McLaughlin Woman Charged with Assault of Federal Officer

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a McLaughlin, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault of a Federal Officer.

Valerie Red Fish, age 43, was indicted on February 8, 2021.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on March 26, 2021, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is eight years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on May 27, 2020, in McLaughlin, Red Fish assaulted a Bureau of Indian Affairs officer by spitting on her while she was performing her official duties.

The charge is merely an accusation and Red Fish is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. 

The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.   

Red Fish was released on conditions pending trial.  A trial date has not been set.