A traffic stop in Brookings leads to the arrest of the driver on rape and other charges.

Shortly after 1:00 o’clock Friday afternoon, 9-1-1 received a call about a vehicle driving erratically on Interstate 29. Police stopped the vehicle near the intersection of 20th Street South and Main Avenue South.

Officers identified the driver as 44-year-old Justin G. Paulson of Sinai. There were also two female juveniles in the vehicle, ages 17 and 14.

Police say Paulson had picked up the two in Sioux Falls and was returning to Brookings. The investigation also revealed that Paulson knew the two juveniles and had allegedly engaged in sex with the 14-year-old for money. He also allegedly supplied alcohol to the two.

Paulson was arrested for felony rape, sexual contact with a child under sixteen, prostitution and contributing to the abuse, neglect, or delinquency of a minor.

Paulson was taken to the Brookings County Jail with bond set at $25,000 cash.

The juveniles were released to their parents.

 

May 21, 2024