FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, October 31, 2019

PIERRE, S.D. – Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg announced today that the Honorable Judge Jon C. Sogn, Circuit Court Judge for the Second Judicial Circuit in South Dakota, has denied Charles Russell Rhines’ request for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction as well as his request for a stay of execution.

Rhines was convicted in 1993 for brutally murdering 22-year-old Donnivan Schaeffer during a burglary of a Rapid City donut shop on March 8, 1992.

“Justice for Donnivan is long overdue,” said Ravnsborg.  “Our Courts have recognized the constitutionality of the state’s execution protocol for years and that was affirmed by Judge Sogn today.  Rhines has had his day in court.  It is now time for him to serve his sentence.”

-30-

The Office of the Attorney General is the chief legal office for the State of South Dakota and provides legal advice to agencies, boards, and commissions of the State as well as representing the State in state and federal court.  The Office of Attorney General also handles prosecutions, felony criminal appeals, civil matters, consumer protection issues, and issues formal opinions interpreting statutes for agencies of the state.  Visit www.atg.sd.gov to learn more.

Connect with us on Facebook or on Twitter at @SDAttorneyGen 

CONTACT: Tim Bormann, Chief of Staff, (605) 773-3215