Local authorities are investigating last week's death of a Pennington County Jail prisoner, but that isn't enough for an activist who says Huron "Jake" Red Dog did not receive adequate medical attention.

Canupa Gluhamani, also known as Duane Martin, of the Strongheart Warrior Society, said Pennington County is responsible for Red Dog's death because the jail was negligent in his treatment.

Red Dog, 53, of Pine Ridge died at Rapid City Regional Hospital on Aug. 19 from an infection six days after he was involved in a fight in the area of Rapid Creek and Cambell Street.

Rapid City police responding to an assault call on Aug. 13 found Red Dog with injuries on his face and head, according to Major Brian Mueller of the Pennington County Sheriff's Office.

Red Dog admitted being involved in an altercation, Mueller said.

Red Dog was taken by ambulance to Rapid City Regional Hospital where he was treated and released.

Because Red Dog had been drinking and was on probation, he was placed on a probation hold and taken to jail, Mueller said.

Red Dog's continued receiving treatment for his wounds at the jail's clinic, Mueller said.

Four days later, on Aug. 17, Red Dog was taken to Sioux San Hospital with complications. Jail staff sent him to Sioux San because, as a tribal member, he qualified for Indian Health Service treatment, Mueller said.

Red Dog was treated at Sioux San, taken back to the jail, and returned to Sioux San later in the day. During the second visit, Red Dog was transferred to Regional Hospital where he remained until his death.

Preliminary autopsy results blame an infection on Red Dog's head for death, Mueller said.

An individual who fought with Red Dog was interviewed after the confrontation, but no charges have been filed.

A joint investigation by the police and sheriff's office into the incident leading to Red Dog continues. Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to call the Criminal Investigation Division at 394-4134 or 394-6115.

Contact Andrea Cook at 394-8423 or andrea.cook@rapidcityjournal.com.