RAPID CITY, S.D. – A Rapid City man has been sentenced to nearly six years in federal prison for driving his vehicle toward a tribal police officer during a high-speed pursuit on the Pine Ridge Reservation.
Thirty-six-year-old Cody Dittman was sentenced Monday to 70 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to assaulting a federal officer. He will also serve three years of supervised release following his prison term.
Court records show Dittman was under the influence of alcohol and drugs during a May 2025 chase when he drove directly at Oglala Sioux Tribe Officer Ivan Starr as the officer attempted to deploy a spike strip.
Prosecutors said two other people were inside the vehicle during the pursuit. The incident had a lasting impact on Officer Starr, who took leave following the encounter.
During sentencing, the defense said Dittman was remorseful and troubled by his actions. His daughter and a friend also addressed the court on his behalf.
Federal Judge Camela Theeler imposed the sentence Monday in U.S. District Court.
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