SDA, Pennington County Richard Hirth, 44, was found guilty of killing Jessica Rehfeld, 22, by stabbing her to death over ten years ago and was given a life sentence without the chance of release. The killing was a component of a murder-for-hire scheme that Rehfeld’s ex-boyfriend, Jonathan Klinetobe, had planned.
Hirth entered a guilty plea to aiding and abetting first-degree manslaughter, which was announced by the Pennington County State’s Attorney’s Office on July 7. The original charge of first-degree murder was dropped in return. He was given a life sentence by a judge for his involvement in Rehfeld’s demise.
The Murder-for-Hire Plot
The crime occurred in 2015 after Rehfeld filed for a protective order against her ex-boyfriend on May 12 due to her growing dread of him. Because of his actions, she was concerned for her safety.
Rehfeld disappeared after leaving her ex-boyfriend’s house a few days later with David Schneider and Hirth. Rehfeld was reported missing by her family and friends on May 22, 2015.
Discovery of the Body
A witness in Wyoming came forward with details regarding Rehfeld’s body in 2016. The bones of Rehfeld were discovered on May 13, 2016, after the witness guided detectives to a graveyard close to Rockerville, South Dakota.
Prosecutors discovered that Rehfeld’s ex-girlfriend, Klinetobe, had paid Hirth and Schneider $80,000 to kill her. Klinetobe assisted in burying Rehfeld after Hirth allegedly repeatedly stabbed her in Schneider’s car. In order to rebury her in a deeper grave, Klinetobe later engaged two additional men, Garland Brown and Michael Frye.
Sentences for Other Defendants
Klinetobe received a life sentence without the possibility of release.
Schneider was given a 75-year sentence with a 35-year parole possibility.
After entering guilty pleas, Frye and Brown, who were accused of accessory after the fact, were each sentenced to five years in jail.
Final Defendant Sentenced
Hirth was the last defendant to get a sentence, according to the Pennington County State’s Attorney’s Office. Hirth was the one who committed the vicious crime that took Rehfeld’s life, according to the prosecution, which called the murder horrifying and senseless. It was deemed a callous act by the court.
Source