A group of Indiana prosecutors says it wants the legislature to increase penalties for drug dealers. The Association of Indiana Prosecuting Attorneys says holding people accountable is an important aspect of fighting the opioid epidemic.
A law went into effect last year that means people convicted of multiple drug dealing felonies can't get suspended sentences. But Hendricks County Prosecutor Patricia Baldwin says that's not enough. She says drug dealers need to be put away for an amount of time that will make a difference in the availability of drugs.
"We're talking about sentences that went from 30 years down to one to six, with an advisory of only three years," Baldwin says. "So, therefore, they're next to nothing."
Baldwin says treatment is another important part of the equation, but people supplying drugs need to face consequences.
"Drug addiction is terrible, but it's also criminal," she says.
She's hopeful legislators will discuss the issue during next year's legislative session.