How many suspected overdose deaths have occurred in South Dakota prisons this year?

There have been eight suspected fatal overdoses in South Dakota's prison system this year.

Who is investigating the latest suspected overdose death at the South Dakota State Penitentiary?

The state Division of Criminal Investigation is leading the inquiry into the suspected overdose death.

Home / Crime and Justice / SD Prisons See 8th Suspected Overdose Death This Year

SD Prisons See 8th Suspected Overdose Death This Year

Q: What is the total number of inmate deaths in South Dakota in 2025?

A total of 22 men have died in Department of Corrections custody in calendar year 2025.

29 Nov

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Summary

State investigates 8th suspected fatal overdose in South Dakota prisons this year.
Thanksgiving night death of inmate Larry Franklin prompts DCI inquiry.
Inmate deaths in 2025 reach 22, the highest in recent memory.

SD Prisons See 8th Suspected Overdose Death This Year

The South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation is spearheading an inquiry into the eighth suspected fatal overdose within the state's prison system this year. The latest death occurred on Thanksgiving night and involved 37-year-old inmate Larry Thomas Dukes Franklin at the Jameson Annex of the South Dakota State Penitentiary in Sioux Falls.

This incident follows a series of recent fatalities; November alone has seen four inmate deaths, with two others besides Franklin's suspected overdose. This brings the total number of suspected or confirmed overdose deaths to eight for 2025, with many linked to synthetic drugs like K2 or spice.

Overall, 22 men have died in Department of Corrections custody in 2025, marking the highest figure in recent history. These deaths include four suicides and several from natural causes, in addition to the drug-related incidents. Attorney General Marty Jackley has been prosecuting individuals for drug distribution within and outside the prison system.