Four Siouxland Recruits Graduate from 200th Law Enforcement Class

The ceremony will honor the program's impact on law enforcement in South Dakota.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Four recruits from Southeast South Dakota will be among the 39 graduates of the state's Basic Law Enforcement Certification class on Friday, March 6. This marks the 200th class to complete the 13-week, 520-hour program, which is required for individuals to become fully qualified law enforcement officers in the state.

Why it matters

The graduation ceremony highlights the ongoing commitment to training and developing law enforcement officers in South Dakota, a state that has relied on this program to produce qualified public safety personnel since 1960.

The details

The recruits will graduate after completing coursework covering topics such as criminal investigations, law, arrest control tactics, firearms, and vehicle handling. The ceremony will feature speeches from state and federal officials, including the South Dakota Attorney General, Governor, and members of Congress.

  • The graduation ceremony will take place on Friday, March 6, 2026.
  • The Basic Law Enforcement Certification class is a 13-week, 520-hour program.

The players

Marty Jackley

The Attorney General of South Dakota, who will deliver a speech at the graduation ceremony.

Larry Rhoden

The Governor of South Dakota, who is anticipated to speak at the graduation ceremony.

John Thune

A U.S. Senator from South Dakota, who is expected to make a speech during the graduation ceremony.

Mike Rounds

A U.S. Senator from South Dakota, who is anticipated to speak at the graduation ceremony.

Dusty Johnson

A U.S. Representative from South Dakota, who is expected to deliver a speech during the graduation ceremony.

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What they’re saying

“This course has produced outstanding law enforcement officers who have served our communities since 1960. This graduation program will honor what this program has meant for law enforcement in South Dakota.”

— Marty Jackley, Attorney General (KTIV)

The takeaway

The graduation of these 39 recruits, including four from Southeast South Dakota, marks a significant milestone for the state's law enforcement training program, which has been instrumental in producing qualified public safety personnel for over 60 years.