AG Rokita keynotes at Dearborn County Lincoln Day Dinner, highlights recent work of his office
Liberty in Action
As Indiana’s Attorney General, fighting for your liberty is my top priority. Below are some highlights of our work!
◊ Reviewing Rokita
◊ Securing protections for Hoosiers’ DNA amid 23andMe bankruptcy
◊ Cracking Down on Healthcare Fraud
◊ Saving Taxpayers Money
◊ Helping Deliver Nation’s Largest Opioid Settlement
◊ Keeping Violent Criminals Behind Bars
◊ Fighting Illegal Immigration How can we help you? Contact our Office for additional information, resources and more. |
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| "Thank you for all your hard work and commitment." - Rose
"Thank you to AG Todd Rokita for signing this letter in support of the De-Risking program included in the budget bill, along with several other state attorneys general!" - Reliable Energy Indiana
"I have greatly appreciated the job that AG Todd Rokita has done for the state of Indiana." - Birdie
"Thank you, Attorney General Rokita, for always looking after us women." - Krystal
"Thank you for fighting for United States citizens." - Elizabeth
"Thank you, Todd Rokita, for going after those not following the rule of law." - Gregory
“Your bulldog persistence was indispensable to get us where we are now. Most people would not have been as helpful as you have been and for that you have my most sincere thanks.” - Josh
"Hoosiers in Indiana who love the Lord & true justice are so glad for you & pray for you continually." - Christian
"You are the best in leadership that Indiana has right now." - Martha
"Thank you Attorney General Rokita for taking on Monroe County Sheriff!" - Shaun
"Thank you for fighting to keep Indiana and America safe!" - Hope |
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AROUND INDIANA
with Attorney General Todd Rokita
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July 4: AG Rokita celebrates Independence Day with wife Kathy and son Teddy
It was great for Attorney General Todd Rokita to cheer Teddy on during another one of his and classmates' Independence Day parades. They kicked the celebration of our nation off right! These great kids and their parents are always fun and inspiring to be around. They show God's love here on earth.
A big thanks to His Place Eatery for providing some yummy treats! |
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June 28: AG Rokita keynotes the Dearborn County Lincoln Day Dinner
Attorney General Todd Rokita was honored to be the keynote speaker at the Dearborn County Lincoln Day Dinner. He thanked the local leaders who organized this event, the statewide leaders who joined in Aurora, and the passionate patriots from the community who were in attendance. He was proud to highlight how our office is fighting for American Exceptionalism, parents’ rights, life, the First and Second Amendments, and more. Together, we are united in our mission to protect our liberties! | |
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June 27: AG Rokita honors friend, Jackie Sterling, with Women's Club Legacy Award
Attorney General Todd Rokita had a great time at the Porter County Women's Club's 4th Anniversary event. In addition to speaking about our office's recent work and enjoying nice conversations with club members, he was given the honor of presenting his friend and mentor, Jackie Sterling, with the Women's Club's Legacy Award as well as a plaque from the Office of the Attorney General, recognizing her remarkable contributions to her community and the state. Since the 1970s, Jackie has dedicated herself to Porter County, serving as treasurer, auditor, recorder, and in numerous other roles beyond elected office. Thanks for your decades of dedication to Hoosiers! |
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June 24: Solicitor General James Barta argues TikTok case in front of Indiana Supreme Court
Our office argued in the Indiana Supreme Court against TikTok’s attempt to dismiss our two lawsuits and won. As our lawsuits allege, this social media platform puts Hoosiers at risk of having their personal data exploited by China’s communist government. It pushes harmful content to our kids while protecting Chinese kids. Plus, it makes millions off Hoosiers (over $45 million in 2021) by monetizing their personal data. With this case now heading back to Trial Court, we will continue pursuing these cases to hold TikTok accountable! |
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June 24: AG Rokita addresses prosecutors at IPAC
Attorney General Todd Rokita had the honor of addressing prosecutors from across Indiana at the Indiana Prosecuting Attorneys Council's Summer Meeting to highlight our office’s work, particularly our Appeals Division’s success in defending convictions, including high-profile death row cases. More than 90% of our appeals cases succeed, ensuring justice for child abusers, murderers, rapists, and other criminals.
