IndianaProsecutors’ investigators with prior enforcement work would have statewide police powers
A prosecutor-appointed investigator would have statewide police powers if they previously worked at least five years in law enforcement or federal enforcement; appointments need county council approval.
What it does
Investigators appointed by a prosecutor would have statewide police powers if they previously worked at least five years as law enforcement or federal enforcement officers. Appointments need county council approval.
Argument forAn investigator with five years of qualifying experience could act across county lines, which may help when an investigation reaches beyond one county.
Argument againstStatewide powers could let these investigators act across county lines, which may make it harder for the prosecutor directing their work to oversee them.
More detail
Investigators who meet the experience requirement would have statewide police powers. This applies to investigators appointed by an Indiana prosecutor with county council approval. They work under the prosecutor’s direction. The investigator must have been employed for at least five years as a law enforcement officer or federal enforcement officer. The amendment is listed to take effect July 1, 2026, if enacted.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Jan 5First reading: referred to Committee on JudiciaryLatest
- Jan 5Authored by Representative SteuerwaldIntroduced
Criminal JusticePublic Safety