South Dakota Man Arrested for Murdering and Decapitating His Mother

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South Dakota Man Arrested for Murdering and Decapitating His Mother

A South Dakota man, Bowen Fladland, 36, has been charged with first- and second-degree murder after allegedly killing his mother, Marlene Fladland, and then decapitating her.

The shocking crime took place in Clark, a small town in eastern South Dakota, and was discovered by authorities after they responded to a call about a possible assault at the family’s home.

The Murder of Marlene Fladland

On Tuesday, authorities were called to a residence on North Cloud Street in Clark, where they found the body of Marlene Fladland, dead in the front yard. According to a probable cause affidavit, detectives had been informed by a relative that they had spoken with Marlene earlier that day.

The victim allegedly told the relative that her son, Bowen, had been assaulting her. The mother and son lived together in the home, and the assault was reported to have occurred on Saturday morning.

Fladland’s Confession

Detectives tracked Bowen Fladland to Watertown, located about 30 miles east of Clark. When questioned, Fladland admitted to assaulting his mother and, during a post-Miranda interview, confessed that he “knelt on her neck until she was apparently deceased” and then used a tool to remove her head. The motive for the murder is not yet clear, as the affidavit does not mention any specific reasons for the crime.

History of Violence

Bowen Fladland’s violent behavior toward his mother was not new. Court records reveal a history of abuse, including multiple incidents in which he assaulted Marlene. Two years ago, Fladland was charged with assault after grabbing his mother by the throat and pushing her onto a bed, causing her to become light-headed.

The following day, he allegedly grabbed her again and shoved her against a refrigerator. During one of these altercations, Fladland reportedly threatened to kill his mother with two butter knives. He was convicted of aggravated battery and received a 10-year suspended jail sentence.

Probation Violation and Recent Arrest

Fladland had been on probation following his previous conviction, but reports indicate he violated his probation just two months before the murder. His violent history and the recent violation led to increased scrutiny of his actions, which eventually culminated in the tragic killing of his mother.

Arrest and Legal Proceedings

Bowen Fladland was arrested on Tuesday in Watertown and is currently being held at the Codington County Jail in Watertown on a $500,000 cash bond. He faces serious charges, including first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and the brutal act of decapitation.

The brutal murder of Marlene Fladland has left the small town of Clark in shock, as the community tries to understand the violent and tragic events that led to the death of a mother at the hands of her own son.

Authorities continue to investigate the case as they await further legal proceedings, and Bowen Fladland faces a long legal battle ahead.

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