These prosecutors are vital in holding these types of individuals accountable and we’re committed to standing with them to keep our communities safe. Thank you to IPAC for another great event! |
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June 20: AG Rokita visits Wolfe & Swickard Machine Company
Attorney General Todd Rokita had the opportunity to tour Wolfe & Swickard Machine Company! Since 1946, this precision machining and supply chain management company has served Indiana by producing critical parts, including for our military. During the visit, he met inspiring individuals like Joe Williams, who started at the company at 18 and worked his way up to president, Steve (a veteran—thank you for your service!), and Andres, a new U.S. citizen from Haiti. He stopped at their stations to learn about their daily work. AG Rokita thanked Joe and the entire team for the warm welcome and a commemorative 75th-anniversary challenge coin! Excited for their continued growth in the manufacturing industry. |
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June 18: AG Rokita visits Clay County Lincoln Day Dinner
Attorney General Todd Rokita was happy to be at the Clay County Lincoln Day Dinner with many Hoosier patriots to talk about our office's recent work. These events are where we get our marching orders and share what we're doing. We're working hard to save taxpayer money, stop illegal immigration, dismantle lingering Biden era regulations, shut down illegal robocallers and other scammers to protect consumers, and much more.
Fun fact: The special hat he's wearing was an early Father’s Day gift from Teddy. It’s custom made with his hand print on the side along with the words “#1 dad” written across it. |
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June 18: AG Rokita attends ribbon cutting for 1st Choice for Women Pregnancy Center reopening
Attorney General Todd Rokita had the honor to attend and speak at the ribbon cutting for the reopening of the 1st choice for Women Pregnancy Center. This center will serve as a beacon of hope, offering vital care, resources, and full support to mothers in need. It will also ensure this community protects the lives of the unborn. The culture of life has never been stronger in Indiana and my office will always fight to ensure it stays that way. |
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June 10: AG Rokita speaks at Greenwood Rotary Club
Attorney General Todd Rokita said it was great to speak with the Greenwood Rotary Club about our office's work to protect consumers from the latest scams, shut down robocallers, keep criminals on appeals behind bars, combat illegal immigration, and defend the rule of law.
Thank you to the Rotary Club's president, Julia Reynolds, longtime friend of mine, Steve Powell, and all the other members for the warm welcome! |
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Attorney General Todd Rokita secures protections for Hoosiers’ DNA amid 23andMe bankruptcy
Attorney General Todd Rokita continued his leadership in the fight to hold tech companies accountable for consumer privacy today, announcing that the entity buying 23andMe has agreed to consumer protections as part of a bankruptcy sale.
“Hoosiers who have provided sensitive information to this company deserve assurance that their data will remain confidential and secure amid these bankruptcy proceedings,” Attorney General Rokita said. “The agreement we forged with the new owners of 23andMe helps achieve this objective, and I’m proud of our team’s work toward achieving a resolution.”
Before 23andMe filed for bankruptcy in March 2025, Attorney General Rokita co-led a coalition of 44 attorneys general to investigate a 2023 data breach that impacted over 6.9 million 23andMe customers.
After the breach, sensitive data stolen from 23andMe customers was posted on the dark web for sale, including targeted sales within days of the 2023 Hamas attack on Israel of the data of at least 1 million individuals with Ashkenazi Jewish heritage. Attorney General Rokita demanded that 23andMe comply with security and privacy safeguards to protect consumer data.
Undeterred by the bankruptcy filing, Attorney General Rokita took additional decisive action, including:
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Issuing a consumer alert to Hoosiers reminding them of their right to delete their 23andMe accounts if they choose.
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Being the first state to appear in the bankruptcy proceeding to stand up for consumers’ right to control their own genetic information.
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Pressing the Indiana General Assembly to pass HEA 1521, Indiana’s new genetic privacy law, on an emergency basis, effective May 6, 2025, to further protect Hoosiers and ensure direct-to-consumer genetic testing companies like 23andMe act responsibly.
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Leading states to work with the entity buying 23andMe to include consumer protections in the sale order, including security and privacy safeguards that Indiana demanded 23andMe adopt before it filed for bankruptcy.
