South Dakota Mines in Rapid City is joining the fight to understand and disrupt criminal networks. The institution is partnering with researchers at South Dakota State University, Dakota State University, and the University of South Dakota to create the Center for Understanding and Disrupting the Illicit Economy. 

Dr. Jon Kellar is a professor at South Dakota Mines. He will lead a team focused on identifying counterfeit goods. Kellar said it’s a widespread problem that can have big implications.  

“Let's say you buy a counterfeit purse, you think, well, I got a good deal and it looks good. And well, you probably think it's a victimless crime,” he said. “Well, in fact, those products are being used by terrorists to generate cash to fund their networks.” 

Kellar said it’s important to be a conscientious consumer. 

“The first rule of thumb is if it seems too good to be true, it probably is,” he said. “You'll notice some of the packaging may not look right, there may be misspellings. Or instead of a regular branded box, it comes in a white bag with some cheese cloth.” 

Researchers will also focus on tracking fake pharmaceuticals and exploring the dark web and other networks used by criminals.  

State government provided a 4-million-dollar grant to create the center.