INDIANAPOLIS - Governor Mike Braun has proclaimed November 9-15, 2025, as Winter Weather Preparedness Week in Indiana, encouraging Hoosiers to take steps now to protect themselves, their families, and their property from the hazards of severe winter weather.

Indiana winters often bring snow, ice and freezing temperatures that can lead to power outages, dangerous travel conditions and other safety risks. State and local agencies, led by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS), partner each year with the National Weather Service to promote winter safety and preparedness.

"Winter storms can be unpredictable, but preparation can make all the difference," said Jonathan Whitham, Executive Director of IDHS. "By assembling emergency kits, winterizing vehicles and staying informed of changing weather conditions with the travel advisory map, Hoosiers can greatly reduce their risk and stay safe when severe weather strikes."

Throughout Winter Weather Preparedness Week, IDHS and its partners will share daily tips and resources to help residents get ready for the winter months ahead. Topics will include emergency kits, heating safety, travel precautions and how to stay informed during weather emergencies. Visit getprepared.in.gov to learn more.

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Secured School Safety Board (the Board) unanimously approved the distribution of more than $27.1 million to support school safety initiatives to 494 school/districts across the state.

To date, more than $214 million in state funding has been dedicated to the matching grant program since it was created in 2013, and the Board has approved 4,599 grant requests.

"School safety is a top priority for my administration. Every student deserves a good education, and that starts with feeling safe and secure," said Gov. Mike Braun. "That’s why Indiana continues to make unprecedented investments through the Secured School Safety Grant Program."

Last year, 499 schools split an allocation of $24 million, of which $17 million was allocated to funding school resource officers.

This year, the total amount of eligible funding requests exceeded the amount of funding for the program. Priority was given to first-time applicant schools to the SSSG Program, which were fully funded for their top priority requests. Charter school groups were capped at $100,000 in funding for all schools in the group. Remaining schools that apply to the fund regularly were funded at 92% for their top priority items. Applicants to the program rank the priority of items to help the Board better understand the greatest need for school districts.

"As a former school resource officer, I know first-hand the importance of the Secured School Safety Grants," said Julie Q. Smith, director of the Office of School Safety. "Under Governor Braun's leadership, we are proud to be able to fund nearly $20 million of school resource officers across the state, amongst a number of other important projects that fortify our school buildings and enhance the security and safety of our students."

The Secured School Safety Grant Program is administered by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security. A complete breakdown of recipient schools and the total amount of their awards can be found on the data page of the IDHS website (under the Grants header in "Selected Annual Data"). For security reasons, the use of those funds by individual schools is not publicly available.

The SSSG issues matching grants for eligible items and then schools match those funds at a certain level, either 25 percent, 50 percent or 100 percent. The match requirement is based on average daily membership of the school district, the total amount of the project or what the request covers.

Eligible items in the grant include funding for school resource officers (SROs) and law enforcement officers in schools; equipment and technology; active event warning systems (no matching requirement); firearms training for teachers and staff that choose to allow guns on school property; threat assessments and to implement a student and parent support services program.

The Indiana School Safety Hub also provides schools with a wealth of resources, training opportunities and other information designed to give schools the tools they need to keep students and staff safe.

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

INDIANAPOLIS - Businesses and residents in Owen County may qualify for low interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) following damage incurred from severe storms and flooding in Indiana March 30 through April 9, 2025.

Beginning Tuesday, Sept. 2, the SBA will operate a Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in Owen County to assist residents in filing claims and answering questions regarding potential assistance to recover from damages. The center is for Owen County residents impacted by the March 30 – April 9 storms only.

Disaster Loan Outreach Center - September 2–9
Owen Valley Sports Complex
575 5th Ave.
Spencer, IN 47460

• Sept. 2: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET
• Sept. 3-5: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET
• Sept. 6: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. ET
• Sept. 7: Closed
• Sept. 8: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET
• Sept. 9: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET

SBA Customer Service representatives will be on hand at the DLOC to answer questions about the loan program and help with applications.

Residents and businesses in the impacted counties will have until Oct. 27, 2025, to return applications for physical property damage. Those seeking Economic Injury Loans will have until May 28, 2026, to apply. Small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and most private nonprofit organizations located in the designated counties that have suffered substantial economic injury from the storm may be eligible for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL).

Visit www.SBA.gov for more information about the SBA disaster loan program.

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

INDIANAPOLIS - This week, IDHS encourages Hoosiers to celebrate and honor emergency managers throughout Indiana. Governor Mike Braun declared Aug. 17-23 as Emergency Management Appreciation Week to coincide with National Emergency Management Awareness Month.

