McLaughlin Man Charged with Assault with Intent to Commit Murder, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with Intent to Commit Murder, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.

Ross Dean Farrell, age 21, was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 16, 2012. He appeared before United States Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on October 24, 2012, and pled not guilty to the indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both.

The charges are merely accusations, and Farrell is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy R. Morley.

Farrell was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.