WAYNE COUNTY, INDIANA, Ind. — Police are investigating the tragic death of 57-year-old Joseph Peggs, who was found pinned beneath heavy construction equipment on February 12. The incident occurred around 12:30 p.m. on East North Street in Milton, approximately 16 miles west of Richmond.
According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to reports of an unresponsive person and discovered Peggs pinned underneath an overturned skid steer, commonly used for digging and landscaping. Despite efforts to free him, Peggs was pronounced dead later at Reid Health hospital. The sheriff's office noted, “Although the initial investigation indicates this was a tragic accident, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.”
Meanwhile, Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita has issued stern warnings to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) and Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) about potential legal repercussions if they fail to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. Rokita's statements are rooted in claims about local government restrictions against enforcing federal immigration laws, asserting, “Illegal aliens coming across our Southern border have caused a jump in crime, fentanyl overdoses, human trafficking, and an increased financial burden on state and local programs.”
Following comments made by IMPD Chief Chris Bailey, who stated local officers would not enforce federal immigration laws, Rokita emphasized the necessity of compliance, stating, “Under Indiana law, neither IMPD nor IPS has discretion to decide whether ICE should receive their cooperation and assistance.” This standoff continues to escalate amid concerns between maintaining community trust and adhering to state mandates.
The political climate surrounding immigration enforcement has only intensified as Indiana Gov. Mike Braun supported cooperation with federal authorities to remove undocumented immigrants, especially those with criminal records. “If you’ve committed a crime after you’ve come to this place illegally, you need to be held accountable,” Braun stated at the press conference after enacting new strategies directed at undocumented individuals.
On the legislative front, Indiana lawmakers have significantly revised their approach to property tax reform. Originally introduced as House Bill 1393, which proposed substantial cuts to property taxes, the latest revision focuses on capping growth rates for property taxes rather than imposing drastic reductions. The new strategy hopes to manage how property taxes assess homeowners moving forward.
Key changes include lowering the “maximum levy growth quotient” from 4% to lower rates over time: 0% in 2026, 1% in 2027, and 2% by 2028. This moves away from the idea of massive cuts, as seen initially. The legislative services agency estimates these changes will reduce tax revenues by approximately $239 million, compared to over $1 billion under the previous proposal.
Seniors and first-time homebuyers will also see relief under the new framework, with proposed tax credits for eligible individuals to improve access to housing and affordability issues amid rising home values.
Finally, attention returns to the unresolved tragedy of two brothers, Jaquareous Mitchell and Jimmy Thomas, who were shot and killed at the Shell gas station at 34th Street and Emerson Avenue on April 22, 2023. Efforts have been underway to reach possible plea agreements as investigations continue, reflecting broader issues of safety and community violence.
This roundup encapsulates urgent discussions and legislative actions affecting Indiana, illustrating the intersection of governance, public safety, and community dynamics.