About Amherst
Amherst is a city in Marshall County, South Dakota. Use the official town and county resources on this page to reach the clerk, court, assessment, public records, and Freedom of Information request pages serving residents and researchers.
Key landmarks in Amherst include the historic St. John’s Lutheran Church, which is a focal point for community gatherings, and the nearby Lake Campbell, a popular recreational area for fishing and boating. The town is also part of the Brookings School District, which provides educational opportunities for local children. Economically, Amherst has historically been tied to agriculture, with many residents engaged in farming and related industries. The town's economy benefits from its proximity to Brookings, which has a diverse economic base that includes education, healthcare, and retail sectors. The town's budget for the fiscal year 2023 is approximately $200,000, reflecting its small-town governance and community-focused initiatives.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement in Amherst
Amherst Police Department
By utilizing text messaging in a police dispatch center, it offers the community another way to contact the police department with their questions and minor concerns instead of taking the time to call in. The Amherst Police Department answers calls for the utilities department after hours and.
https://www.amherstpolice.net/
Marshall County Sheriff's Office
Sheriff – Samuel Swanson Email: mcsheriff@venturecomm.net Mailing Address: 911 Vander Horck Street PO Box 9 Britton SD 57430 Phone: (605) 448-5181 Fax: (605) 448-5927 South Dakota Sheriffs Association Use the […]
⚖️ Courts & Case Records in Amherst
South Dakota Court Records Access | South Dakota Unified Judicial System | SD UJS
Access a summary of criminal court information online via Public Access Records Search (PARS), or submit a form to request criminal or civil court information. This tool provides public access to UJS' civil judgments database. Public, "pay as you go" users can retrieve judgments by name and date. The site can also be accessed via a subscription account. The UJS provides public access computer terminals for the public to view South Dakota open court records electronically from any courthouse in the state.
🏠 Property & Public Records in Amherst
Contact Us: South Dakota Secretary of State
County Registers of Deeds · Request Public Records | Privacy Policy | Information Accuracy | State Homepage | Accessibility Policy
🔗 https://sdsos.gov/contact-us/county-registers-of-deeds.aspx
Public Records & Services in Amherst
About Amherst South — In Depth
Jail & Inmate Records
Marshall County's primary detention facility operates in Britton, where Marshall County jail processes all arrests from across the area. The booking procedure includes fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal details of anyone brought into custody. Family members and attorneys can locate detainees through inmate lookup services provided by the Sheriff's Office. Visitation at the facility follows specific protocols, requiring advance scheduling and strict adherence to security procedures.
Arrest Records
The Marshall County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records for the county, documenting the circumstances of each arrest, charges filed, and identifying information about those taken into custody. Anyone seeking access to these records - whether residents or legal counsel - can submit requests directly to the Sheriff's Office. South Dakota's Sunshine Law establishes the public's right to review such documents, creating transparency in how law enforcement agencies operate throughout Marshall County.
Criminal Records
The criminal records system in Marshall County includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. These records are maintained by the Marshall County Sheriff's Office and the South Dakota Unified Judicial System. Residents can conduct background checks through the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, which provides criminal history information. The Bureau's services are essential for employers, landlords, and individuals seeking detailed background information.
Vital Records
For residents of Amherst and Marshall County, vital records such as birth certificates, death records, and marriage licenses can be obtained through Marshall County's Vital Records office, situated at the local office in Britton. This office is responsible for the registration and issuance of these important documents, which are often required for various legal and administrative purposes.
Individuals in need of accessing their own or a family member's vital records can visit the Vital Records office in person or submit requests through Marshall County's website, making sure of efficient and reliable access to these critical documents.
Business & Licensing Records
Local businesses and entrepreneurs in Amherst navigate regulatory requirements through Amherst City Hall at the local officereet. The municipal office issues business licenses and reviews applications for zoning permits, building permits, and other documentation required for commercial operations. Business owners can consult with City Hall staff to clarify local regulations and compliance requirements, supporting orderly growth within the community.
