Sheriff reports positive crime trends for Pennington County despite rising calls for service

During the recent Pennington County Budget Hearings for Fiscal Year 2026, Sheriff Kevin Thom presented a comprehensive overview of crime trends and law enforcement strategies in the region. The meeting highlighted the importance of data-driven decision-making in addressing public safety and managing the county's resources effectively.

Sheriff Thom emphasized the significance of tracking crime statistics, noting that despite a rising population, violent crime rates have remained stable or even declined in recent years. He attributed this success to collaborative efforts with local law enforcement agencies, including the Rapid City Police Department and surrounding county sheriffs. The sheriff's office has been proactive in its approach, increasing visibility and engagement in the community, which has contributed to a reduction in crime.

A key focus of the discussion was the management of warrants and the challenges posed by a backlog of cases. The sheriff reported improvements in staffing levels, allowing the department to better handle the volume of warrants, particularly those related to violent crimes. This proactive approach has helped clear many outstanding warrants, reducing the burden on the justice system.

The meeting also addressed the growing number of individuals with high medical needs within the jail system. Sheriff Thom noted that the increasing complexity of medical cases has led to longer hospital stays for inmates, which in turn affects the overall operations of the jail. This trend underscores the need for additional resources to manage the health care demands of incarcerated individuals.

Another significant topic was the ongoing efforts to combat drug-related issues in the community. The sheriff reported a shift in drug trends, with methamphetamine use declining while fentanyl-related incidents are on the rise. The unified narcotics enforcement team has been active in addressing these challenges, focusing on disrupting drug trafficking networks and reducing the availability of illicit substances.

The sheriff also discussed the Care Campus, a facility aimed at addressing homelessness and substance abuse. Recent changes have been made to the program, including a reduction in safe beds and an increase in detox beds, to better serve individuals seeking help. The sheriff highlighted the importance of community involvement in addressing the root causes of homelessness and substance abuse, emphasizing that many individuals utilizing these services are not homeless but rather struggling with addiction.

In conclusion, the Pennington County Budget Hearings provided a platform for Sheriff Thom to outline the current state of public safety in the region, the challenges faced by law enforcement, and the strategies being implemented to enhance community safety. The discussions underscored the importance of collaboration among various agencies and the need for continued investment in resources to effectively address the evolving needs of the community. As the county moves forward, the sheriff's office remains committed to utilizing data to inform decisions and improve outcomes for residents.