South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley announced that Renee Strong, 55, of Springfield, has been indicted on 26 forgery-related charges stemming from alleged crimes committed while she was an employee of the South Dakota Department of Public Safety and performing contract work for the Department of Health.
“Crimes of this nature violate the public’s trust and affect public health,” Attorney General Jackley said. “This is the fourth government accountability case our office has handled this year. I plan to introduce legislation in the 2025 Legislature to enhance accountability, improve transparency, and better protect South Dakota taxpayers.”
The Hughes County Grand Jury indicted Strong on December 17, charging her with 13 counts of Offering False or Forged Instruments for Filing or Recording in a Public Office, a Class 6 felony, and 13 counts of Forgery, a Class 5 felony. The charges relate to allegations that Strong forged and falsified food service inspection reports while conducting inspections for the Department of Health under a contract with the Department of Public Safety.
If convicted, each count of Offering False or Forged Instruments for Filing carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a $4,000 fine. Each count of Forgery carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Strong has been arrested but has not yet made her initial court appearance. Under the U.S. Constitution, she is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) led the investigation, and the Attorney General’s Office will prosecute the case. The Department of Public Safety and the Hughes County State’s Attorney’s Office are cooperating in the legal proceedings.
By: DNU staff