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Pine Ridge Man Indicted for Assault on Reservation
A disturbing act of violence on the Pine Ridge Reservation has led to a federal indictment. William Clifford, 24, was charged with aiding and abetting in the assault of another man at Pine Ridge on October 16, 2012.
Clifford was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 23, 2012, for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
The charges are merely an accusation and Clifford is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura A. Shattuck is prosecuting the case.
Clifford appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on February 12, 2013, and pled not guilty to the indictment. He was subsequently remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal.
A trial date has not been set in this case. The community on the Pine Ridge Reservation is still reeling from the incident, and many are left wondering how such violence can occur in their midst.
The indictment serves as a stark reminder that violence can happen anywhere, and it is the duty of law enforcement to bring those responsible to justice. As the investigation continues, the people of the Pine Ridge Reservation can take some comfort in knowing that justice is being sought.
In the meantime, the community is encouraged to come forward with any information they may have regarding the incident. The Bureau of Indian Affairs is urging anyone with knowledge of the assault to contact them immediately.
Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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