Prosecutor Expands Expungement And Drivers License Efforts

The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office aims to help more people expunge criminal records and get their driver’s licenses back after involvement with the justice system. 

The Second Chance Workshops give residents an opportunity to connect with attorneys who can help them clear their records. Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears says it’s a priority.

"One of the most important things that we can do is make sure that we eliminate barriers for people as they reenter our community," says Mears. 

The program was started by former Prosecutor Terry Curry,

"We’ve become kind of a one stop shop," says Mears, "and we’re also in a position to put together all the forms for people."

Mears says low-income people are at a disadvantage.  He gives the example of someone whose license is suspended. 

"And then we’re in the position where we have a good person, who is not a threat to our community, who is not doing anything other than trying to take care of their family and go to work, who is now a criminal in the sense that every time they drive it’s illegal," says Mears. 

The prosecutor’s office also offers child support payment plan help.