"During an emergency, Hoosiers look to their emergency managers for their knowledge and guidance on what needs to happen next to minimize the effects of the event," said IDHS Emergency Management and Preparedness Director Mary Moran. "They are leaders in their communities and deserve to be recognized for their efforts. IDHS is proud to partner with these hardworking Hoosiers to support their mission to make their counties safe and resilient."

Emergency managers in Indiana are tasked with a tough job. They think 10 steps ahead of any potential disaster for their counties and identify ways to mitigate the effects. It is time-consuming work that takes the spotlight whenever an emergency happens.

IDHS encourages all Hoosiers to learn about the emergency management agency (EMA) in their county and consider how they can thank their EMAs or volunteer to be of assistance.

IDHS will celebrate EMAs on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter) and Instagram. Follow along to learn about the people putting in countless hours to keep you safe.

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

Partner Press Release

INDIANAPOLIS - Today, Governor Mike Braun announced Julie Q. Smith will serve as the first Director of the Office of School Safety.

Julie Q. Smith is a Sergeant in the Columbus Police Department. Sergeant Smith oversees the School Resource Officer Division in Columbus, comprising 18 schools. She is a former school resource officer for Bartholomew County Schools.

Julie Smith has distinguished herself as a national leader on school safety. She is a National Instructor for the National Association of School Resource Officers as well as Regional Director for the Midwest states, President of the Indiana School Resource Officers Association, and has been recognized for her proactive, evidence-based leadership on strengthening schools and promoting school safety legislation.

As Director of the Indiana Office of School Safety, Julie Smith brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering commitment to protecting Hoosier students.

"Providing a safe and secure environment for Hoosier students to learn and grow is a top priority for me both as Governor and as a father and grandfather. Our Office of School Safety puts that priority into action, and Sergeant Julie Q. Smith is uniquely qualified and dedicated to this mission to strengthen our schools and help students thrive." — Governor Mike Braun

"I’ve dedicated my career to keeping students safe, and it’s an honor to put my experience to work strengthening Indiana schools and communities as the Director of the Office of School Safety." — Julie Q. Smith

Governor Braun created the Office of School Safety as part of his Freedom & Opportunity Public Safety agenda. Governor Braun’s first legislative session saw major education successes signed into law, putting students first and parents in the driver’s seat of their kids’ education.

Those accomplishments included a nationally-recognized expansion of school choice freedom, a first-in-the-nation tuition freeze across all Indiana state colleges and universities, increased base salary for teachers, over $640 million in additional funds for schools in the Indiana budget, and a new diploma path focused on setting students up for success after graduation.

Media Contact:
Office of Governor Mike Braun
Griffin Reid
greid@gov.in.gov
317-391-9475

INDIANAPOLIS - On July 22, 2025, President Donald Trump granted a Major Disaster Declaration for the State of Indiana for severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding that occurred March 30 to April 9, 2025. The federal disaster declaration for public assistance was approved for 23 designated counties:

• Bartholomew
• Brown
• Clark
• Crawford
• Decatur
• Floyd
• Franklin
• Greene
• Harrison
• Jefferson
• Lawrence
• Madison
• Marshall
• Martin
• Montgomery
• Morgan
• Orange
• Owen
• Perry
• Switzerland
• Vanderburgh
• Warrick
• Washington

Indiana has 30 days from the date of declaration to submit additional counties for public assistance.

The FEMA Public Assistance Program provides assistance to state, local, tribal, and territorial governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations. This grant funding can be used for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities. Applicants must own the property or be legally responsible for maintaining it.

Beginning Aug. 5, FEMA staff, in conjunction with IDHS recovery teams, will begin meeting with public assistance applicants across the state. Eligible applicants for public assistance should contact their county EMA for assistance.

Learn more about the federal disaster declaration for public assistance.

On July 28, the federal disaster declaration for individual assistance was denied. IDHS is currently reviewing appeal options.

SDRF Applications for March and April 2025 events closing July 30

On May 1, 2025, SDRF applications opened for the following disaster events:

• March 1, 2025: Mine Collapse
• March 15, 2025: Severe Storms
• March 19, 2025: Severe Storms
• March 30 - April 9, 2025: Severe Storms/Flooding

IDHS has begun processing payments to eligible applicants. Today, July 30, 2025, IDHS will close the applications for these four events.

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

INDIANAPOLIS - Services available to area residents impacted by late June/early July storms.

Businesses and residents in Daviess County and contiguous counties (Dubois, Greene, Knox, Martin and Pike counties) may qualify for low interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) following damage incurred from severe storms and flooding in Indiana June 28 through July 2, 2025.

