RAPID CITY, S.D. – Two 18-year-old Rapid City men have been sentenced for their roles in a February stabbing that left two victims seriously injured.
James Lerat was sentenced to 10 years in prison with three years suspended after pleading guilty to two counts of aggravated assault and a separate charge related to a jail riot. Prosecutors identified Lerat as the primary aggressor in the attack and said the victims suffered multiple stab wounds.
Anthony Hill received a 360-day jail sentence, with credit for time already served, after pleading guilty to a reduced charge of simple assault. Prosecutors said Hill cooperated with investigators and provided information about the incident, leading to a plea agreement. Authorities said Hill struck one of the victims but did not carry out the stabbings.
The pair had originally faced much more serious charges, including aiding and abetting attempted first-degree murder. Those charges were reduced through plea agreements reached with prosecutors.
During sentencing, Judge Joshua Hendrickson cited Lerat’s violent conduct and criminal history while acknowledging his difficult upbringing. Both victims told the court the attack left lasting physical and emotional scars.
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