South Dakota's chief detective eyed by President Trump for U.S. Marshal
Dan Satterlee nominated by White House for law enforcement post that's sat vacant for at least 22 months
President Donald Trump has made his pick for South Dakota’s next U.S. marshal post .
South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) Director Dan Satterlee has been nominated by the White House to serve as director of the U.S. Marshals South Dakota District Office, which has been vacant for nearly two years.
“I am honored to be nominated for this position that has been held by so many outstanding law enforcement professionals in the past. Thank you to President Trump, Senators Thune and Rounds, and Attorney General Jackley for their support,” Satterlee said in a statement provided to The Dakota Scout.
Recommended for the position by Attorney General Marty Jackley, Satterlee has three decades of service with the DCI and has led the agency since 2023.
Jackley praised the nomination, calling it a reflection of Trump’s and the state’s senators’ support for public safety.
“President Trump, Senate Leader Thune, and Senator Rounds are strong advocates of law enforcement and public safety, and this nomination reaffirms that,” Jackley said.
The nomination has been referred to the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee for consideration. If approved, it will move to the full Senate for confirmation.
U.S. marshals oversee the transport of federal prisoners and provide security for federal properties. The position in South Dakota has been listed as vacant since January 2024, following the departure of Dan Mosteller.
Satterlee’s nomination has the backing of South Dakota’s congressional delegation on Capitol Hill as well.
“He has spent his career dedicated to keeping South Dakota safe and I know that he will continue that dedication in this new role,” Sen. Mike Rounds said. “I look forward to supporting Dan throughout his Senate confirmation process.”
