Pennington County Judge Sentences Woman in Death Case
A Rapid City resident received a 260-day jail sentence following charges related to the discovery of a body at a local hotel.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Criminal Justice
A Pennington County judge sentenced 29-year-old Diana Hairy Shirt to 260 days in jail after she pleaded guilty to failing to notify authorities of a death and violating burial permit requirements. The court granted credit for time already served in the case, which involves the death of 33-year-old Jason Horned Eagle.
Why it matters
The legal proceedings are currently moving through the court system as investigators work to determine the circumstances surrounding the death of Jason Horned Eagle. With three people charged, authorities continue to await forensic results to confirm the cause of death.
Diana Hairy Shirt received a 260-day sentence, with credit granted for time already served. Three individuals total have been charged, while two other residents currently face pending charges in the case.
The players
Diana Hairy Shirt
She is a 29-year-old resident who pleaded guilty to failing to report a death and violating burial permit requirements.
Jason Horned Eagle
He was a 33-year-old man whose remains were discovered at a hotel in Rapid City.
The details
The investigation began when the body of 33-year-old Jason Horned Eagle was discovered at the Rodeway Inn on North LaCrosse Street in July 2026. Evidence indicates the body had been left in the hotel room for several months before authorities were notified.
Timeline
July 2026: Jason Horned Eagle's body was discovered.
October 15, 2026: Diana Hairy Shirt was sentenced.
Legal Context
This case follows the specific legal standards mandated by state statutes regarding death notification and burial permit requirements. By prosecuting those who fail to adhere to these mandates, the Pennington County court system enforces established public health and safety protocols.
The discovery of remains in a public lodging facility has prompted a multi-agency investigation that remains ongoing. Residents are advised that law enforcement activities will continue as investigators finalize forensic testing to determine the cause of death.
The takeaway
Maintaining compliance with state burial and death reporting statutes is essential for public safety and legal transparency. Authorities remind the public that all unattended deaths require immediate notification to local law enforcement agencies.
Further reading
For more information on local judicial proceedings, visit Rapid City Criminal Justice.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NEWS RADIO KOTA-AM 1380AM/100.7FM.
