Who is responsible for investigating and prosecuting public corruption in South Dakota?

The South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) and local prosecutors are fundamentally responsible for investigating and prosecuting public corruption within the state. The DCI operates under the South Dakota Department of Public Safety and has a mandate to investigate various criminal activities, including public corruption. Local prosecutors work in conjunction with the DCI to prosecute these cases, drawing on their knowledge of local laws and court procedures.

This collaborative approach enables a more effective response to public corruption, as it utilizes both state-level investigative resources and local legal expertise. While other entities, such as the FBI, may get involved in particular cases, particularly those that span state lines or involve federal issues, the primary responsibility lies with the DCI and local prosecutors in South Dakota. This arrangement ensures that cases are handled with a keen understanding of state law and its implications, fostering accountability and integrity within public office.