South Dakota commuted inmate charged in teen niece’s death

A South Dakota man whose life sentence for manslaughter was commuted by former Governor Kristi Noem has been charged with federal crimes in connection with the death of his 14-year-old niece. Mark Milk, 51, and a second man, Jon Rogness, 38, were charged following a months-long investigation into the disappearance and death of McKenna Wendel in March.

Federal prosecutors announced the charges at a press conference in Sioux City, Iowa, on June 18. According to the indictment, Milk faces allegations including transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, possession with intent to distribute cocaine resulting in death, and conspiracy to destroy evidence. Prosecutors allege Wendel died from a drug overdose on or about March 14. Rogness is accused of acting as an accessory after the fact and conspiring to conceal evidence.

McKenna Wendel was reported missing from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, on March 13. She was last seen alive in the early hours of March 14. Her body was discovered in a rural area outside Brookings, South Dakota, on March 19, following a days-long search. Authorities said the alleged criminal conduct occurred within the Northern District...