Yankton County Sheriff, Yankton, SD

Staff Members

Christopher Meier, Patrol Captain

Captain Meier began his career in law enforcement following the completion of a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Mount Marty College in 2008.

In November 2009, he joined the Yankton County Jail as a jailer, where he quickly established a reputation for his strong work ethic, professionalism, and dedication to public safety.

Recognizing his potential and commitment, Captain Meier was promoted to Deputy Sheriff in May 2012. Later that year, he graduated from the 150th session of the South Dakota Law Enforcement Training Academy in November 2012, solidifying his foundation in law enforcement practices and procedures.

Captain Meier served in the Patrol Division for nearly a decade, gaining extensive field experience before being promoted to Sergeant in February 2022. Just a few months later, in June 2022, he was promoted to Lieutenant, where he assumed responsibility for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Yankton County Sheriff’s Office. In early 2023, Captain Meier was then promoted to Patrol Captain and is still serving in that current role.

Throughout his career, Captain Meier has demonstrated leadership, operational expertise, and a steadfast commitment to serving his community with integrity.

Leslie Drake, Investigation Captain

Captain Drake is a dedicated law enforcement professional with over two decades of service in the Yankton County Sheriff's Office. A graduate of Mount Marty College, Captain Drake earned a degree in Criminal Justice in 2004. The following year, he began his career in public service as a part-time Civil Deputy.

In 2007, Captain Drake was hired full-time as a jailer, demonstrating a strong work ethic and commitment to community safety. His dedication and leadership potential led to his promotion to Deputy Sheriff in 2011. In May 2012, he successfully graduated from the 149th session of the South Dakota Law Enforcement Training Academy.

Throughout his tenure, Captain Drake has held numerous roles within the Yankton County Sheriff's Office, gaining broad experience and respect across various divisions. His steady progression and continued service reflect a career built on professionalism, integrity, and a deep commitment to public safety. Captain Drake has also worked for three different Sheriffs in Yankton County.Captain Drake is a dedicated law enforcement professional with over two decades of service in the Yankton County Sheriff's Office. A graduate of Mount Marty College, Captain Drake earned a degree in Criminal Justice in 2004. The following year, he began his career in public service as a part-time Civil Deputy.

In 2007, Captain Drake was hired full-time as a jailer, demonstrating a strong work ethic and commitment to community safety. His dedication and leadership potential led to his promotion to Deputy Sheriff in 2011. In May 2012, he successfully graduated from the 149th session of the South Dakota Law Enforcement Training Academy.

Gregory Jensen, Investigation Sergeant

Greg Jensen is the Investigations Sergeant for the Yankton County Sheriff’s Office. Sergeant Jensen is responsible for investigations, courtroom security, sex offender registry and many other duties. Sergeant Jensen is a member of the South Dakota ICAC (Internet Crimes against Children) task force. Sergeant Jensen has been to many advanced training courses and utilizes those skills for his current role. Sergeant Jensen has over 1,230 training hours in his law enforcement career.

Sergeant Jensen started his career in corrections and was fortunate to move into a deputy sheriff’s position. Sergeant Jensen was promoted to a detective position and later to Investigations Sergeant in 2023. Sergeant Jensen completed his basic law enforcement training at the South Dakota Law Enforcement Training in Pierre, SD and successfully obtained his certification in 2013. (151st Class)

Sergeant Jensen is a lifelong resident of Yankton County and loves being with my family when not working. Sergeant Jensen is also an avid Nebraska Cornhuskers Football fan and enjoys cooking and perfecting his culinary skills.

Kyle Kocmick, Patrol Sergeant

Austin Schuller, K-9 Handler Patrol Corporal

Doug Holland, Patrol Deputy

Jordan Mogck, Patrol Deputy

Robert Kirvin, Patrol Deputy

Noah Hofer, Patrol Deputy

Riley Folkers, Patrol Deputy

Tevin Mitchell, Patrol Deputy

Liam Quednsley, Patrol Deputy

Teri Lippert, Senior Deputy Clerk

Teri Lippert began her career with Yankton County in 2006, starting in the Public Health Office. She later transitioned to the Yankton County Sheriff's Office, where she currently serves as the Senior Administrative Secretary. In this critical role, Teri handles a wide range of responsibilities—including billing, payroll, and new hire paperwork—that keep the department running smoothly and efficiently.

If you’ve ever called the Sheriff’s Office, chances are you’ve spoken with Teri. Known as the engine that powers the department, she’s often the first voice you hear and the steady hand behind the scenes. Her dedication, professionalism, and deep knowledge of day-to-day operations make her an invaluable part of the team.

Outside of work, Teri is a passionate supporter of the Iowa Hawkeyes and her beloved Los Angeles Dodgers. When she’s not cheering on her teams, you can find her walking her dog on the many beautiful trails throughout Yankton County.

Lanee Schindler, Deputy Clerk

K-9 Daisy

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