South Dakota’s Division of Criminal Investigation has received a $100,000 grant to boost efforts against internet crimes targeting children. Attorney General Marty Jackley announced that the funding—from the Attorney General Alliance—will enhance the state’s ability to detect, disrupt, and prosecute online predators and human traffickers.
South Dakota lawmakers are launching a summer study to improve support for residents with intellectual disabilities, amid ongoing concerns about underfunded care services. The committee, co-chaired by Senator Chris Karr of Sioux Falls, is calling on advocacy groups and providers to submit top recommendations within a week.
Roughly 250 residents attended a public forum in Mitchell to learn more about the proposed South Dakota state prison planned just south of town. Officials addressed rising land costs—now estimated at $35,000 per acre, totaling $5.6 million—and responded to concerns about inmate parole, local health care strain, and property values.
The South Dakota Department of Health is launching statewide vaccination clinics following the confirmation of two new measles cases, bringing the 2025 total to four. In response, officials are urging residents to check their immunization records and get the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine if needed.
Attorney General Marty Jackley announced that South Dakota has received nearly $2 million from Janssen Pharmaceuticals as part of a nationwide opioid settlement. The funds are part of a larger $5 billion agreement with Johnson & Johnson, Janssen’s parent company, aimed at addressing the opioid crisis.
U.S. Attorney Alison Ramsdell is joining advocates across South Dakota and the nation in recognizing June as Elder Abuse Awareness Month. Ramsdell is urging the public to stay alert for signs of elder fraud, abuse, and financial exploitation, which can strip seniors of their independence and well-being.
Ellsworth Air Force Base is tightening security this week in response to global events, joining military installations across the country in boosting safety measures. Visitors can expect longer wait times and increased screening at the gate. While the 28th Bomb Wing says there’s no specific threat, the heightened precautions are a proactive step.
Mitchell city leaders are grappling with how to keep local golf courses and sports fields green once Lake Mitchell is drawn down for dredging in 2026. Facilities like Lakeview Golf Course and Cadwell Sports Complex rely heavily on lake water for irrigation—up to 400,000 gallons per night.
South Dakota is slowly improving its national standing in teacher pay, as the Teacher Compensation Review Board begins drafting new recommendations for lawmakers. While the board has faced challenges over the past decade in raising educator salaries, experts like Caitlyn Scott of Marzano Research see reason for optimism.
After 25 years of service, Sioux Falls Police Public Information Officer Sam Clemens is retiring at the end of the month. Clemens, who became the department’s spokesperson in 2008, has been a trusted voice in law enforcement communication.