SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – In response to reports of its being assessed a $45,000 fine for hiring illegal immigrants,

" Dakota Beef’s Richard Morris, the company's new chief operating officer, issued the following statement:

"We at Dakota Beef have recently settled an illegal immigration case with the federal government by paying a fine,

" Mr. Morris said. "Since the incident occurred in June of last year, we have replaced the entire senior management of the company. We have implemented new and totally up-to-date procedures to assure that there will be no repetition of the previous incident.

"

We will continue to provide high-quality organic beef, while adhering to the laws and the high standards that come with being a sustainable and health-minded organic-beef company," he concluded.

To post your comments on this story, click here:

meatpoultry@sosland.com.