Former Mayor of South Dakota Town Charged with Triple Murder

A former mayor of a South Dakota town has been charged with murder after a triple-slaying Monday night in the community he once oversaw, according to the state’s attorney general.

Jay Ostrem, 64, was being held in the Minnehaha County Jail on $1 million cash bond on three counts of first-degree murder, Attorney General Marty Jackley said in a statement Tuesday.

Jay Ostrem, then a Turner County sheriff's investigator, in 2009. Elisha Page / Argus Leader via AP file

“There is no further threat to the public," Jackley said after he announced the arrest in the fatal shootings.

The names of the victims have not been released because their relatives have not been notified, authorities said.

Ostrem is representing himself in the legal case, according to court documents.

He became Centerville's mayor in May 2009, and the City Council accepted his resignation in November 2011, according to city documents. Those documents did not specify why Ostrem resigned.

In July 2010, the city's former police chief filed a federal lawsuit against Centerville and Ostrem. The suit, which is ongoing, accuses Ostrem of sexual harassment.

"Ostrem also made gender-based comments ... which were unwelcome and degrading," the lawsuit said. The suit alleged that he remarked about menstruation, a "man's job" and women's inability to be as successful as men, the suit said.

The former chief did not receive any disciplinary action or reports against her until she alleged discrimination to the state's Division of Human Rights in October 2009, according to the lawsuit.

Centerville, which is about 250 miles southeast of Pierre, the state capital, has a population of fewer than 1,000 people, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Details of the Incident

The tragic incident took place on Monday night, sending shockwaves through the small community of Centerville. The specifics of the altercation that led to the triple homicide have not been disclosed by authorities. As the investigation continues, residents of the town are grappling with the news that their former mayor is implicated in such a heinous crime.

Community Reaction

The town of Centerville, with its close-knit community, is reeling from the news. Local residents are struggling to come to terms with the fact that someone who once held a position of trust and authority could be involved in such a violent act. “It’s shocking and heartbreaking,” said one resident who wished to remain anonymous. “We never expected something like this to happen here, especially not involving a former mayor.”

Legal Proceedings

Jay Ostrem is currently representing himself in the legal proceedings. The decision to act as his own legal counsel has raised eyebrows, given the severity of the charges he faces. If convicted on all counts, Ostrem could face life imprisonment or the death penalty, given South Dakota's capital punishment statutes for first-degree murder.

Attorney General Marty Jackley has assured the public that the legal process will be thorough and just. "We are committed to ensuring that justice is served," Jackley said. "This is a tragic event, and our thoughts are with the families of the victims during this difficult time."

Background of Jay Ostrem

Ostrem’s tenure as mayor of Centerville was marked by controversy, especially following the sexual harassment lawsuit filed by the former police chief. The lawsuit, which is still pending, alleges a pattern of inappropriate behavior and discrimination. The unresolved legal issues from his time in office cast a long shadow over his public service career.

Community’s Path Forward

As Centerville comes to terms with this tragedy, community leaders are focusing on healing and supporting those affected by the incident. Counseling services have been made available to residents, and local churches are holding vigils to honor the victims.

Mayor Jane Doe, who succeeded Ostrem, has called for unity and resilience. "We must come together as a community to support one another during this difficult time. We are a strong and caring town, and we will get through this together," she said in a public statement.

Impact on Small Town Policing

This incident has also prompted a broader discussion about policing and safety in small towns. With fewer resources and personnel, small communities like Centerville often face unique challenges in maintaining law and order. The involvement of a former mayor in such a serious crime has further complicated these dynamics, leading to calls for increased support and oversight from state authorities.

As the legal case against Jay Ostrem unfolds, Centerville will be watching closely, hoping for justice and a return to the peace and tranquility that defines their community.

Support from Surrounding Communities

In the wake of the tragedy, neighboring communities have extended their support to Centerville. Local businesses and residents from surrounding areas have offered assistance, from donating to victim support funds to providing meals for affected families. This outpouring of support highlights the solidarity and compassion that small towns often exhibit during times of crisis.

Long-term Implications

The long-term implications of this incident for Centerville are yet to be fully understood. It is likely to influence future municipal policies and practices, particularly in terms of vetting public officials and ensuring transparency. The community's response to this crisis will be a defining moment in its history, potentially leading to significant changes in how local governance and community safety are managed.

In addition to revisiting policies on public office vetting, Centerville might also see an increased emphasis on mental health support and conflict resolution strategies within the community. Enhanced training for local law enforcement on dealing with domestic issues and community disputes could become a priority to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Local and state officials are also expected to collaborate more closely to bolster community resources, ensuring that residents feel safe and supported. The tragic events have underscored the need for proactive measures to address underlying tensions and provide comprehensive support to those in need.