State Representative Andrew Ireland (R-House District 90), who represents parts of Franklin and Perry Townships on Indianapolis’ south side, says Indiana lawmakers should consider giving the General Assembly the power to impeach prosecutors and judges who fail to enforce state law—particularly in cases involving violent crime.
In an interview with Indy Politics, Ireland criticized Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears for what he described as a pattern of non-enforcement, particularly involving repeat violent offenders. While acknowledging the traditional concept of prosecutorial discretion, Ireland argued that the current situation in Marion County has moved beyond discretion and into neglect.
“At the end of the day, it’s not a partisan issue—it’s a people issue,” Ireland said. “All I’m looking for is someone who will enforce our laws, especially when it comes to violent crime. Right now, I don’t think that’s happening.”
Ireland drew a distinction between Mears and his predecessor, Terry Curry, stating that Curry “did the job well” and “held individuals accountable.” Ireland said the issue isn’t limited to prosecutors alone, but also includes judges who he believes too often approve lenient plea deals.
“It doesn’t make a lot of sense to pass laws at the Statehouse if prosecutors and judges are just going to ignore them,” he said.
Ireland’s comments come in response to legislation previously proposed by State Senator Mike Young that would allow Indiana State Police or Capitol Police to assume jurisdiction over the downtown Indianapolis “Mile Square.” While Ireland said he supports law enforcement collaboration, he stressed that policing alone won’t solve the problem if the judicial system is not also fully engaged.
“You can have all the policing in the world, but if you don’t have prosecutors and judges who are willing to hold violent offenders accountable, it doesn’t mean much,” he said.
Ireland is currently exploring legislation that would allow the General Assembly to impeach prosecutors and judges under certain circumstances. Under the current state constitution, prosecutors and circuit judges are not subject to impeachment, unlike other officeholders.
“It’s amazing to me that I can be impeached, but the prosecutor can’t,” Ireland said. “That needs to change.”
He also noted that prosecutors are considered state officers and are paid with state funds, which he believes gives the legislature standing to act if local officials are not performing their duties.
While some critics argue that concerns about enforcement should be addressed through the ballot box, Ireland believes that legislative oversight and elections are not mutually exclusive.
“Yes, we need strong candidates who can make the case to voters,” he said, referring to the 2026 election when Mears is expected to seek reelection. “But that doesn’t mean we should tie our hands as a legislature.”
Ireland also suggested that Indiana should explore ending straight-ticket voting to encourage voters to evaluate candidates beyond party affiliation.
“It’s worth a conversation,” he said. “People should know who they’re voting for, regardless of party.”
