Governor signs Moed plan to prevent vandalism of abandoned properties

INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Gov. Mike Pence has signed into law legislation proposed by State Rep. Justin Moed (D-Indianapolis) that offers a common sense approach to combatting the vandalism of abandoned properties.

House Enrolled Act 1211 creates a new system for law enforcement officers to use to prosecute individuals who are found guilty of vandalizing an abandoned property. The language offered by Moed is part of a larger bill containing additional tools to help officials combat the production of meth.

The legislation will allow a city to declare an uninhabited home as “abandoned” and post a no trespassing sign on the property. After this is done, the victim of the crime becomes the community at large, allowing law enforcement to move ahead with the perpetrator’s prosecution.

The measure is expected to make it easier for law enforcement officers to prosecute individuals who are caught vandalizing, dumping trash or tagging graffiti on an abandoned property.

“This legislation will make it easier for law enforcement to prosecute a vandalism case,” said Moed. “Prior to the creation of this law, officers had a difficult time identifying the victim of the crime which severely hampered the pursuit of a criminal case.

“This legislation offers a clean cut solution to a growing problem in communities across Indiana,” concluded Moed. “I am glad that it gained support from the governor and hope that it plays a significant role in improving the quality of Indiana neighborhoods.”

The new law will take effect on July 1.