Okreek Man Pleads Not Guilty to Abusive Sexual Contact, Child Abuse, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that an Okreek, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Abusive Sexual Contact, Child Abuse, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. Adam Joe Hedrick, a/k/a Wah-t Bear Shield, age 32, was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 10, 2011. He appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on May 26, 2011, and pled not guilty to the indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years’ custody, a $250,000 fine, or both; five years of supervised release; and a $100 special assessment. Restitution may also be ordered.

The charges are merely accusations, and Hedrick is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

The investigation is being conducted by Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tim Maher. Hedrick was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal.