Yakima, Washington – A White Swan couple has been sentenced for a violent attack, with Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian overseeing the case. Sundron Larsell Miller, 37, received a 25-year federal prison sentence for charges including Carjacking, Brandishing a Firearm During a Crime of Violence, and Assault with Intent to Commit Murder. Paula Eulojia Cantu-Lopez, 28, was sentenced to 17 years for similar charges. Both individuals, hailing from White Swan, Washington, will also face 5 years of federal supervision upon release.
During the trial and sentencing hearing, it was revealed that Miller and Cantu-Lopez were romantically involved. The incident occurred on December 28, 2021, on the Yakama Reservation, where the victim, an enrolled member of the Yakama Nation, was driving with both Miller and Cantu-Lopez. A dispute arose, leading to the victim being assaulted by both defendants.
The situation escalated as the victim was forcibly removed from her vehicle, and Miller attempted to use her own rifle to harm her. Despite the weapon being unloaded, the victim endured further physical assault before being taken to a residence in White Swan. Eventually, the victim managed to escape and seek help from the Yakama Nation Police Department, with the FBI also joining the investigation.
The trial, which commenced on August 7, 2023, saw a jury returning verdicts on August 11, 2023. U.S. Attorney Waldref commended the victim for her bravery and cooperation with law enforcement to seek justice, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between agencies to ensure safety in tribal communities.
Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office, highlighted the victim’s efforts to intervene in a violent situation and escape before facing further harm. The FBI remains committed to working alongside partners to combat such violence within the state’s reservations.
Investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Yakama Nation Police Department, the case was prosecuted by Michael Murphy, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington. The sentencing serves as a reminder of the consequences of violent acts and the importance of seeking justice for victims in such cases.