South Dakota Paroles Migrants To ICE As State-Led 'Operation Prairie Thunder' Expands

South Dakota authorities paroled several undocumented immigrants into ICE custody in a coordinated handoff tied to the state’s Operation Prairie Thunder. State agencies, including Highway Patrol and prison transport, are assisting ICE with arrests, transport, and processing—freeing federal agents for field operations. Advocates warn the effort could sweep up nonviolent migrants and erode trust, while officials cite public safety and legal authority. Multiple reports over recent weeks indicate the initiative is expanding and drawing political pushback in Sioux Falls.