Centerville Triple Homicide: Jay Ostrem Found Guilty of Murder | South Dakota

A former mayor of Centerville, South Dakota, Jay Ostrem, 65, was found guilty Friday of three counts of First-Degree Murder for a 2024 triple homicide, according to the South Dakota Attorney General’s Office.

The McCook County jury delivered the verdict in connection with the deaths of Paul Wyland Frankus, 26; Zachary Frankus, 21; and Timothy Richmond, 35, who were killed at a residence in Centerville on May 27, 2024. Each count carries a maximum sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.

“Today’s verdict delivers justice for the victims and their loved ones,” said Attorney General Jackley in a statement. “We are grateful for the hard work of law enforcement and prosecutors and we continue to retain the families in our thoughts.”

Ostrem, who previously served as the mayor of Centerville, was a law enforcement officer prior to entering politics, according to reporting from Sioux Falls Live. The case was jointly prosecuted by the South Dakota Attorney General’s Office and the Turner County State’s Office.

Sentencing is currently scheduled for May 14, 2026.