Lower Brule Man Pleads Guilty To Abusive Sexual Contact

A 44-year-old man from Lower Brule, South Dakota, has pleaded guilty to a serious sex crime. Douglas LaRoche, 44, appeared before US District Judge Roberto A. Lange on January 9, 2013, and admitted to Abusive Sexual Contact.

The maximum penalty for this crime is 3 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both. LaRoche’s actions were so egregious that the victim was incapable of appraising the nature of the conduct and was physically incapable of declining participation.

The investigation into LaRoche’s crime was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant US Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is leading the prosecution of the case.

LaRoche was remanded to the custody of the US Marshal pending sentencing. A sentencing date has been set for April 1, 2013. The judge’s decision will determine the extent of LaRoche’s punishment.

It’s a stark reminder that sex crimes can have severe consequences. The people of Lower Brule and South Dakota deserve to feel safe in their community.

We will continue to follow this case and provide updates on LaRoche’s sentencing. In the meantime, our thoughts are with the victim and their loved ones.

LaRoche’s guilty plea is a significant development in the case. The community can now begin the process of healing and moving forward.

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