Shad Olson, a former South Dakota television news anchor, is set to stand trial on June 5 following his arrest last year for allegedly assaulting his longtime girlfriend in a violent domestic incident.
The case has drawn significant public attention due to the graphic details of the alleged abuse, Olson’s background in journalism, and his connections in political circles. As the trial date approaches, the story of the once-prominent news anchor continues to unravel, shedding light on a troubling history of violence and personal struggles.
Allegations and Arrest
The alleged incident occurred in February of the previous year at the home of Olson’s girlfriend in Rapid City, South Dakota. According to the affidavit of probable cause, Shad Olson, 52, was intoxicated when he launched a violent attack on his girlfriend, whom he had been dating for eight years.
During the attack, he allegedly lifted her by the throat, slammed her onto the ground multiple times, and repeatedly insulted her. The affidavit describes how the victim managed to escape the house barefoot while Olson chased her, further exacerbating her fear and distress.
The victim later recounted that she was lucky the altercation took place on a carpeted surface, which may have prevented more severe injuries such as broken bones. She also disclosed to authorities that Shad Olson had physically assaulted her in the past, with each instance triggered by his excessive drinking and growing frustration over political matters.
Authorities arrested Shad Olson following the victim’s escape to a neighbor’s house, where she sought refuge. Law enforcement officials noted that she was visibly shaken and had suffered injuries consistent with her allegations. Olson was taken into custody and subsequently released on a $5,000 bail posted by Jodie Frye, a former legislative candidate.
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Initially charged with aggravated assault-domestic violence, a felony offense, Olson faced serious legal repercussions. However, in November 2024, the Meade County State’s Attorney’s Office dismissed the felony charge for reasons that remain undisclosed in public records.
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Despite this dismissal, he still faces a charge of simple assault-domestic violence, classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor in South Dakota. He initially considered a plea agreement but later opted for a jury trial, set to begin in June.
A History of Controversy and Professional Downfall
Shad Olson’s career in journalism dates back to 2000 when he began working as a reporter and news anchor for KOTA Territory News, an ABC-affiliated television station in Rapid City. For a time, he was a familiar face in South Dakota’s media landscape, covering significant news stories and political developments.
However, his career took a hit in 2010 when he was suspended from KOTA for delivering a speech at a Citizens for Liberty “tax day” rally, which raised concerns about journalistic impartiality and ethics.
The Tea Party-affiliated group’s event was politically charged, leading to questions about Olson’s ability to remain an objective news reporter. Following the controversy, he resigned from his position at KOTA on May 11, 2010.
Despite this setback, Shad Olson made a comeback in broadcasting in 2012, joining KNBN NewsCenter 1, an NBC-affiliated station in Rapid City. He remained with the station for several years before being replaced in the prime-time news slot in 2017. The exact details surrounding his departure from KNBN remain unclear, as there was no formal announcement from the station’s management.
Shad Olson’s professional life took another turn when he became involved in politics. He served as campaign counsel for Neal Tapio, a Republican candidate who ran for South Dakota’s at-large congressional seat in the 2018 midterms.
Tapio ultimately lost the GOP primary to Rep. Dusty Johnson and then-Secretary of State Shantel Krebs. Olson’s involvement in the campaign further solidified his shift from journalism to political advocacy, reinforcing his alignment with conservative causes and figures.
Legal Proceedings and Public Reactions
As Shad Olson’s trial date nears, his case continues to spark debates about domestic violence, accountability, and the role of public figures in shaping societal discourse. The allegations against him, if proven true, paint a troubling picture of a man whose struggles with alcohol and political stress have culminated in a pattern of abusive behavior.
The victim’s statements to authorities provide insight into a deeply dysfunctional relationship marred by repeated violence. According to her account, Shad Olson had subjected her to abuse over the years, often triggered by his drinking and his reaction to political developments. “Shad is stressed over politics, and it makes him drink,” she reportedly told investigators, emphasizing how his fixation on national affairs contributed to his volatile behavior.
The affidavit also highlights Olson’s apparent financial dependency on his girlfriend. She claimed that he had no source of income and that she was the one supporting the household while he focused on political matters.
This revelation further complicates the narrative surrounding the case, suggesting that Olson’s personal and professional struggles may have played a role in the dynamics of their relationship.
Public reaction to the case has been mixed, with some expressing outrage over the allegations and others adopting a wait-and-see approach until the trial concludes.
Domestic violence advocacy groups have used Olson’s case as a reminder of the importance of supporting survivors and holding perpetrators accountable, regardless of their social status or professional background.
Despite the dismissal of the felony charge, the misdemeanor charge still carries potential legal consequences for Olson. In South Dakota, a conviction for simple assault-domestic violence can result in up to one year in jail and fines. However, the outcome of the trial will ultimately determine whether Shad Olson faces any punishment for his alleged actions.
The case has also raised broader concerns about the intersection of personal struggles and public personas. Olson’s background as a journalist and political consultant has placed him in the spotlight, making his legal troubles even more scrutinized. His decision to withdraw from a plea agreement in favor of a jury trial suggests that he is willing to fight the charges and attempt to clear his name.
As the trial progresses, the public will be watching closely to see how the legal system handles the case. For many, the outcome will serve as a litmus test for how seriously domestic violence allegations are treated, especially when they involve individuals with a history of public influence.
Regardless of the verdict, the case has already left a lasting impact on those involved. For the victim, the trauma of the alleged assault remains a painful reality. For Shad Olson, the trial represents a critical juncture in his life, one that could determine his future both legally and professionally.
The trial, set to begin on June 5, will ultimately reveal the extent of Shad Olson’s accountability in the alleged incident. As the legal proceedings unfold, the broader conversation surrounding domestic violence, personal responsibility, and the influence of public figures will continue to resonate.