United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Sarah Richenda Richards, age 25, of Rosebud, South Dakota, appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on Jan. 22, 2013, and pled guilty to Assault by Striking, Beating and Wounding and Simple Assault. The maximum penalty upon conviction on each count is 6 months in custody, a $5,000 fine, or both; and a $10 special assessment.
The conviction stems from an incident that took place on Nov. 30, 2011, when Richards stabbed the victim with a butcher knife.
The investigation was conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers.
A presentence investigation was ordered. The defendant was released to a third party custodian pending sentencing. A sentencing date has been set for March 22, 2013.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
