SD Attorney General says 'KKK' scars were not a result of crimin - KOTA Territory News

SD Attorney General says 'KKK' scars were not a result of criminal action

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According to the investigations, the scars on Mr. Traversie are a side effect of the surgery performed on him (YouTube) According to the investigations, the scars on Mr. Traversie are a side effect of the surgery performed on him (YouTube)

PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Attorney General's Office has completed its investigation and review into the alleged mistreatment of Vernon Traversie at Rapid City Regional Hospital.

According to the investigations, the scars on Mr. Traversie are a side effect of the surgery performed on him. Specifically, these investigations found that the marks sustained by Traversie were the result of a skin reaction to the medical grade tape used to secure tubes that remain in place after surgery. It was found that the allegations of mistreatment were not supported by the evidence.

In addition to the criminal investigation, the South Dakota Department of Health also investigated the allegations from a healthcare facility regulatory perspective. The department received the initial complaint September 28, 2011 and concluded its investigation October 5, 2011. That investigation was unable to substantiate the allegations of patient abuse, neglect or improper patient care and that information was reported to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

"The serious allegation that someone intentionally engaged in the hate crime of carving ‘KKK' into a South Dakotan, if true, would justify criminal prosecution to the fullest extent of the law," said Jackley. "The independent investigations have produced no evidence of such criminal or intentional conduct."

Traversie has filed a civil lawsuit against Rapid City Regional Hospital, its board of directors and others.

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