Indiana State Police executed a high intensity enforcement project in Northwest Indiana addressing violent crime and aggressive driving, resulting in the arrest of 62 individuals and the issuance of 989 citations. Seven of the individuals arrested had significant criminal history including violent felonies.
The operation, conducted September 22-24, was designated BASH, named in honor of Trooper Benjamin Beers, Trooper Paul Arnold, LaPorte County Deputy Jon Samuelson, and ISP Sgt. Justin Heflin, who were involved in officer-involved shootings this summer.
The Bash Project concentrated on identifying and removing serious violent felons, intercepting criminal activity, and enforcing aggressive-driving laws. Troopers were involved in two vehicle pursuits that crossed state lines and ended in Illinois. The pursuits resulted in the arrest of three serious violent felons, two of whom were armed with firearms. Those two pursuits were documented in prior news releases last week.
“Northwest Indiana saw an unprecedented level of collaboration this week,” remarked Indiana State Police Superintendent Anthony Scott. “Troopers from all corners of the state, whether from patrol, specialty units, or investigative divisions, stepped up to assist our Lowell Post’s focus on violent crime reduction and roadway safety. This project reflects our ongoing commitment to protecting the communities we serve.”
Personnel from every ISP district, along with specialized units including CVED, SWAT, Mustang High-Performance Vehicles, Investigations, and the Drug Enforcement Section contributed to the operation. The Indiana State Police will continue evaluating enforcement efforts and trends to determine future operations that support safety across the state.
The Indiana State Police encourages all motorists to drive safely, report suspicious activity, and join the Indiana State Police and its law enforcement partners in keeping Indiana’s roadways and communities secure.”
Operation BASH Statistics
The operation resulted in:
- 989 citations
- 1,446 warnings
- 104 truck inspections
- 29 drivers placed out of service
- 30 vehicles placed out of service
- 340 violations noted
- 53 crashes investigated
- 10 vehicle and foot pursuits
- 84 motorists assisted
- 62 arrests
- 19 drug-related arrests
- 26 O.W.I. arrests
- 17 arrests for other offenses
- 15 warrants served
