STATEHOUSE (May 1, 2026) – The governor recently ceremonially signed into law a bill sponsored by State Rep. Tim Yocum (R-Clinton) to crack down on threatening behavior and add tougher consequences for crimes meant to scare or intimidate others.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic and the higher frequency of individuals wearing masks, concerns have grown over criminals utilizing masks to conceal their identity during the commission of crimes. Furthermore, incidents of 'hate littering' involving intimidation through leaving malicious flyers, documents and garbage on an individual's property have increased across Indiana.
"Harassing, intimidating or threatening others is never a harmless prank," Yocum said. "Causing someone to fear for their safety is a serious offense, and individuals will be held accountable for it."
Senate Enrolled Act 160 updates Indiana's criminal code to address public safety concerns and provides courts with clear guidance in evaluating criminal conduct. It makes wearing a mask while committing a crime to conceal the perpetrator's identity a sentence aggravator that a judge may consider. It also makes it a Class A misdemeanor to leave trash on another person's property with intent to cause fear.
To learn more about this and other new laws passed during the 2026 legislative session, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Tim Yocum (R-Clinton) represents House District 42, which includes
all of Parke and Vermillion counties, and portions of Clay, Fountain and Vigo counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
PHOTO CAPTION: State Rep. Tim Yocum (R-Clinton) (third from right) joins Gov. Mike Braun (sitting, center) for the ceremonial signing of Senate Enrolled Act 160 on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the Statehouse in Indianapolis. Yocum sponsored the new law to address growing local antisemitism concerns and combat the spread of targeted hate propaganda. Also pictured are bill author State Sen. Spencer Deery (R-West Lafayette) (fourth from right), bill co-sponsor State Rep. Danny Lopez (R-Carmel) (sixth from left) and other stakeholders.
