Judicial Nominations Move Forward Amid South Dakota’s Crime Wave on Reservations

In a significant development for South Dakota’s judicial landscape, the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee has endorsed Eric Schulte and Camela Theeler for federal judgeships in the U.S. District Court of South Dakota. With a 12-9 vote for Schulte and an overwhelming 20-1 for Theeler, these nominations mark a crucial step towards filling the longstanding vacancies on the federal bench. The nominees were put forth through collaborative efforts between Republican Senators Mike Rounds and John Thune and the Biden administration, aiming to strengthen the judicial system in South Dakota. Schulte, a seasoned lawyer from Sioux Falls, is set to replace Judge Karen Schreier. Meanwhile, Theeler, who currently serves as a state circuit court judge, is expected to succeed Judge Jeffrey Viken. Their appointments now hinge on a full Senate vote.

Parallel to these judicial nominations, South Dakota faces a deepening crisis on its reservations, with tribal leaders declaring states of emergency due to spiraling crime rates. This alarming situation is further compounded by a severe shortage of law enforcement officers, a challenge Senator Mike Rounds has spotlighted. The obstacles in recruiting new officers are formidable, attributed in part to the protracted training period required and the absence of a tribal training center in proximity. Nevertheless, a glimmer of hope emerges as Governor Kristi Noem initiates a groundbreaking move to offer exclusive training to tribal police recruits at the state’s police academy this summer. Additionally, Attorney General Marty Jackley lends his support for establishing a specialized tribal law enforcement training course, aiming to bolster police presence and efficacy on the reservations.

The convergence of efforts to fill judicial vacancies and enhance law enforcement training signals a pivotal moment for South Dakota. As the state navigates these dual challenges, the outcomes of these initiatives will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the judicial efficiency and safety of its communities, particularly on the reservations grappling with heightened crime rates.