FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023

CONTACT: Tony Mangan, Communications Director, 605-773-6878

PIERRE.S.D.  – South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley, along with state prosecutors and law enforcement, testified Tuesday morning on behalf of Senate Bill 146, the truth in sentencing legislation.

The bill, introduced by Sen. Brent Hoffman, Sioux Falls, would limit parole for violent offenders. The Senate Judiciary Committee passed the bill on a 6-1 vote.

“This legislation is designed to make sentencing straightforward and meaningful,” said Attorney General Jackley. “When a violent offender is sentenced, they should serve that prescribed sentence with the Board of Pardons and Paroles supervising any suspended time.”

Others testifying on behalf of the bill were Minnehaha County State’s Attorney Daniel Haggar, law enforcement, and the South Dakota State’s Attorneys, Sheriffs, and Chiefs of Police.

“We want to thank Senator Hoffman for bringing forward this bill,” said Attorney General Jackley. “Too often, victims of violent crimes have seen the defendant not serve the full sentence. That leads to confusion and heartache for the victims.”

The bill now goes to the full Senate floor.

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