PIERRE — The prosecution of a Pierre woman charged with murder continues in Hughes County. States Attorney Jessica LeMie says two status hearings in the case of 38 year-old Crystal Pumpkinseed took place in May and June. LeMie says parties in the case have been waiting on the completion of a psychological evaluation of Pumpkinseed. A competency hearing is tentatively scheduled for mid-September. Pumpkinseed, who also goes by the name Miranda Henry, is charged with second-degree murder in the death of 49 year-old Christopher Mexican. Mexican’s body was found February ninth by Pierre police following a disturbance call at the Pierre Inn and Suites complex. Officers found an open door in a second floor unit and located Mexican’s body inside. Pumpkinseed was arrested the following day. Second degree murder in South Dakota is a Class B felony that carries a punishment of life in prison and possible fine of 50-thousand dollars.