TTAM — a nonprofit created by 23andMe founder and CEO Anne Wojcicki — was selected as the winning bidder in the bankruptcy sale. Key conditions of the sale include:
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No transfer of customer DNA – Because TTAM is affiliated with 23andMe, no genetic data will be transferred to a third party.
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Customer control over data – TTAM has agreed, in perpetuity, to allow consumers to permanently delete their data at any time, with new mechanisms in place to ensure that deletion requests are honored and verifiable by the Attorney General.
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Compensation for data breach victims – TTAM’s $305 million bid will help pay claims to the over 6.9 million people affected by 23andMe’s 2023 data breach.
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Preserving scientific research – The nonprofit status of TTAM enables it to partner more freely with other public institutions and researchers, ensuring ongoing progress in critical health and medical research for data of consumers who have opted in to such research.
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No disruption to services – With the same founder at the helm, consumers who wish to continue to receive the services they paid for will see no meaningful change in ownership or use of their data.
Attorney General Rokita will continue monitoring the transition closely, including enforcement of data deletion rights and compliance with privacy and data security laws.
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Attorney General Todd Rokita leads 13 Investigations resulting
in charges to combat health care fraud nationwide
Attorney General Todd Rokita’s office took decisive action as part of a nationwide crackdown on health care fraud, targeting licensed medical professionals and providers allegedly involved in fraudulent schemes and drug diversion.
The Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) conducted 13 criminal investigations into suspected Medicaid fraud, resulting in charges against 12 individuals.
"Medicaid is a critical lifeline for Hoosiers, and we have zero tolerance for those who abuse it for personal gain," Attorney General Rokita said. "Our committed team tirelessly pursues accountability for those who defraud the system, ensuring justice for our taxpayers, preserving essential resources, and ensuring the proper use of controlled substances to protect patients."
In these 13 cases, the Indiana Attorney General’s MFCU investigated licensed health care professionals and Medicaid providers suspected of illegal activities.
These investigations align with a national effort spearheaded by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Below are summaries of the cases involving Indiana’s MFCU investigations. In each case, the fact that a person has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation, and these individuals are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The abbreviations "LPN," "RN," and "QMA" designate licensed practical nurses, registered nurses, and qualified medication aides, respectively.
State v. Nathaniel Stimpson 90D01-2506-F6-000062
In Wells County, RN Nathaniel Stimpson, 34, of Decatur, Indiana, is charged with Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud or Deceit, a Level 6 felony, and four counts of Theft, all Class A misdemeanors. It is alleged that Stimpson, while working for Eleos Hospice Care, stole medication from patients and obtained controlled substances for his own use. This case is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Robin Gillman of the Indiana MFCU.
State v. Nathaniel Stimpson 01D01-2506-F6-000048
In Adams County, RN Nathaniel Stimpson, 34, of Decatur, Indiana, is charged with Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud or Deceit, a Level 6 felony, and twelve counts of Theft, all Class A misdemeanors. It is alleged that Stimpson, while working for Eleos Hospice Care, stole medication from patients and obtained controlled substances for his own use. This case is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Robin Gillman of the Indiana MFCU.
State v. Billy Guthrie 30D02-2506-F6-000936
In Hancock County, RN Billy Guthrie, 48, of Knightstown, Indiana, is charged with Furnishing False or Fraudulent Information and Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud or Deceit, all Level 6 felonies. It is alleged that Guthrie, while working for Greenfield Healthcare Center, diverted medication from patients and obtained controlled substances for his own use. This case is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Robin Gillman of the Indiana MFCU.
State v. Dezarae Polinske 49D36-2506-F6-018109
In Marion County, RN Dezarae Polinske, 30, of Elkhart, Wisconsin, is charged with Furnishing False or Fraudulent Information and Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud or Deceit, all Level 6 felonies. It is alleged that Polinske, while working at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, diverted medication from a patient and obtained a controlled substance for her own use. This case is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Robin Gillman of the Indiana MFCU.
State v. Sheri Hapner 44D01-2506-F6-000094
In LaGrange County, LPN Sheri Hapner, 53, of Middlebury, Indiana, is charged with Failure to Make, Keep or Furnish a Record, Furnishing False or Fraudulent Information, and Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud or Deceit, all Level 6 felonies. It is alleged that Hapner, while working at the Waters of LaGrange, diverted medication from patients, failed to properly document medication administration, documented false information, or obtained controlled substances for her own use. This case is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Robin Gillman of the Indiana MFCU.
