Competency Hearing set in Pierre homicide case

July 21, 2022

 

PIERRE, S.D.–The prosecution of a Pierre woman charged with murder continues in Hughes County.

 

States Attorney Jessica LeMie says two status hearings in the case of 38 year-old Crystal Pumpkinseed took place in May and June.

 

LeMie says parties in the case have been waiting on the completion of a psychological evaluation of Pumpkinseed. A competency hearing is tentatively scheduled for mid-September.

 

Pumpkinseed, who also goes by the name Miranda Henry, is charged with second-degree murder in the death of 49 year-old Christopher Mexican.

 

Mexican’s body was found February 9th by Pierre police following a disturbance call at the Pierre Inn and Suites complex. Officers found an open door in a second floor unit and located Mexican’s body inside.
Pumpkinseed was arrested the following day.

 

Second degree murder in South Dakota is a Class B felony that carries a punishment of life in prison and possible fine of $50,000.