Sturgis, South Dakota — South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley is cracking down on crime at the 85th Sturgis Rally, with a team of officers and DCI agents patrolling.
During the 85th Sturgis Rally, the Division of Criminal Investigation is working to combat human trafficking, illegal drug use, and violent crimes.
“We have operations underway to combat and apprehend human traffickers, drug-related task forces are in place, and the situation has been relatively safe thus far. I mean, certainly, there are those individuals out here who need our attention, and we do everything we can to ensure that it’s a safe and fun rally,” South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley said.
“I think it’s great that the police are visible and doing a good job of patrolling the area. “You see them going around, you see them walking down the street, so they’re doing an excellent job with their police presence,” Rally Rider Kem Petersen stated.
Policing the rally is done in two stages. Officers walk around patrolling the streets and roads, and those working undercover arrest approximately 6 to 12 human traffickers each year during the rally.
According to Jackley, they have already arrested one person in connection with human trafficking.
The DCI drug task force has also apprehended individuals using illegal substances such as meth, fentanyl, and opioids. Jackley claims they would not be as successful without the public’s support.
“We seek the assistance of the community. If you see someone who appears to be a threat, say something. There is law enforcement throughout Sturgis. If you see anything that concerns you, please contact one of our officers and we will assist you,” Jackley stated.
While riders continue to attend Sturgis and enjoy themselves, the Attorney General and his team will continue to work to apprehend as many human and drug traffickers as possible.
