Vermillion Police Department joins South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force

The Vermillion City Council meeting on May 21, 2025, spotlighted a crucial initiative aimed at combating online child exploitation. Chief Brady presented a proposal for the Vermillion Police Department to join the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force as an affiliate agency. This move is part of a broader effort to enhance local law enforcement's response to internet crimes against children.

Established in 1998, the ICAC Task Force was created to address the alarming rise in online child exploitation. Today, there are 61 task forces across the United States, with South Dakota's branch formed in 2006. Chief Brady highlighted that the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) received approximately 18,500 cyber tips in 2024, with an average of 15 to 20 tips related to Vermillion each year.

By becoming an affiliate, the Vermillion Police Department would be better equipped to handle these cases. Tips received would be directed to the department's Lieutenant of Investigations, who would assign them to detectives for follow-up. This collaboration would involve conducting interviews, executing search warrants, and gathering evidence, with support from the DCI for larger cases.

Importantly, there is no financial burden on the Vermillion Police Department; they would receive a dedicated laptop for investigations and access to training funded by the DCI. Chief Brady strongly recommended the affiliation, emphasizing its potential to bolster local efforts against child exploitation.

The council showed unanimous support for the initiative, recognizing its significance in protecting the community's children from online threats. This partnership marks a proactive step in enhancing the safety and security of Vermillion's youth in the digital age.