Trial ends for South Dakota man accused of harassing American Indian kids; no decision yet
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The trial of a South Dakota man accused of harassing American Indian children with racial slurs and spilling beer on them at a hockey game has ended but a judge says he won't issue a decision for several weeks.
Trace O'Connell has pleaded not guilty to a disorderly conduct charge in Rapid City. The January incident spurred protests by Native Americans in South Dakota's second-largest city, with critics saying the charge was too lenient.
The bench trial started Wednesday, with roughly 130 people in the audience, and wrapped up Thursday morning.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}O'Connell's attorney says the city is trying to hold the man accountable for the actions of the entire group he was with.
Magistrate Judge Eric Strawn says he'll have a verdict in three to four weeks.