Alison J. Ramsdell U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota
A Rapid City man has been sentenced to two years in federal prison for possessing a firearm while being a felon. The sentencing was announced by United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell and took place on January 27, 2025, under U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler.
Cylis Chipps, aged 21, received a sentence that includes three years of supervised release following his prison term and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Chipps was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2024 for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and pleaded guilty on November 20, 2024.
Law enforcement discovered Chipps in possession of a pistol on September 15, 2024, along with items testing positive for methamphetamine. Previously convicted of felony crimes including possession of a controlled substance and stealing a firearm, it is unlawful for him to possess firearms.
The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched an enhanced strategy for PSN focusing on building trust within communities, supporting violence prevention organizations, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring outcomes.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives alongside the Rapid City Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.
Following sentencing, Chipps was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
