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Press Release

Wakpala Woman Charged with Assault and Robbery

For Immediate Release
U.S. Attorney's Office, District of South Dakota

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Wakpala, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault with Intent to Commit Murder, Robbery, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury.

Averil Cadotte, age 36, was indicted on April 9, 2019.  She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on August 2, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.

The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.  Restitution may also be ordered.

The Indictment alleges that on June 4, 2016, Cadotte unlawfully assaulted two individuals with a vehicle with the intent to commit murder and said assault resulted in serious bodily injury to both victims.  The Indictment further alleges that Cadotte attempted to take a cellphone, alcohol, and cash from the victims. 

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

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Indian of Affairs, Standing Rock Agency.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirsten Jasper is prosecuting the case.   

Cadotte was released on bond pending trial.  A trial date has been set for October 8, 2019.

Updated August 8, 2019

Topics
Indian Country Law and Justice
Violent Crime