Fort Thompson man pled guilty to distribution of marijuana to a person under the age of 21

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Maurice Quigley, age 35, of Fort Thompson, South Dakota, appeared before United States District Judge Roberto A. Lange on February 14, 2011, and pled guilty to an indictment that charged him with distribution of marijuana to a person under the age of 21. The charge carries a minimum penalty of one year in custody and a maximum penalty of 10 years in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both; four years of supervised release; and a $100 special assessment. Restitution may also be ordered. The charge relates to Quigley's distribution of marijuana to a person under the age of 21 in November 2009.

The investigation was conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Ted L. McBride.

A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date was set for May 2, 2011. The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing.