Pennington County State's Attorney's Office

Pennington County State's Attorney's Office The Penn. Co. State's Attorney's Office represents the county in criminal and civil court proceedings

Just last month a Pennington County man was sentenced for the horrific abuse of a dog. Unfortunately, animal cruelty hap...
06/11/2026

Just last month a Pennington County man was sentenced for the horrific abuse of a dog. Unfortunately, animal cruelty happens here, and it is a crime we take seriously.

If you know of an animal that is being abused, neglected, or left in dangerous conditions, report it. That includes animals left in hot vehicles, where temperatures can quickly become life-threatening.

We all have a role to play in keeping our furry friends safe. If you see something, say something.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJune 8, 2026Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Murder of Man He Described as His Best FriendRAPID ...
06/08/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 8, 2026

Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Murder of Man He Described as His Best Friend

RAPID CITY, S.D. — A Pennington County jury last month found 23-year-old Luke Birch guilty of second-degree murder in the killing of McGarland Walker VI, a man Birch had previously described to law enforcement as his best friend. Today, Seventh Circuit Judge Jeffrey Connolly sentenced Birch to life in prison. Second-degree murder is a Class B felony in South Dakota and carries a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment.

During the sentencing hearing, several members of Walker's family addressed the court, describing him as a devoted husband, son, and father whose life mattered deeply to those who loved him.

Evidence presented at trial showed Walker was shot six times and killed on March 8, 2024, inside a west Rapid City apartment building. Testimony established that Birch and Walker had been involved in an argument, much of which occurred over the phone. Following the shooting, Birch fled the scene and took steps to conceal his involvement in the crime.

"This was a senseless and tragic act of violence that took the life of McGarland Walker VI. Mr. Walker's family has endured an unimaginable loss, and while no sentence can restore what was taken from them, we hope today's outcome provides some measure of accountability and closure," said Chief Deputy State’s Attorney Adam Shiffermiller.

The case was prosecuted by Chief Deputy State's Attorney Adam Shiffermiller and Assistant Chief Deputy State's Attorney Olivia Siglin.

After 30 years of service, this month our office says goodbye to Jay Alderman, a man who has left an incredible mark on ...
06/05/2026

After 30 years of service, this month our office says goodbye to Jay Alderman, a man who has left an incredible mark on our team and our community.

Jay, thank you for your leadership, your friendship, and your commitment over the past three decades. You will be missed more than you know, and your legacy will continue long after your final day.

Thank you for 30 incredible years. Enjoy the next chapter!

Thinking about law school or a career in public service?In this episode of Justice in Action, three prosecutors at diffe...
06/03/2026

Thinking about law school or a career in public service?

In this episode of Justice in Action, three prosecutors at different stages of their careers discuss what it's really like to do this work. They share the challenges, the rewards, and the moments that remind them why they chose a career dedicated to seeking justice and serving their community.

Featuring State’s Attorney Lara Roetzel, (C) Assistant Chief Deputy Olivia Siglin (L), and Deputy State’s Attorney Karli Viher (R).

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-22-law-school-didnt-teach-me-this/id1768883207?i=1000770535118

If you haven't had the opportunity to hear Hollie Strand with the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force spe...
06/01/2026

If you haven't had the opportunity to hear Hollie Strand with the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force speak, you're missing out, but also, here's your chance!

In recognition of Child Internet Safety Month, we're resharing our podcast featuring Hollie and her important work protecting children online. During the conversation, she shares eye-opening insights into the hidden dangers of the internet, along with practical tips parents can use to help keep their children safe.

Whether you're a parent, grandparent, educator, or simply an internet user, this episode offers valuable information on navigating today's digital world safely.

This is a must-listen for anyone who wants to better protect themselves and their family online.

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-9-behind-the-screens-protecting-kids-in/id1768883207?i=1000688457245

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMay 29, 2026Defendant Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for RobberyRAPID CITY, S.D. – 22-year-old Arl...
05/29/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 29, 2026

Defendant Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Robbery

RAPID CITY, S.D. – 22-year-old Arlo Poor Thunder received a 12-year penitentiary sentence for his role in the December 2025 robbery of a Rapid City convenience store. He pled guilty earlier this month to aiding and abetting first degree robbery. He was sentenced yesterday.

In his sentencing argument, Senior Deputy State’s Attorney Braedon Houdek told the Court the defendant participated in a planned robbery in which a store clerk was threatened with what appeared to be a firearm. During the robbery, the victim believed the weapon was real and feared for her life.

“Harm is not measured solely in bloodshed; it is measured in the trauma of a person forced at gunpoint to submit to the defendant's will. And this harm was not just felt by the victim in this case, it ripples outward,” Houdek said. “When the people of Pennington County read about an armed robbery at a local convenience store, it erodes their sense of safety,” he continued.

Houdek also told the Court the defendant involved his 16-year-old nephew in the offense, directing the juvenile to act as a lookout during the robbery.

The State further argued the defendant demonstrated ongoing violent behavior while in custody by assaulting another inmate while awaiting resolution of this case.

The Court ultimately sentenced the defendant to 12 years in the South Dakota State Penitentiary and ordered him to pay court costs associated with the case.

First degree Robbery carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison.

The case was prosecuted on behalf of the State by Pennington County Senior Deputy State’s Attorney Braedon Houdek.

We are excited to welcome our four summer interns: (L to R) Gabe Marchiando, Sam Marchiando, Blake Wiley, and Miles Svob...
05/29/2026

We are excited to welcome our four summer interns: (L to R) Gabe Marchiando, Sam Marchiando, Blake Wiley, and Miles Svoboda.

Over the coming months, they will gain real-world experience both in and out of the courtroom while working alongside our team.

We are grateful for our interns!

We are proud to welcome our two newest Deputy State’s Attorneys, Karli Viher and Thomas Potts!They were officially sworn...
05/28/2026

We are proud to welcome our two newest Deputy State’s Attorneys, Karli Viher and Thomas Potts!

They were officially sworn in yesterday in Pierre and will now join our team here at the Pennington County State’s Attorney’s Office. Both Karli and Thomas completed externships with our office last fall, and we are grateful they chose to return and begin their careers with us. Welcome to the team!

Today we celebrated another DUI Court graduation and the hard work, accountability, and progress that brought these part...
05/27/2026

Today we celebrated another DUI Court graduation and the hard work, accountability, and progress that brought these participants to this moment. Recovery is not easy, and these graduates have demonstrated resilience, commitment, and determination every step of the way. Congratulations to all of today’s graduates!

Front row (L to R): Vicki, Brionna
Back row (L to R): Judge Kelderman, Monte, and Chris

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130 Kansas City Street #300
Rapid City, SD
57701

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 12pm
1pm - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 12pm
1pm - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 12pm
1pm - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 12pm
1pm - 5pm
Friday 8am - 12pm
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