RAPID CITY, S.D. – A Pennington County jury convicted Ezekiel Mayweather, 24, on charges of aiding and abetting first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit first-degree murder in the death of Esther Wolfe, bringing a measure of justice for her family in Rapid City.
The verdict followed a six-day trial that concluded a case centered on the fatal shooting of Wolfe on Pine Street on Feb. 21, 2024. Wolfe was shot once in the head.
Prosecutors alleged that Mayweather orchestrated the killing, which they claimed was motivated by Mayweather’s mistaken belief that Wolfe was involved in the 2019 death of his brother, Michael Mayweather, which had been ruled a suicide.
Details of the Trial
The trial involved testimony from more than 40 witnesses and over 150 exhibits, including video, photographic evidence, and corroborating witness accounts, according to the State’s Attorney’s Office.
A key witness was co-defendant Arkadius Wright, who previously pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter for shooting Wolfe. Wright testified for the State, identifying Mayweather as the mastermind behind the murder. Wright told the jury that he and Mayweather had a standing plan to kill Wolfe.
On the evening of the shooting, which was the day Michael Mayweather would have turned 25, Ezekiel Mayweather allegedly decided it was time. Wright testified that Mayweather handed him the pre-cocked gun, instructed him to kill Wolfe, and threatened that refusing would result in Mayweather killing “one of you.” Wright further explained he had been told to take the blame because he was younger and likely to receive a lighter sentence.
The prosecution emphasized that Wright’s testimony was supported by a substantial body of corroborating evidence, including video footage, photos, phone data, and other witness statements, which independently supported the narrative of Mayweather’s orchestration.
Senior Deputy State’s Attorney Rachel Lindsay affirmed the State’s position after the verdict. “The jury’s verdict affirms the State’s position that this was not a spontaneous act but a coldly planned execution,” Lindsay said.
Penalties and Family Reaction
The charges carry the harshest possible penalties under South Dakota law-mandatory life imprisonment.
Chief Deputy State’s Attorney Gina Nelson commented on the outcome: “Nothing can undo the tragic loss of Esther Wolfe, but this verdict ensures her life is honored with truth and justice. The jury’s decision underscores that her death was not in vain and that those who orchestrate violence will be held to account.”
Krystal Eagle Bull, Esther Wolfe’s sister, addressed the outcome on behalf of the family. “We want to thank everyone for their support that has carried us through this painful journey,” Eagle Bull said. “Justice was served today, and while nothing can erase our loss, we stand together as a family. Our only wish now is that my sister, and Michael, be allowed to rest in peace without the weight of rumors or speculation.”
The State’s Attorney’s Office extended its gratitude to the jurors for their careful consideration, law enforcement for their dedicated work, and the witnesses who shared the truth. This case was tried by Chief Deputy State’s Attorney Gina Nelson, Senior Deputy State’s Attorney Rachel Lindsay, and Legal Extern Karli Viher.