RAPID CITY, S.D. – A former television news anchor avoided trial by pleading no contest to a charge of simple assault-domestic violence late Wednesday.
Shad Olson was scheduled to go to trial beginning today (Thursday).
Olson entered his plea in Fourth Circuit Court in Meade County.
Olson was originally charged with aggravated assault, with that charge being dismissed in November.
He was charged in connection with the assault of a woman in her home in Black Hawk in February of 2024. Prosecutors say Olson grabbed the woman by her shoulders and pushed her to the ground multiple times.
By pleading guilty or no contest to the assault charge, prosecutors will recommend a 180-day suspended jail sentence as well as anger management sessions for Olson. He will also be ordered to have no contact with the victim.
Sentencing has been set for July 3.
