North Dakota man charged with first degree murder after years long federal investigation into fatal stabbing
Fort Yates, North Dakota – Federal prosecutors have announced a first-degree murder indictment against a North Dakota man following a years-long investigation connected to a deadly stabbing on the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation more than a decade ago.
United States Attorney Nicholas W. Chase said a federal grand jury returned the indictment against 36-year-old Brutus Claymore of Fort Yates, an enrolled member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. Claymore is charged with first-degree murder under federal law.
According to investigators, the case stems from a violent incident that took place on November 22, 2014, in Fort Yates, North Dakota.
Federal authorities allege Claymore forcibly entered an occupied residence during nighttime hours while attempting to rob the people inside the home. During the confrontation, one of the residents reportedly tried to resist the robbery attempt.
Investigators said Claymore allegedly stabbed the resident with a knife, causing injuries that resulted in the victim’s death.
Investigation Continued for Years
Officials said the indictment followed a lengthy investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation along with the Bureau of Indian Affairs Missing and Murdered Unit.
Authorities emphasized that the case reflects broader federal efforts aimed at addressing missing and murdered Indigenous person cases throughout tribal communities.
The prosecution is tied to the Department of Justice’s Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Regional Outreach Program, often referred to as the MMIP initiative. Federal officials described the program as a coordinated effort involving tribal, federal, state, and local agencies working together to investigate unresolved cases and improve responses to violence impacting Indigenous communities.
According to the Department of Justice, the initiative focuses on prevention, communication, collaboration, and long-term solutions tied to missing and murdered Indigenous person investigations.
Federal officials stressed that solving violent crimes involving tribal communities remains a major priority even when years have passed since the original incident.
Authorities also reminded the public that an indictment is not a conviction and that Claymore is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Claymore is scheduled to stand trial beginning June 23, 2026, before United States District Judge Daniel L. Hovland.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gary Delorme from the District of North Dakota and Troy R. Morley, who serves as MMIP Assistant United States Attorney and Great Plains Region Tribal Liaison for the District of South Dakota.
Investigators said the continued work between the FBI and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Missing and Murdered Unit played a critical role in advancing the case after many years. Federal officials say the prosecution demonstrates an ongoing commitment to seeking justice for victims and families connected to unresolved violent crimes in tribal communities.