Economy & Demographics
Amherst's economy has traditionally been rooted in the agricultural industry, with many local residents engaged in farming and related enterprises. However, the town's proximity to Brookings has also allowed it to benefit from the city's diverse economic base, which includes education, healthcare, and retail sectors. Major employers in the Amherst area include the Brookings School District, which operates schools serving local students, as well as several regional healthcare providers and agricultural cooperatives.
Elections & Voter Records
Election services for Amherst voters flow through the Marshall County Auditor's office, the official election authority for Marshall County. Located at 201 East 2nd Avenue, Britton, SD 57430, the Auditor's office handles every aspect of elections, voter registration, absentee ballot processing, polling location assignments, ballot preparation, and vote counting for the November ballots. Residents can reach the office at (605) 448-5222. Additional resources are available through the South Dakota Secretary of State's website at https://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/.
Voter registration is straightforward through the South Dakota Voter Registration Portal at https://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/voting/register-to-vote.aspx. The state requires registration at least 15 days before any election. Eligibility requires U.S. Citizenship, age 18 by election day, and South Dakota residency. Online registration requires a valid South Dakota driver's license or state ID number. Those without state identification can register by mail or in person at the Marshall County Auditor's office. Party affiliation is optional for general registration, though primary election participation requires registering with the relevant party. As an unincorporated community without its own municipal government, Amherst has no mayoral or city council races. Residents cast ballots in Marshall County, state, and federal contests instead. County governance falls to the Marshall County Commission, a five-member body elected to staggered four-year terms. Commission seats appear on even-year ballots, with several positions up in 2026. Finding your polling place is simple through the South Dakota Polling Place Lookup tool at https://vip.sdsos.gov/viplogin.aspx, or by calling the Marshall County Auditor at (605) 448-5222. Precinct boundaries determine assignments, and rural communities typically vote at township halls, community centers, or similar public facilities. South Dakota law requires photo identification at the polls, acceptable forms include a South Dakota driver's license, state ID, tribal ID, U.S. Passport, military ID, or student ID from a South Dakota high school or accredited institution. The county continued its traditional support for Republican candidates in federal and state races, mirroring voting patterns common across rural South Dakota. County offices on the ballot include Marshall County Commission seats, Marshall County Sheriff, Marshall County Auditor, Marshall County Register of Deeds, and Marshall County State's Attorney. South Dakota's next U.S. Senate race won't occur until 2028. Any statewide ballot measures, constitutional amendments, or county initiatives that qualify will also appear before voters. Absentee voting is available to any registered voter in South Dakota. Applications can be submitted online at https://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/voting/absentee-voting.aspx, by mail, or in person at the Marshall County Auditor's office. The deadline is 5:00 PM the day before the election. Completed ballots can be mailed (postmarked by election day, received within three days), delivered personally to the Auditor's office, or placed in official drop boxes if Marshall County provides them. Absentee voters must include a copy of acceptable identification with their ballot. Public election records in South Dakota cover voter registration lists (available to candidates, political parties, and researchers under SDCL 12-4-9), campaign finance reports (searchable at https://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/campaign-finance/), candidate filing documents, precinct-level results, and ballot initiative materials. Registration lists show names, addresses, birth dates, and voting history while protecting Social Security and driver's license numbers. How individuals vote remains confidential. Marshall County election results become public after official canvassing, available at the Auditor's office and through the Secretary of State's online portal.
Public Records Resources for Amherst, South Dakota
Official government websites for Amherst, South Dakota and the surrounding area. We prioritize official government sources (.gov, .us, or .mil) and supplement with verified municipal, county, or statewide portals (.org or .com) where the agency uses a non-government domain.
- South Dakota Criminal History RecordsObtain information detailing how to request South Dakota criminal history records and background checks.
- South Dakota Inmates and Offenders SearchFind the location and release information of individuals incarcerated with the SD Dept. of Corrections.
