FARGO — A Belcourt woman was sentenced to four years and four months in federal prison after being convicted of child abuse, assault with a deadly weapon and malicious mischief.

Rhawnie Marcellais, 42, Belcourt, appeared in federal district court in Fargo on Wednesday before Judge Peter Welte, who sentenced her to 50 months in federal prison, which will be followed by three years of supervised release. Marcellais was also assessed $300 in special assessment fees and ordered to pay $1,302 in restitution.

According to information released by U.S. Attorney Mac Schneider, law enforcement in Belcourt were notified on Jan. 1, 2021, that a minor female wanted to speak to officers regarding an argument she had with her mother, Marcellais. The minor female departed, and a few hours later went to the emergency room in Belcourt for treatment after being assaulted by Marcellais.

The minor victim’s description of the incident was corroborated by her injuries and by a video that emerged in September 2022.

As the child abuse investigation was running its course, the Federal Bureau of Investigation was made aware of another incident in January 2023, in which Marcellais assaulted an adult female, resulting in fractured ribs and a concussion. Marcellais was convicted on June 28 after a four day jury trial.

The case was investigated by the FBI and the Bureau of Indian Affairs and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.