IndianaProsecutors could file Level 3 rape and child molesting charges anytime, with limits for previously barred cases
Starting July 1, 2026, Indiana prosecutors could file Level 3 rape and child molesting charges at any time, though cases already barred would need a listed exception.
What it does
Level 3 rape and child molesting charges would have no filing deadline. A case already barred by an earlier deadline would need a listed exception.
Prosecutors could still file certain cases after an earlier deadline expired if a listed exception applies. The filing window depends on the offense and when evidence surfaced.
Argument forProsecutors could pursue covered rape and child molesting cases years later, giving victims more time to come forward.
Argument againstPeople accused decades later could have a harder time answering the charges if witnesses or records are difficult to find.
More detail
Prosecutors could file Level 3 rape and child molesting charges at any time. This covers rape and child molesting charged as Level 3 felonies in Indiana. If a previous deadline already barred a case, filing would depend on one of the listed exceptions. This provision would take effect July 1, 2026.
Prosecutors could file some charges after a previous deadline barred them. This applies only to offenses covered by one of the listed exceptions. The exception must apply to the offense and its filing deadline must be met. Depending on the offense, the exception can involve DNA evidence, a recording, or a confession. The applicable window is one, five, or ten years, measured from the events listed for that offense.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Jan 5First reading: referred to Committee on Corrections and Criminal LawLatest
- Jan 5Authored by Senators Alexander, FreemanIntroduced
Criminal JusticePublic Safety