Rogness Pleads Guilty in Wendel Case | Pierre News

Thirty-eight-year-old Jon Rogness has pleaded guilty to two federal charges tied to the death of 14-year-old McKenna Wendel, admitting he knew she died from an overdose and helped hide her body and belongings to shield his co-defendant, Mark Milk — who prosecutors say committed crimes including transporting Wendel for sexual activity. Rogness’s plea marks a reversal from his earlier not guilty stance, with sealed details in his agreement; prosecutors confirm no evidence he knew about the sexual abuse allegations. Though the crimes likely occurred in Brookings County, federal jurisdiction was secured because Milk’s alleged acts took place in Iowa. Rogness now faces up to 35 years in prison, six years supervised release, and $1.5 million in fines, with sentencing delayed until a 70-day presentence investigation concludes. Meanwhile, Milk, who remains defiantly not guilty, faces more severe charges — including supplying the cocaine that killed Wendel — and is set to go to trial as early as September 28th. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/0391e0d5c21f3a25