MISSION STATEMENT:
The mission of the Sioux Falls Police Department is partnering with the community to serve, protect, and promote quality of life.
MEET THE NEW RECRUITS
#1243 Kaeley Dixon
First, I wanted to express my gratitude for the opportunity of joining a department that holds such high values, support, and respect. I fully plan on upholding and continuing those as I move forward in my career. I am Kaeley Dixon and was born and raised in Brookings, SD. I just moved to Sioux Falls after finishing by bachelor’s degree at South Dakota State University this May. After high school, I worked as a Correctional Officer at the Brookings County Detention Center for three years and was blessed with being one of the Sioux Falls Police Interns for the summer of 2024. I couldn’t be more excited to grow into a career and with a department that has always felt like home.
#1244 McKayla Foust-Newton
To begin, I would like to thank the Sioux Falls Police Department for spending time and resources preparing me for this career. This is truly a career dream come true. Waking up daily, knowing I serve the community of Sioux Falls while representing the badge of the Sioux Falls Police Department is the greatest honor.
My name is McKayla Foust-Newton however, I will only go by Newton for my last name. I was born in Rapid City, South Dakota, and raised in Belle Fourche, SD. Following high school graduation, I attended the University of South Dakota.
Throughout my four years in College, I earned my Bachelor of Science in the Social Work Program. Prior to graduation, my husband Jacob and I married in September 2018. I graduated in May 2019 and immediately began working for the State of South Dakota.
After a few short months in Long Term Services, I moved to the State Department of Child Protection, where I remained for roughly six years. In this capacity I served as a Family Services Specialist to both reunify
families and investigate child abuse and/or neglect.
In 2021, our daughter Stella was born, and we continue to chase her around in our spare time. We enjoy hiking, walking, biking, playing at the park, spending time with our animals and being outside. When indoors you can find me reading thrillers or mysteries.
#1245 Joshua Zweydorff
My name is Joshua Zweydorff. I was born on 24 April 2001 in Columbus, Ohio, and was raised in Canal Winchester, Ohio from the time I was four years old. After graduating from Madison Christian High School in May of 2019, I began studying at Capital University. At the same time, I received an ROTC scholarship and began my military career. In May of 2023, I graduated with my bachelor’s in criminology with a minor in military science & leadership and commissioned as a Second Lieutenant into the Texas Army National Guard.
On 16 August 2023 I moved to Fort Sill, Oklahoma to begin Field Artillery Basic Officer Leaders Course (FABOLC) where I learned the intricacies of the field artillery, and how to be a leader in the United States Army. Upon graduating on 16 January 2024, I joined my unit and deployed overseas four days later.
During my time overseas I was the International Liaison for 4-133rd Field Artillery Regiment. In this role, I was charged with the coordination and execution of joint training exercises between my unit and foreign militaries, to include: The Lithuanians, Ukrainians, Slovenians, and Italians.
For my accomplishments overseas, I earned the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and more. While I was overseas, I continued my education, earning a certificate in Paralegal Studies from the University of Texas. Upon my return in December of 2024, I was promoted to the rank of First Lieutenant (effective 12 Nov
2025). On 12 April 2025, I married the love of my life, Jordan Marco, and we moved to Valley Springs from Ohio just six days after. On 19 May 2025, I began my career with the Sioux Falls Police Department.
#1246 Chelsea Carter
My name is Chelsea Carter, and it is my absolute honor to be apart of the incredible Sioux Falls Police Department. I have eagerly awaited this day for a long time and look forward to earning my spot every day from here on out.
I am Texas born, Kentucky raised, Colorado explored, and South Dakota landing. I love it here and love the community that I have made my home and the place I am choosing to serve. Unlike a lot of my classmates, I did not always know that I wanted to go into Law Enforcement. Most of my professional career thus far was related to health and fitness. I went into that industry with the desire to help others and left when it became apparent to me that sales outweighed help. I needed to get back to helping and back to serving those around me which led me to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice at the University of South Dakota.
