McLaughlin Man Charged with Aggravated Sexual Abuse and Assault

United States Attorney Randolph J. Seiler announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.

Jeremy Agard, age 35, was indicted on March 15, 2017. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on April 4, 2017, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, life of supervised release, and up to $300 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on October 14, 2016, Agard knowingly caused and attempted to cause the victim to engage in a sexual act. The Indictment also alleges that on that same date, Agard unlawfully assaulted the same victim with shod feet, causing serious bodily injury to her.

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Standing Rock Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.

Agard was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.