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South Dakota Recidivism Rate Ranks 9th Highest in US
New study shows high rate of repeat offenders in the state
Apr. 7, 2026 at 4:38pm
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A stark visual representation of the cycle of recidivism, where offenders are repeatedly rearrested and incarcerated.Pierre TodayA new study from the Justice Center has found that South Dakota's recidivism rate, the percentage of convicted criminals who reoffend, is the ninth highest in the country, with up to 50% of offenders committing new crimes after release. The state is one of 14 across the U.S. that saw its recidivism rate increase from 2011 to 2021, raising concerns from law enforcement about the challenges of repeat offenders.
Why it matters
High recidivism rates put a strain on the criminal justice system and public safety, as police and correctional resources are repeatedly used on the same individuals. This trend also highlights the need for more effective rehabilitation and reintegration programs to help offenders successfully transition back into their communities and avoid reoffending.
The details
The Justice Center's study found that South Dakota's recidivism rate, which measures the percentage of released prisoners who are rearrested, reconvicted, or returned to prison within a certain time period, is the ninth highest in the United States. Sioux Falls Police Chief Jon Thum has expressed frustration about having to repeatedly arrest the same individuals. In 2024, the state Department of Corrections launched a program called Safer SD to help ease the transition from prison to the community and reduce recidivism.
- The Justice Center's study analyzed recidivism data from 2011 to 2021.
- South Dakota's recidivism rate increased during this 10-year period.
The players
Justice Center
A research organization that studies criminal justice issues, including recidivism rates across the United States.
Jon Thum
The police chief of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, who has expressed frustration about repeatedly arresting the same individuals.
South Dakota Department of Corrections
The state agency that launched the Safer SD program in 2024 to help offenders transition from prison to the community and reduce recidivism.
What they’re saying
“We must find ways to better support offenders and help them successfully reintegrate into their communities to break this cycle of repeat crime.”
— Jon Thum, Sioux Falls Police Chief
What’s next
The state Department of Corrections will continue to monitor the effectiveness of the Safer SD program in reducing recidivism rates.
The takeaway
South Dakota's high recidivism rate highlights the need for more comprehensive rehabilitation and reentry programs to help offenders successfully transition back into their communities and avoid reoffending. Addressing this challenge is crucial for improving public safety and reducing the strain on the criminal justice system.
