⏱ 2 min read
A brutal assault in Hays, Montana, has led to the sentencing of Alta Rose Chandler, 24, to 18 months in prison. On September 30, 2023, Chandler and Heavenlee Drewann Sears were drinking with the victim, John Doe, at his home when the night turned violent. Sears struck Doe repeatedly in the head with a glass schnapps bottle, and Chandler continued to punch him in the head, leaving her knuckles bruised.
The assault left Doe with severe injuries, including a traumatic brain injury, bruised and swollen face, lacerated nose and lip, and human bite marks. Despite medical attention, Doe died two months later on December 11, 2023.
Chandler pleaded guilty in January 2026 to one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Her sentence includes 3 years of supervised release. Sears was also sentenced to 22 months in prison for her role in the assault.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services, and the case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Violent Crime
- Defendant: Montana
- Location: MT
- Source: DOJ Press Release
