State considers Indian sentencing

JUNE 21, 2001

The state of South Dakota held a hearing in Rapid City on Wednesday to gain insight into how the criminal justice system treats American Indians.

Witnesses said Indians are at a disadvantage because they lack the money to hire expert lawyers to defend themelves. They also said non-Indian concepts of punishment are alien and not understood by Indians.

University of South Dakota researchers are conducting a study on Indians in the justice system for Governor Bill Janklow.

Get the Story:
'We're at court's mercy' (The Sioux Falls Argus Leader 6/21)

Related Stories:
State holds sentencing hearing (6/20)
Panel considers Indian sentencing (6/20)
Hearing to focus on sentencing (6/19)