State v. Jennifer Anne Brant 02D04-2506-F6-000880
In Allen County, Jennifer Anne Brant, 62, of New Haven, Indiana, is charged with Fraud and Theft, both Level 6 felonies. Brant, a licensed Home Health Aide, is alleged to have submitted claims for personal attendant care services provided to an in-home patient that were not actually provided. This case is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Georgeanna Teipen of the Indiana MFCU.
State v. Tara Tiara Brown 02D05-2506-F6-000895
In Allen County, Tara Tiara Brown, 43, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, is charged with Fraud and Theft, both Level 6 felonies. Brown, an in-home personal care attendant, is alleged to have submitted claims for personal attendant care services provided to multiple in-home patients that were not actually provided. This case is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Georgeanna Teipen of the Indiana MFCU.
State v. Lindsay Plake 34C01-2506-F6-001506
In Howard County, Lindsay Plake, 40, of Elwood, Indiana, is charged with Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud or Deceit, Failure to Make, Keep or Furnish Records, and Furnishing False or Fraudulent Information, all Level 6 felonies, and Theft, a Class A misdemeanor. Plake, a qualified medication aide working in an assisted living facility, is alleged to have stolen prescribed medications from multiple residents of that facility. This case is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Georgeanna Teipen of the Indiana MFCU.
State v. Catherine Grimes 49D23-2506-F6-018636
In Marion County, Catherine Grimes, 66, of Greencastle, Indiana, is charged with five counts of Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud or Deceit and one count of Failure to Make, Keep or Furnish Records, all Level 6 felonies. Grimes, a Registered Nurse, is alleged to have acquired multiple types of prescribed controlled substances from multiple inpatients of an Indianapolis recovery center. This case is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Kyle Sprunger of the Indiana MFCU.
State v. Christy Orwig 39D01-2506-F6-000607
In Jefferson County, RN Christy A. Orwig, 58, of Madison, Indiana, is charged with Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud or Deceit, Illegally Possessing a Narcotic Drug, Failing to Make, Keep, or Furnish a Record, and Furnishing False or Fraudulent Information, all Level 6 felonies. It is alleged that Orwig, while working at a nursing home, dispensed patient narcotics for her own personal use on various occasions. The case was investigated by Sarah Shoup and is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Kyle Sprunger of the Indiana MFCU.
State v. Jenny Byrd 82D03-2506-F6-003827
In Vanderburgh County, QMA Jenny F. Byrd, 41, of Oakland City, Indiana, is charged with Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud or Deceit, Illegally Possessing a Narcotic Drug, and Failing to Make, Keep, or Furnish a Record, all Level 6 felonies. It is alleged that Byrd, while employed at a nursing home, diverted narcotic drugs intended for patients for her own personal use and admitted to the diversion during the investigation. The case was investigated by Vinnie Gieselman and is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Kyle Sprunger of the Indiana MFCU.
State v. Kayla Bell 82D03-2506-F5-003828
In Vanderburgh County, LPN Kayla R. Bell, 35, of Newburgh, Indiana, is charged with Obstructing the Delivery of a Prescription Drug, a Level 5 felony, and Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud or Deceit, Illegally Possessing a Narcotic Drug, and Failing to Make, Keep, or Furnish a Record, all Level 6 felonies. It is alleged that Bell, while working at a nursing home, diverted patient narcotics for her own use, including signing out drugs for a patient without an active prescription, and admitted to the diversion during the investigation. The case was investigated by Vinnie Gieselman and is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Kyle Sprunger of the Indiana MFCU.
State v. Patrice Amos 49D35-2506-F6-018645
In Marion County, RN Patrice R. Amos, 44, of Avon, Indiana, is charged with Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud or Deceit, Illegally Possessing a Narcotic Drug, and Failing to Make, Keep, or Furnish a Record, all Level 6 felonies. It is alleged that Amos, while working at a nursing home, diverted narcotic drugs intended for facility patients for her own personal use. The case was investigated by Craig Whited and is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Kyle Sprunger of the Indiana MFCU.
