A Rapid City man pleaded no contest to fourth‑degree rape on Monday.
Terrell Grinnell, 26, appeared via video before Circuit Court Judge Joshua Hendrickson for his change‑of‑plea hearing. A no‑contest plea does not admit guilt but waives the right to trial and allows the court to treat it as a guilty plea.
Grinnell was originally charged with third‑degree rape for a June 1, 2025 incident involving a 35‑year‑old woman. Under a plea agreement, he entered a no‑contest plea to the reduced fourth‑degree rape charge.
Fourth‑degree rape is a Class 3 felony, carrying up to 15 years in prison and a $30,000 fine.
Deputy State’s Attorney Emily Toms said prosecutors have not yet determined whether the victim will ask for a prison sentence. Sentencing is scheduled for Monday, March 16 at 1 p.m.
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