South Dakota Crime Rates Decline in 2025

Attorney General Jackley releases annual crime report showing decreases across major categories

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Crime in South Dakota 2025 Report shows a 6.03% decrease in overall reported criminal offenses statewide compared to 2024. Drug offenses, homicides, DUI arrests, burglaries, and juvenile arrests all saw declines as well, according to the report compiled by the Attorney General's Criminal Statistical Analysis Center.

Why it matters

The decrease in crime rates across South Dakota is seen as a positive sign for public safety and quality of life in the state. The report highlights the ongoing partnership between law enforcement and prosecutors, as well as the impact of securing the state's southern border, as factors contributing to the improved crime statistics.

The details

The report shows there were 64,261 criminal offenses in 2025, down from 68,388 in 2024. Drug offenses decreased 6.25% to 6,358. More serious Group A crimes like homicides, sex offenses, and aggravated assaults fell 7.78% to 43,715. Less serious Group B crimes like DUI and disorderly conduct dropped 2.09% to 20,546. Other decreases included 23 homicides (down from 32), 5,356 DUI arrests (down from 5,548), and 1,412 burglaries (down from 1,787).

  • The Crime in South Dakota 2025 Report covers criminal offenses that occurred in the 2025 calendar year.
  • The report was released on February 19, 2026.

The players

Marty Jackley

The Attorney General of South Dakota who announced the release of the 2025 crime report.

South Dakota Criminal Statistical Analysis Center (SAC)

The agency within the Attorney General's office that compiled the comprehensive crime data for the 2025 report.

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What they’re saying

“The decrease of crime in South Dakota demonstrates South Dakota remains a safe place to raise a family and how important securing our southern border has been to public safety.”

— Marty Jackley, Attorney General (mitchellnow.com)

What’s next

The Attorney General's office will continue to monitor crime trends and work with law enforcement across the state to maintain public safety.

The takeaway

South Dakota's proactive approach to border security and strong partnerships between law enforcement and prosecutors have contributed to a meaningful decline in overall crime rates, including drops in serious offenses like homicides and drug crimes.