Attorney General Rokita expressed gratitude to the investigators and attorneys of his Indiana MFCU team for their tireless efforts in these cases.
The Indiana Medicaid Fraud Control Unit receives 75% of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a federal grant. The remaining 25 percent is funded by the State of Indiana.
Charging documents connected to the aforementioned cases — excepting those involving active warrants — are available upon request. Email [email protected].
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Attorney General Todd Rokita’s Litigation Division saves Hoosier taxpayers $125 million through successful advocacy
Efficiency Machine: AG legal team saves $12M in first half of 2025 alone
During Attorney General Todd Rokita’s tenure, his office’s Litigation Division has achieved more than $125 million estimated taxpayer savings through successful advocacy on behalf of the state.
“By heading off frivolous, unending legal battles and taking charge of complex settlements – these are just a few ways our office uses efficiency to save hard-earned Hoosier dollars,” Attorney General Rokita said. “We believe in serving with servants’ hearts. That includes taking very seriously our fiduciary responsibility to taxpayers. Keep in mind this is just one division of our office.”
The Litigation Division represents the state and its agencies, officials and employees in state and federal courts. The division, led by Chief Counsel Patricia Orloff Erdmann, has four sections — each with its own practice area.
Here are the types of cases our team fights tirelessly inside the courtroom:
The state’s victory in Gerlach v. Todd Rokita, et al., in which plaintiffs alleged that the state defendants wrongfully withheld interest earnings on unclaimed property in state custody — allegedly violating plaintiffs’ right to just compensation under the Fifth Amendment’s Takings Clause. The court dismissed all claims for damages, attorneys’ fees and just compensation — a decision upheld on appeal. Financial savings for taxpayers exceeded $5 million.
In another case — Williams v. Boley et al. — plaintiffs sued on behalf of an individual who died in an officer-involved shooting. The plaintiff alleged that an Indiana State Trooper wrongfully shot the decedent in an unprovoked attack, but Attorney General Rokita’s team presented evidence showing that the shooting was in self-defense after the decedent pointed a gun at the trooper. Financial savings to taxpayers was approximately $300,000.
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Attorney General Todd Rokita helps deliver $7.4 billion blow to Sackler Family and Purdue Pharma in nation’s largest opioid settlement
Indiana to receive up to $100 Million
Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita, alongside 55 other Attorneys General, has secured a landmark $7.4 billion settlement with the Sackler family and Purdue Pharma, marking the largest settlement to date holding individuals accountable for their role in the opioid crisis. This agreement addresses the devastating impact of Purdue’s aggressive marketing of opioid products under the Sacklers’ ownership, which fueled the worst drug crisis in U.S. history.
“This settlement - along with the other ones we have produced over the last four years—are a monumental victory for Hoosiers and communities nationwide devastated by the opioid epidemic,” Attorney General Rokita said. “The Sackler family and Purdue Pharma profited for decades while pushing addictive drugs that tore apart families and lives. This agreement ends the family’s control, bans them from selling opioids in the U.S., and delivers critical funds to rebuild our communities through addiction treatment, prevention, and recovery programs.”
Under the terms of the settlement, Indiana’s state and local governments will receive up to $100 million over the next 15 years to support efforts to combat the opioid crisis. The majority of the settlement funds will be distributed within the first three years, with the Sacklers contributing $1.5 billion and Purdue providing approximately $900 million in the initial payment. Additional payments include $500 million after one year, $500 million after two years, and $400 million after three years.
The settlement permanently ends the Sackler family’s control of Purdue Pharma and prohibits them from participating in the opioid industry in the United States. The funds will bolster critical programs to address addiction, support recovery, and prevent further harm in communities across Indiana and the nation.
Like prior opioid settlements, the settlement with Purdue and the Sacklers will involve resolution of legal claims by state and local governments. The local government sign-on and voting solicitation process for this settlement moving forward will be contingent on bankruptcy court approval. A hearing is scheduled on that matter in the coming days.
“This is about accountability and justice,” Attorney General Rokita added. “We’re ensuring that those responsible for this crisis are held accountable and that the resources are directed to where they’re needed most - our communities working to heal and rebuild.”