Beginning Wednesday, July 23, 2025, the SBA will operate a Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in Daviess County to assist residents in filing claims and answering questions regarding potential assistance to recover from damages. The center is for those impacted by the June 28 – July 2 storms only.

Disaster Loan Outreach Center - July 23-31
Odon Community Center
311 Park St.
Odon, IN 47562

• July 23: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET
• July 24-31: M-F 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET
• Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. ET
• Sundays: Closed

SBA Customer Service representatives will be on hand at the DLOC to answer questions about the loan program and help with applications.

Residents and businesses in the impacted counties will have until Sept. 16, 2025, to return applications for physical property damage. Those seeking Economic Injury Loans will have until April 20, 2026, to apply. Small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and most private nonprofit organizations located in the designated counties that have suffered substantial economic injury from the storm may be eligible for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL).

Visit www.SBA.gov for more information about the SBA disaster loan program.

Media Note: On-site interviews will not be offered.

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Department of Homeland Security has opened applications to the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) for residents who incurred damage to their homes or property located in qualifying jurisdictions for the following disaster events:

• May 15-16, 2025: Severe Storms in Monroe and Greene counties
• June 30, 2025: Flooding in Daviess County

Applications to help with immediate needs will be capped at $2,000.

The SDRF is not currently accepting applications for the Public Assistance program. Local jurisdictions impacted by eligible disaster events will be notified when Public Assistance becomes available. Learn more about the SDRF.

If eligible, apply here for funds from the State Disaster Relief Fund (Individual Assistance).

"Thank you to our first responders, EMAs and volunteers who have assisted in recovery efforts throughout the year. Today, we're opening the State Disaster Relief Fund for individual assistance to help Hoosiers whose homes and properties were damaged by the devastating tornadoes and floods in recent months. We remain committed to helping ensure communities across our state are safe, secure and resilient,” said Secretary of Public Safety and IDHS Executive Director Jennifer-Ruth Green.

The State Disaster Relief Fund applies only to individuals who are uninsured or underinsured. State funding cannot replace insurance coverage, which is the primary and best source of protection from storm damage. The fund only addresses the costs of repairing, replacing or restoring property that is the primary residence of the applicant.

SBA Disaster Declaration

The U.S. Small Business Administration has issued its own disaster declaration for some Indiana counties, which opens access to low-interest loans for residents and business owners who incurred damage.

Currently, Monroe County received an SBA disaster declaration for the May 16, 2025, storms. The declaration also makes assistance available to all contiguous Indiana counties. Damage incurred outside of that date is not eligible.

May 16, 2025, SBA declaration

Update on March and April 2025 SDRF Applications

On May 1, 2025, SDRF applications opened for the following disaster events:

• March 1, 2025: Mine Collapse
• March 15, 2025: Severe Storms
• March 19, 2025: Severe Storms
• March 30 - April 9, 2025: Severe Storms/Flooding

IDHS has begun processing payments to eligible applicants. On July 30, 2025, IDHS will close the applications for these four events.

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

INDIANAPOLIS - Through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, Indiana has deployed a team of first responders to Texas to assist with search and rescue operations.

This highly trained team will consist of five first responders from local agencies, led by Team Lead Chief Jeremy Pell of the White River Township Fire Department, along with three certified search dogs. The team includes:

• Chief Jeremy Pell and K9 Rosie, White River Township Fire Department
• Officer Carter Pell, Speedway Police Department
• Lt. David Scholl, White River Township Fire Department
• Sergeant Matthew Zarrella and K9 Toby, retired Rhode Island State Police Canine Commander
• Amy Sitler and K9 Luna, Indiana Department of Homeland Security

The team arrived in Texas on Friday to begin assisting with operations. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

VINCENNES - The Indiana Department of Homeland Security and the Vincennes Police Department are investigating a vehicle fire determined to be arson involving a stolen van discovered early Sunday morning.

In the early hours of Sunday, June 22, 2025, emergency responders were called to the area of 13th Street and Cavanaugh Avenue in Vincennes, where a van was found actively burning. Upon further investigation, authorities confirmed that the vehicle had been reported stolen. Fire investigators later determined that the blaze was intentionally set.

The investigation is ongoing, and officials are urging anyone with information to come forward. Tips may be provided by calling the Indiana Arson Hotline at 1-800-382-4628.

A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for this crime.

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

INDIANAPOLIS - Services available to area residents impacted by May 16 storms

Businesses and residents in Greene, Monroe, Brown, Jackson, Lawrence, Morgan and Owen counties may qualify for low interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) following damage incurred from storms that rolled through Indiana on May 16, 2025.

