Sioux Falls Man Charged in $57K COVID Relief Fraud Scheme

Brandon White of Sioux Falls is facing federal charges of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft after allegedly obtaining $57,000 in COVID-relief funds through fraudulent applications to the Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program.

By Christal Blue May 1, 2025 1:18 pm

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SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) Brandon White of Sioux Falls is facing federal charges of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. White allegedly used stolen information to get $57,000 in COVID-relief funds through the Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. Prosecutors say White submitted fraudulent loan applications under a false business identity in 2020, then quickly withdrew and moved those funds across multiple accounts. According to Kelo Land News, White made his first appearance in U.S. District Court on Wednesday.

Lifestyle

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Bird Flu Outbreak Hits South Dakota Turkey Flocks

South Dakota is facing a major bird flu outbreak, with more than 135,000 turkeys destroyed at three facilities to contain the spread. North Dakota has also reported cases, losing over 60,000 turkeys in commercial flocks. Agriculture officials stress that poultry products remain safe to eat despite the outbreak.

Government

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AG Marty Jackley Launches Campaign for Congress

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley has officially entered the race for Congress, launching his campaign in his hometown of Sturgis. Jackley, now in his fourth term as Attorney General, joins State Senator Casey Crabtree in the Republican primary to replace Congressman Dusty Johnson, who is seeking the governor’s office. Highlighting his conservative record, Jackley says he will prioritize public safety, border security, economic growth, and accountability in Washington while continuing to serve as AG.

Crime

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Huron Contractor Sentenced for Defrauding Customers

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley announced that Huron contractor Julio Morales-Ortiz has been sentenced for defrauding seven customers out of more than $36,000. Morales-Ortiz pleaded guilty in Beadle County Circuit Court to theft by deception, receiving a suspended 10-year prison sentence, probation, and jail time.

Government

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Freedom Caucus Pushes Back on $650M Prison Plan

South Dakota lawmakers will meet in a special session to decide on a proposed $650 million men’s penitentiary in Sioux Falls, but members of the Freedom Caucus remain opposed. While Lieutenant Governor Tony Venhuizen, who led the prison task force, says he’s confident in the plan’s passage, caucus members fear the price tag could balloon to $1 billion. Governor Rhoden’s office maintains the project is capped at $650 million.

Government

1 day ago

Mitchell Plans Second Fire Station to Speed Up Response Times

Mitchell city officials are proposing a $2.5 million fire station on the north side of town to improve emergency response times and reduce insurance costs for residents. The station would be built near the old water treatment plant on Highway 37, with design work beginning in 2026 and an opening planned for 2027. City leaders say the new location will allow firefighters to reach the north side more quickly, while housing four firefighters who will share equipment with the current Public Safety building.