(Flandreau, SD) — The case against Joseph Hoek, who’s accused of killing Moody County Chief Deputy Ken Prorok in a high-speed chase last February, is now moving forward. But it comes with a new trial date. Hoek appeared in court Thursday afternoon to learn his trial was moved back to October 14th. The first-degree murder trial was scheduled to begin on May 19th. However, Hoek’s attorney requested it be delayed on grounds of further psychiatric evaluation and to seek a potential insanity plea. South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley said yesterday, while the state was prepared for a May trial, the new timeline allows the defense to take some additional steps given the severity of the case. Hoek faces the death penalty for allegedly killing a state law enforcement officer but has pled not guilty to charges of first-degree murder and aggravated eluding.