Beginning Monday, June 23, 2025, the SBA and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) will operate a Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in Greene County to assist residents in filing claims and answering questions regarding potential assistance to recover from damages. The center is for those impacted by the May 16 storms only.

Disaster Loan Outreach Center - June 23–28
Greene County Events Center
East End Business Offices
4503 W. State Road 54
Bloomfield, IN 47424

• June 23 – 25: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET
• June 26: Noon to 8 p.m. ET
• June 27 – 28: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET
• Sundays: Closed

SBA Customer Service representatives will be on hand at the DLOC to answer questions about the loan program and help with applications.

Residents and businesses in the impacted counties will have until July 29, 2025, to return applications for physical property damage. Those seeking Economic Injury Loans will have until March 2, 2026, to apply. Small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and most private nonprofit organizations located in the designated counties that have suffered substantial economic injury from the storm may be eligible for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL).

Visit www.SBA.gov for more information about the SBA disaster loan program.

Media Note: On-site interviews will not be offered. Reach out to the IDHS Public Affairs Team at pio@dhs.in.gov with any questions.

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

VINCENNES - Investigators with the Indiana Department of Homeland Security are asking for the public’s assistance in an ongoing arson investigation following a fire in Vincennes.

Late Thursday evening, June 12, 2025, Vincennes Fire Department and Vincennes Police Department responded to reports of a residential fire in the 400 block of South 15th Street. Upon investigation, officials determined the fire was intentionally set by an individual who threw a firework from a vehicle in front of the home.

Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. Tips can be reported anonymously by calling the Indiana Arson Hotline at 1-800-382-4628.

A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for information that leads to an arrest and conviction in this case.

"We are asking for the community’s help to identify those responsible," said a State Fire Marshal Steve Jones. "Even a small detail could make a big difference in solving this case."

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

INDIANAPOLIS - Services available to area residents impacted by May 16 storms

Businesses and residents in Monroe County and contiguous counties (Brown, Greene, Jackson, Lawrence, Morgan and Owen) may qualify for low interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration following damage incurred from storms that rolled through Indiana on May 16, 2025.

Beginning today, June 3, 2025, the SBA and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) will operate a Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in Monroe County to assist residents in filing claims and answering questions regarding potential assistance to recover from damages. The center is for those impacted by the May 16 storms only.

Disaster Loan Outreach Center - June 3–19
Ivy Tech Community College
200 Daniels Way
Bloomington, IN 47404

• June 3: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET
• June 4–18: M-F 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET
• Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. ET
• Sundays: Closed

SBA Customer Service representatives will be on hand at the DLOC to answer questions about the loan program and help with applications.

Residents and businesses in the impacted counties will have until July 29, 2025, to return applications for physical property damage. Those seeking Economic Injury Loans will have until March 2, 2026, to apply. Small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and most private nonprofit organizations located in the designated counties that have suffered substantial economic injury from the storm may be eligible for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL).

Visit www.SBA.gov for more information about the SBA disaster loan program.

Media Note: On-site interviews will not be offered. Reach out to the IDHS Public Affairs Team at pio@dhs.in.gov with any questions.

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Department of Homeland Security completed several weeks of damage assessments and outreach across Indiana in response to severe storms, flooding and tornadoes in March, April and May 2025.

On May 28, 2025, Governor Mike Braun requested a presidential disaster declaration through FEMA for federal assistance related to the March 30 - April 9, 2025 disaster event. FEMA will review the request and send it to President Trump with a recommendation. If approved, IDHS will work with county emergency management agencies to apply for assistance.

This request is not a guarantee of federal assistance, but if approved, additional federal resources could be brought in to help the recovery efforts.

Examples of assistance could be:

• U.S. SBA Low-Interest Disaster Loans
• FEMA Individual Assistance
• FEMA Public Assistance

State Disaster Relief Fund

Separate from the federal request, IDHS opened applications to the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) for residents who incurred damage to their homes or property located in qualifying jurisdictions from any of the following disaster events:

• March 1, 2025: Mine Collapse
• March 15, 2025: Severe Storms
• March 19, 2025: Severe Storms
• March 30 – April 2, 2025: Severe Storms/Flooding

Applications to help with immediate needs will be capped at $2,000 initially, although eligible homeowners could receive additional assistance now that the damage assessment is complete.

