Basin, Wyoming Man Sentenced for Rape on Crow Reservation

A Wyoming man has been sentenced to more than ten years in federal prison for sexually assaulting a woman in Montana. The case, which was investigated by both the FBI and the Bureau of Indian Affairs, highlights the seriousness of crimes committed on tribal lands.

Prison Time and Supervised Release

Duane Allen Swank Jr., 36, of Basin, Wyoming, received a sentence of 125 months in federal prison. Once released, he will be monitored under supervised release for ten additional years. He was also ordered to pay nearly $3,000 in restitution.

Guilty Plea Entered Earlier This Year

Swank admitted to sexual abuse in March 2025, bringing the case to sentencing this week. U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters handed down the prison term during the hearing in Billings.

READ MORE: U.S. Marshals Most Wanted Criminals In Montana 

Assault Began After July 4 Outing

Court documents detail that the incident began on Independence Day 2021. Swank had been driving a stolen vehicle with the victim, referred to as Jane Doe, and two other people. After the passengers were dropped off, the assault began.

Victim Escaped After Brutal Attack

While driving from Billings toward the Crow Indian Reservation on back roads, Swank stopped the car and raped Jane Doe. Afterward, he fell asleep, which allowed the woman to escape and seek help. DNA testing later confirmed Swank as the attacker.

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Federal Authorities Took the Lead

The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Montana prosecuted the case, with the FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs leading the investigation. Officials emphasized that this sentencing reflects the commitment to protecting victims of violent crime on tribal lands.