STURGIS, S.D.(KBHB) – The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally officially begins Friday, but already thousands of motorcycles have invaded the Black Hills.

Meade County Sheriff Pat West is gearing up for his first rally as sheriff – but he’s been working South Dakota’s largest tourist event for more than two decades.

West says he brings in extra staff for the Rally.

And, West explains some of the biggest obstacles they face every Rally.

West says the Meade County Sheriff’s Office partners with other law enforcement agencies during the rally in hopes of cracking down on other crimes – such as human trafficking, drug trafficking and online predators.