The SDRF applies only to individuals who are uninsured or underinsured. State funding cannot replace insurance coverage, which is the primary and best source of protection from storm damage. The maximum payout from the SDRF for an individual is $25,000. [Update: This is the largest amount possible, but not guaranteed.] The fund only addresses the costs of repairing, replacing or restoring property that is the primary residence of the applicant.

Apply for assistance online, or dial 211 or 866-211-9966 to reach Indiana 211. A 211 representative can walk you through the application process and help you understand the next steps.

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

INDIANAPOLIS - National EMS Week is May 18-24, 2025. This week IDHS and Governor Mike Braun encourage Hoosiers to celebrate and honor emergency medical service personnel throughout Indiana. 

This is part of the national EMS Week campaign, now in its 51st year, led by the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) and the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). The 2025 theme is "We Care. For Everyone."

Indiana has over 25,000 certified emergency medical responders, emergency medical technicians, advanced emergency medical technicians and paramedics. To highlight this critical team of first responders, Governor Braun proclaimed this week as EMS Week in Indiana. 

"EMS personnel in Indiana are high-trained, qualified and professional clinicians. They go into high-stress situations with a servant's heart knowing they play a crucial role impacting Hoosier lives," said State EMS Director Kraig Kinney. "We are proud to honor them this week and thank them for their service."

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security invites you to learn more about the EMS community in Indiana, whether it is the growing area of mobile integrated health, challenges that face EMS or recognitions of many of Indiana's EMS personnel by visiting emsweek.in.gov or visiting the IDHS social media pages on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter) and Instagram.

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Department of Homeland Security has opened applications to the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) for residents who incurred damage to their homes or property located in qualifying jurisdictions from any of the following disaster events:

• March 1, 2025: Mine Collapse
• March 15, 2025: Severe Storms
• March 19, 2025: Severe Storms
• March 30 – April 2, 2025: Severe Storms/Flooding

Applications to help with immediate needs will be capped at $2,000 initially, although eligible homeowners could receive additional assistance after a complete damage assessment is finished.

The SDRF is not currently accepting applications for the Public Assistance program. Local jurisdictions impacted by eligible disaster events will be notified when Public Assistance becomes available. Learn more about the SDRF.

If eligible, apply here for funds from the State Disaster Relief Fund (Individual Assistance).

"Hoosiers across Indiana experienced widespread damage from storms earlier this month. Today, we will be opening the State Disaster Relief Fund for individual use to get help to those in need as quickly as possible as IDHS continues to assess damages. Thank you to Governor Braun for ensuring we support Hoosiers as they recover from the severe storm damage," said Secretary of Public Safety and IDHS Executive Director Jennifer-Ruth Green.

The State Disaster Relief Fund applies only to individuals who are uninsured or underinsured. State funding cannot replace insurance coverage, which is the primary and best source of protection from storm damage. The maximum payout from the SDRF for an individual is $25,000. [Update: This is the largest amount possible, but not guaranteed.] The fund only addresses the costs of repairing, replacing or restoring property that is the primary residence of the applicant.

The U.S. Small Business Administration has issued their own disaster declarations for some Indiana counties, which opens access to low-interest loans for residents and business owners who incurred damage.

Currently, Bartholomew and Lake counties received an SBA disaster declaration for March 15, 2025, storms. Orange and Harrison received an SBA declaration for March 19, 2025, storms. The declarations also make assistance available to all contiguous Indiana and Illinois counties. Damages incurred outside of those two dates currently are not eligible, although the SBA is considering additional declaration requests.

March 15, 2025, SBA declaration

March 19, 2025, SBA declaration

IDHS and county-level officials continue to assess the damage to multiple counties throughout Indiana. Currently, more than 500 homes are noted as having major damage or are destroyed. However, high flood waters have delayed the comprehensive assessment in some counties. Additional homeowners or jurisdictions may qualify later for financial assistance based on damage assessment data.

Once the total scope of the damage is determined, Indiana may request a presidential disaster declaration, which could open federal funding for those impacted during the incident period, both individuals and government entities.

Visit the IDHS Disaster Declarations webpage to learn more about the recovery process.

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

Partner Press Release

INDIANAPOLIS - Get ready to turn up the volume on summertime fun! The 168th Indiana State Fair announced today the official theme for this year's annual celebration: "THE SOUNDTRACK OF SUMMER," presented by Get Prepared Indiana – a celebration of music, memories and magic that create a summertime anthem. The 168th Indiana State Fair returns Friday, August 1st through Sunday, August 17th (closed Mondays).

