RAPID CITY, S.D. — Concerns about repeat offenders on parole took center stage in the latest episode of the “Meeting with the Mayor” podcast, where Mayor Jason Salamun discussed growing public safety challenges and the city’s response.
The weekly program, hosted by Murdoc, featured a wide-ranging conversation, but focused heavily on parole oversight in Rapid City.
“We have shared some, our community has shared some concerns about parole,” Salamun said, pointing to recent incidents. “It’s not uncommon to have seven folks on parole recommit a crime.”
Salamun emphasized that parole is a state responsibility but said the city is stepping in due to the impact on local law enforcement. He credited Rapid City Police Chief Don Hedrick and Pennington County Sheriff Brian Mueller for leading efforts to address the issue.
“One of my concerns is… many of these folks on parole are recommitting crimes,” Salamun said. “How many chances do they get to recommit a crime while on parole?”
He also highlighted a statewide issue, noting, “There are currently in South Dakota, 115 absconders,” referring to individuals on parole whose whereabouts are unknown.
To respond, Rapid City has formed a task force and is working with the state Department of Corrections. Salamun said the city is balancing its involvement while avoiding long-term strain on local resources.
“I can only do that for so long because I’m drawing resources away from other police activities to help the state out with parole,” he said.
A key concern, Salamun added, is accountability within the system.
“You cannot have two different types of justice for people,” he said. “If you and I did something wrong, we would get arrested and charged… but if you’re on parole, you’re not actually held accountable to that same standard.”
Beyond parole, Salamun also addressed quality-of-life issues, including graffiti enforcement and new reporting tools for residents, as well as lighter topics like proposed backyard chicken regulations.
Still, he returned to the central issue of public safety, stressing the need for state-level action.
“That’s a leak in the boat that needs to get fixed,” Salamun said
