South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley has announced a significant development in a case involving alleged embezzlement from the state’s Department of Social Services. Lonna Carroll, 68, of Algona, IA, has been indicted for reportedly stealing an estimated $1.8 million in state and federal funds from the department’s Child Protection Services program.
Carroll faces two felony counts of Aggravated Grand Theft following her arrest in Iowa on Wednesday. She is currently awaiting extradition to South Dakota, with a bond set at $50,000.
The charges against Carroll stem from her tenure at the Child Protection Services program, during which she allegedly misappropriated funds under her control between 2010 and 2023. According to Attorney General Jackley, Carroll’s actions were discovered through an investigation led by the state Division of Criminal Investigation and Legislative Audit, after suspicions were raised within the Department of Social Services.
“Citizens expect government agencies and employees to safeguard public funds. Based upon our investigation, criminal charges for grand theft have been filed, and an arrest has been made,” Attorney General Jackley stated, acknowledging the cooperation of Governor Noem and the Department of Social Services during the investigation.
Carroll’s initial court appearance in Hughes County Circuit Court in Pierre has yet to be scheduled. If convicted, she faces a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison and a $50,000 fine for Count One, and up to 15 years in prison with a $30,000 fine for Count Two. It is important to note that Carroll is presumed innocent until proven guilty under the U.S. Constitution.
The case has drawn attention for its implications on the management of public funds within government agencies, prompting a closer examination of financial oversight measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
This indictment marks a significant step in addressing financial misconduct within the South Dakota Department of Social Services, underscoring the importance of transparency and accountability in handling taxpayer dollars.
