FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 7, 2026
The Stinesville Police Department is providing an update on its federal law-enforcement partnership, the Indiana Attorney General’s recent legal opinion, and ongoing efforts to secure resources for better police coverage.
On October 6, Attorney General Todd Rokita issued a written opinion addressing questions about the department’s 287(g) agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. His opinion concludes that the agreement was lawfully executed and that Indiana’s Interlocal Cooperation Act does not apply to it. Monroe County Commissioners’ Resolution 2026-36 asserted that the department lacked authority to sign the agreement without prior Town Board approval. The Attorney General reviewed that assertion and concluded it was incorrect. His opinion addresses the department’s authority to enter and maintain this particular agreement; it does not remove the town’s responsibilities for purchasing, accounting, or other legally required financial controls. The department requested this review to clarify the legal questions and provide a sound basis for moving forward with town officials and the community.
Funding and Police Coverage
The Stinesville Police Department currently operates without town-provided operating funding. Officers have relied on personally supplied equipment, personal expenditures, and outside support to maintain services. The department has pursued federal funding to address those limitations and build a more dependable foundation for police coverage.
At its October 6 meeting, the Town Board approved an ordinance establishing the Stinesville Homeland Security Law Enforcement Support Fund. The fund provides a dedicated account for the $122,500 federal transportation and equipment stipend and specified future partnership payments. Expenditures must comply with the applicable federal funding terms, purchasing requirements, and financial controls. The initial stipend is for transportation and equipment, not a separate award to hire officers. The department’s broader funding efforts include pursuing eligible support for staffing and training, with the goal of making more consistent coverage possible.
Residents have raised concerns about the department’s current availability. Those concerns are understandable. However, limited coverage is a reason to address the department’s lack of resources, not a reason to turn away funding that could help improve service.
Hiring an officer involves more than filling a position. Recruitment, training, equipment, and continued staffing all require financial support. A department relying on volunteer availability and personally funded equipment has real limitations. Eligible funding could help Stinesville recruit and retain officers, improve coverage, and support a more effective police department.
Professional Standards and Accountability Under the direction of Town Marshal/Chief of Police Shane Pittman, the department will operate with respect, courtesy, and professionalism. Every person will be treated with dignity. Racial profiling and abuse of the federal partnership, law-enforcement authority, or department systems will not be tolerated.
Allegations of misconduct will be investigated. Officers found to have engaged in racial profiling or abused their authority or access to department systems will face disciplinary action, up to and including termination, consistent with applicable law and required procedures. Suspected criminal conduct will be referred to the appropriate authorities for investigation and possible prosecution.
Next Steps
The town attorney is reviewing the matter before expenditures move forward. The Town Board also postponed further consideration of the participation-related resolution until next month.
The department will continue working with the Town Board, Clerk-Treasurer, and town attorney to resolve the remaining questions and establish a clear process for using available funds.
The goal is straightforward: better coverage, properly equipped officers, responsible use of public funds, and a police department that treats people fairly and has the resources to serve Stinesville reliably.
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Please Click Here View the Letter From the Indiana Attorney General
Reserve Officer Hiring Information
Currently the Stinesville Police Department is accepting applications. If you are interested in applying, please fill out the application below. (We are prioritizing experienced officers, but all are welcome to apply.)