"South Dakota Man Charged with Murder for Running Down Chief Deputy During 115-MPH Police Chase"

Joseph Gene Hoek, a Sioux Falls man, has been charged with first-degree murder and aggravated eluding in the death of Moody County Chief Deputy Ken Prorok, who was struck and killed during a 115-mph police chase. Hoek, described as being on a "downward spiral" marked by drug use and escalating threats of violence, is being held without bail. The attorney general is considering seeking the death penalty, while Hoek's attorney suggests there are mental health issues to be explored. The incident involved a high-speed chase, intentional striking of the deputy, and subsequent apprehension of Hoek, who claimed to have memory-affecting anxiety and panic attacks. The investigation revealed suspected drug paraphernalia and a history of escalating violence and mental health issues.