Chief Deputy Ken Prorok Obituary – A Sioux Falls man, Joseph Gene Hoek, has been charged with first-degree murder and aggravated eluding in the death of Moody County Chief Deputy Ken Prorok. During a police pursuit, Prorok was struck while attempting to put out spikes. Hoek, who appeared in court for the first time, has been ordered to be held without bail. According to Special Agent Jeffrey Kollars, Hoek’s acquaintances have described him as being on a “downward spiral” involving drug use and escalating threats of violence.
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley will personally prosecute the case and plans to investigate any mitigating factors before deciding whether to seek the death penalty. Hoek’s attorney, Manuel De Castro, believes that his client has been “overcharged” and suggests that there may be underlying mental health issues. The incident began when Madison police responded to a call about Hoek making “homicidal threats.” During the subsequent chase, Prorok was intentionally struck by Hoek’s car before it crashed. Hoek then fled the scene on foot.