The Gist
Prosecuting Attorney, 19th Judicial Circuit (Marion County)

Ryan Mears

Candidate for Prosecuting Attorney, 19th Judicial Circuit (Marion County)

DemocraticIncumbent

Background

Occupation
Marion County Prosecutor

Marion County prosecutor since a 2019 Democratic caucus chose him to succeed Terry Curry, and re-elected in 2022. An Indianapolis native, he graduated from Cardinal Ritter High School, attended St. Joseph's College and earned his law degree at the IU Robert H. McKinney School of Law.

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Documented positions

Public safety

  • Supports addressing youth gun access, not just curfews.

    Says a youth curfew can help police but does not address juvenile access to guns.

    Ryan Mears — Mirror Indy 2026 Voter Guide

    Candidate questionnaire · Mirror Indy · mirrorindy.org

    “A curfew can assist law enforcement but does not address the real problem which is too many kids have access to guns. … Permitless carry has lead to an increase in the number of people walking around with guns”
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Government & transparency

  • Pledges to prosecute public corruption regardless of who is involved.

    Ryan Mears — Mirror Indy 2026 Voter Guide

    Candidate questionnaire · Mirror Indy · mirrorindy.org

    “Our office will continue to investigate and aggressively prosecute public corruption in Marion County, regardless of who is involved”
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Courts & justice

  • Supports diversion programs for first-time, lower-level offenders.

    Says his office created a Quality of Life Unit and connects people with mental health, substance use and job services when appropriate.

    Ryan Mears — Mirror Indy 2026 Voter Guide

    Candidate questionnaire · Mirror Indy · mirrorindy.org

    “our office has invested in diversion programs and established the Quality of Life Unit, particularly for first-time offenders”
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  • Opposes charging simple marijuana possession or abortion cases.

    Ryan Mears — Mirror Indy 2026 Voter Guide

    Candidate questionnaire · Mirror Indy · mirrorindy.org

    “we do not believe putting someone into the criminal justice system over simple marijuana possession is a good use of prosecutorial resources … We do not believe prosecuting women, doctors or nurses over abortion care makes our community safer”
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All sources (4)

Positions are summarized from the sources listed and are not inferred from party affiliation. Items marked “Provided by” were published by the candidate's verified campaign or party office under our campaign content standards. See something wrong? Use the Report link beside it, or contact us.