Indictment: Mayetta Man Facing Federal ChargesOf Domestic Violence Assaults On Indian Lands

TOPEKA, KAN. – A Mayetta, Kan., man has been indicted on federal charges of habitual domestic violence assaults that took place on tribal lands, U.S. Attorney Barry Grissom said today.

William L. Wilson, 28, Mayetta, Kan., is charged with one count of domestic assault by an habitual offender occurring on tribal lands. The indictment alleges that on Sept. 7, 2013, he assaulted his wife. The assault is alleged to have occurred on the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation’s tribal lands in Jackson County, Kan.

The indictment alleges Wilson has two prior convictions for domestic assault.

“Domestic violence is a serious problem,” said U.S. Attorney Barry Grissom. “We are determined to use every means we have to protect women and girls in Indian Country.”

If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The Prairie Band Potawatomi Tribal Police Department investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger is prosecuting.

In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.