South Dakota Names New Mexico Warden to Lead State Penitentiary

The South Dakota Department of Corrections has appointed Joseph Roemmich as the new warden of the state penitentiary, succeeding the previous warden who resigned amid controversies. Roemmich, who begins his role on June 24, was formerly the warden of the Cibola County Correctional Center in New Mexico, a facility operated by for-profit company CoreCivic. He brings extensive experience across various correctional and law enforcement roles, including 11 years in law enforcement, and aims to enhance safety and modernize correctional practices at the penitentiary. Secretary of Corrections Kellie Wasko highlighted Roemmich's diverse background in security operations and investigations as valuable for the state facility. The penitentiary has faced instability in leadership recently, with Roemmich being the fourth warden in four years following a series of resignations and removals linked to management and working conditions. Interim leadership had been provided by DOC Director of Prison Operations Amber Pirraglia prior to Roemmich's appointment.