RAPID CITY, S.D. – The Rapid City Police Department’s (RCPD) Retail Theft Unit conducted a sting operation on May 30, resulting in several arrests for various offenses, including grand theft and drug possession. The operation targeted retail crime within Rapid City, a significant economic hub in South Dakota and near the Black Hills.
Among those apprehended:
- Jill Kerstiens, 38, of Rapid City, was arrested for Grand Theft and Trespassing. Kerstiens was reportedly seen exiting a store at 1200 N. Lacrosse Street with a cart full of unpaid merchandise. Officers contacted her and determined the cart contained over $6,000 worth of items.
- Daniel Hurley, 27, of Rapid City, faces charges of Theft, Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Hurley was observed cutting tags off shoes behind 1225 Eglin Street, with the items suspected to be stolen from 1177 Eglin Street. A search of Hurley’s person revealed syringes that field-tested positive for methamphetamine. An employee from 1177 Eglin Street positively identified Hurley as the theft suspect.
- Jessica McKittrick, 35, of Box Elder, was arrested for Theft and Possession of Methamphetamine. McKittrick was observed taking several items from 1183 Eglin Street without paying. Officers located her at 1846 Eglin Street based on a description. An employee from the store positively identified McKittrick as the suspect. A search of her purse located a baggie containing a white substance that field-tested positive for methamphetamine.
The RCPD continues its efforts to combat retail theft, aiming to deter criminal activity in Rapid City and protect local businesses within the region of South Dakota.
