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Press Release

Lame Deer Man Convicted of Assault and Strangulation

For Immediate Release
U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Montana

BILLINGS – Leon Seminole, 58, of Lame Deer, was convicted of assault and strangulation for punching and attempting to strangle a female victim.  Seminole was convicted yesterday by a Billings jury following a two-day trial.  U.S. District Court Judge Susan Watters presided over the trial.  Sentencing has been set for August 31, 2016.

In documents filed with the Court, The United States Attorney’s Office outlined the proof presented at trial.  On August 17, 2014, Seminole punched, kicked, and attempted to strangle the victim.  The victim was able to escape from Seminole.  After the assault,  one of the victim’s family members attempted to confront Seminole, but Seminole had a gun in his hand and the family member retreated.

Witnesses testified that the victim’s face was red and swollen and she looked like she had been beaten up.  Medical evidence presented at trial documented that the victim had suffered multiple contusions to her head and face.  Both eyes were swollen and one was swollen shut.  The victim had a broken tooth, which she said had been broken as she struggled with Seminole.  Photos taken by the BIA officer present when the victim was seen at Indian Health Services showed substantial swelling and various other injuries. 

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office.

Updated April 27, 2016

Topic
Indian Country Law and Justice
Press Release Number: MELISSA HORNBEIN, Public Information Officer, (406) 457-5277