A multi-agency operation led by the FBI has resulted in the arrest of 16 individuals in Rapid City, South Dakota, and on the Pine Ridge Reservation. The operation, named Snowy Ridge, targeted outstanding warrants associated with federally indicted drug trafficking cases. It began on April 15 and concluded the following morning.
"Operation Snowy Ridge brought together vast resources from federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies for a two-day takedown of alleged drug traffickers living within the Pine Ridge Reservation and Rapid City, South Dakota," stated U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. "Thanks to law enforcement’s sophisticated planning and extraordinary collaboration, the operation accomplished its intended goal—improve public safety in tribal communities by removing individuals who drive violence and facilitate drug addiction in Indian country."
The arrests were made possible through cooperation among several law enforcement bodies. "This operation disrupted the networks fueling violence and trafficking deadly drugs on Pine Ridge Indian Reservation," commented Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of the FBI's Minneapolis division. He emphasized the FBI's commitment to protecting communities in cooperation with federal, state, tribal, and local counterparts.
Chief of Police Danielle Means of the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety highlighted the operation's focus on violent offenders and drug networks, noting its immediate impact on community safety. "By targeting violent offenders and drug trafficking networks, this effort directly addressed the threats impacting our community. We are appreciative for the unified effort and remain committed to working together to ensure safety for our community."
The arrested include Echo Winters, Esther Winters, and several others, all charged with involvement in various drug conspiracies. Acting Special Agent in Charge Rafael Mattei of the DEA Omaha Division noted the operation's role in removing cocaine and methamphetamine from the streets, emphasizing community safety.
Acting U.S. Marshal Stephen Houghtaling remarked on the strategic partnership's success, while Richard "Glen" Melville, Deputy Bureau Director of the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Office of Justice Services, lauded the collective efforts of participating agencies, including the Oglala Sioux Tribe.
The Badlands Safe Trails Drug Task Force led the operation, involving multiple agencies and receiving key support from DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, and South Dakota Highway Patrol.
The investigation continues to determine possible additional charges. The accused are presumed innocent unless proven guilty. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Edward Tarbay and Meghan Dilges will prosecute these cases.