Wakan Waci Blindman Charged with Drug Trafficking, Child Abuse

A Nevada man is facing federal prison time after being charged with possessing marijuana with intent to distribute—and exposing his one-year-old son to the criminal act. Wakan Waci Blindman, 36, of Wadsworth, Nevada, was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 9, 2016, on charges of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Child Abuse.

Blindman appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 20, 2016, where he entered a plea of not guilty. The indictment alleges that on September 10, 2016, Blindman knowingly possessed marijuana, a Schedule I controlled substance, with the intent to distribute. At the time, his infant son was seated in the vehicle with him while he engaged in drug-related activity.

If convicted, Blindman faces a maximum penalty of up to 20 years in federal custody and/or a $500,000 fine. Additional penalties include five years of supervised release, a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and possible restitution orders.

The case underscores the dangerous intersection of drug trafficking and child endangerment, with federal prosecutors emphasizing the vulnerability of the victim—a child less than two years old. Having a minor present during illicit drug activity elevates the severity of the offense under federal law, triggering enhanced charges and potential sentencing.

The investigation was conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, highlighting tribal-federal cooperation in prosecuting crimes that occur on or impact Native lands. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is leading the prosecution.

Blindman was released on bond pending trial, and no trial date has been set. The charges remain allegations; he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.