STURGIS, S.D. – Meade County Sheriff Sheriff Pat West has authorized the Meade County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. This MOU was approved by the County Commission at the October 28th Commission Meeting. This agreement establishes MCSO as an associate member of the ICAC Task Force and strengthens the county’s ability to investigate and prevent the online exploitation of minors.
Under the MOU, MCSO and the ICAC Task Force will share resources and collaborate on investigations. MCSO investigators will receive specialized training in technical investigative methods and be provided with dedicated hardware and software to support digital forensics and online investigations. MCSO personnel will also have the ability to work directly alongside ICAC investigators on complex cases requiring additional expertise and resources.
The partnership follows recent local case activity, including the federal sentencing of Sean Carlos Payne, 34, who received a 35-year prison term for the sexual exploitation of a South Dakota minor. Sheriff Pat West cited that case as a catalyst for increased action. “The need for this partnership is underscored by recent events,” said Sheriff West. “This collaboration is a significant step forward in protecting our community’s most vulnerable and ensuring the safety of our children.”
“South Dakota’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force is making real progress in protecting kids online thanks to powerful partnerships between state and local law enforcement,” said Attorney General Marty Jackley. “The addition of the Meade County Sheriff’s Office to the task force will strengthen our efforts to keep South Dakotans safe.”
The Meade County Sheriff’s Office is committed to protecting the lives and property of Meade County residents through community-oriented policing, professional investigations, and partnerships with regional and state law enforcement agencies.