Through my studies it became clear to me that my desire to serve was not a unique calling, but rather one of a Police Officer. After this realization I had no choice but to answer my heart’s calling and apply for this department. I have the support of my wonderful fiancé and his family who all reside here as well. He recently just began a career with the Air National Guard because we both wanted to give back to our communities.
In our free time we can be found playing with our dog, exploring downtown, reading, playing video games, riding bikes, and spending time with our family.
Kaeley Dixon McKayla Foust-Newton Joshua Zweydorff Chelsea Carter
#1247 Karli Breuchel
My name is Karli Breuchel. I was born and raised in Cold Spring, Minnesota. Straight out of high school I moved to Palatine, Illinois as I got recruited to play softball at Harper College. While attending Harper College I obtained an associate degree in Fire Science along with getting my EMT certification. While in college I worked for Rosemont Public Safety and Park Ridge Police Department where I gained my passion for law enforcement. I moved to Sioux Falls to be closer to my family and to start a new career. In my free time I love to be outside and spend time with my friends and family. I want to thank everyone for allowing me to be a part of the Sioux Falls Police Department. It is a great privilege to be here to serve and protect the community of Sioux Falls. I do best. During my time with Osceola County,
I was a patrol deputy, Field Training Officer and eventually a K-9 handler. FTO and K9 were my passion and really enjoyed those aspects of my job.
#1248 Corin Brown
My name is Corin Brown. I’m from Queens, NY (best city in the world). After graduating from John Bowne High School, I attended First Tompkins Cortland Community College and Hilbert College. I had the privilege of being a resident assistant at both colleges, while receiving my associate and bachelor’s degree. I am very proud to have received a bachelor’s degree in forensic science: Crime Scene Investigation.
After college I worked for Home Depot, TSA, and federal corrections. The more serious jobs I received the bigger nerd I became. When I am not working, I’m building Legos and collecting Funko pops. To end this bio, I want to say thanks to my mom.
#1249 Brandon Butcher
My name is Brandon Butcher. I was born and raised right here in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. First off, I would say it is truly an honor to be here with everyone, and I look forward to working and growing with each one of you. All our paths that brought us here are different and unique in their own way. After high school I took one year off to really explore my options. I was never one for school, but I knew I wanted something to do with the city and public safety. In 2011 life hit me a little early than most because I met the woman, I would shortly have the privilege to call my wife. We will be celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary this year in May. With our marriage happening plans changed, and school got put on hold so we could start building a life together. I started working for a company called Raven Industries (later to be known as ViaFlex) in 2014 and had an amazing career there for almost 11 years. I started off strong making my way up the leadership career path which ended me leading a team of 11-15 people. During my last few years at ViaFlex I felt like I was meant for something more, and there was no better way to change life than going 100% with no questions. I left my safety blanket of a job and applied for the Sioux Falls Metro, and the Police Department at the same time. I later met Ethan Beck and was offered both positions, which astounded me. With guidance from Ethan, I shot for my long-time dream to become a Police Officer for the City of Sioux Falls. In my free time I enjoy a quiet life watching movies and hanging out with my family and spending time with my pets when I am not bowling.
#1250 Nash Lininger
I would like to first extend my gratitude for the opportunity to join the Sioux Falls Police Department in such a milestone setting class as well. I am excited and honored for the challenges to come and look forward
to building a career and meaningful relationships here with you all. My name is Nash Lininger. I was born in Sioux City, IA and raised in the country outside of Richland South Dakota. I met my Current Fiancé during my Junior year and proceeded to graduate High-School in Akron, IA as Class and Student Body President in May of 2019. Soon after, I shipped off to join the United States Marine Corps in July of that same year. After completing Bootcamp and ITB to earn my Military Occupational Specialty of an 0311 Rifleman, I joined Echo 2/24, my Reserve unit in Des Moines, IA. I have held several civilian jobs during my time with the USMC-R most recently being a Driver Manager for Heyl Trucklines. With my Fiancé finishing up Nursing School at The University of South Dakota and my Marine Corps career coming to a close, I was extremely blessed to be able to hire on with this department as our future endeavors have both of us hopefully working for the people of this city in Nursing and Policing. In my free time I enjoy going to the range to shoot, watching movies and TV shows with my Fiancé, and playing with our almost 3-year-old pomsky Nico.
