SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota has reported that in fiscal year 2023, over $1.9 million in civil and criminal actions were collected, of which $1.5 million was derived from criminal cases.
The Office for the District of South Dakota, under the leadership of U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell, reports that the money was collected from criminal fines, restitution, loan defaults, bankruptcy, forfeiture and affirmative civil enforcement efforts in 2023.
Citing the Office’s commitment to ensuring justice and support for those victimized by crime, over $1.1 million of the total collected was returned to victims of criminal cases.
“Our mission extends beyond the mere prosecution of criminal offenders,” said U.S. Attorney Ramsdell. “It’s about healing wounds and restoring dignity to those wronged through our dedication to facilitating the financial recovery for victims to the fullest extent possible. Seeing the tangible benefits of these collections for the victims is not just satisfying—it’s a profound reminder of the impact our office can have on the lives of victims seeking justice.”
The Office added that fiscal year 2023 saw substantial collections from civil actions related to delinquent government loans related to education, small businesses, agricultural services and housing.