STATEHOUSE (Jan. 15, 2026) – State Rep. Tim O’Brien (R-Evansville) recently proposed legislation aimed at supporting victims of violent crime bystrengthening notification requirements prior to the release of a violent felon.
House Bill 1250 would require the Indiana Department of Correction to notify law enforcement and the prosecuting attorney of the county or community where they’re releasing a serious violent felon as well as the same authorities of where their crime was committed at least seven days before the release. A court and prosecuting attorney would then notify any victims through Indiana’s Statewide Automated Victim Information & Notification(SAVIN) program of the felon’s release.
O’Brien said the legislation was prompted by a tragic situation that occurred in Evansville last fall when local real estate agent Susan Haynie was allegedly killed by a convicted violent offender who had been released from prison just six months earlier.
“No family should ever be left in the dark about the release of a violent offender,” O’Brien said. “In this case, both local law enforcement and some victims report they were unaware of the release of a violent felon, exposing a serious gap in our system. House Bill 1250 ensures victims, prosecutors and law enforcement receive timely notification so communities can be better prepared when violent offenders return.”
O’Brien said that he worked closely with Haynie’s family while crafting this legislation. They joined forces with a group of the perpetrator’s other victims to form the Susan Haynie Committee, advocating for stronger public safety measures and improved victim notification across Indiana.
The bill has been referred to the House Courts and Criminal Code Committee for consideration. To learn more about HB 1250 or follow session live, visit iga.in.gov.
