Rapid City, SD – Arkadius Wright was sentenced today to 35 years in the South Dakota State Penitentiary, with 10 years suspended, for first-degree manslaughter in the February 21, 2024, shooting death of 22-year-old Esther Wolfe.

Wright was initially charged with first-degree murder. However, the State later agreed to reduce that charge to first-degree manslaughter in acknowledgment of Wright’s cooperation with law enforcement and the State.

Chief Deputy State’s Attorney Gina Nelson asked Seventh Circuit Judge Jeffrey Connolly to impose a 35-year sentence, noting that such a sentence balances accountability for taking Esther’s life with Wright’s cooperation, demonstrated remorse, and willingness to do the right thing by telling the truth.

Nelson described Wright as “a good whipping boy,” someone extremely vulnerable due to a traumatic upbringing, but she did not shy away from the catastrophic nature of his actions, noting that those vulnerabilities do not erase the harm caused by his choices.

Judge Connolly noted the stark contrast between Wright and Mayweather, observing that Wright demonstrated genuine remorse. The court ultimately imposed a 35-year sentence with 10 years suspended. Wright faced a potential maximum sentence of life in prison.

Several members of Esther Wolfe’s family addressed the court, thanking Wright for his cooperation, while still calling firmly for justice and accountability. They shared how Esther’s absence continues to define their lives and the lasting grief her death has left behind.

Mayweather was sentenced earlier today to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Under South Dakota law, a conviction for first-degree murder carries a mandatory life sentence.

This case was prosecuted on behalf of the State by Chief Deputy State’s Attorney Gina Nelson, Senior Deputy State’s Attorney Rachel Lindsay and Legal Extern Karli Viher.