PIERRE, S.D. — The owner of a Pierre smoke shop has been sentenced to probation after pleading guilty to drug charges tied to an undercover investigation.
Bristol Nielsen, 29, of Fort Pierre, received three years of probation after pleading guilty to one felony count of possession of a controlled substance and one misdemeanor count of possession of a substance for the purpose of intoxication.
Nielsen owned Masterpiece Smoke Shop in Pierre and was one of five shop owners across South Dakota charged following an undercover operation. Investigators conducted controlled buys between June 11 and June 13, 2025, reporting the purchase of products that included psilocybin mushrooms and high-THC items. The other businesses involved were located in Sioux Falls, Aberdeen and Rapid City.
“We will prosecute those who sell illegal drugs supposedly as part of a legitimate business,” said Attorney General Marty Jackley. “Protection of our citizens from illegal and harmful drugs is a top priority.”
Nielsen originally faced several additional charges, including possession with intent to distribute more than one pound of marijuana, possession with intent to distribute psilocin, violating a drug-free zone, and maintaining a place for the use or sale of a controlled substance.
