Former Township Treasurer Faces New Lawsuit Over Unpaid Restitution

Former Canton Township treasurer Peggy VanDeKieft, already serving a five-year prison sentence for embezzling nearly $500,000, is now facing a new federal lawsuit.

By Christal Blue May 5, 2025 11:36 am

South Dakota business filing fee increase Annual Report fee South Dakota Amended Annual Report fee change July 1st business fee update South Dakota Secretary of State fees Monae Johnson Secretary of State business filing fees 2025 South Dakota business compliance nonprofit fee exemption South Dakota South Dakota legislation 2025 updated business filing fees secure business services South Dakota South Dakota annual report changes state filing requirements South Dakota South Dakota business reminders — Metro Services

MITCHELL, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) Former Canton Township treasurer Peggy VanDeKieft is facing a new lawsuit, this time in federal court. VanDeKieft is already serving a five-year prison sentence after being convicted of writing nearly $500,000 in fraudulent checks to herself over seven years. Now, township officials say she’s making no effort to repay the over half million dollars in restitution she was ordered to pay, and they’re taking legal action again. The financial loss has had a lasting impact on the community since the fraud was uncovered in 2023. For more Government stories from MitchellNow.com, Click Here.

Lifestyle

19 hours ago

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

20 hours ago

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

20 hours ago

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

20 hours ago

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

20 hours 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.