Attorney General Rokita is joined in securing this settlement in principle by the attorneys general of Alabama, Alaska, American Samoa, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin, Wyoming.
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Illegal alien’s release from Randolph County Jail highlights need for better compliance with Indiana laws, says Attorney General Todd Rokita
Attorney General Todd Rokita is providing new guidance to Indiana sheriffs on their obligations under Indiana’s anti-sanctuary law following the improper release of an illegal alien from the Randolph County Jail.
“When Indiana law enforcement agencies encounter illegal aliens wanted for immigration-related crimes or civil violations, they cannot limit their cooperation with federal authorities,” Attorney General Rokita said. “In this case, the release of this criminal alien should’ve never occurred.”
As the state’s top legal officer, Attorney General Rokita is responsible for enforcing the state’s anti-sanctuary law implicated in the Randolph County incident.
Attorney General Rokita has brought lawsuits against the sheriffs of Monroe and St. Joseph counties over their policies and practices of refusing to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. For the time being, he has issued warnings to other agencies that have committed violations mistakenly rather than deliberately and willfully. By issuing the new guidance, Attorney General Rokita is ensuring that all sheriffs are on notice about their obligations and that mistaken violations of state law will be less likely to occur.
“This improper release of a wanted criminal alien likely would not have happened had the Indiana State Senate Judiciary Committee Chairwoman done her job and passed House Bill 1531 like Hoosiers wanted the General Assembly to do,” Attorney General Rokita said. “Sen. Liz Brown had an opportunity to add clarity and teeth to current provisions, which would’ve helped keep Indiana communities safer and given sheriffs reassurance about their authority to cooperate with federal immigration officials.”
On May 28, the Randolph County Jail released Marcio Romero Torres after only seven hours. Torres, an illegal alien, is wanted by federal authorities for multiple felonies, including alleged hostage taking — facts discovered by a Union City police officer who took Torres to jail following a traffic stop.
Attorney General Rokita said, “under well-settled federal and state law, a jail can maintain custody of an individual who the jail knows is the subject of a federal arrest warrant for 48 hours — or longer with a copy of the warrant in hand.” He added that if “a sheriff was to deliberately adopt a policy or practice of releasing individuals in circumstances like those that occurred in Randolph County, he would be in violation of Indiana law.
The guidance Attorney General Rokita sent to sheriffs explains both what sheriffs are permitted to do with respect to the detention of illegal aliens and individuals wanted for immigration crimes as well as what sheriffs are prohibited from doing under state law. Clear legal guidance on these matters will help sheriffs keep their counties safe.
A letter on this topic from Attorney General Rokita to Indiana sheriffs is linked here.
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Attorney General Todd Rokita champions justice for Indiana women
Supreme Court rules to keep violent predator behind bars for 87 years
In June of 2020, over the course of two days, Victor Johnson conducted a string of attacks on several women in Indianapolis. After a jury trial, Johnson was convicted of eleven counts of criminal activity, which included one count of Level 1 felony attempted murder, one count of Level 1 felony attempted rape, and four counts of Level 5 felony intimidation.
The Court of Appeals of Indiana affirmed the convictions and 87-year sentence of Victor Johnson, who was found guilty of a series of violent attacks on multiple women in Indianapolis.
“This two-day crime spree caused immense harm to innocent Hoosier women and terrorized our community,” Attorney General Rokita said. “Victor Johnson’s heinous acts, including attempted murder, attempted rape, and multiple counts of intimidation, inflicted profound physical and emotional harm on his victims. This ruling ensures that he will face the consequences of his actions and protects our communities from further harm.”
The Court of Appeals’ unanimous decision rejected Johnson’s claims that the evidence was insufficient to support three counts of Level 5 felony intimidation, that his 87-year sentence was inappropriate, and that the trial court abused its discretion by imposing consecutive sentences for attempted murder and attempted rape. The court highlighted the violent and predatory nature of Johnson’s actions, which targeted multiple victims over two days, causing severe physical and emotional trauma.
Attorney General Rokita praised the work of Deputy Attorney General Andrew Sweet, who represented the State in this case.
