Matthew Horned Eagle, Assault with a Sword, South Dakota 2014

Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury charges were brought against Matthew Horned Eagle, a 24-year-old Parmelee, South Dakota, man. According to documents, the alleged assault occurred on or about April 7, 2014, when Horned Eagle used a sword to harm two victims, leaving them with serious bodily injuries.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Additionally, restitution may be ordered. Horned Eagle was indicted on May 13, 2014, and appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 21, 2014, pleading not guilty to the Indictment.

Horned Eagle was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set. The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers prosecuting the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers commented, ‘The indictment alleges that Matthew Horned Eagle assaulted two victims with a dangerous weapon, resulting in serious bodily injury to both.’ The charge is merely an accusation, and Horned Eagle is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office emphasizes the severity of the charges and the potential consequences. ‘The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund,’ said officials.

Matthew Horned Eagle’s case has sparked community concern, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office is working closely with the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services to ensure a thorough investigation and fair trial.

We will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, the community is reminded that the charge is merely an accusation, and Horned Eagle is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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