United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Francisco White Buffalo, age 35, of White River, South Dakota appeared before U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange on March 18, 2013 and pled guilty to Abusive Sexual Contact. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in custody, a $250,000 fine or both; life of supervised release; and a $100 special assessment.
The conviction stems from an incident that took place on Aug. 15, 2012 when White Buffalo had sexual contact with the victim.
The investigation was conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for June 3, 2013. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending sentencing.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
