RAPID CITY, S.D. — A Rapid City man was sentenced today, Oct. 29, to 15 years in prison for shooting another man in the head earlier this year. The 36-year-old victim survived the shooting.

Torell Flute, 28, was arrested shortly after the January 4 shooting at a residence on East Anamosa Street. The victim was able to identify Flute as the shooter immediately following the incident.

While Flute was initially charged with attempted murder, the State ultimately agreed to a reduced charge of aggravated assault after considering the available evidence and the importance of securing a conviction.

During sentencing, Deputy State's Attorney Emily Toms urged the court to follow the plea agreement, describing the victim's survival as a "medical miracle."

Seventh Judicial Circuit Presiding Judge Heidi Linngren accepted the plea agreement, sentencing Flute to 15 years in prison for aggravated assault and two years for the firearm conviction. The sentences will run concurrently, meaning Flute will serve a total of 15 years in prison.

Aggravated assault is a Class 3 felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison and/or a $30,000 fine. Possession of a firearm by a person with a prior drug conviction is a Class 6 felony punishable by up to two years in prison and/or a $4,000 fine.