(Dakota Radio Group News – Pierre, SD) A Pierre Police officer is on administrative leave after being after being arrested for Driving Under the Influence on Friday (March 24, 2023).
Information provided by Pierre Police Department says Jeremiah Erickson’s arrest followed a car versus deer crash near the intersection of Garfield and Wells Avenues. Erickson, who was off duty at the time, reported the crash and identified himself as a police officer. To avoid any conflict of interest, a Hughes County Sheriff’s Deputy was dispatched to the scene of the crash.
During the investigation, the deputy suspected Erickson had consumed alcohol and requested the South Dakota Highway Patrol conduct a DUI investigation. Erickson was subsequently arrested by the Highway Patrol, processed through the Hughes County Jail, then bonded out with conditions of participating in the 24/7 sobriety program.
Erickson failed to report to the Hughes County Jail Saturday to do the 24/7 breath test as required by his bond condition. He reported to the jail yesterday and was taken into custody for a bond violation.
Erickson has been placed on administrative leave by the Pierre Police Department pending an internal investigation.
Further questions about the arrest and DUI investigation should be directed to the South Dakota Highway Patrol.