SIOUX FALLS — This is an official press release from the U.S. Department of Justice (USAO - South Dakota), published as received.
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Sisseton, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child and Abusive Sexual Contact.
Thomas Avery Drum, age 58, was indicted in October of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on October 31, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, five years up to life of supervised release, and $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
According to the Indictment, between on or about August 26, 2014, and August 25, 2015, in Roberts County, Indian Country, in the District of South Dakota, Drum did knowingly engage in, and attempt to engage in, a sexual act with a child under the age of twelve years.
The charge is merely an accusation and Drum is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
Drum was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
