Sioux Empire Today

U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) has announced that Meade County Sheriff Pat West and Clay County Sheriff Andy Howe will accompany him to President Trump's Joint Address to Congress. This event is seen as an opportunity for the law enforcement community to engage with the current administration's policies.

Johnson expressed his support for the President's approach, stating, "The law enforcement community is well acquainted with the effects of the Biden Administration’s soft-on-crime policies. President Trump’s leadership is a welcome change for our men and women in blue." He added, "I’m glad Sheriffs West and Howe will be able to hear how the President will partner with our law enforcement community to make America safe again. Law and order has returned to America."

Sheriff West shared his gratitude towards Congressman Johnson, saying, “I want to extend my sincere gratitude to Congressman Johnson for the opportunity to attend the upcoming State of the Union Address in Washington, D.C. It is truly an honor to witness firsthand President Trump’s address to the nation.” He emphasized that attending this event highlights significant accomplishments under President Trump's leadership.

Sheriff Howe also expressed appreciation for being invited by Representative Johnson: “I’m sure that being personally present while the President of the United States addresses a Joint Session of Congress will be an unforgettable experience.”

Sheriff Pat West was elected in 2022 after serving over 20 years as an agent with South Dakota's Division of Criminal Investigation. His work has focused on opioid, methamphetamine, fentanyl crises, and sex trafficking cases.

Sheriff Andy Howe was first elected in 2002 and serves as South Dakota’s delegate to the Mid-States Organized Crime Information Center. He advocates for support systems aiding law enforcement information sharing. Sheriff Howe has been involved in notable cases such as assisting in arresting a suspect related to a fentanyl overdose death.