Top South Dakota officials gathered at the Washington Pavilion for a public safety forum focused on a proposed $650 million men’s prison in Sioux Falls. The plan, endorsed by the Project Prison Reset task force, could double the city’s prison population and raise crime concerns.
Former Huron pastor Kevin W. Koester is scheduled to appear in court this week on child pornography charges. The 32-year-old, previously employed at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, was arrested after police searched his home and church office last month.
South Dakota 9-1-1 centers are adopting RapidSOS, an AI-powered platform that delivers real-time data from over 540 million devices to first responders. The system enhances emergency response by providing caller location, health profiles, and crash data instantly.
ICE has confirmed an active investigation at Trail King Industries in Mitchell, South Dakota, amid increased federal immigration enforcement across the state. The probe follows recent worksite operations and a new 287(g) partnership with the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation.
Sioux Falls drivers should prepare for multiple road and lane closures this week, including major disruptions on Cliff Avenue, Ellis Road, and 12th Street. Projects range from traffic light replacement to utility work and road repairs, with some lasting through November.
The South Dakota Department of Corrections has issued a public safety notice ahead of the release of high-risk offender Michael Pigney. Scheduled for release in the Sioux Falls area, Pigney will not be under parole supervision following convictions in Minnehaha County.
Rural health providers in South Dakota are sounding the alarm over looming Medicaid cuts tied to a new federal budget law. With millions at stake, leaders warn of delayed care, reduced services, and possible clinic closures—especially in underserved communities.
South Dakota lawmakers will reconvene in Pierre this September for a special legislative session focused on selecting a site and securing funding for a new state prison. Following months of planning by the Project Prison Reset task force, this pivotal session aims to address overcrowding and aging correctional facilities across the state.
Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken says the city is bracing for major budget cuts tied to Governor Rhoden’s property tax reform, despite the law not taking effect until 2027. The city anticipates a $8–$10 million revenue loss over three years and has already begun cost-cutting measures, including closing school-based clinics, reducing library hours, and scaling back community programs.
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will host a bridge dedication ceremony on August 1st to honor U.S. Army Private First Class Mark Shields. The SD50 bridge over Crow Creek, located about 12 miles north of Chamberlain, will be named in his memory.