Western SD Federal Operation Results in 16 Arrests

A major federal drug-trafficking bust has led to the arrest of 16 individuals in Rapid City and on the Pine Ridge Reservation. The arrests are part of Operation Snowy Ridge, a multi-agency effort targeting drug conspiracy networks.

By Crystal Blue April 18, 2025 8:37 am

Operation Snowy Ridge Rapid City drug bust Pine Ridge Reservation arrests federal drug conspiracy charges South Dakota drug trafficking operation multi-agency drug investigation drug-related crime Rapid City Pine Ridge law enforcement operation drug trafficking arrests South Dakota ongoing federal investigations South Dakota criminal charges federal drug enforcement action major drug operation in the Midwest law enforcement crackdown Pine Ridge — Metro Services

RAPID CITY, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) Sixteen people have been arrested in connection to a drug-trafficking operation in Rapid City and on the Pine Ridge Reservation. All of the suspects are facing various federal drug conspiracy charges. The multi-agency operation called ‘Operation Snowy Ridge’ began Tuesday and continued through Wednesday morning. According to authorities, investigations are currently underway to decide whether anyone who’s been arrested will face any additional charges. For more crime stories from MitchellNow.com, click here.

Lifestyle

2 days 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

2 days 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

2 days 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

2 days 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

2 days 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.