A Box Elder resident has admitted to charges related to drug trafficking and firearm crimes on the Rocky Boys Indian Reservation. Melody Rose Bernard, 50, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and using a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, according to U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich.
Bernard is facing significant penalties, including a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison for the drug charge and five years to life for the firearm charge. Additionally, she could face fines up to $10 million for the drug offense and $250,000 for the firearm offense. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris will preside over her sentencing set for May 1 in Great Falls.
The government alleged that from October 2023 until May 21, 2024, Bernard trafficked methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine into Hill County's Rocky Boys Indian Reservation. A witness claimed involvement in transporting large quantities of drugs and money for Bernard and observed her distributing narcotics from her residence and business known as Ziah’s.
Law enforcement learned through other sources that Bernard sold narcotics at Ziah’s. One person reported buying fentanyl pills multiple times from Bernard at prices ranging from $10 to $40 per pill depending on quantity or familiarity with Bernard.
On May 21, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Bernard’s residence where they found substantial amounts of methamphetamine and cocaine being destroyed in a bathtub. The search also yielded cash and a firearm.
In connection with this case, co-defendant Airian Mariah Russette purchased firearms that were later traded to Bernard for oxycodone pills. These firearms were subsequently involved in a double homicide before being recovered by authorities. Russette admitted falsifying information on federal forms during the purchase of these firearms—a practice known as straw purchasing—and is awaiting sentencing.
The case is prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office with investigations conducted by various agencies including ATF, FBI, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation among others.
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), aimed at reducing violent crime through collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies and communities.