Oct. 14, 2025

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Sgt. Aaron Benson, the public information officer for the Sioux Falls Police Department.

Name: Aaron Benson

Age: 47

Hometown: Sioux Falls

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

I was born and raised in Sioux Falls. I have lived in this great city for my entire life.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

My family is the biggest reason. My wife was also born and raised in Sioux Falls, and most of our family still lives here. We love being part of this community and all Sioux Falls has to offer for us and our two daughters.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

My favorite part of being PIO is being able to share information through social media, press releases and community events, which helps the public understand what our department is doing. Every day brings different stories and challenges, which keeps the job exciting and interesting.

How did you get connected to your industry?

While in college, I did a couple of ride-alongs with some officers I knew from the Sioux Falls Police Department. It really opened my eyes to the impact that law enforcement has on our community. After those ride-alongs, I knew this career was what I wanted to do.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Informative, responsive, engaging.

What is something someone might be surprised to learn about you?

I love to bowl.  Bowling runs deep in my family — my grandpa is in the Sioux Falls Bowling Hall of Fame, my dad was a great bowler, and there are state champions in my family. Unfortunately, I didn’t inherit their bowling genetics! But I still love the game and was part of two leagues this year. I had a couple games my grandpa would’ve been proud of and several more he would’ve laughed at.

What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?

Before becoming PIO, I worked in the SFPD fraud section and really enjoyed giving fraud presentations at senior living centers and other businesses. It was rewarding to be able to have conversations with folks and give them information to help prevent them from becoming victims of fraud.

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?

I suppose this is a standard cop answer, but I would like to see Dunkin’ Donuts.

If you had $1 million to start a business, what kind of business would it be?

I always thought it would be cool to have a downtown riverfront BBQ spot — a place with great food and outdoor seating where people can take in the views and have a good time.