Sioux Falls, S.D. – The somber air on the grounds outside the South Dakota State Penitentiary was palpable on a chilly December morning as families, friends, and South Dakota residents gathered for a memorial to remember inmates who had tragically lost their lives in 2025. Over 20 inmates have died in custody this year, with a significant portion of these deaths linked to drugs, spotlighting critical safety concerns within South Dakota prisons.
The state’s incarcerated population has faced increasing threats due to a persistent problem with drugs. Eight of these inmate deaths have been directly linked to drug overdoses, leading to multiple indictments that underscore a systemic issue that requires immediate attention.
Michael L. Woderask was among those who attended the memorial vigil. His participation stemmed from personal grief and a quest for justice, as his son, at just 26 years old, took his own life while in custody. “He was supposed to receive mental health care but was instead released into the general population where he feared for his life,” Woderask shared, visibly moved by the memory of his son.
South Dakota State Penitentiary
Woderask’s anguish echoes the sentiments of many in South Dakota who are calling for reform and improved conditions in state correctional facilities. The state, while known for its stunning landscapes and rich Native American history, is currently grappling with the realities of prison management and inmate safety. South Dakota citizens want to see a prison system that not only detains but also rehabilitates and protects its incarcerated population.
South Dakota’s correctional facilities are facing intense scrutiny as the handling of drugs within prison walls points to deeper vulnerabilities in the system. The rise in drug-related incidents has caught the attention of local lawmakers and advocacy groups who emphasize the urgent need for reform. They advocate for better mental health services, stringent drug enforcement strategies, and increased transparency within the prison system.
Memorial Vigil for South Dakota Inmates
Addressing these issues not only reflects the values of the people of South Dakota but also represents a commitment to human rights and justice in a state known for its close-knit communities and shared values. The increased visibility of these matters has galvanized a movement among South Dakota residents, who seek to foster a correctional environment that provides adequate health care, safety, and humane treatment for all prisoners.
For the families like the Woderasks, these reforms can’t come soon enough. Woderask’s mom preserves the memory of her grandson in a binder filled with her artwork. It’s a poignant reminder that although gone, he remains a part of their family and community. The memorial service, though a somber occasion, served as a beacon of hope and a call to action for policy changes that could prevent future tragedies.
As South Dakota residents continue to advocate for change, the focus remains on creating a criminal justice system that values life and offers second chances. The state’s responsibility now extends beyond detention to ensuring safety and rehabilitation within its correctional facilities.
Through these efforts, South Dakota aims to transform its prisons into institutions that truly live up to the ideals of justice and rehabilitation. As the year closes, the hope is for 2026 to usher in a new era of reform and accountability within South Dakota’s prisons, making them safer and more supportive environments for all inmates.