HB 1555 Summary

• Amends criminal trespass law to include entering or refusing to leave vacant, abandoned, or abandoned structure property after being barred by a law enforcement officer or court order.

• Removes prior requirement that abandoned properties be subject to abatement under specific Indiana Code sections, expanding the definition of properties covered under trespass law.

• Requires law enforcement officers to have reasonable suspicion of criminal activity before denying entry to or asking someone to leave a property under this provision.

• Provides exceptions allowing entry with written permission from the owner, agent, enforcement authority, or court for purposes of maintenance, repair, or demolition work.

• Effective July 1, 2013; criminal trespass is a Class A misdemeanor, but becomes a Class D felony if committed on certain facilities or if the person has a prior conviction for trespassing the same property.