SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota corrections officials say better pay for prison guards is helping reduce turnover.

The annual turnover rate for corrections officers at the State Penitentiary in Sioux Falls peaked at about 35 percent in 2013. Since then, the department has increased starting pay each year.

Starting July 1, new officers will earn $15.50 an hour, up from $13.56 in fiscal year 2013.

Corrections Secretary Denny Kaemingk tells the Argus Leader (http://argusne.ws/1svfq1B ) that it's paying off. Turnover at the penitentiary fell below 30 percent in the current fiscal year.

Turnover at the Mike Durfee State Prison in Springfield fell to 21 percent this fiscal year from 26 percent in 2013, and at the South Dakota Women's Prison in Pierre it fell to 27 percent from 33 percent in 2013.

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