"We are excited to unveil The Soundtrack of Summer as the official theme of the 2025 Indiana State Fair," said Cindy Hoye, Executive Director of the Indiana State Fair. "The sounds of summer come alive like nowhere else at the Great Indiana State Fair, connecting generations, sparking memories, and bringing joy to everyone. We are incredibly grateful to our partners with Get Prepared Indiana and can’t wait to welcome Hoosiers back to their Fair in a few short months."

New to the 2025 Indiana State Fair, VINYL REVIVAL will feature The Art of Music Exhibit, an immersive experience that celebrates the powerful connection between music and visual art by showcasing iconic album covers and the stories behind them. Enjoy a pop-up record store, in partnership with Indy CD & Vinyl, along with hand-painted displays of musicians from around the world. Whether a lifelong music lover or a curious explorer, this one-of-a-kind showcase will entertain fairgoers of all ages.

From the exhilarating roar of the midway rides to the mouth-watering sizzle of your favorite Fair foods, the Indiana State Fair is set to be your ultimate summer playlist.

Memorable Sounds to the “Soundtrack of Summer” at the Indiana State Fair:

• The laughter of families making memories
• The roar of the crowds at a Hoosier Lottery Free Stage
• The animals in the barns
• The rides of the Midway
• The sizzle of Fair food favorites
• The salt-water taffy cranking out
• The tractor engine roaring
• The slurping of an ice-cold lemonade
• The music of Band Day filling the air
• The unwrapping of a grilled cheese sandwich from the Dairy Bar
• The galloping of horse racing
• The toe-tapping music in Pioneer Village
• The dribbling of a basketball
• AND SO MUCH MORE!!!!

"The Indiana Department of Homeland Security and its Get Prepared (getprepared.in.gov) campaign is proud to sponsor this year’s Indiana State Fair," says Jennifer-Ruth Green, Secretary of the Indiana Office of Public Safety and Executive Director of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security. "When disasters strike, it is critical that you and your loved ones know how to respond. From severe weather to fire safety to home protection, the Get Prepared website offers tips, plans and information to help you prepare for any scenario to ensure you remain safe, secure and resilient."

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.indianastatefair.com.

Media Contact:
Indiana State Fair Media Department
LeRoy Lewis III
llewis@indianastatefair.com
317-927-7577

Partner Press Release

INDIANAPOLIS - Governor Mike Braun has declared a state of disaster emergency for 18 counties in Indiana.

"Due to flooding, storm, and tornado damage, I am declaring a state of disaster emergency in Bartholomew, Brown, Clark, Crawford, Dearborn, Delaware, Gibson, Hamilton, Harrison, Lake, Madison, Marshall, Martin, Owen, Perry, Posey, Spencer, and Warrick counties. This is effective for 30 days and allows the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to begin providing financial assistance to impacted communities who have eligible expenses under the State Disaster Relief Fund program.

"It is my hope that this step enables residents, businesses, and local government to access needed resources and assistance as they assess and recover from these devastating weather events." - Governor Mike Braun

Media Contact:
Office of Governor Mike Braun
Griffin Reid
greid@gov.in.gov
317-391-9475

Partner Press Release

INDIANAPOLIS - Governor Mike Braun activated the Indiana National Guard to aid with storm recovery after severe weather impacted at least 41 counties across Indiana. Damage assessments and recovery operations are ongoing.

"Hoosier Guardsmen always answer the call to serve our state and our nation,” said Gov. Braun. “In times like these, I’m immensely grateful for the soldiers who are on the ground ensuring Hoosier safety."

The Hoosier Guardsmen from units based in Jasper, Vincennes, and Seymour will assist with Operation Sandcastle. Units in Bedford, Terre Haute, Indianapolis, and Chandler remain ready to activate if called upon.

The Governor's Office is working with the Indiana National Guard, Indiana Department of Homeland Security, Indiana Department of Transportation, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, and Indiana Department of Corrections to begin sand bagging operations in support of flood prevention of critical infrastructure and damage to civilian property.

There are approximately 50 soldiers supporting this mission. The Indiana National Guard remains Always Ready, Always There as the situation develops across Indiana.

Media Contact:
Office of Governor Mike Braun
Griffin Reid
greid@gov.in.gov
317-391-9475

Partner Press Release

INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Department of Transportation is prepared for severe storms, heavy rain, and widespread flooding expected to move across Indiana starting Wednesday afternoon and evening. As of Wednesday morning, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flood watches for all Indiana counties south of a line extending from Terre Haute to Indianapolis, and Muncie. NWS is calling for potential double-digit rainfall totals in parts of the state, primarily in southern Indiana. Significant flash and river flooding is likely in these areas. Severe storms with damaging winds, hail, and possible tornadoes are anticipated Wednesday afternoon and evening, followed by widespread heavy rain and additional storms through at least Saturday.

