Eleven tribal law enforcement officers are in Pierre this week to begin the first in-state training session.
Gov. Kristi Noem and the Attorney General’s office announced in April that the first ever in-state tribal law enforcement certification course would be held starting in June.
"Providing consistent training for Tribal, State, Sheriffs and City Police better ensures public safety across South Dakota. The relationships and trust formed during the training is extremely valuable," said Attorney General Marty Jackley.
In the past, most tribal officers would have to travel to New Mexico to complete the training. That meant officers would be away from their families and communities for the entire 13 week training. By offering the training in state, officers can return home on the weekends.
The first class also includes 12 other officers from non-tribal agencies.
