United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, and Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate Partner.
Benjamin Morrison, age 37, was indicted on March 13, 2018. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on March 15, 2018, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
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. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on or about Feb. 25, 2018, Morrison did unlawfully assault an individual with a dangerous weapon, that is, shod feet with the intent to do bodily harm, and said assault did result in serious bodily injury to an intimate partner.
The charges are merely an accusation and Morrison is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
Morrison was released on bond, subject to conditions, pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
