Jail Cell, TFP File Photo South Dakota, mother and son were convicted of murder and assault charges on Friday, June 28th, following a four-day tri
South Dakota, mother and son were convicted of murder and assault charges on Friday, June 28th, following a four-day trial in federal district court.
Theodora Belt, 47, and Bailey Belt, 23, were found guilty of second-degree murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Bailey Belt faced additional charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury involving a separate victim.
According to court documents and trial testimony, the incident occurred on May 27, 2023, at the victims’ residence in Bridger, located within the Cheyenne River Reservation. The Belts were reportedly socializing with the victims when an argument erupted.
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The prosecution presented evidence that Theodora and Bailey Belt assaulted the first victim by punching, kicking, and beating him with a shovel. They further alleged that Theodora Belt then ran over the victim with her car, ultimately causing his death.
The second victim sustained severe injuries after Bailey Belt struck him in the head with a shovel. The victim required airlift to Rapid City for medical treatment but fortunately survived the attack.
Theodora Belt faces a maximum penalty of up to life in prison, a $250,000 fine, five years of supervised release, and a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Bailey Belt faces a similar maximum penalty with an additional $500 special assessment. Restitution may also be ordered.
The case was investigated by the FBI and the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Troy R. Morley and Brian J. Murphy prosecuted.
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