Author

John Hult

John Hult is the senior reporter for South Dakota Searchlight. He has more than 15 years experience covering criminal justice, the environment and public affairs in South Dakota, including more than a decade at the Sioux falls Argus Leader.

Supporters of Abbey Lynn Steele stand outside the Pennington County Jail on Dec. 6, 2022. (Courtesy photo)

‘An addict and treated like a criminal’: Native woman’s death sparks questions

By: John Hult - December 19, 2022

In May of 2021, Abbey Lynn Steele gave birth to her first child, a baby boy. A urine test showed methamphetamine in his system. Steele, who turned 19 that month, also tested positive for meth. The drug’s detection in the baby’s urine assured that Steele would not keep full custody under South Dakota law. Its […]

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