Pine Ridge drug-ring case sent to jurors

By Heidi Bell Bease
Rapid City Journal

RAPID CITY - A federal drug conspiracy case against five residents of Pine Ridge Indian Reservation is now in the hands of a jury.

After a two-week trial, jurors will decide the case against Geraldine Blue Bird, Colin Spotted Elk, Marvella Richards, Flint Thomas Red Feather and Rusty Richards. All are charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine in connection with an alleged drug-trafficking ring based in Pine Ridge.

Blue Bird, who prosecutors say was the ringleader, also faces charges of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, conspiracy to distribute marijuana and using or carrying a firearm during a drug-trafficking crime.

Spotted Elk is also charged with conspiracy to distribute marijuana, distribution of cocaine and possession of a firearm in connection with a drug-trafficking crime. Red Feather is also charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine.

The five defendants were among 17 people indicted in connection with the alleged drug ring that prosecutors say involved more than 5 kilograms of cocaine. The others indicted have all reached plea agreements with the federal government, and at least eight of them testified during the trial. Defense attorneys say those witnesses are unreliable because they are testifying against others in hopes of reducing their own sentences. Attorneys for two defendants said their clients were not in Pine Ridge during the alleged conspiracy.

Closing arguments in the case lasted most of Tuesday. The jury is expected to begin deliberations this morning.

The maximum penalty upon conviction for conspiracy is 10 years to life in prison and a $4 million fine. Penalties for use of a firearm during a drug crime can include life in prison, according to court documents.