- South Dakota Sex Offenders SearchSearch the SD Office of the Attorney General database of registered offenders by name or location.
- South Dakota Most WantedCurrent posting of fugitives and absconders from the SD Dept. of Corrections.
- South Dakota Highway Patrol Accident ReportsLaw enforcement, traffic, criminal investigations and more
- South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and ParksLicenses, permits, information and more
- South Dakota Attorney GeneralCivil, criminal and appellate courts
- South Dakota Federal Case SearchSearch the SD Court system to find information and public records on federal case filings.
- South Dakota Business & Corporation SearchFind active and inactive corporations by name from the SD Secretary of State.
- South Dakota Birth and Death RecordsOfficial birth and death certificates.
- South Dakota Corrections InformationPrograms, policies, statistics, calendar and publications.
- South Dakota Fictitious Business Names FilingsFind general info and check name availability with the SD Secretary of State.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I obtain vital records in Amherst, South Dakota?
Vital records for Amherst, Marshall County, South Dakota including birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses are available through the South Dakota Department of Health. Requests can be made online, by mail, or in person. The Marshall County Clerk's office may also issue certified copies. Valid identification and proof of eligibility are required.
How do I find public school records in Amherst, South Dakota?
Public schools in Amherst, Marshall County, South Dakota are administered by the local school district. School performance data, enrollment information, and district boundaries are available through the South Dakota Department of Education and the National Center for Education Statistics at nces.ed.gov.
How do I access crime data and statistics for Amherst, South Dakota?
Crime data for Amherst, Marshall County, South Dakota is maintained by local law enforcement agencies and reported to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program. Residents can access crime statistics through the FBI Crime Data Explorer or by contacting local police (where present) or the Marshall County Sheriff's Office.
How do I access public library records in Amherst, South Dakota?
The Amherst Public Library provides access to public records resources including online databases, historical archives, and government document collections. The Marshall County library system may offer additional resources. Contact the library for available databases and research assistance.
Where can I get fingerprinting services in Amherst, South Dakota?
Fingerprinting services for Amherst, South Dakota residents are available through local police (where present) and authorized providers in Marshall County. Services cover background checks, professional licensing, and employment screening. Contact local police (where present) or the Marshall County Sheriff's Office for scheduling and fees.
How do I register to vote in Amherst, South Dakota?
To register to vote in Amherst, South Dakota, residents can register online through the South Dakota Secretary of State's website, by mail, or in person at the Marshall County elections office. South Dakota requires voters to be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and residents of the state. The registration deadline is typically 30 days before an election. Voters can verify their registration status and find polling locations through the South Dakota Secretary of State's voter lookup tool. For local municipal elections in Amherst, contact the Marshall County Clerk's office for schedules and ballot information.
How do I look up property records in Amherst, South Dakota?
Property records for Amherst, South Dakota are maintained by the Marshall Director of Equalization's Office and the Marshall County Register of Deeds. The Assessor's Office is responsible for discovering, listing, and valuing all taxable property within Marshall County, including parcels in Amherst. Records available include property ownership, assessed values, legal descriptions, parcel maps, and tax history. The Marshall County Register of Deeds maintains recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements. Many South Dakota counties provide online property record searches through their county websites. The Marshall County Treasurer handles property tax payments and tax sale information.
How do I get a birth or death certificate in Amherst, South Dakota?
Birth, death, and marriage records for Amherst, South Dakota residents are available through both county and state offices. The South Dakota Department of Health, Vital Records, located in Pierre, maintains statewide vital records and can issue certified copies of birth and death certificates for events occurring anywhere in South Dakota. Orders can be placed online, by mail, or in person. Locally, the Marshall County Clerk's office issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records for Marshall County. Birth and death certificates may also be available through local vital records offices. Requestors typically need to provide valid photo identification and proof of their relationship to the person named on the record. Processing times and fees vary by office and record type.