Some South Dakota Department of Corrections inmates have received training to assist towns across the state with storm cleanup or community service projects.
State Corrections Secretary Nick Lamb says over the last month, inmates at the Pierre, Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Springfield and Yankton facilities have been certified to respond to natural disasters. Other inmates can load branches and clean up debris.
Lamb says this type of training and work is not only a service to our local communities, but it’s also a rewarding purpose for offenders on the path to rehabilitation. He says female inmates at the Pierre facilities recently participated in a community cleanup event.
Governor Larry Rhoden says the Department of Corrections is working to deliver results, including:
-
Preparing for quick disaster response;
-
Providing inmates with valuable training and experience;
-
Creating savings for South Dakota communities; and
-
Helping homeowners recover from damaging winds.
Communities interested in requesting inmate community service should contact the South Dakota Department of Corrections. The phone number for the main office in Pierre is 605-773-3478.
Inmates from the Sioux Falls Minimum Center during Disaster Crew training in March 2026.
Courtesy photo.
Female inmates from the Pierre Corrections Department facilities assisted with a community cleanup project.
Courtesy photo.
Comments