Arson Suspect Sentenced to 42 Months in Prison
A disturbing incident of arson has shaken the community of Eagle Butte, South Dakota. On August 14, 2017, Stuart Turning Heart, 44, set fire to a friend’s residence, leaving the owner with significant damage to their property.
According to the investigation, Turning Heart and his girlfriend had been drinking at the friend’s residence when they were asked to leave due to their disorderly behavior. The owner returned home from a trip to the Dollar Store to find the house engulfed in flames.
Law enforcement was promptly called to the scene, and during the investigation, it was discovered that Turning Heart’s girlfriend witnessed him running from the victim’s home and confessing to setting the fire. Additionally, two separate witnesses came forward stating that Turning Heart had admitted to them that he had lit the house on fire and was laughing about it.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) was called in to assist with the investigation and concluded that the fire started at the back of the home, where a mattress was set ablaze.
On March 20, 2018, U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange sentenced Turning Heart to 42 months in custody, followed by 3 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $790 in restitution to the victim and a special assessment of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case, ensuring that justice was served for the victim.
Related Federal Cases
- Julian James Hard Heart, Voluntary Manslaughter, South Dakota 2023 · South Dakota
- Lisa Lone Eagle, Kerosene Attack, South Dakota 2016 · South Dakota
- Justin Stone Arrow, Assault of a Minor, South Dakota 2016 · South Dakota
- Marlin Iron Crow, Second Degree Murder, South Dakota 2016 · South Dakota
- Jason Martinez, Domestic Assault, South Dakota 2017 · South Dakota
Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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