Nov. 13, 2025:
Dusty Pelle was officially sworn in as the Chief of the Pierre Police Department during Wednesday night’s (Nov. 12, 2025) city commission meeting. Commissioner Jamie Huizenga administered the oath, and here’s a short clip.
After thanking city officials for giving him the opportunity to lead the department, Pelle made a brief statement.
Pelle is a 21-year veteran of the Pierre Police Department and has worked as a Patrol Officer, Detective, Patrol Sergeant, Detective Sergeant and Captain. He began his law enforcement career in 2002 with State Radio as a Communications Officer before joining the Haakon County Sheriff’s Office in 2003. He was hired by the Pierre Police Department in 2004. He has also served on the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and played an integral role in maintaining the department’s Records Management Systems.
Pelle holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration Management from Central State University of Ohio. He officially took over as Chief of the Pierre Police Department on Nov. 8, 2025, following the retirement of now former Chief, Jason Jones.
Pierre City Commissioner Jamie Huizenga administers the oath of office to new Pierre Chief of Police Dusty Pelle.
Photo courtesy of Patrick Callahan.
Pierre Police Chief Dusty Pelle signs his oath of office.
Nov. 12, 2025.
Pierre Police Chief Dusty Pelle speaks to the city commission after signing his oath of office.
Nov. 12, 2025.
Aug. 21, 2025:
In early November, Pierre will have a new chief of police.
Town officials have hired Captain Dusty Pelle to take over the leadership role upon the retirement of current Police Chief Jason Jones.
Pelle, a 21-year veteran of the Pierre Police Department, began his law enforcement career in 2002 with State Radio as a Communications Officer before joining the Haakon County Sheriff’s Office in 2003. He was hired by the Pierre Police Department in 2004 and has since served in a wide range of roles, including Patrol Officer, Detective, Patrol Sergeant, Detective Sergeant and Captain.
As a Detective and later as Detective Sergeant, Pelle led multiple large-scale investigations. In 2023, he was promoted to Captain, where he oversaw the department’s Patrol, Investigations and Communications divisions. He has also served on the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and played an integral role in maintaining the department’s Records Management Systems.
Pelle said it’s been an honor to serve the Pierre Police Department and the City for more than 20 years and he’s excited to continue that service as Chief of Police. He said protecting and supporting the community will always be his top priority.
Pelle holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration Management from Central State University of Ohio. He will officially take on the title of Chief of the Pierre Police Department on November 8, 2025.
City Administrator Kristi Honeywell said Captain Pelle’s dedication and leadership have made a lasting impact on the community and she’s confident he will continue to guide the department with strength, vision and integrity.
The City of Pierre thanks Chief Jason Jones for his dedicated service and leadership and wishes him the very best in retirement.
Courtesy image.
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