INDIANA – The Indiana Senate Corrections and Criminal Law Committee has approved House Bill 1188, strengthening penalties for those who resist law enforcement. Sponsored by Senators Cyndi Carrasco and Brett Clark, and authored by Representative Alaina Shonkwiler, the bill addresses the issue of individuals obstructing or resisting police officers.
HB 1188 proposes increased penalties for specific instances of resisting law enforcement. Two key amendments were adopted during the committee hearing.
The first, passed by a 7-1 vote, elevates the offense to a Level 5 felony if an individual inflicts moderate bodily injury while resisting law enforcement. The second amendment, adopted by consent, also designates the offense as a Level 5 felony if a motor vehicle is used while resisting. Further conforming edits were made to the bill to ensure consistency following the adoption of these amendments.
The Indiana Sheriffs’ Association testified in support of the bill, emphasizing the need for stronger legal consequences to protect law enforcement officers.
The amended HB 1188 passed the committee with a 7-1 vote and will now move to the full Senate for consideration. The full text of the bill can be accessed at: https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/house/1188
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