#1251 Dillon Woodley
I am excited and so grateful to be given the opportunity to join the Sioux Falls Police Department. I look forward to meeting and working along side all of you. My name is Dillon Woodley. I have called Sioux Falls home for the past 11 years but have lived on both the west and east coast. After high school, I went to college at the University of South Dakota for Business Administration. During that time, I also enlisted in the South Dakota Air National Guard where I have been an Aerospace Ground Equipment (AGE) mechanic for the past 5 years. In my free time, I currently am taking flying lessons to get my private pilot’s license for fixed wing aircraft. I also enjoy working out and outdoor activities such as camping, hunting and fishing.
Karli Breuchel Corin Brown Brandon Butcher Nash Lininger Dillon Woodley
MEET THE NEW RECRUITS
#1252 Lisa Smith
Hello all, thank you for the opportunity to participate in your Sioux Falls academy!
My name is Lisa Smith. My little family and I just moved here from Spearfish a few months ago and were so excited to be a part of this community. Since I was 14 years old, I’ve wanted to work in law enforcement. I applied and worked in Fire for 5 years, Jail for 2 and transports for 2 years also. My hope is to use everything I’ve experienced and learned to first help me through this academy, PTO and onto the street! I’m beyond grateful for this learning experience and ready to start my career here at the Sioux Falls police department!
In my free time you’ll catch me going on adventures with my daughter Amaya! She’s 10 months now so zoo and aquarium is the place to be.
#1253 Annika Johnson
First, I wanted to thank you all for allowing me to come into the home of the Sioux Falls Police Department. I am looking forward to starting this journey and earning my spot here. My name is Annika Johnson. I was born in Hugo, Minnesota. I grew up learning trap shooting, and that followed me into college. I went to college at Mount Marty University in Yankton, South Dakota. I majored in Criminal Justice, and I have minors in Psychology, Sociology, and art. I met my boyfriend in college and he was also thinking of staying in Sioux Falls. After college I felt that South Dakota was a place that I would call home. In my free time I like to relax outside, spend time with my boyfriend and practice my shooting.
#1254 Isabele Johnson
Hi, my name is Isabele Johnson. I am super excited and honored to be welcomed into the Sioux Falls Police Department family. I look forward to be working and learning
along side the amazing people who already call the police department home. I grew up in a small town about 30 minutes away from Sioux Falls. After High school I enlisted in the Army National Guard as a Combat Medic while attending Lake Area Technical College. I earned my EMT license through the Military and worked around Sioux Falls as an EMT for about 2 years. While I was returning from military training, I met my boyfriend who currently works as a plumber. In my free time I enjoy reading, playing with my dog, and spending time with my family and boyfriend.
#1255 Luke Flaten
Thank you for this great opportunity allowing me to join this family of the Sioux Falls Police Department. It is such an honor to be able to call this place my new home. My name is Luke Flaten, and I was born and raised in Rush City, MN. During high school, I enlisted into the United States Army Reserves as a combat medic. Upon arriving at South Dakota State University, I enrolled into the Army ROTC program.
At college I met my wife, Hannah, and was a member of the Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. Upon graduating with my Bachelor of Science degree in criminology, I simultaneously commissioned as a second lieutenant in the US Army Reserves as an engineer officer. I currently am assigned to the 492nd Engineer Company as a platoon leader. I could not have done this without my lord, Jesus Christ, my wife and family, and all of the brothers and sisters I have made at the Sioux Falls Police Department.
#1256 Unity Anderson
My name is Unity Anderson, and I want to thank you so much for this amazing opportunity. Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be in a helping profession, and I would have never guessed this is where I would end up (no complaints though). I grew up in a small town in Iowa called Creston and
was also a huge contributor in the arts during school. Band, speech team, and color guard were my hobbies, and I was constantly busy. Throughout high school, I was a waitress at a family-owned restaurant until I moved in 2021 to Iowa City for college. During this time, I worked as a student security manager for the Department of Public Safety, and that is when I realized I had found my passion. I graduated after three years of college with my Bachelor of Arts in criminology, law and justice, along with two minors in public policy and sociology, on the pre-law track. After graduation, I worked for the university for another year until I found the Sioux Falls Police Department. In my freetime, I love to read, watch movies, and hang out with my partner and friends!
#1257 Andrico Rolle
First and foremost, I would like to thank the City of Sioux Falls and the Sioux Falls Police Department for welcoming me into this community and family. I am extremely grateful and excited to join this incredible team of officers. I’ve answered the call, and now it is my time to serve, protect, and promote a higher quality of life within this community.
My name is Andrico Rolle. Originally from Miami, Florida, I grew up surrounded by the hustle and bustle of city life, which shaped my desire for discipline and service. After high school, I was fortunate to receive a football scholarship as a defensive back at Southwest Minnesota State University, setting me on the right path toward my purpose.
After college, I proudly served my country in the United States Navy as an E-5 Petty Officer aboard the USS Nimitz, based out of Bremerton, Washington. Following my time in the Navy, I returned to the Midwest and settled in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where I worked in Juvenile Corrections for some time before moving to Sioux Falls.In my free time, I enjoy working out, fishing, and trail walking in various National Parks.
Annika Johnson
Isabele Johnson Luke Flaten Unity Anderson Andrico Rolle
Lisa Smith
#1258 Kathryn Murphy
My name is Katie Murphy. I want to first thank everyone for the opportunity to earn a spot and work alongside you all. Everyone has been very welcoming and kind throughout the hiring and onboarding process. I was born here in Sioux Falls, South Dakota and attended Lincoln High School. After graduating in 2019, I attended Morningside University in Sioux City, Iowa to play softball. I spend most of my life playing softball and traveled through the seasons to play. Once I completed my degree, I worked at Avera Behavioral Health as an inpatient Lead Behavioral Health Technician. I did this for over 1.5 years before I applied to the Sioux Falls Police Department. In my free time, I like to read, go fishing, lift, make rings, and spend time with friends and family.
#1259 Victoria Schotanus
I have to start by acknowledging how grateful I am to be in this position. This is something I’ve dreamed of for several years now. I hesitated to apply to many other police departments in the past, as I searched for what I believed would be the ultimate fit. I have no doubts that I chose the best law enforcement family to be a part of, and I look forward to all I’ll learn and experience here in Sioux Falls.
I grew up in a small town in Massachusetts, where my parents owned a construction company and kitchen & bath design center. Being born into it, I always thought I’d work in the design field. My passion for design is actually what led me to Sioux Falls, thanks to the HGTV show “Down Home Fab”! But, I quickly learned that I wanted something more. From a young age, I had always admired police officers and thought about pursuing a career in law enforcement. For years I pushed away that calling because I thought I wasn’t the right “type”. I can’t pin a moment when that insecure mindset
changed, I’m just glad I had the courage to break it. Outside of work, I love to spend time outdoors and travel the country. I especially enjoy solo trips with my adventure buddy, my dog Arlo. I’m excited to explore the city and surrounding area more!
#1260 Chloe Andrews
I would like to begin by thanking everyone for welcoming me to the Sioux Falls Police Department. I look forward to learning every day and serving my community. My name is Chloe Andrews. I was born in Oregon City, Oregon. I then moved to Selah Washington until I graduated high school. After high school, I attended University of Jamestown on a soccer scholarship. While attending university, I worked as a Correctional Officer at James River Correctional Center in Jamestown, North Dakota. In my free time, I enjoy fishing, camping, walking my dogs, and spending time with family and friends.
