PIERRE, S.D – Attorney General Marty Jackley and the Division of Criminal Investigation today released the summary into the shooting of Aaron Sivert Thompson on May 18, 2011, in Sioux Falls.
The Division of Criminal Investigation, assisted by the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, conducted the investigation at the request of the Sioux Falls Police Department.
The incident occurred on May 18, 2011, following a call for service at 3108 East 19th Street in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Several officers responded to a female reporting that her male roommate was threatening to kill himself; if she called law enforcement he would kill more people; and that he had a gun. Officers involved were Sgt. Ron Schwint, Officer Steve Redmond, Officer Travis Olsen, Officer Paul Creviston and Officer Matt Cook. Upon arrival at the scene, Sgt. Schwint and Officer Redmond established communication with Thompson. Thompson continued to walk towards Sgt. Schwint and Officer Redmond even as numerous verbal commands were given, including over 30 requests to “drop the gun!” After Thompson did not comply, Sgt. Schwint fired several non-lethal projectiles at Thompson with no effects. Thompson continued to walk towards the Officers, firing his weapon in the direction of the Officers. Several Officers then used lethal force to subdue Thompson.
It is the conclusion of this report and the Attorney General that the Officers were justified in firing their weapons and using lethal force. The Attorney General would like to thank the Sioux Falls Police Department and the Officers for their service and complete cooperation in this investigation. Attorney General Jackley would further like to send condolences to the family of the deceased during this difficult time.
To view the report you can find it on our website under "publications".
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE : Wednesday, June 15, 2011
CONTACT: Sara Rabern, (605) 773-3215
