I have often argued that training and leadership is lacking when it comes to law enforcement in Sioux Falls, not a lack of character, just a sense of direction;
What is needed is change within local police forces.
Note: I am not calling for anyone to lose their jobs. Generally speaking, most South Dakota law enforcement officers are nice people who want to help the community.
Our law enforcement agencies are using outdated an infective policing strategies. We need law enforcement agencies to step up and say we need to do something different. If they are unwilling to admit they have been failing us, then and only then, should we clean house.
If Sioux Falls and the state of South Dakota want to get serious about reducing violent crime, it would be wise to explore Hot Spots policing and/or Problem Orientated Policing (POP). These strategies focus on identifying specific problems and problem areas and figuring out the best way to address and eliminate the issue.
Couldn’t agree more. You hammer down on the problem areas in town. There also needs to be much more education about Domestic Violence, and how friends and relatives can see the signs of abuse and report them.
I think crime is manageable in Sioux Falls, and hasn’t gone to the place of no return, but we must hammer down on some new strategies, and SOON!