Meth Epidemic & Rising Crime
Two top law enforcement officials spoke with member and guests of the Rotary Club of Downtown Sioux Falls, Monday, April 3. They lead a discussion about the impact and most effective potential responses to a methamphetamine epidemic that is fueling crime, violence and other societal problems in the Midwest and Sioux Falls. Minnehaha County Sheriff Mike Milstead and Sioux Falls Police Capt. Loren McManus raised awareness about the gravity of the situation and are engaging community to find solutions. Milstead attributes methamphetamines and the emerging use of heroin in Minnehaha County to increased burglaries, robberies and other violent crimes, including homicides.
Program highlights:
- Both Sheriff Milstead and Captain McManus have 20 + years in law enforcement at various levels.
- There exists a methamphetamine, heroin, opioid, and marijuana epidemic that is fueling crime, violence and other societal problems in the Midwest and Sioux Falls.
- There has been a 66% increase in armed robbery in Sioux Falls. In 2015 there were 2 homicides; in 2016 there were 10.
- There is no such thing as a "low risk" drug offender. If you are using you are high risk. South Dakota's Indian reservations are being targeted.
- In the Midwest there has been a 200% increase in heroin seizures. In like cities of our size, in 2015, major crimes (rape, murder, robbery) increased because of drugs.
- Drugs are costing less because they are coming from across the border, not made in local mom & pop labs.
- In South Dakota, 5% of our 9th graders have tried meth.
- Prevention and treatment are key. Educating the public is vital to stopping the epidemic. Volunteers are always needed.
Next Week’s Program:
Eileen Briggs, Bush Foundation Nation Building Portfolio Director—Native Nation Building & Beyond