Runningbear Pettit, a 23-year-old resident of Bunch, Oklahoma, has pleaded guilty to charges stemming from an armed assault in Adair County. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Pettit admitted guilt to one count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country and another count related to using a firearm during a crime of violence.
The indictment stated that on January 30, 2025, Pettit assaulted an individual with a dangerous weapon intending bodily harm and used, carried, brandished, and discharged a firearm during this violent act. These incidents took place within the Cherokee Nation Reservation's boundaries in Adair County.
The investigation involved the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, and the Stilwell Police Department. U.S. Magistrate Judge Jason A. Robertson accepted Pettit's plea and has ordered a presentence investigation report.
Pettit's sentencing will be determined by a U.S. District Court Judge after considering applicable guidelines and statutory factors. Until then, he remains in custody under the United States Marshals Service.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Gross and Michael E. Robinson.
