Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Tragic Incident in Flandreau, South Dakota Leads to Death Penalty Seek for Suspect
In a tragic turn of events in the small town of Flandreau, South Dakota, prosecutors have announced that they will seek the death penalty for Joseph Gene Hoek, a Sioux Falls man charged in the death of Moody County Chief Deputy Ken Prorok. The incident took place on February 2nd, when Chief Deputy Prorok was struck and killed while putting out spikes during a police chase.
Prosecutors Pursue Death Penalty
The South Dakota Attorney General’s office officially filed a notice on Wednesday indicating their intention to seek the death penalty for Hoek, who is facing charges of first-degree murder and aggravated eluding. Hoek, who pleaded not guilty to the charges, has had his attorneys express plans to seek a mental health evaluation and potentially enter a plea of insanity.
Attorney General’s Decision
Attorney General Marty Jackley made the decision to pursue the death penalty after reviewing the circumstances of the case and meeting with the victim’s family and the sheriff present at the hearing. Jackley emphasized that the fact that Prorok was killed in the line of duty and during an attempt to evade arrest by Hoek were significant factors in the decision.
Details of the Incident
The fatal pursuit began when officers responded to reports of Hoek making homicidal threats near a local business. After spotting Hoek’s car, police attempted to stop him, leading to a high-speed chase on Highway 34 towards Interstate 29. Chief Deputy Prorok, in an effort to stop Hoek, deployed stop spikes, but tragically Hoek intentionally struck him with his car before crashing into a ditch.
Witness Account
According to a witness, the car driven by Hoek deliberately swerved towards Chief Deputy Prorok before colliding with him. The witness, who followed Hoek after he fled on foot, managed to detain him until law enforcement arrived at the scene. Investigators have described Hoek as being in a downward spiral, characterized by drug use and escalating threats of violence.
Overall, the community of Flandreau and the law enforcement agencies involved are left devastated by this senseless tragedy, as they seek justice for the fallen deputy and closure for his grieving family.
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