MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — A multi-month narcotics investigation by the Watertown Police Department has resulted in the arrest of four Watertown men accused of selling illegal drugs within the community, including distribution to high school-aged juveniles.
Police say the investigation involved two separate enforcement actions at Watertown residences. All four suspects were arrested without incident and are currently being held at the Codington County Detention Center.
The first arrests occurred on Nov. 21, 2025, when officers executed a search warrant at a residence in southwest Watertown. Terance Block, 25, was charged with selling tobacco to a person under 21, furnishing alcohol to individuals ages 18 to 20, possession of marijuana between two ounces and one-half pound, and two counts of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, including distribution to a minor. His bond was set at $10,000 cash.
James Chase, 34, was also arrested and faces multiple felony charges, including distribution of a controlled drug, possession with intent to distribute one pound or more of marijuana, and maintaining a place where drugs are sold. Chase was additionally charged with a parole violation. His bond was set at $20,000 cash.
On Dec. 12, 2025, police served two additional search warrants, resulting in the arrests of Jacob Martinez, 20, and Steven Jackson, 34. Martinez is charged with distribution of a controlled drug, possession with intent to distribute marijuana to a minor, maintaining a place where drugs are sold, and multiple tobacco and alcohol violations. Jackson is charged with distribution of marijuana to a minor, industrial hemp sale or distribution, and obstructing a law enforcement officer. Bond for both was set at $10,000 cash.
The Watertown Police Department said protecting local youth remains a top priority and emphasized its commitment to addressing illegal drug activity involving juveniles.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.