Lake Norden Man Sentenced for Sexual Contact with a Child

Northeast Radio SD News - Hayti, SD - A Lake Norden man has been sentenced in Hamlin County Circuit Court following an investigation by the Hamlin County Sheriff’s Office that began earlier this year.

On November 18, Samuel B. Miller, of Lake Norden, was sentenced by Circuit Court Judge Abigail A. Howard after entering a plea of nolo contendere (no contest) to the charge of Sexual Contact with a Child Under 16.

Sentence Details

Miller was sentenced to 180 days in county jail. The court suspended 90 of those days, on the condition that Miller adhere to several requirements for one year. With 10 days credited for time already served, the immediate jail sentence is 80 days.

The conditions of Miller's sentence include:

·        Remaining a law-abiding citizen for one year.

·        Paying fines and court costs totaling $512.50.

·        Reimbursing Hamlin County for the costs of his court-appointed attorney.

·        Having no contact with the victim.

·        Completing a mental health evaluation.

Prior Investigation and Arrest

The case originated in February 2025 when the Hamlin County Sheriff’s Office opened an investigation after receiving a report of an incident within the county.

Following the completion of the investigation, Miller was arrested later that month by the sheriff’s office for Sexual Contact with a Child Under 16. He was subsequently given a cash bond of $2,500 with specific conditions, including no contact with the victim or any minors, maintaining contact with his attorney, ensuring all court appearances were made, and obeying all laws.