The Watertown Police Department and Codington Count Sheriff’s Office are pleased to announce participation in the Stand Up Project. Below is a media release from the Office of South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley. This will be a great tool in the fight against illegal drugs in our community. The program went live today across South Dakota.

Attorney General Marty Jackley, Sanford Health, South Dakota Sheriff’s Association, South Dakota Police Chiefs’ Association and the South Dakota Department of Public Safety announce the roll out of Project Stand Up - a statewide anonymous texting program that allows citizens to stand up to drug crimes in their communities.

“As our nation faces a growing drug epidemic, it is important that South Dakotans use innovation and technology to better protect our communities," Jackley said. "Anonymous texting allows citizens to be proactive and take part in keeping their communities safe. Please join me, law enforcement, healthcare providers and our communities to Stand Up to illegal drug use.”

"Sanford Health is proud to join with South Dakota law enforcement on this important program to help keep our South Dakota communities safe,” said Mike Begeman of Sanford Health.

Project Stand Up is a coordinated effort among law enforcement officials and healthcare providers statewide to stand up to illegal drug use in South Dakota. Texting a tip is simple - just text ‘drugs’ to 82257. The tipster will be asked a series of questions for additional information. The level of involvement lies with the citizen, while always remaining anonymous. An educational component will be added in the fall to address the legal consequences of drug use.

Please contact Assistant Chief Tim Toomey for more information.