Man arrested for assault on police officer in Rapid City, verdict issued

RAPID CITY, SD (KOTA) – Can your protective gear actually put you in danger?

A Rapid City police officer was alerted to this when a man strangled him with his own clothes.

Today, 31-year-old Richard Ingalls awaits sentencing for aggravated assault on a police officer. In January 2024, Ingalls was at the Cornerstone Rescue Mission when he became aggressive and reportedly struck an employee multiple times, prompting employees to call the police.

RELATED TOPICS: Violence against police increases in Rapid City

Rapid City police officer Tanner Seaman was the first to respond.

As Officer Seaman approached Ingalls, he immediately assumed an aggressive fighting stance.

To ensure his own safety and that of others, Seaman attempted to handcuff Ingalls, but Ingalls resisted. Ingalls then grabbed Officer Seaman's bandana and began to strangle him, cutting off the officer's airway.

Seaman tried to free himself and struck Ingalls in self-defense until bystanders intervened and helped the officer. Ingalls, who had already been arrested three times for assault, was subsequently arrested for assault.

The Pennington County jury deliberated for just over two hours before returning a guilty verdict.

Sentencing is scheduled for November 4, 2024, and Ingalls faces a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison and/or a $50,000 fine.

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