STATEHOUSE (July 29, 2016) – State Rep. Wendy McNamara (R-Evansville) announced plans today to file legislation next session to help crack down on crime and better protect public safety officers.

As a result of increased organized crime activity, McNamara worked with Evansville Police Chief Billy Bolin and Vanderburgh County Prosecutor Nick Hermann to address public safety concerns. The Evansville lawmaker drafted a bill, which would allow law enforcement to seize a convicted criminal’s real or personal property, like cars, if it can be tied to organized crime.

“We hope to send a strong message to those who continue to threaten our communities, that if you are convicted you can count on your property that’s tied to organized crime being seized,” McNamara said. “Our communities can’t afford to let criminals continue to profit from their illegal activity, and this legislative effort is one way we think can make a positive impact.”

McNamara’s bill would also make it a level 5 felony to threaten, by words or actions, a public safety official or their family. McNamara said this provision stems from increased threats to police via social media, and a recent case in Indianapolis where shots were fired at an officer’s patrol car and home.

“It is imperative we work together to combat the growing crime rate in our community,” McNamara said. “We also need to focus our attention on protecting our public safety officers who put their lives on the line to keep our neighborhoods safe. This legislation seeks to protect those that serve to protect us.”

McNamara said she will continue to work with public safety officials over the summer and fall before session begins in January.