SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — The City of Brookings says it has been notified that Operation Prairie Thunder will be in the area from December 17th through the 19th, though city officials say Brookings will not take part.
Operation Prairie Thunder is a statewide initiative announced by Governor Larry Rhoden aimed at cracking down on crime and assisting federal immigration enforcement. The governor’s office says details of future operations are not being shared publicly for security reasons.
Governor Rhoden criticized the city for releasing the information, saying it could put officers at risk and emphasizing the state’s commitment to enforcing the rule of law.
The Department of Public Safety says Prairie Thunder patrols have already taken place in several communities, including Belle Fourche, Huron, and Yankton. Since late August, the operation has led to more than 400 arrests statewide and dozens of immigration-related contacts.
State officials say the effort is expanding beyond Sioux Falls as part of a broader plan to improve public safety across South Dakota.
