Pine Ridge Woman Pleads Guilty To Controlled Substance Charge

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Victoria Running Hawk, age 31, of Pine Ridge, South Dakota appeared before Chief U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken on February 28, 2013 and pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The penalty upon conviction is not less than 5 but no more than 40 years imprisonment and/or a $5,000,000 fine.

On or about September 16, 2012, Running Hawk did possess, with the intent to distribute, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. The investigation was conducted by the South Dakota Highway Patrol and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ted McBride.

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for June 28, 2013. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending acceptance of this plea and sentencing.