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RC Police Increase Patrols Following Deadly Stabbing Near City Hall
RAPID CITY, S.D. — Rapid City Police are increasing their presence in the downtown area following a fatal stabbing last week that left one man dead. Police said 22-year-old Diontae Eagleman is accused of stabbing Francis Tobacco last Tuesday night just a block from City Hall. Tobacco later died from his injuries. Eagleman was arrested and charged with murder. According to a statement from the Rapid City Police Department, the increased patrol efforts come in response to the impact the violent crime has had on nearby businesses and the community. The department said changes will include additional security cameras, more officers on patrol, and increased community engagement.
Voters Head to the Polls Today for Municipal Elections Across the Black Hills
BLACK HILLS, S.D. — Voters in several Black Hills communities will head to the polls Tuesday, April 8, to cast their ballots in municipal elections. Residents in Sturgis, Belle Fourche, Lead-Deadwood, Spearfish and Whitewood will decide a variety of local races, including city council or commission seats, mayoral contests, and school board positions.Polls opened at 7 a.m. and will remain open until 7 p.m. Local officials remind voters to bring valid identification to the polls and encourage residents to take part in shaping the future of their communities through participation in these elections. Municipal elections often have lower voter turnout compared to state and national races, but local leaders emphasize their direct impact on day-to-day issues like city services, education, infrastructure and community development, according to The Rapid City Post. Results from today’s elections are expected to be released later this evening after polls close and votes are counted. For more information on polling locations or sample ballots, voters can contact their local city finance office or visit the South Dakota Secretary of State’s website.
Prescribed Burn Planned for 1,094 Acres in Wind Cave National Park
WIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK, S.D. — Crews are preparing for a prescribed burn covering 1,094 acres east of Wind Cave National Park’s headquarters this April, according to park officials. The exact timing of the burn will depend on weather conditions, fuel moisture levels, and crew availability. The Rapid City Post reported that Lookout Flats prescribed fire is intended to reduce hazardous fuel buildup, limit the spread of young ponderosa pine into prairie areas, and promote the growth of native plant species. The project area primarily consists of shortgrass prairie. Ignition will be conducted using ground resources, officials said. Firefighters from the National Park Service will lead the operation with assistance from additional interagency partners.
Pennington County to Study Administration Building Hours, Seeks Public Input
RAPID CITY, S.D. — Pennington County is launching a comprehensive study to review the hours and days of operation for its Administration Building in an effort to improve public access, efficiency, and service delivery. The study was approved by the Board of Commissioners on March 18 and will examine whether changes to the current schedule could better meet the needs of both county residents and employees. County officials said feedback from the public and county staff will play a key role in developing any potential recommendations.
Menards Hosts Pet Supplies Drive to Benefit Local Humane Association
RAPID CITY, S.D. — Menards is serving as a drop-off location for pet supplies benefiting a local Humane Association through the end of May 2025. The home improvement store is collecting donations of pet food, treats, collars, feeders, beds, storage containers, mats, and other essential items from its Pet & Wildlife Department. A large collection box has been placed near the exit doors at Menards for customers to drop off their contributions. Menards officials expressed excitement about participating in the initiative, recognizing the opportunity to support the community and provide for the needs of local animals.The drive will continue through May 31, 2025, and organizers encourage the public to take part in the donation effort.
Supreme Court allows Trump to deport Venezuelans under wartime law after judges’ review
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Supreme Court ruled on Monday that the Trump administration can use an 18th-century wartime law to deport Venezuelan migrants, but they must be given a court hearing before removal. The court’s decision applies to migrants accused of being gang members, specifically linked to the Tren de Aragua gang. Legal challenges to the deportations must be filed in Texas. The ruling halts deportation flights to El Salvador that took place without the required hearings. The American Civil Liberties Union filed the lawsuit, which prompted the ruling, and the case is ongoing.
RFK Jr. says he plans to tell CDC to stop recommending fluoride in drinking water
SALT LAKE CITY —U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced plans to direct the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to stop recommending fluoridation in public water systems nationwide. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also stated it is reviewing new scientific data on potential health risks of fluoride in drinking water. While Kennedy cannot directly ban fluoride, he can influence CDC guidance and work with the EPA to adjust regulations. This comes after Utah became the first state to ban fluoride in public drinking water, effective May 7, despite warnings from dental experts. Fluoride has been used in the U.S. since 1950 to prevent tooth decay, but Kennedy cited health concerns linked to high levels of fluoride exposure, including neurotoxicity and thyroid issues. The EPA’s current fluoride limit is 4 milligrams per liter, while the CDC recommends 0.7 milligrams per liter.
