Category: Government

Government, JusticeLeave a comment
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One of former state employees charged in string of criminal cases takes a plea deal

Gary Dickson

Lynne Hunsley, a former South Dakota state employee, accepted a plea deal for creating a fraudulent vehicle title, receiving three years of probation, a $1,000 fine, and $1,200 in restitution. Other former state employees also face charges for various crimes. Attorney General Marty Jackley aims to enhance fraud protections in state government. Continue reading One of former state employees charged in string of criminal cases takes a plea deal

Environment, GovernmentLeave a comment
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‘Wild places are worth fighting for’: Concern grows for receding South Dakota wetlands

Gary Dickson

The U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Sackett v. EPA has weakened federal protections for wetlands, threatening conservation efforts and accelerating habitat loss, particularly in South Dakota. Conservationists, like John Cooper, emphasize the need to incentivize wetland preservation over agricultural expansion to combat climate change and support wildlife ecosystems essential for future generations. Continue reading ‘Wild places are worth fighting for’: Concern grows for receding South Dakota wetlands

JusticeLeave a comment
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DOC faulted for confusion that led to jails’ illegal seizure of inmate funds

Gary Dickson

The Iowa Department of Corrections has declined to amend its rules to prevent county jails from unlawfully seizing inmates’ funds for medical expenses prior to conviction, according to the state ombudsman. This longstanding issue arises from discrepancies between state law and administrative procedures, prompting ongoing recommendations for rule changes. Continue reading DOC faulted for confusion that led to jails’ illegal seizure of inmate funds

Crime, Iowa, JusticeLeave a comment
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Iowa AG pushes for constitutional amendment on child testimony

Gary Dickson

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird announced support for a constitutional amendment enabling child victims to testify via closed-circuit video to avoid facing their alleged abusers in court. Following a recent Iowa Supreme Court ruling reversing such protections, Bird emphasized the importance of this amendment for child safety and encouraging testimony in criminal cases. Continue reading Iowa AG pushes for constitutional amendment on child testimony

Government, North Sioux City, PoliticsLeave a comment
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North Sioux City voters approve a new style of government Tuesday

Gary Dickson

North Sioux City voters decided to shift from an aldermanic to a commission-style government, with 343 votes in favor and 238 against. This change will take effect in April 2025, requiring the election of five commissioners, including a mayor. Concerns remain about the operational details and costs of this transition. Continue reading North Sioux City voters approve a new style of government Tuesday

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Police commission: Complaints against cops rising, but fewer than 1% of SD officers disciplined

Gary Dickson

In 2024, complaints about police misconduct in South Dakota rose by 24% over the previous year, with 142 complaints filed. Despite this, less than 1% of certified officers faced discipline. The state Law Enforcement Commission discussed reforming protocols for notifying victims about misconduct hearings, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability. Continue reading Police commission: Complaints against cops rising, but fewer than 1% of SD officers disciplined

Government, PoliticsLeave a comment
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Noem’s Cabinet role could be ‘untenable:’ Former Homeland Security chief

Gary Dickson

Jeh Johnson, former Homeland Security Secretary, expressed concerns about South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s potential confirmation as head of the Department of Homeland Security. While her gubernatorial experience may aid her, she faces challenges in managing extensive agency responsibilities and navigating controversial immigration policies under Trump. Tensions between Noem and the White House are anticipated. Continue reading Noem’s Cabinet role could be ‘untenable:’ Former Homeland Security chief

JusticeLeave a comment
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Legal battle escalates over $4 million worth of contaminated cheese

Gary Dickson

A lawsuit in Sanborn, Iowa, alleges $4 million in damages due to water contamination linked to a negligent cleaning of the municipal water tower by Maguire Iron. The Minnesota dairy cooperative AMPI claims that toxic materials infiltrated its facility during water tower maintenance. Each party blames the others for the damages. Continue reading Legal battle escalates over $4 million worth of contaminated cheese

Commentary, GovernmentLeave a comment

Be careful what you wish for, Gov. Noem

Gary Dickson

Kristi Noem’s loyalty to Donald Trump has led to her selection as Secretary of Homeland Security in his administration. With a significant departmental budget and responsibilities, Noem faces challenges, especially regarding potential staff purges favoring Trump loyalists. Her experience with border issues and Trump’s volatile hiring practices leaves her job security in question. Continue reading Be careful what you wish for, Gov. Noem

Business, Government, Minnesota, PoliticsLeave a comment

Smithfield’s $2 million child labor penalty dwarfed by parent company’s annual $26 billion in sales

Gary Dickson

Smithfield will pay a $2 million penalty for child labor violations at its Minnesota plant, marking the state’s largest enforcement action. An investigation revealed that 11 minors worked hazardous jobs during late hours. The company denies knowingly hiring underage workers but has agreed to enhance compliance measures in response to the violations. Continue reading Smithfield’s $2 million child labor penalty dwarfed by parent company’s annual $26 billion in sales