South Dakota 1964: Crime on the Rise in the Mount Rushmore State

Crime was on the rise in South Dakota in 1964, a year characterized by social upheaval and cultural change across the United States. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program, the state saw an increase in reported crimes, mirroring a national trend of rising crime rates during this period.

While exact numbers for individual crimes are unavailable, the UCR program’s annual report for 1964 highlights a notable increase in overall crime rates nationwide. As the country grappled with civil rights issues, the rise of counterculture, and the escalating Vietnam War, law enforcement agencies across the United States reported a significant spike in crime.

In South Dakota, law enforcement agencies were no exception. The state’s small-town charm and rural landscape often belied a more complex reality of crime and violence. As the nation’s attention turned to the streets and cities, South Dakota’s law enforcement agencies struggled to keep pace with the changing times. Burglary and larceny, in particular, emerged as pressing concerns for local authorities, as the state’s economic growth and population expansion created new opportunities for thieves and con artists.

Another significant issue facing South Dakota in 1964 was the growing problem of drunk driving. As the state’s roads became increasingly congested with cars and trucks, the risk of accidents and fatalities rose. Law enforcement agencies across the state worked tirelessly to enforce drinking and driving laws, but the problem persisted, claiming lives and maiming countless others.

Despite these challenges, South Dakota law enforcement agencies remained committed to keeping the state’s communities safe. Through the FBI’s UCR program, these agencies provided critical data on crime trends, which helped inform policy and law enforcement strategies nationwide. As the nation continued to grapple with the complexities of crime and violence, South Dakota’s law enforcement agencies stood ready to face the challenges head-on, working tirelessly to protect the people and places they served.