Back-to-school season usually means new teachers, new schedules, sports, activities,
and, for parents, probably a whole lot of paperwork.
But it also brings questions about rules, safety and what happens when a student's
behavior goes beyond breaking a school rule and potentially becomes a legal issue.
Today on Justice in Action, we are talking about what parents and students should know
about juvenile law at school. When is something handled by a teacher or principal?
When does law enforcement become involved? What are some of the situations SROs
and school administrators are seeing? And with school safety top of mind for so many
families, what is happening behind the scenes to keep students safe?

In this episode of Justice in Action, we sit down with prosecutors at three very different stages of their careers to talk honestly about what law school prepares attorneys for and what it absolutely does not. From handling traumatic cases and delivering difficult news to managing public scrutiny, emotional burnout, and overwhelming caseloads, this candid conversation explores the realities of prosecution that can only be learned through experience.

State’s Attorney Lara Roetzel, Assistant Chief Deputy State’s Attorney Olivia Siglin, and new Deputy State’s Attorney Karli Viher share personal stories, lessons learned, and the moments that shaped them both professionally and personally. Together, they discuss the emotional weight of public service, the misconceptions surrounding prosecutors, and why, despite the challenges, this work continues to matter.

Whether you are interested in law, public service, or the human side of the justice system, this episode offers an inside look at the realities behind the courtroom doors.

In this episode of Justice in Action, we take an in-depth look at State v. James Jumping Eagle, a case that left a lasting impact on the Rapid City community and, most importantly, on the family and loved ones of 82-year-old Reta McGovern.

On February 21, 2021, Reta was murdered in her home, setting off an investigation that would ultimately lead to a life sentence plus 50 years. In this episode, we walk through the case from start to finish, examining the investigative work, the evidence, and the prosecution’s approach to seeking justice.

This is more than a case summary. It is a look at how the justice system responds in the face of violence, the collaboration required across agencies, and the responsibility to pursue accountability on behalf of victims.