Noem: South Dakota impacted by border crisis
South Dakota Governor Takes Action to Address Crisis at Southern Border
In a powerful address to state lawmakers, Governor Kristi Noem of South Dakota emphasized the impact of the border crisis on her state. She expressed her determination to explore legal avenues that would enable South Dakota to support Texas and compel the federal government to fulfill its responsibilities.
Noem revealed that she is actively consulting with key officials, including the Adjutant General and the Secretary of Public Safety, to devise strategies for providing personnel and assistance. Additionally, she is engaging in discussions with Texas Governor Greg Abbott to establish rules of engagement that would empower National Guard troops, should their deployment become necessary.
“The cartels have operational control of our border,”
Noem declared boldly. She firmly believes that when the federal government fails in its duty to protect the people, it becomes the responsibility of the states to take action. Having witnessed the invasion firsthand, she expressed her shock at the worsening situation with each visit to the border.
The governor also highlighted the alarming infiltration of tribal reservations by cartels, which undermines the efforts of state law enforcement. Unfortunately, the state government lacks the jurisdiction to unilaterally intervene and provide support to tribes, leaving the cartels to exploit this vulnerability in South Dakota.
Noem pointed out that the Oglala Sioux tribe has taken legal action against the federal government due to the prevalence of violent crime, drug trafficking, and gang activity, primarily perpetrated by “non-natives” on their reservation.
“We see the effects of Joe Biden’s failures at the border every day in South Dakota,”
Noem asserted. She revealed that despite a federal judge’s order for the Biden administration to engage in resolution talks with the Oglala tribe, the administration has failed to comply, leading the tribe to file a second lawsuit.
Undeterred by the lack of federal action, Noem emphasized that the cartels have established a presence on several tribal reservations in South Dakota. In response to her impassioned speech, both the House and Senate passed a resolution expressing their support for defending the border.
While Senator Reynold Nesbia agreed with much of Noem’s assessment of the border situation, he emphasized that the issue ultimately lies within the federal government’s jurisdiction. He urged Noem to leverage her influence to collaborate with Senators Thune and Rounds in enacting the policies advocated by President Biden.
Currently, a bipartisan group of senators is negotiating a bill on border security. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson has indicated that the bill is unlikely to pass in the House.
It falls upon the states to take action. South Dakota, though not located on the southern border, is feeling the effects of this crisis in many ways, including through drug trafficking and an increase in crime. Noem expressed her concern that these problems will only worsen if immediate measures are not taken.
What specific measures has South Dakota taken to address the issues of drug trafficking and increased crime, given the state’s vulnerability despite its geographical distance from the southern border?
South Dakota has implemented several measures to address drug trafficking and increased crime within the state, despite its geographical distance from the southern border. Some of the specific measures include:
1. Law Enforcement Partnerships: South Dakota has established collaborative partnerships between local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to enhance information sharing and coordination in combating drug trafficking. This includes collaboration with Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and other relevant agencies.
2. Drug Task Forces: The state has established drug task forces to focus on investigating and prosecuting drug trafficking organizations. These task forces involve members from multiple law enforcement agencies, working together towards a common goal.
3. Intelligence Gathering and Analysis: South Dakota law enforcement agencies focus on gathering intelligence and analyzing it to identify drug trafficking networks, trends, and emerging threats. This information is utilized to target high-value individuals and organizations involved in drug trafficking.
4. Use of Technology: The state employs various technological tools, such as advanced surveillance systems, data analytics, and communication equipment, to enhance their ability to detect and disrupt drug trafficking activities.
5. Border Patrol and Highway Interdiction: Although South Dakota is far from the southern border, law enforcement agencies conduct frequent patrols and interdictions along major transportation routes, highways, and interstates to prevent drugs from entering the state.
6. Prosecution and Sentencing: South Dakota has implemented a tough stance on drug-related offenses, ensuring that individuals involved in drug trafficking face strict prosecution and sentencing. This acts as a deterrent and helps reduce drug-related crime in the state.
7. Rehabilitation and Treatment: In addition to law enforcement efforts, South Dakota recognizes the importance of rehabilitation and treatment for drug-related offenders. The state has invested in programs that aim to address substance abuse issues and provide supportive services to offenders to help them reintegrate into society.
8. Public Awareness and Education: South Dakota actively promotes public awareness campaigns and education programs to inform citizens about the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of reporting suspicious activities. These campaigns aim to engage the community in preventing and addressing drug-related crimes.
It is important to note that the specific measures and strategies may vary over time as new challenges and needs emerge. The state of South Dakota continually assesses its response to drug trafficking and crime to adapt its approach accordingly.
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