Man sentenced for series of domestic violence incidents

RAPID CITY, SD (KELO) — The Pennington County State's Attorney's Office sentenced Justin Livermont, 36, to more than a decade behind bars for a series of domestic violence incidents in March and April 2021.

Police describe the attacks on the young woman as one of the most horrific cases they have ever encountered.

The victim was strangled to the point of losing consciousness. She was punched so badly that she lost teeth and fractured ribs. The victim also suffered physical, psychological and sexual violence at different times during their relationship.

As Livermont spoke to an officer, body camera footage showed a young child in the background who witnessed the abuse and said the word “liar.”

The victim and her child made powerful statements during sentencing, demonstrating the lasting effects of Livermont's actions.

Seventh Circuit Judge Jane Wipf Pfeifle said, “This child lost her childhood. I just can't stop thinking about it.

Livermont was sentenced to 15 years in prison for aggravated assault and 10 years, with five years suspended, for second-degree burglary. Since Livermont pleaded guilty, other charges have been dismissed. The plea agreement will spare victims the trauma associated with a jury trial.