In a turn of event that sounds like a movie seen, a former law enforcement officer who also served as the mayor of a small town in South Dakota has been charged with the murder of three individuals.
Charges and Bond
Jay Ostrem, 64, is facing three counts of first-degree murder. He is currently held on a $1 million cash-only bond, as announced by South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley.
Identifying the Victims
The victims have been identified in the probable cause affidavit as two brothers, Paul Frankus, 26, and his 21-year-old brother Zach, along with Timothy Richmond, 35.
Law Enforcement Career
Ostrem has a long history in law enforcement, having worked for more than two decades in Wyoming and South Dakota.
Tenure as Mayor
Approximately fifteen years ago, Ostrem served as the mayor of Centerville, a small town with a population of less than 1,000 people, located about 40 miles south of Sioux Falls.
The exact dates of his tenure are not immediately available.
The Incident
According to the probable cause document, Zach Frankus called the police at 9:44 pm on Monday, reporting that his brother had been shot by “a guy from across the street.”
While still on the phone with the dispatcher, Zach stated that he had also been shot, and then he stopped responding.
Police Response
When authorities arrived at the scene, a Game Fish and Parks officer saw Ostrem leaving the home identified as the shooting location.
Ostrem initially ignored commands to stop but eventually lay down on the ground and was arrested. An AR-style rifle was found near him, and he had a handgun in his pocket.
Condition at Arrest
Police noted that Ostrem was bleeding from his left hand and smelled of alcohol.
Statement from Ostrem’s Wife
Ostrem’s wife, who is British, told police that Paul Frankus had sexually assaulted her on Thursday, and she had informed Ostrem about the incident on Monday night.
She reported that they had been drinking together when Frankus forcibly kissed her, exposed himself, and pressed against her. Ostrem then “went raging out of the house.”
Weapons and Arrest
Ostrem’s wife stated that he did not tell her where he was going and did not leave the house armed, although weapons were kept at their home and possibly in his car.
Ostrem was booked into the Minnehaha County Jail on Tuesday morning in connection with the shootings.
Official Statement and Upcoming Court Appearance
Attorney General Jackley confirmed Ostrem’s arrest and charges in a news release, assuring the public that there is no further threat. Ostrem’s initial court appearance is scheduled for 3 pm on Wednesday.
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