Former Oglala Sioux Tribal President Julian Bear Runner was convicted of wire fraud, larceny, and embezzlement charges after defrauding his tribe out of thousands of dollars. A federal indictment in 2022 revealed that Bear Runner submitted vouchers for work-related travel, which he did not actually go on, and received around $80,000 in checks that he used for personal expenses such as gambling and hotel stays. U.S. Attorney Alison Ramsdell emphasized the impact of Bear Runner’s actions on the tribe, stating that he stole money that could have been used to improve life for those living on the Pine Ridge Reservation. The maximum penalty for the charges includes 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. Bear Runner’s sentencing date has not been set, and his public defender has not made a comment.
The conviction of Bear Runner highlights the issue of government leaders abusing their power for personal financial gain, to the detriment of the public. South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem had previously made claims that tribal leaders were benefiting from drug cartels, prompting backlash from tribes in the state. The case of Bear Runner serves as a concrete example of corruption within tribal leadership, with the former president stealing funds that could have been used for the benefit of the Oglala Sioux Tribe. The conviction sends a message that such actions will not be tolerated, and that those who betray the trust of their community will face consequences.
The jury’s decision to convict Bear Runner came after a three-day trial, in which evidence of his fraudulent activities was presented. The charges of wire fraud, larceny, and embezzlement all stemmed from Bear Runner’s actions while he was president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe in 2019 and 2020. The misuse of funds for personal gain is a serious offense that undermines the integrity of tribal leadership and erodes the trust of the community. Bear Runner’s sentencing will serve as a further reminder of the consequences of such behavior, potentially leading to a lengthy prison term and significant financial penalties.
The impact of Bear Runner’s actions extends beyond the immediate financial loss suffered by the Oglala Sioux Tribe. The case also raises questions about governance and accountability within tribal leadership structures, and highlights the need for transparency and oversight to prevent similar incidents in the future. Tribal President Frank Star Comes Out did not immediately respond to requests for comment, indicating a possible reluctance to address the issue publicly. The conviction of Bear Runner should serve as a wake-up call for tribal leaders to prioritize the interests of their community above personal gain, and to uphold the values of honesty and integrity in their roles.
Moving forward, the case of Julian Bear Runner should prompt a reevaluation of governance practices within the Oglala Sioux Tribe and other tribal communities. Strengthening accountability measures and implementing safeguards to prevent fraud and corruption will be essential to rebuild trust and ensure that the needs of tribal members are prioritized. The legal consequences faced by Bear Runner should deter others from engaging in similar misconduct and serve as a warning that those who abuse their positions for personal gain will be held accountable. By addressing these challenges head-on, tribal leaders can work towards a more transparent and accountable governance structure that serves the best interests of their community.
