SIOUX FALLS, South Dakota – A Sioux Falls man has been charged with first-degree murder and aggravated eluding following the death of a deputy who was struck while attempting to stop a police chase. Joseph Gene Hoek, 40, is being held without bail after allegedly causing the death of Moody County Chief Deputy Ken Prorok, 51, during a pursuit on Friday.
According to Special Agent Jeffrey Kollars of the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, people close to Hoek have described him as being on a “downward spiral,” marked by drug use and escalating threats of violence. South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley is personally prosecuting the case and is considering whether to seek the death penalty after investigating any mitigating factors and meeting with Prorok’s family, the sheriff, and his deputies.
Joseph Gene Hoek’s attorney, Manuel De Castro, suggests that Hoek may be “overcharged,” and that there are potential mental health issues that need further exploration. Despite the emotional nature of the case, De Castro remains dedicated to gathering information and pursuing the best legal strategy for his client.
According to Kollars, the chain of events began with a call about a man, identified as Hoek, making “homicidal threats” near a business. The ensuing police chase reached speeds of 115 mph, during which Prorok was struck while deploying stop spikes across the highway. He tragically died at the scene. Hoek was later detained after attempting to flee on foot.
Interviews with Hoek revealed that he had been suffering from anxiety and panic attacks, which he claimed occasionally affected his memory. Investigators also found suspected drug paraphernalia in his car, suggesting a potential substance abuse issue.
Hoek’s mother expressed concern about her son’s mental health issues and his tendency to self-medicate, indicating a potential long-standing struggle with mental illness. Other individuals close to Hoek highlighted his increasing violent behavior and the preceding downward spiral, shedding additional light on the tragic chain of events.
As the case unfolds, the community and law enforcement await further developments and seek justice for the untimely loss of Chief Deputy Ken Prorok.