Watertown man sentenced to 15 years in prison following murder last fall

WATERTOWN, S.D. (Dakota News Now) - A local man, Corey Ross, has received a 15-year prison sentence for the murder of Ronnie Silas last fall. The sentencing occurred on Wednesday following an incident that took place on September 11th, which was reported by Mike Tanner from Watertown Radio.

On the night of the incident, both Ross and Silas were consuming significant amounts of alcohol. An altercation broke out when Ross became upset with Silas for drinking too much of his liquor, leading to a violent confrontation. Ross assaulted Silas and subsequently dragged him by his ankles to a different part of his home.

Silas was found dead hours later, having succumbed to positional asphyxia. According to State's Attorney Alison Bakken, he had been dead for approximately 12 hours before authorities discovered his body. An analysis of Ross's blood alcohol content the following day revealed a level of .195, indicating a significant level of intoxication at the time of the incident.

As part of his sentencing, Ross received credit for the 161 days he had spent in the Codington County Detention Center prior to the trial. This sentencing emphasizes the severe consequences of violent actions, particularly those occurring under the influence of alcohol.

The case serves as a tragic reminder of the potential dangers associated with excessive drinking and the devastating outcomes that can result from disputes arising in such circumstances.