South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley announced Wednesday that nine individuals—eight men and one woman—have been indicted by a Davison County Grand Jury for their alleged involvement in a cocaine distribution network operating in the county. Three of the suspects are also facing immigration-related investigations.
The indictments, returned on Oct. 29, encompass 36 felony charges related to cocaine distribution, possession, conspiracy, and being an accessory to a crime. The potential penalties for the charges range up to 10 years in prison for distribution offenses, with mandatory minimum sentences for certain counts, including drug-free zone violations. The alleged criminal activity occurred between March 1, 2025, and Sept. 1, 2025.
Three of the defendants—Milton Velasquez-Barrera, Guillermo Hernandez, and Josselin Zuniga, all from Guatemala—are under additional scrutiny for immigration-related violations. Attorney General Jackley said the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation is coordinating with federal authorities on those matters.
The indictments come in the context of South Dakota’s 287(g) agreement with the federal government, which allows state authorities to assist in identifying and apprehending undocumented individuals involved in violent crimes or drug trafficking.
Attorney General Jackley emphasized that the investigation targets the distribution of dangerous drugs and underscores ongoing collaboration between state and federal law enforcement to address criminal activity impacting South Dakota communities.
By: BSH staff