STATEHOUSE (Jan. 29, 2026) — A bill authored by State Rep. Tim O’Brien (R-Evansville) to increase notification requirements for crime victims prior to the release of a violent felon was passed by the House of Representatives on Wednesday.
O’Brien authored House Bill 1250 after Evansville real estate agent Susan Haynie was killed last fall by a serious violent offender who was released from prison just six months earlier. The legislation is aimed at strengthening protections for victims of violent crime through enhanced notification requirements upon release of a violent felon.
“Susan was a cherished community builder and a friend to many,” O’Brien said. “Hoosier Hospitality is nothing new, we aid our neighbors when something tragic occurs. The outpour of support comes as no shock to me or anyone else who knew Susan and understands the positivity and friendship she fostered in our community.”
On Tuesday, the Vanderburgh County Board of Commissioners voted to pass a resolution urging their support for the bill. Additionally, a change.org petition supporting HB 1250 garnered more than 2,000 signatures in just over a week.
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 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.
The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration. To learn more about HB 1250 and follow session, visit iga.in.gov.