“Our office remains committed to protecting Hoosiers from violent crime and ensuring that those who prey on our communities face the full consequences of their actions,” Deputy Attorney General Andrew Sweet said. “This ruling sends a clear message that such egregious behavior will not be tolerated in Indiana.”
The appellate court decision is attached here.
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Attorney General Todd Rokita issues opinion on law enforcement’s authority to arrest and detain individuals, including illegal aliens, driving without a license
Attorney General Todd Rokita has issued an official opinion clarifying that law enforcement officers have the authority to arrest and detain individuals, including illegal aliens, who are caught driving without a valid driver’s license. The opinion, requested by Jackson County Prosecutor Jeff Chalfant, addresses a critical public safety issue amid growing concerns about illegal immigration and its impact on Indiana’s roads.
“Hoosiers deserve safe streets, and that starts with ensuring those who break our laws face consequences,” said Attorney General Rokita. “This opinion gives our law enforcement guidance to hold accountable anyone, especially illegal aliens, driving without a license, a crime that puts our communities at risk."
The opinion states that driving without a license is a Class C misdemeanor under Indiana Code § 9-24-18-1, and law enforcement officers may arrest and process offenders at a county jail. Unlike other traffic-related misdemeanors, individuals arrested for this offense cannot be released simply by signing a written promise to appear in court because they lack a valid driver’s license number—a statutory requirement for release under Indiana Code § 9-30-2-5. Attorney General Rokita said the statute thus ensures that those who have never been licensed, including many illegal aliens, can be detained and brought before a court promptly.
The opinion discusses law enforcement's general authority to arrest all individuals who drive without a license and book such individuals at a county jail, instead of immediately releasing them. But the opinion has particular importance for law enforcement’s encounters with illegal immigrants—who are not permitted to obtain a driver’s license under Indiana law and whose out-of-state licenses, if they possess any, are not valid in Indiana. Illegal aliens operating motor vehicles pose unique and serious safety risks. Further, booking an illegal alien at a county jail for driving without a license will ensure that federal authorities are notified of the arrest and able to make arrangements to apprehend
the alien if they choose to do so.
“Illegal aliens cannot drive on Indiana roadways because they are barred from obtaining valid licenses, but they do it anyway because they don’t respect our laws,” Attorney General Rokita added. “This opinion should provide clarity on law enforcement’s ability to detain these offenders, ensuring they face justice rather than being released back onto our streets.”
The opinion emphasizes that such arrests are both permitted by state law and comply with the Fourth Amendment, citing U.S. Supreme Court precedents like Atwater v. City of Lago Vista (2001), which allows arrests for minor criminal offenses, and County of Riverside v. McLaughlin (1991), which permits detention for up to 48 hours pending a judicial probable cause determination. And under state law, if an arrest is made and the offender cannot sign a valid promise to appear in court, as will always be the case with individuals arrested for driving without a license, law enforcement is required to take the offender to court promptly.
For many decades, the office of attorney general has issued advisory opinions like this one. They serve an essential function and provide public officials a correct, legal interpretation of the law. Additionally, a question may be presented to assist a state official in determining a policy choice or future course of action. They also help protect public officials from legal liability and lawsuits that could result from an incorrect interpretation of the law.
Read the opinion here.
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Attorney General Rokita’s win stings drug trade
Fentanyl dealer’s conviction locked in by court
Attorney General Todd Rokita applauded the Indiana Court of Appeals for upholding the conviction of Holly J. Terry for Level 1 felony dealing in a controlled substance resulting in death. The ruling reinforces Indiana’s tough stance against those who contribute to the opioid epidemic through illegal drug trafficking.
“This decision is a significant step in our fight to protect Hoosiers from the deadly consequences of fentanyl and other dangerous drugs,” Attorney General Rokita said. “We remain committed to rooting out those who profit from poisoning our communities. This case underscores our resolve to hold drug dealers accountable and prevent further tragedies.”
On October 4, 2021, Terry supplied drugs laced with a lethal dose of fentanyl to Melinda Duncan in Muncie, Indiana, causing Duncan’s death from acute mixed drug intoxication. The prosecution presented compelling evidence, including text messages arranging the drug deal, cellphone location data tracing Terry’s travel from a known drug market in Trotwood, Ohio, to Duncan’s home, and Terry’s own recorded statements admitting to drug dealing.
