Secretary of Corrections Kellie Wasko announced that Joseph Roemmich has been hired as the warden of the South Dakota State Penitentiary in Sioux Falls.
“Joseph has extensive experience working in the corrections field in a variety of correctional and detention settings,” said Secretary of Corrections Kellie Wasko. “His work in all areas of security operations as a warden, assistant warden, chief of security, investigator, and officer will be valuable as he helps our corrections staff develop and incorporate modern correctional practices.”
Roemmich was most recently the warden of the Cibola County Correctional Center in Milan, NM. He will begin his duties in Sioux Falls on June 24, 2025.
“I look forward to working with Penitentiary staff to help positively affect the safety and security of the staff, our offenders, and the people of South Dakota,” said Roemmich.
In addition to his corrections experience, Roemmich has 11 years of experience working in law enforcement and in investigations.
DOC Director of Prison Operations Amber Pirraglia has been serving as Interim Warden of the Penitentiary in addition to her regular duties overseeing the state prisons.