#1261 Cole Toovey
I would like to thank the Sioux Falls Police Department for the warm welcome and support. I am grateful for the opportunity to be here and look forward to the journey ahead. I was born and raised in Milford, Nebraska before making my way to Sioux Falls where I attended and recently graduated from the University of Sioux Falls. My wife is currently in her final year of nursing school and will begin working at Avera upon graduation. We are excited to make the City of Sioux Falls our new home. In my free time you will likely catch me on the golf course or traveling.
#1262 Seth Gabbert
I would first like to thank the Sioux Falls Police Department for providing me with such a wonderful opportunity to pursue my law enforcement career. I look forward to working with each one of you and I can’t wait
to get started! My name is Seth Gabbert. I was born in Sioux Falls and raised in Hartford, South Dakota. After I graduated high school, I attended South Dakota State University where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminology with three minors in Psychology, Sociology, and Legal Studies. I knew Sioux Falls was the place I always wanted to work because I grew up here and of the local support that the police receive from the community. A fact about me is that I am a fully devoted Christian and I love to talk about topics revolving Christianity. In my free time, I love to workout, go golfing, watch sports, and spend time with my girlfriend and my family.
#1263 Dillon Jensen
I want to start out by saying thank you to everyone showing up to the ceremony to show us support getting off of probation. I also want to thank the Sioux Falls Police Department for taking the chance and letting me join the family. I am originally from Brookings SD and moved after graduating High School to Aberdeen SD for College at Northern State University. I left the college campus after a year due to not being able to sit in a classroom all day. I moved to Pierre SD, and I met my future wife Katherine Jensen while working with the Game Fish and Parks. We moved to the Black Hills and got married after a few years of being together in Spearfish SD. I finished my college degree in Criminal Justice and my wife finished her college degree in Nursing. I worked for the Pennington County Sherrif’s Office as a Correctional Officer, and I later made the change to Box Elder Police Department. After many years of living in the Black Hills, we moved to the Sioux Falls area for many reasons. My wife now works at the Sanford Children’s Hospital as a Diabetes Educator. I enjoy spending time with my wife and our two dogs. When I get the chance, I also enjoy going hunting and fishing.
Victoria Schotanus Chloe Andrews Cole Toovey Seth Gabbert Dillon Jensen
Kathryn Murphy
MEET THE NEW RECRUITS
#1264 Jacob Rader
Hello and thank you all for welcoming me into the best department in the state of South Dakota! My name is Jacob Rader and now formally Officer #1264. I was born in Storm Lake, Iowa and grew up in the small town of Moville, Iowa. After graduating Lawton-Bronson high school I attended Briar Cliff University in Sioux City, Iowa. While attending college I was a member of the university’s football program. I recently graduated from college earlier this May with a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Criminal Justice and minors in Environmental Science, History, Psychology and a concentration in Homeland Security. Coming to Sioux Falls has been a dream of mine for a very long time and the opportunity to be a part of this new class of recruits is massive honor that I do not take lightly. In my free time I love to be in the outdoors hiking, hunting, and fishing!
#1265 Megan Sheppard
It has been such an opportunity to get to join the Sioux Falls Police Department. My name is Megan Sheppard, and I am originally from Lake Charles, Louisiana. My family consists of my husband, Tilman, and my fur babies, Anna Belle and Amelia. I obtained my BA in history education in 2015 at McNeese State University and I accepted my first teaching position that year. My teaching journey brought me to all kinds of new places such as Texas, Alaska, and South Dakota over the years. I taught social studies (7-8th grade), art (9-12th grade), and music (k-5th grade). Over time, this want to serve and help others in a new profession led me to the Sioux Falls Police Department. I have always loved teaching and helping, and I know that I will do everything I can to help the city and the people here. I know my skills will be paramount to assisting me in making my dreams a reality, and I hope I make my family proud.
#1266 Kyler Vander Velde
I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for welcoming me to this department. It is an honor to be here, and I look forward to giving this department my all. My name is Kyler Vander Velde. I was born and raised in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. I recently just graduated from the University of Sioux Falls with a criminal justice degree. In my free time I enjoy lifting weights, playing golf and spending time with my family.
#1267 Ariel Morales-Castillo
First off, I just wanted to thank the Sioux Falls Police Department for giving me the chance to challenge myself and the opportunity to protect the great city of Sioux Falls. My Name is Ariel Morales Castillo. I was Born in Michoacan Mexico and crossed over when I was 8 in 2008. I arrived at a small town in Iowa, Storm Lake. I later moved and graduated form Le Mars Community High School. As any clueless graduated, I ended up joining the military because they promised me hellcat, to this day I’m still waiting on it to arrive. I enjoy physical activities like walking, playing sport, and just being outdoors. I have a beautiful wife who is a RN at Avera. 2 kids, Lian and another one on the way. We have a very energetic Border Collie names Luna. After my first deployment I stated my “construction career”. I work and went to school because like any other immigrant. I we wanted to make our parents proud. After 3 long stressful years of engineering I graduated but here we are. And not I don’t not regret it. I’m one of the few who can say “I love my job”.
MISSION: Partnering with the community to serve, protect and promote quality of life.
#1268 Isaiah Laguna
First and foremost, thank you for allowing me to join the family at the Sioux Falls Police Department. It is an honor to be here, and I am looking forward to working hard throughout my time here. My name is Isaiah Laguna, I was born in Reedley, California then moved to Post Falls, Idaho when I was nine. After High School I wrested at Ellsworth Community College and received my Associated degree in Criminal Justice. I transferred to the University of Sioux Falls to wrestle and finish my undergrad in Criminal Justice. I moved my wife to Sioux Falls to continue our lives and careers here. In my free time I like to fish, hunt, and spend time with my wife and our dog.
NEW ARRIVALS
Ben Fiegen and his wife are proud to announce the arrival of their new baby boy, Wyatt Harry, on Tuesday, April 29.
Dan and Jasmine Thelen are proud to announce the arrival of their new baby boy, Colter Glenn, on Monday, May 19.
Rachel Vargyai is proud to announce the arrival of her new baby girl, Cali Jade, on Wednesday May 21.
Nicholas Greisiger and his wife are proud to announce the arrival of their baby boy, Jack Martin, on Thursday May 22.
Megan Sheppard Kyler Vander Velde Ariel Morales-Castillo Isaiah Laguna
Jacob Rader
Custom Veteran’s
PROMOTIONS
Officer Dylan Stancer was selected as the next VCU Detective.
Officer Nic Jensen was selected as the next Park Officer.
Thank you for your service!
Officer Joanne Bartscher presented Chief Thum with a US Flag that was flown during her recent deployment
WHAT THE...?
Woman arrested after raccoon named Chewy found with meth pipe in driver’s seat
Springfield Township, OH — A woman was arrested after a raccoon named Chewy was found holding a meth pipe in the driver’s seat of her car in what police are calling a “strange encounter on patrol” in Ohio.
On a Monday evening, a police officer made a traffic stop after identifying a vehicle whose registered owner had an active warrant and a suspended driver’s license. The officer detained 55-year-old Victoria Vidal after the stop.
“When the officer returned to Vidal’s vehicle, he saw a raccoon named Chewy sitting in the driver’s seat with a meth pipe in its mouth, leading the officer to search the vehicle.” Meth, crack cocaine and other paraphernalia were found in the vehicle.
Police confirmed that Chewy was a pet raccoon and that he was not a wild animal.
Vidal was charged with possession of drugs, three counts of possession of drug paraphernalia and was cited for driving under suspension.
“No raccoons were hurt or injured in this incident,” authorities confirmed.
Detective Scott Nelson was selected as the next Property Crimes Detective.