Governor Kristi Noem is facing significant backlash following the commutation of a life sentence for a man now accused in the death of a 14-year-old girl. Mark Milk, 51, has been charged in connection with the demise of McKenna Wendel, a tragedy that unfolded after Governor Noem approved the reduction of Milk’s 1994 life sentence.
Man Charged in Teen’s Death After Sentence Commuted
Milk faces felony charges including allegedly transporting a minor with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity and supplying cocaine, which prosecutors claim led to the teen’s death. McKenna Wendel was reported missing by her grandparents, Ralph and Rose Wendel, on March 15, two days after she was last seen, according to Sioux Falls police. Her body was discovered near Brookings, South Dakota, on March 19. Prosecutors allege the girl died from a drug overdose on or around March 14.
Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Omaha Field Office, Gene Kowel, described the case as “horrific” and “heart-wrenching,” emphasizing the profound tragedy of a child’s death.
Details of the Charges and Investigation
Milk is also accused of conspiring with 38-year-old Jon Rogness to destroy evidence. Rogness faces accusations of acting as an accessory to help Milk evade prosecution. Milk was initially arrested on separate charges of driving while intoxicated.
The case is being prosecuted in Iowa, though the exact location of the alleged acts remains unclear. Iowa US Attorney Leif Olson stated that the Department of Justice policy is to pursue the most serious, readily provable charges, and that the charges alleged in the indictment occurred within the Northern District of Iowa. He added that the specific location of the acts would be determined at trial.
Previous Conviction and Parole Board Recommendation
Milk, who is reportedly a family member of Wendel’s, was previously sentenced to life for fatally stabbing a man during a fight. The South Dakota Board of Pardons and Paroles later recommended clemency for Milk. During his trial, Milk claimed self-defense, but the court described the killing as “one of the most vicious, brutal homicides it had ever seen.” Reports indicate the victim suffered severe injuries, including being kicked repeatedly, stabbed, and having an ear severed.
Milk sought commutation after serving nearly two decades in prison. Governor Noem approved the commutation in February 2023, reducing his sentence to 240 years, making him eligible for parole. The approval was reportedly influenced by a positive recommendation from the state’s parole board, who cited his “work ethic and ascension to a trainer’s post” while employed at Metal Craft Industries during his incarceration.
McKenna Wendel was reportedly listed as a guest at Milk’s parole hearing in June 2024.
Official Statements on the Commutation Process
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley commented on the commuted sentence, noting that he was not attorney general at the time of the commutation. He explained that law enforcement provided reports regarding the initial manslaughter case, and under the constitution, the governor makes the final decision on commutation or parole. Jackley confirmed that the commutation file remains sealed.
Tributes to McKenna Wendel
An obituary for McKenna Wendel described her as having a “vibrant personality and a zest for life.” She was known for her love of animals and the outdoors, enjoying activities such as climbing trees, playing in the park, and riding her bike. She also participated in volleyball and basketball and was known for making friends easily.
Her mother, Marisa Wendel, expressed gratitude for the “department’s work and care in this unreal ordeal.” Friends and family remembered McKenna for her infectious laugh, her ability to lift spirits, and her protective nature. Tributes highlighted her kindness, sense of humor, and the deep impact she had on those around her, particularly her grandparents.
A GoFundMe page established for the family spoke of profound grief and sorrow, with one friend sharing heartfelt memories of McKenna’s influence on her life, from teaching her new skills to sharing dreams of their future. The Wendel family has been described as “broken” by the loss.
