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Press Release

Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Sexual Exploitation of a Child

For Immediate Release
U.S. Attorney's Office, District of South Dakota

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of sexual exploitation of a child was sentenced on Monday, July 24, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schrier.

Terance Morice Highbull, 38, was sentenced to 25 years in custody, followed by15 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Highbull was indicted for sexual exploitation of a child by a federal grand jury on February 23, 2016. He pled guilty on April 24, 2017.

On or about February 9, 2015, officers from the Sioux Falls Police Department responded to a family dispute call at the home of Highbull’s girlfriend. While at the residence, a report of naked photographs on Highbull’s cell phone was made. Police seized the cell phone and began investigating the claims. Highbull had engaged in sexual contact with his girlfriend’s 13 year-old daughter and recorded it on his cell phone.

“Sexual exploitation of a child is among the most heinous crimes we prosecute. The actions of these sexual predators can alter a child’s life forever and steal their innocence during a crucial time in their formative years. The sentence handed down to Terance Highbull is indicative of the serious nature of these acts,” said U.S. Attorney Seiler.

This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department, along with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.

Highbull was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

Updated July 26, 2017

Topic
Project Safe Childhood