STATEHOUSE (Jan. 27, 2022) – The Indiana House of Representatives recently voted in support of legislation, co-authored by State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper), to help address jail overcrowding and boost local resources to fight crime.
Bartels, member of the House Courts and Criminal Code Committee, said House Bill 1004 would provide judicial flexibility so Level 6 felony offenders can be sent to the Indiana Department of Correction. He said the state often offers greater access to mental health and addiction treatment services than many local jails.
"One way to reduce recidivism is to connect low-level offenders to mental health and drug addiction resources, which would lessen the burden placed on our local communities," said Bartels, a former police officer. "Many times our Department of Correction facilities have more treatment and rehabilitation options available, so this bill could help more offenders get the help they need and stay out of the system."
According to the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute's 2021 annual evaluation of Indiana criminal code reform, nearly 75% of all criminal filings were Level 6 felonies, which has a maximum sentence of two and half years. 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.
Lindauer said these efforts could help reduce local jail overcrowding and allow locals to redirect public safety resources to where they matter most.
"Many counties are dealing with jail overcrowding and this legislation is one way to help alleviate the issue," Lindauer said. "Judges still have the discretion of where to send offenders, but now they have an additional option."
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 is now with the Indiana Senate for further consideration. To learn more and watch legislative proceedings, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) represents House District 74,
which includes portions of Spencer, Dubois, Perry, Crawford and Orange counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) represents House District 63,
which includes portions of Daviess, Dubois, Pike and Martin counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
