By Carleen Wild
Moody County Enterprise
More than two years after Joseph Hoek allegedly struck and killed Moody County Deputy Sheriff Ken Prorok during a high-speed chase on a cold, February day, his defense is again seeking a delay in the case.
A motion filed Friday in Moody County requests the trial be continued to a later date. The trial is currently scheduled to begin Sept. 21, 2026, in Rapid City, where the case was moved following a change of venue over concerns about the possibility of seating an impartial local jury due to the high-profile nature of the case.
A judge is expected to take up the request at the next hearing, which is set for 10 a.m. April 17. Attorney General Marty Jackley said it is not yet clear how much additional time the defense is seeking.
Hoek is charged in connection with the Feb. 2, 2024, death of Deputy Sheriff Prorok, who was killed while assisting in a pursuit that started in Madison and ended just outside Colman.
If the request is granted, it would mark another delay in a case many in the community have been watching closely as it moves through the court system. Jackley maintains his office is ready to proceed with prosecution, but his team wants to ensure the case is handled properly to avoid questions or potential appeals following a final verdict.
Hoek faces the death penalty in this case.
Additional details on the case and prior proceedings can be found at moodycountyenterprise.com.
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