WATERTOWN, S.D.(KXLG)- A 2-year sentencing in the South Dakota State Penitentiary with a one-year suspension was imposed today in the case involving former Henry School District teacher Shanna Ries regarding the plea agreement she entered on July 26, 2023, pleading guilty to the charge of Sexual Contact with a Child under 18 by a Person of Authority, a class six felony.

According to court documents, the incident occurred in February 2023 and happened once; today, the Prosecution argued it happened multiple times as a presentencing investigation was ordered before sentencing.

Judge Carmen Means presided over the case and talked about her mother being a teacher. She understands the amount of time spent with the children and the emotional connection, which makes it more concerning as Ries is in a position of authority and takes advantage of the child.

Judge Means said she does take into account Ries self-reported the crime.

Ries was immediately taken into custody by Codington County Deputies.