South Dakota Law Enforcement Officers Standards Commission

Summary

The South Dakota Law Enforcement Officers Standards Commission is a 13-member body within the Office of the Attorney General, created by SDCL 23-3-28. Eight members are appointed by the AG (one each from the Highway Patrol, a sheriff, a municipal officer, a tribal enrolled-member officer, State Bar, Board of Regents, Municipal League, and County Commissioners Association); two civilians (never previously certified officers) are appointed by the Governor after AG consultation; and two legislative-recommended members complete the body. Appointive members serve two-year terms. Under SDCL 23-3-35, the Commission sets minimum hiring and training standards and may revoke or suspend an officer's certification for felony conviction, moral turpitude misdemeanor, cause discharge, or falsification of application — a binding outcome that bars future employment as a law enforcement officer. The Commission does not conduct independent use-of-force investigations; complaints are referred to employing agencies or prosecutors. Evidence access is limited to what agencies voluntarily submit plus applicant-authorized records.