Red state sheriff says Trump’s border policies have already helped his small county

South Dakota Sheriff Pat West has spoken out about the impact of President Donald Trump’s crackdown on border security, noting a decrease in the supply of drugs like methamphetamine and fentanyl crossing the southern border. Sheriff West, who was a guest of Rep. Dusty Johnson for Trump’s address to Congress, emphasized the importance of a secure border in curbing drug trafficking.

“We are seeing a big impact on the border. Methamphetamine and fentanyl [are] our biggest problems that we’ve had in the past, and it’s been running rampant. The shutdown of the border recently has already made an impact on us up north in South Dakota,” West said.

Rep. Johnson praised Trump’s efforts to secure the border, citing a 95% decrease in illegal border crossings in the first 40 days of the Trump administration. Border Patrol Chief Mike Banks and border czar Tom Homan also reported significant reductions in illegal crossings and known “gotaways” at the southern border.

Sheriff West stressed the connection between border security and the drug problem in South Dakota, highlighting the role of law enforcement in combating drug trafficking. He expressed hope for continued funding for border security and support for law enforcement and the military.

Last year, Sheriff West successfully solved a sex trafficking case in South Dakota, rescuing a missing 13-year-old girl and apprehending a man with a significant amount of methamphetamine and fentanyl. He reiterated his commitment to combating drug trafficking and holding those responsible accountable.

“Illicit drugs, especially fentanyl and methamphetamine, continue to be a scourge on our communities. The devastation these drugs cause can’t be measured. We will continue to do all we can to get this poison off the streets in Meade County and hold those who bring this poison here accountable,” West stated.

As the fight against drug trafficking continues, Sheriff West emphasized the importance of maintaining a secure border and supporting law enforcement efforts. The impact of Trump’s border security measures is already being felt in South Dakota, and continued vigilance is necessary to protect communities from the dangers of drug trafficking.