INDIANAPOLIS — Candidates for Marion County Prosecutor faced off in a debate on WRTV Tuesday evening. Democrat Ryan Mears is defending his position against challenger Republican Cyndi Carrasco.
Both agreed that crime in the Circle City is a major problem. Carrasco attacked Mears' policy of not prosecuting minor marijuana offenses.
"We have to restore the fact that there has to be accountability and consequences for people who commit crimes, especially those that commit gun crimes," Carrasco said.
While Mears argued that his focus is on prosecuting violent crimes and providing support and prevention programs.
"We have a number of partnerships including with the MLK center and the Boys and Girls Club, where we really try to address the root causes of the issues people are experiencing growing up. Why do so many young people think they need to have a gun? That it's a right of passage to have a gun?" Mears said.
Marion County residents WRTV spoke to also agree that crime is a problem and understand that there's no easy solution.
"Bond money should be definitely high. Especially with marijuana. I think bond should start at $2,000," Marion County resident Lecestre Whitlow said.
"If there was more for the youth to do, more that will draw their attention, I believe that they would go to it," Marion County resident Joyce Casey said.
"If we're not harder on crime, then crime is going to continue to carry on, and if there's nothing done about it, it's just a slap on the wrist, then it's just a repeat cycle. Where does it stop?," Marion County resident LaKeyia Anderson said.
Election Day is November 8. Early voting begins October 12.
Watch the entire debate here.
-
Future of I-65, I-70: INDOT concludes ProPEL Indy study
I-65 and I-70 are two of the main ways to get in and around the Indy metro. The city's transportation network is due for a major revamp in the coming years.
IMPD specialized teams recover nearly 2,000 guns in 2025
Newly released numbers from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department highlight the significant impact of specialized teams working to reduce violent crime across the Circle City.
Carmel Police roll out new tech to protect officers during traffic stops
The Carmel police are introducing new technology to protect officers during traffic stops, following a weekend when three Indiana State Police vehicles were struck while parked on the roadside.
Holiday prices rise as tariffs and inflation hit retailers and customers
The most wonderful time of the year could soon become the most expensive as retailers and customers alike deal with rising inflation, new tariffs and higher operating costs this year.
