Eagle Butte Man Charged With Sexual Contact With A Minor

A disturbing case has come to light in Eagle Butte, South Dakota, as a local man has been charged with a heinous crime.

John Earl Miner, a 42-year-old man from Eagle Butte, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for engaging in, or attempting to engage in, sexual contact with a minor. The alleged incident occurred on June 17, 2014, in Dupree, South Dakota.

According to the Indictment, Miner is facing a maximum penalty of up to 2 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, as well as at least 5 years and up to life of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.

The investigation into Miner’s alleged actions is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikal Hanson prosecuting the case.

Miner appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on October 22, 2014, and pled not guilty to the Indictment. The charge is merely an accusation, and Miner is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Miner was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. A trial date has not been set.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting our children and holding those who prey on them accountable. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.

The people of Eagle Butte and the surrounding communities deserve to feel safe, and it is our duty to shine a light on those who would seek to harm them.