Peace Garden News

Austin Ray Lester, 29, of Tokio, North Dakota, was sentenced to 33 years in federal prison and five years of supervised release after pleading guilty to involuntary manslaughter, two counts of child neglect in Indian country, and assault of a child with a dangerous weapon in Indian country. The sentencing took place on August 5, 2025, before Chief Judge Peter D. Welte in the United States District Court for the District of North Dakota.

A co-defendant in the case, Krissy Louise Hinsley, also pleaded guilty to two counts of child neglect in Indian country. She was previously sentenced by Chief Judge Welte to ten years in prison and three years of supervised release.

The charges stem from abuse and neglect that occurred in 2022 within the Spirit Lake Reservation boundaries. Authorities said this neglect led to the death of a three-year-old child. Both defendants were ordered to pay restitution totaling $62,553.39 to the North Dakota Department of Human Services for medical costs related to the child's care before her death.

"Today, Austin Ray Lester was sentenced for his role in the horrifying abuse and neglect that resulted in the death of a three-year-old child," said FBI Minneapolis SAC Alivn M. Winston Sr. " This sentence represents a step towards justice for the life lost, and a warning to those who endanger our most vulnerable community members. The FBI will work tirelessly with its partners to ensure that the precious children of the Spirit Lake Reservation have the opportunity to grow in a safe and secure environment."

“This is a tragic child abuse case. This three-year-old child was the victim of fatal abuse and neglect at the hands of her caregivers, Lester and Hinsley.  They left her alone at home, where she was exposed to dangerous conditions while Lester and Hinsley used narcotics.  This is shameful, deliberate, and horrific conduct,” said Acting United States Attorney Puhl.  “This case should serve as a reminder that we at the United States Attorney’s Office will seek lengthy sentences for those whose willful and neglectful conduct leads to the death of children.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted an investigation into this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori H. Conroy prosecuted it on behalf of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of North Dakota.