Overall crime numbers rose slightly in 2024, according to a new report from Attorney General Marty Jackley.
Total crime rose by 1.2 percent year-over-year. Serious crimes, including sex offenses and aggravated assault, rose by 2.5 percent.
One of the areas that saw the biggest jumps was homicides, which rose from 18 in 2023 to 31 in 2024. More than half – 16 – were in Sioux Falls, which saw record-high homicides last year.
Less serious crimes, like disorderly conduct and loitering, dropped slightly.
Jackley says despite the slight increase overall, South Dakota remains a safe place to live.
“Law enforcement will continue to focus on violent crime and addiction. I appreciate our dedicated law enforcement officers and prosecutors across the state,” Jackley said.
Some key statistics Jackley highlighted:
– 31 homicides reported in 2024, up from 18 in 2023.
– DUI arrests were at 5,493 in 2024, up from 5,412 in 2023.
– Total drug offenses increased to 6,751 compared to 6,315 in 2023.
– Burglaries were at 1,777 in 2024, compared to 1,823 in 2023.
– Juvenile arrests were at 3,776 compared to 3,994 in 2023.
– Drug offenses involving methamphetamine were at 3,133 in 2024, compared to 3,018 in 2023.
– Fentanyl offenses are included in the “Other Narcotics” category. There were 397 such other narcotics offenses reported in 2024, compared to 237 in 2023.