United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Robin Chasing Hawk, age 28, of Eagle Butte, appeared before United States District Judge Roberto A. Lange on December 13, 2011, and pled guilty to Count II of an Indictment that charged her with Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The conviction was the result of an incident on August 26, 2011. On that date Robin Chasing Hawk and Kris Chasing Hawk were driving around Eagle Butte in a car. The two sisters got into an argument, and Kris got out of the car and started walking back to No Heart Housing. At that time, Robin Chasing Hawk unlawfully assaulted Kris Chasing Hawk by hitting her with the car. As a result of the car-pedestrian crash, Kris Chasing Hawk suffered a broken neck, broken back, and fractured pelvis. She was taken by air ambulance to Rapid City Regional Hospital where she was treated.
The investigation was conducted by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mikal Hanson.
A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date was set for March 6, 2012. The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing.
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