The Court of Appeals affirmed the trial court’s decisions to admit a forensic toxicology report, which identified fentanyl as the primary cause of Duncan’s death, and testimony about Terry’s prior drug transactions with the victim. These rulings were deemed appropriate, highlighting Terry’s role as a supplier and her financial motive in the drug trade.
The court decision is attached here.
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Attorney General Todd Rokita sounds the alarm on dangerous BMV scam texts
Attorney General Todd Rokita is alerting Hoosiers about an email and text message scam falsely claiming to be a “final notice” from the Indiana Motor Vehicle Administration (BMV), not the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles. These fraudulent messages aim to steal personal and financial information from unsuspecting individuals by threatening actions related to alleged traffic violations.
“Don’t let fraudsters steal your identity or hard-earned money,” said Attorney General Rokita. “Scammers are using sophisticated tactics to trick Hoosiers. If you receive a suspicious text claiming to be from the BMV, do not click on any links and report it to our office immediately then call your phone provider for blocking solutions.”
In previous scam messages - like June 5, 2025, scammers sent out different fraud texts from “DMV” instead of “BMV”. Scammers are using a new tactic in these deceptive messages and sending through Apple’s iMessage app rather than SMS messages. Our office has received multiple complaints and our Anti-Robocall Task Force is diligently working with three major Mobile Network Operators (MNO) to reach a solution in policing these new illegal behaviors.
The scam messages claim that, by June 26, 2025, individuals with outstanding tickets will face the following actions if payment is not completed:
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They will be reported to the BMV for ticket violation.
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Their vehicle registration will be suspended.
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Their driving privileges will be suspended for 30 days.
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They will be transferred to a toll booth and charged a 35% service fee.
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They may face prosecution and will suffer potential impacts to credit scores.
Attorney General Rokita is calling on Hoosiers to remain vigilant and take the following precautions:
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Do Not click on any links in unsolicited email or text messages claiming to be from the BMV.
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Do Not provide personal information, such as your driver’s license number or Social Security number.
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Do Not share any card or account information through text messages or unverified links.
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Report the unwanted text messages as junk on the app you use and block the phone number or email address.
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Contact your phone provider for call/text blocking solutions. Many manufacturers have built-in features to block unwanted calls or offer apps to block and label potential spam calls. Click here for a list of resources available.
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Forward spam emails to the FTC at [email protected] and report at reportFraud.ftc.gov.
If you have already provided personal information or money through a link in these email or text messages, file a consumer complaint immediately online at indianaconsumer.com or call 317-232-6330.
For more information on avoiding scams, visit the Indiana Attorney General’s website at www.in.gov/attorneygeneral.
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Don’t let your freedom fizzle: Light up your Fourth of July with Unclaimed Property
Attorney General Todd Rokita ignites Hoosiers to spark up their Independence Day on IndianaUnclaimed.gov
As Indiana residents prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks and freedom, Attorney General Todd Rokita invites Hoosiers to ignite their holiday by visiting IndianaUnclaimed.gov to discover unclaimed property that could add a spark to their celebrations.
“Hoosiers deserve to celebrate this Independence Day with a bang,” Attorney General Todd Rokita said. “There’s nothing more patriotic than reclaiming what’s rightfully yours. Let’s fire up the festivities by checking IndianaUnclaimed.gov for unclaimed treasures waiting to burst back into your wallet.”
Here are the types of property that might go unclaimed this Fourth of July that are an even bigger bang than fireworks:
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Unclaimed wages or commissions
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Money orders
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Safety deposit box contents
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Savings and checking accounts
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Refunds
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Overpayments such as:
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Credit card balances
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Cell phone bills
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BMV payments
Here’s how to make sure your property doesn’t go unclaimed:
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Keep a record of all bank accounts.
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Record all stock certificates and be sure to cash all dividends received.
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Record all utility deposits, including telephone, cable, and electricity deposits.
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Cash all checks promptly.
Join the revolutionary effort and be sure to check IndianaUnclaimed.gov or text CLAIM to 46220 to search your name, family, or business.
In addition to the website, you also may contact the Unclaimed Property Division at 1-866-462-5246 or [email protected].
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