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Assault with Firearm Lands Mission Man in Prison
A chilling incident turned deadly last May, leaving a victim with serious bodily injury. On May 26, 2014, Vernon Robert Schmidt, Jr., a/k/a Sonny Bob Schmidt, 29, pointed a Stoeger 9mm caliber pistol at a victim during an argument and waved it around. The firearm discharged, hitting the victim in the chest and neck area. Schmidt fled the scene, leaving the victim to suffer the consequences.
After a thorough investigation by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, Schmidt was brought to justice. U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced the sentencing on February 2, 2015, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange. The 46-month prison sentence handed down to Schmidt is a reminder of the severity of using a firearm in the commission of a crime.
The victim suffered a life-altering injury, and Schmidt’s actions have caused irreparable harm. In addition to the prison sentence, the court ordered Schmidt to pay $900 in restitution and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. This financial burden will serve as a further consequence of Schmidt’s actions.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher prosecuted the case, ensuring that Schmidt faced the full weight of the law. The U.S. Marshals Service will now take custody of Schmidt, and he will begin serving his sentence immediately.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of using firearms in the heat of the moment. The consequences can be catastrophic, and Schmidt’s sentence should serve as a warning to those who would consider similar actions.
The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, our thoughts are with the victim and their loved ones who have been affected by this senseless act of violence.
Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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