South Dakota criminal records come from two main sources: the state criminal history repository (maintained by the state police or equivalent agency) and individual county court systems. These are separate databases that may show different information.
What this page covers: South Dakota state-level criminal history searches, county court criminal case lookups, and sex offender registry searches. What it does not cover: Federal criminal cases (those require PACER) or arrest records that did not result in charges.
Where to start: For a broad criminal history check, start with the state repository. For specific case details (charges, dispositions, documents), go to the Clerk of Courts in the county where the case was filed. For sex offenders, use the state sex offender registry.
Common mistake: A state criminal history search and a county court search are not the same thing. The state repository compiles conviction data from across the state. County courts have the actual case files with full detail. You may need both.
Criminal Records Databases
6 official South Dakota criminal records sources.
Criminal Records
South Dakota Counties
66 South Dakota counties are indexed on SearchSystems.net — top 28 counties shown below. Browse the full directory or click any county for local court, sheriff, recorder and assessor links.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a free statewide criminal search in South Dakota?▼
South Dakota's official criminal-history repository is operated by the state law-enforcement agency. Free public access to a complete criminal history is generally not available; an official background check typically requires fingerprints and a fee. County-level court records can be searched at no cost through individual court websites.
How do I search South Dakota court cases?▼
South Dakota's court system is headed by the South Dakota Supreme Court. Trial-court business is handled by the Circuit Court (7 circuits), Magistrate Court. Many South Dakota courts publish docket searches and case lookups online — see the Court Records tab above for direct links.
Where do I search South Dakota business entities?▼
The South Dakota Secretary of State (or equivalent agency) operates the official business-entity search. You can typically search corporations, LLCs, LPs, and other registered entities by name or registration number. See the Licenses or Business tab above.
What is the difference between Assessor and Recorder in South Dakota?▼
The Assessor determines property values for tax purposes. The Recorder (or Clerk-Recorder) records deeds, mortgages, liens, and other property documents. Some county offices combine these roles, others keep them separate. Check the specific county page for details.
How do I obtain a South Dakota birth or death certificate?▼
South Dakota vital records (birth, death, marriage, divorce certificates) are issued by the South Dakota Department of Health (Vital Records) and, in many cases, by local county clerks. Fees and ID requirements are set by the issuing agency.
Are South Dakota property records free to search?▼
Most county-level property and recorded-document searches are free for basic information through the Assessor or Recorder website. Certified copies of deeds typically have a per-page fee. Direct links are in the Property Records tab above.
How do I check a South Dakota sex offender?▼
The South Dakota sex offender registry is maintained by the state law-enforcement agency under the Sex Offender Registration and Community Notification Act. The registry is searchable by name, ZIP code, or address.