Taylor Statement on Addressing Violent Crime in Indianapolis

On Thursday, Indiana Republican legislators held a press conference to discuss legislation for the 2022 session aimed at reducing violent crime in Indianapolis. Senate Democratic Leader Greg Taylor (D-Indianapolis) released the following statement on steps we should take to address violent crime in Indianapolis:

“The violent crime in Indianapolis has reached regrettably historic heights, and I’m happy to see Indianapolis members of the General Assembly coming together to find solutions,” Sen. Taylor said. “I’m in complete agreement that we must take action to reduce the violence plaguing Indianapolis, but I think we have to be purposeful and intentional about the legislation we’re pushing to get that done.

“Right now, one of the best things we can do in response to the violent crime we’re seeing is take action on marijuana reform. At the moment, funding and resources are still being expended to arrest non-violent offenders in possession of a substance that’s legal in 36 states. It’s ridiculous, it’s wasteful and it takes law enforcement time and resources away from focusing on violent crimes that are hurting our families the most.

“Our caucus will also be introducing legislation aimed at strengthening trust between Hoosiers and law enforcement. We cannot truly address violence and crime until we address the lack of trust that exists between communities and law enforcement. Our goal is to continue building on the foundation we laid last session with the passage of House Bill 1006.

“I’m hopeful that my colleagues in the Statehouse will be open and receptive to comprehensive solutions to addressing crime in our capital city. Combatting and reducing violence won’t take place overnight, but we can get it done if we work to address the root of the issue.

“I know I can speak for every one of my colleagues when I say we are all in support of reducing violence in Marion County. We must get it done, and I look forward to working in a bipartisan fashion this session to ensure we’re taking smart and deliberate action—including working to reduce jail overcrowding and passing legislation on cannabis legalization so law enforcement can focus its energy where it’s needed: on reducing violent crime.”