United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate Partner, and Child Abuse.
Kevin Yellow Earring, age 26, was indicted on April 12, 2017. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on April 17, 2017, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 15 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and up to $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on January 19, 2017, Yellow Earring assaulted his intimate partner with a knife, causing substantial injuries. The Indictment also alleges that on January 19, 2017, Yellow Earring abused, exposed, tortured, tormented, and cruelly punished a child who had not attained the age of 7 years.
The charges are merely accusations and Yellow Earring is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
Yellow Earring was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.