Prominent South Dakota cattlemen among those receiving Trump pardons


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Prominent South Dakota cattlemen among those receiving Trump pardons

Members of a prominent Tripp County farm family are among those granted last minute pardons by President Trump. Greg and Deborah Jorgensen of Winner were granted pardons, and Greg’s father Martin Jorgensen was given a posthumous pardon.

The Jorgensens were convicted in 1996 for knowingly misbranding and selling beef under their Dakota Lean brand. The three were convicted of mixing commercial beef trim with what was being sold as their premium heart-healthy, hormone-free beef, after demand for the product outstripped supply.

A White House statement says the Jorgensens have shown remorse for their action and have an exemplary record of community service.

The statement says the Jorgensen’s have served their community devotedly since their 1996 convictions. Greg served as a Tripp County Commissioner and spearheaded infrastructure projects to improve access for Native American communities. Deborah is a member of a non-profit dedicated to promoting educational opportunities for women. Martin was named National Cattleman’s Beef Association Businessman of the Year.

Greg and Martin Jorgensen founded Dakota Lean in the 1980s.

South Dakota Republican Governor Kristi Noem and Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD) supported clemency for the Jorgensens, according to the White House statement.

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