Lonna Carroll, a former employee of the South Dakota Department of Social Services, pleaded not guilty to stealing $1.8 million in state and federal funds over 13 years. She faces two felony counts of aggravated grand theft and could be sentenced to 40 years in prison. The state lawmakers plan to hold a hearing on the alleged theft. Continue reading Former state employee pleads not guilty in $1.8 million theft case
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) Relief Foundation is providing a substantial $250,000 in aid to support communities in southeastern South Dakota affected by recent flooding from June 16 to July 8. The areas impacted have been officially designated as … Continue reading Realtors Foundation providing $250,000 for flood relief to SE South Dakota
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is investigating a diesel spill in a tributary of Willow Creek in Monona County. The spill occurred when a pickup truck carrying red diesel crashed, causing the contents to empty into the water. Booms have been deployed to contain the spill, and the driver is cooperating with the authorities for cleanup. Continue reading Diesel spill near Mapleton reaches Willow Creek
State and city food inspectors have cited Iowa and South Dakota establishments for food safety violations, including dirty facilities, moldy equipment, and rodent infestations. Violations included mishandling food, lack of proper storage, and repeat violations. Inspectors noted issues such as staff using dirty sinks, soiled equipment, and improper food storage. Continue reading Restaurant inspection update
Michelle Warner, a former employee of Heartland Counseling Services, was sentenced to two years in federal prison for wire fraud. She will also serve three years of supervised release, pay a special assessment of $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and make restitution of $261,066.09 to her former employer. Warner must report to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service on September 16, 2024. Continue reading Alcester woman sentenced for wire fraud
The South Dakota Supreme Court ruled that Summit Carbon Solutions has not proven its right to take private land for its carbon-capture pipeline project. The company plans to appeal, claiming it qualifies as a common carrier. Landowners and lawmakers see the ruling as a victory, anticipating further legal battles over the project’s impact. Continue reading Court ruling complicates carbon pipeline company’s push for land
A majority of the 300 overdose deaths in Iowa in 2022 involved fentanyl. Activists are pushing for the legalization of fentanyl test strips to prevent accidental overdoses. Despite concerns, supporters believe these strips can save lives and provide valuable information about drug supply. Legalization faces resistance due to stigma and fear of enabling drug use. Continue reading As fentanyl ravages Iowa, activists push for the legalization of fentanyl test strips
The Union County Sheriff’s Office was involved in various incidents and activities between August 11 and August 17, 2024, including burglary, horse-related issues, transportation of inmates, arrests, assists, and traffic violations. A total of 60 records were reported, with a wide range of law enforcement engagements. Continue reading Union County Sheriff’s Incident/Activity Report: 8/11 – 8/17
South Dakota’s foreign-born population grew by 45.5% between 2010 and 2022, exceeding the national average by three times. With nearly 32,000 foreign-born residents, mostly from Asia and Africa, the state has the fifth-lowest share of foreign-born residents in the US. Refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo account for the most resettlements in South Dakota. Continue reading For increasing number of immigrants, a ‘new life in America’ starts in South Dakota
Late afternoon Thursday, Aug. 15, a Union County jury found Troy Cooke guilty of one of two counts of sexual contact with a child under the age of 13. The verdict came after barely one hour of deliberation.
Troy Donald Cook, 51, of Sioux City, Iowa was originally charged on March 27, 2024, by a Union County grand jury with one charge of sexual contact with a child under the age of 13, a class 3 felony and two separate charges of bestiality, both class 6 felonies. Continue reading Union County jury convicts Sioux City man of sexual abuse of minor
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