STATEHOUSE (Jan. 19, 2022) – The Indiana House of Representatives voted this week in support of legislation co-authored by State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) to help address jail overcrowding and boost local resources to fight crime.
Baird said House Bill 1004 would provide judicial flexibility so Level 6 felony offenders can be sent to the Indiana Department of Correction. The state often offers greater access to mental health and addiction treatment services than many local jails.
"Our local law enforcement is overburdened with offenders who need counseling and treatment services more than incarceration," Baird said. "DOC has the necessary tools, and getting them access to these resources gives them a better chance at recovering and staying out of our criminal justice system."
According to the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute's 2021 annual evaluation of Indiana criminal code reform, nearly 75% of all felony criminal filings were Level 6 felonies. The report also found 4 of the top 10 felony filings for 2021 were substance related, such as possession of methamphetamine, syringe possession and operating while intoxicated.
Baird said these efforts could help reduce local jail overcrowding and allow locals to redirect public safety resources to where they matter most. According to the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute's latest data, 77% of Indiana's jails are overcrowded or at capacity.
Several organizations voiced support for House Bill 1004, including the Indiana Department of Correction, Indiana Judges Association, Indiana Prosecuting Attorneys Council and Indiana Sheriffs Association.
The legislation now moves to the Indiana Senate for further consideration. To learn more and watch legislative proceedings, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) represents House District 44, which includes
all of Putnam County and portions of Clay, Morgan, Owen and Parke counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
