Criminal Homicide Rates in Indianapolis

After hitting the 100th murder in Indianapolis this year early last month, people in the city are understandably worried about crime. If the current criminal homicide rate continues, we are likely to experience more homicides in Indianapolis this year than last, which was already a significant increase from years before. This slow but noticeable uptick in criminal homicides over the past few years has led many to question the effectiveness of policing in the city.

Regardless of the reason, though, one thing is clear: the homicide rate is increasing with no indication of slowing down anytime soon. Just last year, there were 151 homicides, up 8 percent from the number in 2013. This year, we are on track for even more, which would make 2015 the bloodiest year for Indianapolis on record. In 2014, the number of homicides in Indianapolis ranked the city among “America’s Top Ten Murder Capitols” — a fact made even grimmer by the fact that the homicide rate is accelerating.

Indianapolis to Crack Down on Crime

It is no surprise that these statistics have led Indianapolis Metro Police to release statements assuring the public that there will be a crackdown on crime. Whether or not this will be effective remains to be seen, but it is obvious that something must be done if we are to stem the tide of these tragic homicides.

Still, cracking down on crime could have unintended harsh consequences for those accused of even relatively small drug crimes. In a statement, IMPD Chief Rick Hite condemned all of the “senseless violence” that he blamed in part on family issues and drugs. With this tense anti-crime climate, defendants who are facing even minor crimes like possession could have the book thrown at them—all as a desperate attempt to lower the criminal homicide rates in Indianapolis.

While eliminating crime, especially violent homicides, is a good thing for our city, people arrested for any crime should be aware that they face serious consequences and little sympathy from prosecutors. Without the help of an experienced Indianapolis criminal defense attorney, a simple misdemeanor can end up sending you to jail for a serious sentence.

If you are arrested for any crime, no matter how seemingly minor, you should call a lawyer right away. An Indianapolis criminal defense attorney will be able to protect your rights and build a strategy to get you the best possible outcome. If you’re facing charges, call Sean Hessler at Hessler Law today at (317) 886-8800 to find out how he may be able to help.

The outcome of an individual case depends on a variety of factors unique to that case. Case results do not guarantee or predict a similar result in any similar or future case.