may be associated with. The agency has not released further details on potential co-conspirators at this time.

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