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AUGUST 11, 2000

Officer Michael Atwood of Lake Andes will face trial for allegedly choking a 12-year-old Native boy.

Atwood faces misdemeanor charges for assult. He could receive up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Tribal leaders had asked for his removal. Many Yankton Sioux residents believe police in Lake Andes and the county of Charles Mix target them because of their race.

Police officials and Governor Mike Janklow deny the charges.

Alfred Boneshirt, an American Indian Movement (AIM) activist, said the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights should come to the county. The Commission released a report, heavily criticed by Janklow, concurring with Native views on justice in the state.

Tribal leaders have set up a site called Camp Justice south of Lake Andes.

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Officers to stand trial on assault (The Argus Leader 8/9)