INDIANAPOLIS – In a targeted effort to protect survivors and hold violent offenders accountable, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) detectives arrested 11 men this week during a citywide initiative dubbed Operation Domestic Disturbance. Each of the suspects had outstanding warrants tied to domestic violence, with many cases involving strangulation charges.
Strangulation Among the Most Serious Charges
This Article Includes
“These individuals have open warrants for domestic violence, many with strangulation attached,” said Lt. Larry Atkins, who led the operation. He noted that many also violated protective orders, further enhancing the severity of the charges.
According to Atkins, the 11 suspects face a combined 35 charges, including intimidation and invasion of privacy. These charges often indicate escalating danger, especially when suspects ignore protective, no-contact, or ex parte orders.
Tragic Numbers and Lethal Risk
The IMPD reported nine domestic violence-related homicides and nine non-fatal shootings in 2024 alone—highlighting the urgency of arresting violent offenders before more lives are lost.
“These are some of the most lethal and concerning offenders we deal with,” said Linda Major, Supervisor at the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office (MCPO). “They often manipulate victims into dropping charges or allowing them back into their homes.”
Survivors Face Complex Challenges
Danyette Smith of Indy Champions emphasized that many victims struggle with conflicting realities. “They may say, ‘I don’t know how I’m going to pay my bills—he was the breadwinner,’” Smith explained. Financial dependency, housing, and emotional trauma often make it harder to permanently separate from abusers.
One Goal: Survive
Despite these obstacles, Major stressed the most important objective: “A victim of domestic violence has one goal, one thing that they have to do, and that’s to survive.”
Need Help?
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, help is available. Contact the Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence at (317) 917-3685 for confidential support and resources.
