Bill > SB0258

This bill amends Indiana's criminal trespassing law to expand the circumstances under which a person can be charged with criminal trespass. The key addition is a new provision that makes it a criminal trespass offense if a person enters or refuses to leave a property after being prohibited by a law enforcement officer, when that person has either: (1) previously been removed from the same property by a law enforcement officer for trespassing (even if no charges were filed), or (2) has a prior conviction for criminal trespass on that specific property. The bill maintains the existing definitions of trespassing, which include entering property without consent, refusing to leave when asked, interfering with property use, and entering specific types of properties like agricultural operations or scientific research facilities without permission. The offense is generally classified as a Class A misdemeanor, but can be elevated to a Level 6 felony under certain circumstances, such as when the trespass occurs on a scientific research facility, school property, or if the person has a prior unrelated trespassing conviction. The bill aims to provide law enforcement with additional tools to address repeated trespassing incidents and protect property owners' rights.

Justice

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/senate/258/details