Lethal force in self-defense is legal, Indiana law says [View All]

http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060322/NEWS01/603220444

By Bill Ruthhart

Indiana has become the third state to join an emerging national debate on self-defense, making clear that people have the right to use deadly force when threatened without first trying to back away.

Gov. Mitch Daniels on Tuesday signed House Enrolled Act 1028, which says Hoosiers do not have to retreat before using deadly force to prevent serious bodily injury to themselves or someone else. More than a dozen other states are considering similar legislation.

The change may be largely symbolic. Unlike in some states, Indiana did not previously require residents to retreat before using a gun or other deadly weapon.

The new law, however, clarifies state law and prevents courts from determining that Hoosiers should run before using a gun.

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