William Hopkins sentenced to 25 years in prison for involuntary manslaughter

RAPID CITY, S.D. (KEVN) - The man accused of shooting 28-year-old Jon Walter II in November 2022 was sentenced in court Monday morning.

William Hopkins, 30, was sentenced to 25 years in prison with nine years suspended. Seventh Circuit Judge Stacy Wickre called it a, “very tragic situation” and noted the defendant had shown true remorse.

Hopkins shot and killed Walter by recklessly handling a gun while cleaning it. Following the shot, Hopkins told another person to get rid of the gun and asked them to tell the police someone else shot Walter.

Hopkins pleaded guilty to the amended charge of second-degree murder this past March and today in court said quote,” I’m sorry for what happened. I can’t begin to imagine the loss and the pain everybody has gone through. I’m reminded of it every day.”

Previous story: Status hearing for man charged with 1st degree manslaughter

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