Watertown Police Arrest Teen Following Months-Long Vehicle Theft Investigation

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - The Watertown Police Department (WPD) has announced the arrest of an 18-year-old Watertown resident in connection with a motor-vehicle theft that occurred in September. The arrest follows a months-long investigation utilizing forensic evidence.

The investigation began on September 13, 2025, when officers responded to a report of a pickup truck stolen overnight from a residence in southeast Watertown. According to the police report, the vehicle had been left unlocked with the keys inside.

The truck was located later the same afternoon in Watertown. However, an inventory confirmed that more than $1,100 worth of tools and personal items had been stolen from inside the vehicle.

Officers processed the recovered truck and collected multiple pieces of evidence, which were subsequently submitted to the South Dakota State Forensic Laboratory for analysis. The WPD received confirmation on November 24, 2025, linking the evidence to Ryder Shepherd, 18, of Watertown.

On December 1, 2025, officers successfully located Shepherd and took him into custody without incident. He was booked into the Codington County Detention Center on the following charges:

·        Grand Theft of a Motor Vehicle

·        Grand Theft from a Motor Vehicle

·        Criminal Entry of a Motor Vehicle

Shepherd is currently being held on a $5,000 cash bond.

Public Safety Reminder

The Watertown Police Department concluded the release by reminding residents of critical prevention steps to reduce the risk of vehicle theft. The WPD urges the public to lock their vehicles, remove all valuables, and avoid leaving keys inside. The department noted that these measures significantly reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim.