Caleb White of Mitchell, SD, pleads not guilty to felony child abuse after a domestic incident involving a 2-year-old. Police reports cite photos of injuries, and White reportedly admitted to the abuse in a March interview. His jury trial is set for August 2025.
A $20,000 arrest warrant has been issued for Dustin Feistner of Mitchell, SD, after missing a felony court arraignment. Feistner faces charges of unlawful entry and bribery, tied to a March 2nd incident at the Siesta Motel. His criminal record includes drug and assault offenses.
Julian Beaudion of Sioux Falls becomes the first Democrat to enter South Dakota’s 2026 U.S. Senate race, challenging incumbent Republican Mike Rounds. A former state trooper and local business owner, Beaudion brings grassroots experience to the statewide campaign.
South Dakota Congressman Dusty Johnson supports President Trump’s tariffs, citing potential benefits for local exports and fairer global trade. In an interview with KELOLAND News, Johnson also addressed the disruptive impact of DOGE, calling the changes long overdue for key markets.
The South Dakota Board of Regents expands dual credit options with the Gateway Certificate Program, helping high school students earn college credits and explore careers in Architecture, Digital Technology, Health Sciences, and STEM—saving time and money on a college degree while supporting workforce development in South Dakota.
In a critical step to combat opioid overdoses, Emily’s Hope and Sanford Health have partnered to install free naloxone boxes at key locations in Sioux Falls, including the Sanford Hospital lobby and ER. Each kit contains Narcan, gloves, a face shield, and easy-to-follow instructions. Available to anyone—no questions asked—these life-saving tools aim to reduce overdose deaths. Emily’s Hope now provides 10 free naloxone boxes across South Dakota.
Wildfire risk is on the rise across South Dakota as windy weather, dry conditions, and above-normal temperatures create a dangerous mix. Most of the state is experiencing moderate to severe drought, with extreme drought reported in the southwest, according to the latest drought map.
South Dakota education leaders are weighing their response to a federal warning that could impact school funding. The Trump Administration has threatened to withhold education dollars from states that continue to operate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs.
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley has joined a coalition of 51 Attorneys General in a nationwide effort to stop illegal robocalls. The Anti-Robocall Multistate Litigation Task Force has issued warnings to nine phone service providers.
South Dakota FFA members packed over 55,000 meals during “Living to Serve Day” at the state FFA convention in Brookings on April 3rd. In partnership with Meals of Hope, the meals were donated to Feeding South Dakota and Feeding Brookings to combat food insecurity.
