STURGIS, SD – According to newly released figures from the Sturgis Police Department, the 2026 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally saw a notable drop in impaired driving alongside a surge in misdemeanor drug and alcohol offenses compared to 2025. Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) arrests plummeted over 36%—falling from 58 down to 37—and general traffic enforcement saw dips in high-volume violations like illegal parking (117 down from 133). However, nontraffic citations surged in specific categories, led by misdemeanor drug and paraphernalia possession jumping from 55 to 75 cases and underage alcohol violations more than doubling from 7 to 17. While minor traffic infractions like speeding and reckless driving increased slightly, violent and high-level offenses remained virtually unchanged year-over-year, with assault (17 vs. 18) and felony drug possession (47 vs. 47) holding steady.

It is note worthy that the 128 subjects were jailed this year and 126 last with the total calls of service up from 92 compared to 62.

ARRESTS/CITATIONS – NONTRAFFIC

Offense20262025
Assault1718
Deposit of Filth in Public811
Disorderly Conduct1322
Drug/Paraphernalia Possession – Misd.7555
Drug Possession – Felony4747
Intentional Damage to Property11
Open Container in Public25
Resisting Arrest / Obstructing an Officer58
Trespassing/Unlawful Entry114
Underage Consumption/Poss. of Alcohol177
Weapons Violation27

ARRESTS/CITATIONS – TRAFFIC

Offense20262025
Careless/Reckless Driving71
Drivers License Violation2016
Driving Under Suspension/Revocation2023
Driving While Intoxicated3758
Exhibition Driving51
Illegal Parking117133
Illegal Passing/Illegal/Improper Lane Change52
License Plate / Registration Violation2226
No Insurance1120
Open Container in Vehicle1410
Speeding84
Stop Sign/Light Violation1417
Other Traffic2517