INDOT operations crews are clearing drains and preparing equipment to close flooded state roads as conditions dictate. Personnel will be on standby throughout the event to address roadway issues that may arise.

Drivers are urged to follow “road closed” signs and barricades to avoid becoming stranded in flood waters. It is never safe to drive around barricades through high water – remember to Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Downed trees and power lines will also be possible due to heavily saturated ground and high winds. Check real-time travel conditions, including flooded roadways, and view traffic cameras online at 511in.org or via INDOT's TrafficWise app. Updates will also be shared on INDOT's social media channels. Check for travel advisories and in your area and learn more about flood safety from the Department of Homeland Security at in.gov/dhs/traveladvisory and GetPrepared.in.gov. Follow your local NWS office for further weather updates.

Media Contact:
Indiana Department of Transportation
Natalie Garrett 
nagarrett@indot.in.gov
812-525-0571

Partner Press Release

INDIANAPOLIS - 14 individuals have been charged in a federal indictment alleging a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine in Indianapolis, Lafayette, and surrounding communities. The charges follow a successful law enforcement operation in which 13 total individuals have been arrested and are in federal custody. Eight individuals were arrested on March 21, 2025. The following lists the individuals indicted and the charges they face:

This was a multi-agency operation, involving ten agencies who assisted with the investigation and the arrests on the morning of March 21, 2025. Law enforcement has asked the public for assistance in locating fugitive Lamar T. Browning. He should be considered armed and dangerous. Those with information are asked to call 1-800-CALL-FBI.

According to the indictment, all 14 defendants allegedly operated a drug trafficking conspiracy, selling meth, fentanyl, cocaine and heroin out of several trap houses in Indianapolis.

Some members of the conspiracy allegedly committed multiple acts of violence, including murder, firing gunshots, throwing Molotov cocktails at a home, kidnapping, and pistol-whipping in order to intimidate drug customers and rival drug dealers The violence was used as a tool to collect money owed to them by their drug customers, to protect the locations that they used to distribute drugs, and to retaliate against potential witnesses.

Specifically, Nahamani Sargent allegedly fired gunshots and threw Molotov cocktails at the home of a customer, believing that the victim had provided information about the conspiracy to law enforcement.

Additionally, Tanesha Turner allegedly kidnapped a victim at gunpoint and held them for ransom because they owed $40. Tre Dunn then allegedly shot the same victim for owing money and providing information to law enforcement.

Tre Dunn also allegedly aided and abetted the murder of a man because he disrespected him and his associate during a failed drug deal. Tanesha Turner then allegedly aided Dunn by driving him to another location following the murder to prevent his arrest.

If convicted, each defendant faces up to life in federal prison.

The following investigative agencies collaborated to make this investigation and recent warrant execution possible:

• Federal Bureau of Investigation (Indianapolis, Chicago, and Cincinnati SWAT)
• Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, SWAT
• Fishers Police Department, SWAT
• Drug Enforcement Administration
• United States Department of Agriculture
• Indiana Capitol Police Department
• Indiana Department of Homeland Security
• Johnson County Sheriff’s Department

Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley A. Blackington and Kelsey Massa, who are prosecuting this case.

This investigation is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). This operation is part of the Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program.

An indictment or criminal complaint are merely allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Media Contact:
U.S. Attorney's Office, Southern District of Indiana
Kelsie Clayton
kelsie.clayton@usdoj.gov
317-617-5949

INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS), in partnership with the Sullivan County Emergency Management Agency, is accepting applications from Sullivan County residents for the Residential Safe Room Program. This program offers a rebate for the installation of pre-fabricated safe rooms in Sullivan County residences. Apply here for the Residential Safe Room program

The application period is open from March 24 to April 22.

This round of applications is only open to residents in Sullivan County as part of disaster-response funding stemming from tornadoes in March of 2023. Sullivan County officials chose to set aside some of that funding to offer this program to its residents.

IDHS will randomly select 100 applicants to receive a rebate for their safe rooms. If approved, homeowners will be reimbursed for 75% ($5,000 max) of their safe room installation costs.

Full details can be found on the IDHS Residential Safe Room webpage. IDHS offers this program through a FEMA grant, and all applicants must comply with federal grant regulations.

Preparing for severe weather, like a tornado, is a priority for the state. Hoosiers can use the IDHS Get Prepared webpage to create an emergency plan for their families, schools and businesses. To learn more about preparing for severe weather, visit GetPrepared.in.gov and follow IDHS on Facebook, X and Instagram.

