Lower Brule woman pleads guilty to assault

LOWER BRULE — A Lower Brule woman has pleaded guilty to assaulting a federal officer.

Adeline Skunk, 38, faces a maximum of eight years in prison and a $250,000 fine after an altercation March 24 with a Bureau of Indian Affairs officer. She entered the guilty plea Wednesday.

The assault took place after the officer responded to a call that Skunk was pushing around a baby stroller while intoxicated. After arriving at the scene, the officer attempted to find a family member to care for the child. Skunk became upset, then picked up a metal vent cover and swung it at the officer.

The officer was able to force Skunk to the ground, but was bitten in the process.

After Skunk was arrested, the officer sought medical attention for the bite.

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges.

A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for September. Skunk was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal’s Service pending sentencing.

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