Sheriff reports February jail statistics and warns of cryptocurrency scams

Codington County officials reported a slight decrease in jail activity during the February monthly meeting, with an average daily population of 53.54 inmates. The highest recorded population was 59 on February 24, while the lowest was 47 at the beginning of the month. The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to manage jail resources effectively, including the implementation of a 24/7 program that saw participation from 19 individuals.

In financial updates, the county collected nearly $4,000 in various fees, including work release and SCRAM fees, which contribute to the operational budget. Additionally, the county secured a $5,000 staffing grant aimed at addressing staffing shortages within the detention center, a crucial step in maintaining adequate personnel levels.

A significant change discussed was the transition from free television service provided by Midco to a paid service, necessitated by new FCC regulations. The cost for the new service is expected to be between $2 and $5, with limited channel options. Officials emphasized the importance of providing television access as a management tool, allowing inmates to stay informed about current events.

The meeting also addressed the rising issue of cryptocurrency scams affecting the community. Law enforcement officials reported a surge in scams, particularly targeting vulnerable populations, including the elderly. The sheriff's office is actively educating the public through social media campaigns to raise awareness about these scams and the urgency of reporting them. They noted that victims have a limited window of 72 hours to recover lost funds, underscoring the importance of prompt action.

As the county continues to navigate these challenges, officials remain committed to enhancing community safety and support services. The next steps include ongoing discussions about jail management and further public education on fraud prevention.