Man Charged with Murder for Running Down Chief Deputy During Police Chase in South Dakota

A Sioux Falls man has been charged with first-degree murder and aggravated eluding in the death of a deputy who was struck while putting out spikes during a police chase. The suspect, Joseph Gene Hoek, is described as being on a "downward spiral" marked by drug use and escalating threats of violence. South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley is considering seeking the death penalty and is investigating any mitigating factors. Hoek's attorney suggests there are mental health issues that need to be explored. The suspect claimed to have anxiety and panic attacks affecting his memory and was found with suspected drugs and drug paraphernalia in his car.