Norris Man Sentenced for Involuntary Manslaughter

U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of South Dakota
January 11, 2013

US Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Norris man convicted of involuntary manslaughter was sentenced on January 10, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange. Mark Clairmont, age 38, was sentenced to 33 months in custody, two years of supervised release, and $100 to the Victim Assistance Fund.

Clairmont was indicted for involuntary manslaughter by a federal grand jury on June 12, 2012. The charge stems from an incident occurring on February 17, 2012, when Clairmont was driving a motor vehicle at approximately 79 miles per hour, had been drinking alcoholic beverages, and was under the influence of alcohol. Claimant lost control of the vehicle; it traveled into a ditch and rolled. The victim was ejected through the rear window of the vehicle and died on scene. Claimant’s blood alcohol level was determined to be .281 two hours after the crash. Claimant pled guilty to involuntary manslaughter on October 9, 2012.

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant United States Attorney Marie H. Ruettgers prosecuted the case.

Clairmont was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.