Safety is a top priority for every family. In Indiana, crime prevention, community programs, and stronger laws are all playing a role in reducing violence and creating safer neighborhoods.
Recent trends show positive results, but challenges like domestic violence and illegal firearms remain serious issues. This article explains the latest changes, programs, and tools that Indiana families can use to stay safe.
Indiana’s Current Violence and Safety Snapshot
- Violent crime rates are beginning to decline after years of high numbers.
- Homicides in Indianapolis have dropped significantly in early 2025 compared to the same time last year.
- Illegal guns and conversion devices are being seized in record numbers, stopping crimes before they happen.
- Domestic violence fatalities still remain a major issue, reminding families to act early when warning signs appear.
New Laws and Policy Changes in 2025
Red Flag Law Updates
Indiana’s Jake Laird Red Flag Law allows authorities to remove firearms from individuals considered dangerous. In 2025, a new amendment introduced an expungement option, meaning if a person is no longer deemed dangerous, their record can be cleared. This balances safety with fairness.
Faster Protection Orders
Families facing domestic violence, stalking, or harassment can now file protection orders online. Once approved, these orders are instantly visible to police across the state, ensuring faster protection for victims.
Mental Health Response Expansion
Indiana is expanding non-police mental health crisis teams. Instead of police, trained specialists can respond to emergencies when someone is in a mental health crisis, preventing escalation and keeping families safe.
Community Tools and Resources for Families
| Program / Service | Purpose | Who It Helps | How to Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | Offers 24/7 crisis counseling | Anyone in emotional or mental health crisis | Call or text 988 |
| Indiana 211 | Connects people with housing, food, counseling, and legal services | Families needing quick referrals | Dial 211 |
| Protection Orders (e-file) | Court orders to protect against abuse and harassment | Victims of domestic violence, stalking | File online through Indiana’s court portal |
| Jake Laird Red Flag Law | Temporarily removes firearms from dangerous individuals | Families concerned about a loved one’s access to guns | Contact local police |
| Child Advocacy Centers | Safe spaces for children experiencing abuse | Children and caregivers | Report abuse at 1-800-800-5556 |
| Crime Guns Task Force | Removes illegal firearms and devices from communities | All residents | Ongoing law enforcement operations |
Practical Safety Steps for Families
- Save Emergency Numbers – Keep 988, 211, and 1-800-800-5556 in your phone and on your fridge.
- Secure Your Home – Lock windows, doors, and properly store firearms unloaded and locked away from ammunition.
- Plan Ahead – Know how to file a protection order quickly if you ever feel unsafe.
- Watch for Warning Signs – Seek help early for family members struggling with mental health or showing aggressive behavior.
- Talk to Kids – Teach children how to recognize danger, call for help, and understand safe versus unsafe situations.
Why Indiana’s Approach Is Working
- Targeted Gun Removal – By seizing thousands of illegal firearms, Indiana is reducing the tools that fuel violent crime.
- Better Mental Health Care – Crisis calls are now being redirected to professionals, lowering the risk of violent outcomes.
- Stronger Legal Protections – Online filing of protection orders gives victims faster and safer access to help.
- Community Involvement – Programs involving mentors, life coaches, and support networks are helping young people avoid crime.
A Family Action Plan
- Write down your emergency contacts and share them with every household member.
- Store all weapons and medications securely.
- Teach children how to dial 911 and 988.
- Keep a list of local shelters, advocacy centers, and hotlines in case of emergencies.
- Build relationships with neighbors—watchful communities are safer communities.
Indiana is proving that violence prevention is possible when families, communities, and leaders work together. Crime rates are starting to fall, new laws are protecting more people, and crisis response services are expanding.
The key to a safer future lies in preparation, awareness, and action. By saving important numbers, securing homes, using available laws, and supporting community programs, Indiana families can build neighborhoods where everyone feels safe.
FAQs
What should I do if a family member is in a mental health crisis?
Call or text 988 for immediate help. Specialized teams in Indiana can respond to non-violent crises without police involvement.
Can I file a protection order online in Indiana?
Yes. Indiana allows e-filing of protection orders, making it faster and safer to request protection from abuse or harassment.
What is the Jake Laird Red Flag Law?
It is a law that allows police to temporarily remove firearms from people deemed dangerous. In 2025, an expungement option was added for those later found no longer dangerous.