Accused riot leaders included murderer, burglars

11 prisoners indicted on felony charges were in prison on mostly violent offenses

One man would have been eligible for parole on May 1, while others also had impending parole hearings. One was serving a one-year sentence for burglary. Another was serving a life sentence for murder and kidnapping. Others were serving a host of different sentences.

Now, following their indictments on felony charges connected to the March 27-28 disturbances at the South Dakota State Penitentiary, the 11 face extended prison sentences.

Sioux Falls official floats rebate checks amid calls for property tax relief

The disturbances ensued after prison officials denied inmates the use of electronic tablets. That decision came amid concerns that some inmates might be using the tablets to facilitate criminal activity. But it resulted in disobedience, with some inmates refusing to go back to their cells. Off-duty prison guards had to be called in to quell the unrest.

In the end, prisoners lit fires and two Department of Corrections employees were assaulted.

“These were dangerous acts that injured two state correctional officers and caused significant damage to prison property,” Attorney General Marty Jackley said in announcing the indictments. “Inmates found responsible will be held accountable for their actions.”

Gov. Kristi Noem blames ghostwriter, editor for 'small errors' in upcoming book