Authorities Seek Public’s Help Locating Non‑Compliant Sex Offender Missing Since 2008

Northeast Radio SD News – South Dakota - South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley says federal and state authorities are asking for the public’s assistance in locating Benjermin Kelley, also known as Benjamin Kelley, a non‑compliant sex offender whose whereabouts have been unknown for nearly two decades.

Kelley, 46, was convicted in 1999 of Sexual Contact with a Child Under Sixteen in Lake County. According to investigators, he has lived in several southeastern South Dakota locations over the years, including Sioux Falls, rural Lake County, and rural Clay County. He last registered as a sex offender in Clay County in 2008 and has not complied with registration requirements since.

Attorney General Jackley said compliance with registration laws is critical for public safety. Investigators believe Kelley may still be living in a rural part of South Dakota.

Under South Dakota law, convicted sex offenders must notify authorities when they move and must register with their new jurisdiction within three business days. They are also required to register in person every six months, during their birth month and again six months later.

U.S. Marshal Daniel A. Satterlee said South Dakota maintains one of the lowest non‑compliant sex offender rates in the nation, crediting strong cooperation between the U.S. Marshals Service and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation.

People with information on Kelley’s whereabouts are urged to submit a confidential tip by emailing usmstips@usdoj.gov, calling the U.S. Marshals 24‑hour tip line at 1‑877‑WANTED2 (926‑8332), or contacting local law enforcement. Authorities caution the public not to approach Kelley.