RAPID CITY, SD – Twenty-six-year-old Anthony Padilla of Rapid City has been sentenced to 10 years in the South Dakota State Penitentiary after pleading guilty to two counts of sexual contact with a child under the age of 16.
Padilla entered guilty pleas earlier this year. The charges stem from offenses that occurred in 2020 and involved two victims, ages 11 and 13. While Padilla pled to two counts, the original indictment detailed allegations involving four separate victims. As part of the plea agreement, the State dismissed the additional charges in exchange for the Defendant’s guilty plea.
At sentencing, Senior Deputy State’s Attorney Jason Thomas urged the court to impose a 30-year sentence, 15 years for each count, arguing that Padilla poses a continuing threat to the community. “This Defendant systematically preyed on young, vulnerable girls. His actions were not impulsive or isolated; they were calculated and strategic. He identified victims, groomed them, and exploited their innocence. He represents a significant and ongoing danger, not only to young women but to the safety and well-being of our entire community,” Thomas said.
Victim impact statements were submitted to the court by survivors and their families.
Judge Heidi Linngren ultimately imposed a 10-year sentence for each count, with the sentences to run concurrently. In South Dakota. sexual contact with a child under the age of 16 is a Class 3 felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and/or a $30,000 fine.
This case was prosecuted by Chief Deputy State’s Attorney Gina Nelson on behalf of the State.
For media inquiries, please contact Public Information Officer Katy Urban at (605) 390-1182.
