Posted to the Facebook group, We, The People, of South Dakota:
Regarding the SA going after BFHS seniors: This is a copy of the original letter where State’s Attorney (SA), LeEllen McCartney, originally threatened to charge the some of the kids involved (not all, unknown how she decided whom), with a Class 5 FELONY punishable by up to 5 years in State Penitentiary and a fine of up to $10K. A parent has advised that the damage done equates to $1500…from accidental discharge of a fire extinguisher during a yearly, recurring, well-known, senior prank of re-arranging desks/classrooms. It is reported adults were there/adults assisted beforehand to help the kids get in the school as well. At the most recent meeting, SA McCartney has offered a plea deal that must be responded to by August 1st, of a 6-month probation which includes those affected relinquishing their right to plead at a later date. If any trouble happens during the 6-month probation, the accused will be auto
matically charged/convicted of two crimes: (1) 22-35-5 Criminal Trespass Violation as a Misdemeanor and (2) 13-32-6 Disturbance of School as a Class 2 Misdemeanor. It is also reported that the school district has asked the SA to not proceed, that they have already assigned punishment to those involved to their satisfaction. The kicker is the back-story: This is a class that has experienced devastating loss (and those young adults are still dealing with it), now they have from what was supposed to be something they’ve observed for 3 years of high school, to be a harmless fun senior prank, the threat of 6 months of probation that will follow them onto their post-secondary educational paths, jobs, etc. This is a time of great change, of many paradigm shifts for these young adults, combined with great loss. Really, SA? Is this an appropriate level of response? Yes, rule of law must be carried out, but not in an arbitrary and capricious (click on link to watch McCartney speak morals to the county commission) manner.