A former South Dakota State University equestrian coach, who could face 10 years in prison on a felony charge, pleaded not guilty in state circuit court Wednesday afternoon.

Kamerra Brown, who served as the SDSU equestrian coach for the 2024-25 season, was charged last month with grand theft. The state accused her of using university and taxpayer resources to pay for veterinary bills and boarding for her horses for about a year. She could face up to 10 years in prison if found guilty.

Trial is set for March 25.

Brown and her lawyer, Erin Willadsen, did not comment as they left the courtroom in Brookings.

Part of the proceedings Wednesday centered on Brown’s bond. The defense asked that Brown be released on her own recognizance.

Nolan Welker, who represented the state, said that while the charges were not violent, they are serious and Brown may be a flight risk. He asked for a $1,000 bond.

Willadsen’s request was granted, and the $2,000 paid earlier by a third party will be returned.

Willadsen also requested permission to share an initial discovery report that the state had sent to her with Brown. She said it would be easier to have Brown review it at home in Brookings since Willadsen is in Sioux Falls. That request was also granted.

Brown was indicted by a Brookings County grand jury last month following an anonymous tip to South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley’s Public Integrity Unit. A GoFundMe was set up to help Brown with legal expenses until it was shut down for violating GoFundMe’s terms.