STATEHOUSE (Jan. 21, 2022) – The Indiana House of Representatives recently voted in support of legislation co-authored by State Reps. Mike Karickhoff (R-Kokomo) and Heath VanNatter (R-Kokomo) to help address jail overcrowding and boost local resources to fight crime.
Karickhoff 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.
"Most local jails just don't have the same resources available for offenders," Karickhoff said. "Moving Level 6 felony offenders to the DOC can provide them with a better chance of recovery and offer a solution to overcrowding."
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. 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.
VanNatter 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.
"The Howard County jail is one of many across the state that are overcrowded," VanNatter said. "This legislation would open up better options for locals to reallocate otherwise limited resources to where they are most beneficial."
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.
This 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. Mike Karickhoff (R-Kokomo) represents House District 30, which includes
portions of Grant and Howard counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Heath VanNatter (R-Kokomo) represents House District 38, which includes
portions of Carroll, Cass, Howard and Clinton counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
