A House GOP bill would help pay deputy prosecutors. It could also penalize Ryan Mears: Report

Indiana House Republicans are advancing House Bill 1006, which would create a state fund to assist counties with deputy prosecutor salaries but deny funding to prosecutors deemed “noncompliant” with enforcing state laws. The bill establishes a prosecutor review board with authority to investigate and withhold funds from prosecutors who refuse to pursue certain cases, report Indystar.com.

Democrats see this as a direct attack on Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears, who has publicly declined to prosecute low-level marijuana cases and abortion-related offenses. Despite criticism, Mears’ office maintains a strong focus on violent crime, boasting a 94% murder trial conviction rate.

The bill passed committee 10-3 and heads to the House floor. Concurrently, Republicans have introduced resolutions (SJR 22 & HJR 5) that would allow the governor to suspend prosecutors for neglecting duties. Critics argue these measures undermine local voters, as Mears was re-elected by a wide margin in 2022.