Liggins Pleads Guilty on Reduced Charges

Liggins Pleads Guilty on Reduced Charges

An Omaha woman charged in a fatal stabbing in Vermillion last July has pled guilty to reduced charges.

Chezayia Liggins, 20, of Omaha initially faced charges of second-degree murder and two counts of first-degree manslaughter in the stabbing death of Christopher Bartling, 47, but those charges have been reduced. 

Liggins pled guilty on Thursday morning to charges of aggravated assault with a dangerous weapon and second-degree manslaughter.

Aggravated assault is classified as a class 3 felony in South Dakota, carrying a maximum sentence of 15 years in the state prison and a fine of up to $30,000. Second-degree manslaughter is a class 4 felony, carrying a maximum sentence of 10 years with a fine of up to $20,000.

Liggins’ next court appearance is her sentencing, scheduled for May 9th at the Clay County Courthouse.