SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — A former state employee from Spearfish has been indicted on four felony counts and one misdemeanor of falsifying child abuse investigative reports while working for the South Dakota Department of Social Services’ Child Protective Services.
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According to a press release, Nova Collins, 56, was indicted by a Lawrence County grand jury. Collins allegedly committed the crimes in early 2025.
Collins was charged with:
One felony count of forgery, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison;
One felony count of offering forged or fraudulent evidence, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison;
One felony count of falsifying evidence, which carries a maximum sentence of two years in prison;
One felony count of offering false or forged instrument for filing, registering or recording which carries a maximum sentence of two years in prison; and
One misdemeanor count of falsification of public records by a public officer or employee, which carries a maximum sentence of one year in prison in the county jail.
“Falsifying official documents related to an investigation undermines public trust,” Attorney General Marty Jackley said in a press release. “As Attorney General, I will continue to hold individuals accountable for such crimes.”
In the press release, Jackley said this is the first criminal case resulting after the South Dakota Legislature passed Senate Bill 62 earlier this year. The new law established mandatory reporting requirements related to state employee crimes, improper government conduct, and conflicts of interest.
