MOODY COUNTY, S.D. (Dakota News Now) – On Saturday, South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley confirmed that Moody County Chief Deputy Sheriff Ken Prorok of Wentworth was killed in the line of duty on Friday afternoon.

Chief Deputy Sheriff Prorok was sworn in as a law enforcement officer in 2016.

“Ken was a husband, father, grandfather, and well-respected leader in his community. All law enforcement is mourning the loss of Ken, and we send our condolences and prayers to his family and agency,” said Attorney General Jackley.

Joseph Hoek, 40, of Sioux Falls was arrested in connection with the incident that led to the Chief Deputy Sheriff’s death and is currently being held in the Lake County Jail.

“There are no immediate concerns for the public’s safety. And as Attorney General, I do appreciate that the community and the media has given to Officer Prorok’s family. Obviously, this is a very difficult time for his family, for all of law enforcement, and we appreciate that,” Jackley said.

Charges against Hoek will be filed on or about the time of his initial appearance at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, February 5 at the Lake County Courthouse in Madison, where details of the incident will be made available.

“The South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and Highway Patrol, with the help of local law enforcement agencies, continue their investigation,” said Attorney General Jackley. “The charges will be based on the evidence.”