Eliminate Bond Options for Child Abuse, Battery, and Sexual Abuse Charges in Indiana

Recent signers:
Robert White and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

We, the concerned citizens of Indiana, are writing to demand immediate action to protect our children from the heinous crimes of child abuse, battery, and sexual abuse. We seek the elimination of bond options for individuals charged with or convicted of these offenses to ensure the safety and well-being of our community's most vulnerable members. As a survivor of child abuse, I understand the long-lasting trauma and pain these crimes inflict. The current system, which allows offenders to be released on bond, fails to recognize the severity of these crimes and puts children at continued risk. 2026 activity (as of February/March) included that the Indiana State Police Internet Crimes Against Children, ICAC Task Force, received 2,951 tips in January 2026 alone. That number is only rising, and is estimated to be over 1,000 tips, as of April 2026. Substations child abuse in Indiana exceeded 21,000 cases last year.  My own son, Avery, was a victim of child battery at just 3.5 months old, by his biological father. His abuser was released after only four days. This is unacceptable. Furthermore, cases like that of Oaklynn Vazquez, who suffered unspeakable abuse and torture leading to her tragic death, highlight the urgent need for reform. These defendants must be held in jail, without the possibility of bond, to prevent further harm and ensure justice. The rise in child abuse cases in Indiana demands immediate and decisive action. Eliminating bond options for these crimes sends a clear message that our state will not tolerate the abuse and exploitation of children.

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Recent signers:
Robert White and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

We, the concerned citizens of Indiana, are writing to demand immediate action to protect our children from the heinous crimes of child abuse, battery, and sexual abuse. We seek the elimination of bond options for individuals charged with or convicted of these offenses to ensure the safety and well-being of our community's most vulnerable members. As a survivor of child abuse, I understand the long-lasting trauma and pain these crimes inflict. The current system, which allows offenders to be released on bond, fails to recognize the severity of these crimes and puts children at continued risk. 2026 activity (as of February/March) included that the Indiana State Police Internet Crimes Against Children, ICAC Task Force, received 2,951 tips in January 2026 alone. That number is only rising, and is estimated to be over 1,000 tips, as of April 2026. Substations child abuse in Indiana exceeded 21,000 cases last year.  My own son, Avery, was a victim of child battery at just 3.5 months old, by his biological father. His abuser was released after only four days. This is unacceptable. Furthermore, cases like that of Oaklynn Vazquez, who suffered unspeakable abuse and torture leading to her tragic death, highlight the urgent need for reform. These defendants must be held in jail, without the possibility of bond, to prevent further harm and ensure justice. The rise in child abuse cases in Indiana demands immediate and decisive action. Eliminating bond options for these crimes sends a clear message that our state will not tolerate the abuse and exploitation of children.

The Decision Makers

U.S. Senate
2 Members
Todd Young
U.S. Senate - Indiana
Jim Banks
U.S. Senate - Indiana

Supporter Voices

Petition Updates