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Department of Homeland Security and the National Weather Service encourage Hoosiers to act now to prepare for severe weather in Indiana.

Severe Weather Preparedness Week (March 9-15) is a time to remind and educate Hoosiers about the seasonal weather threats and how to effectively prepare for them. March 9-15 was declared Severe Weather Preparedness Week through a proclamation signed by Indiana Gov. Mike Braun.

Throughout the week, IDHS will share safety tips on social media and online.

Statewide tornado drill

A statewide tornado drill is scheduled for 10:15 a.m. ET on Tuesday, March 11. The National Weather Service will issue a test tornado warning alert. It will be shared through notification systems, including the statewide Emergency Alert System (EAS).

"The time to figure out what to do during a tornado is not when tornado sirens are sounding off. Hoosiers need to have a tornado plan and practice that plan, so when weather turns, your family, coworkers and friends already know where to go and what to do," said IDHS Emergency Management and Preparedness Director Mary Moran.

Hoosiers and businesses are encouraged to test their tornado safety drills during the statewide tornado drill.

Media availability

Director Moran is available for in-person and virtual interviews to talk about ways Hoosiers can get prepared for severe weather and how the state prepares and responds to severe weather events.

Media interview time slot

• 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. ET, Tuesday, March 11
  • Time slots will be booked on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Morning show segments throughout the week can also be scheduled if available.

If interested, contact the IDHS Public Affairs team at pio@dhs.in.gov.

Follow IDHS on social media and use the hashtag #SevereWx and #SWPW!

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Department of Homeland Security, along with local and federal officials, continue to monitor an increase in drone activity near sites where outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza have been identified.

Local law enforcement have received reports of several drones spotted in Adams, Allen, Jackson and Jay counties in Indiana as well as nearby Ohio locations. Many of these drones have been reported flying over farms identified by the Board of Animal Health, and some reports have surfaced of people shooting at the drones to bring them down.

It is a crime to shoot down a drone. It is a felony to "damage, destroy, disable or wreck any aircraft," punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison.

Additionally, the public is warned against chasing down drone operators in cars or otherwise engaging with drone operators who may be illegally flying in the area. All reports of drones or personal operators in these counties should be reported to the local county Emergency Management Agency or law enforcement. Additionally, many of the reports that have come into local law enforcement have been unfounded.

Agricultural areas and farms affected by the avian influenza are quarantined, and any unlawful entry (by drones or citizens) could spread the virus. Some reports have surfaced to indicate drones have landed on barns in these areas, and there is legitimate concern the drones could transmit disease from one location to the next. Nearby residents should never take action into their own hands but rather contact local officials to report the activity.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Federal Aviation Administration are working with state (IDHS, Board of Animal Health) and local law enforcement to monitor the airspace. Flight restrictions in certain areas are being considered.

The Indiana State Board of Animal Health continues to address the local cases of avian influenza in Indiana and is taking appropriate action to protect the public.

Complete FAA rules and guidance related to flying drone

Drone operators should avoid these bird farms and remember some standard rules:

• These areas are quarantined for safety reasons.
• The FAA requires certain standards for a pilot to fly at night.
• All pilots or their visual observers must be able to always see the drone while in flight.
• Flying drones above people is permissible only in certain circumstances.
• Drones must fly no higher than 400 feet above the ground or operator.
• All operators must have proper certifications and registration paperwork.

Code of Federal Regulations

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

INDIANAPOLIS - Residents of Vanderburgh and Warrick counties are asked to contact Indiana 211 by calling 866-211-9966 to report storm damage from the Winter Storm Blair beginning Jan. 5, 2025.

To help establish a comprehensive assessment of damage, residents can call 866-211-9966 or visit the Indiana 211 website. Collecting assessments via this process will help IDHS determine damage estimates and develop the next course of action in the disaster recovery process.

Currently, only residents in Vanderburgh and Warrick counties should utilize Indiana 211 for Jan. 5 damage reports. Other counties should reach out to their local emergency manager.

Agricultural damage should be reported to the Purdue Extension.

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713

INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) activated at 7 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 5, to coordinate the state's response to the incoming winter storm.

This activation brings additional subject matter experts from other state agencies and external partners into one location to facilitate an effective, direct and coordinated response to the winter storm impacting the state.

Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb also activated highway assistance teams from the Indiana National Guard to respond to some areas expecting dangerous road conditions as a result of the storm.

IDHS encourages all Hoosiers to do their part to prepare for the storm. Visit GetPrepared.in.gov for winter storm travel and safety tips.

Media Contact:
IDHS Office of Public Affairs
pio@dhs.in.gov
317-234-6713