IMPD Officer Herman Means Arrested on Domestic Battery Charges

On a quiet Tuesday evening in Whiteland, Indiana, the local peace was disturbed by an incident that has since captured the attention of both the community and law enforcement circles. Herman Edgar Means III, a 39-year-old officer from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD), was arrested on serious allegations involving domestic violence.

The Whiteland Police Department was dispatched to Means' residence around 9 p.m. following a distressing call reporting domestic violence. Upon arrival, officers found evidence that corroborated the caller's claims – the complainant had reportedly been battered and restrained, leading to the immediate arrest of Means. The charges laid against him are grave, including domestic battery in the presence of a child and strangulation, both felonies under Indiana law.

Herman Means has been serving with the IMPD for seven years, predominantly assigned to the East District. His arrest has sent ripples through the department, not only for the nature of the charges but also because of his role as a law enforcement officer, traditionally seen as an upholder of public safety.

After his arrest, Means was booked into the Johnson County Jail. The Johnson County Prosecutor’s Office will now deliberate on these preliminary charges to determine if formal charges will be pressed. IMPD, in response to the incident, has suspended Means' police authority and collected all department-issued equipment. The officer is slated for administrative leave upon his release from jail, pending an internal review by IMPD's Internal Affairs.

This administrative investigation is standard protocol in such cases, aimed at assessing any departmental violations that might have occurred. The findings from this investigation will be presented to the Chief of Police for further action, which could range from disciplinary measures to potential termination from service.

The arrest of a police officer on charges of domestic violence introduces a complex layer of public scrutiny on law enforcement. It prompts a necessary dialogue about accountability, especially when those sworn to protect might potentially be involved in criminal acts. Community trust in the police force can be significantly affected by such incidents, making transparency and swift action by the department crucial in maintaining that trust.

Support and Resources:

In the wake of this event, IMPD has reiterated its commitment to supporting victims of domestic violence. Resources for those affected include:

- Coburn Place Safe Haven: Contact at 1-800-566-2632 or visit coburnplace.org for assistance and resources.

- IMPD Victims Assistance Unit: Available at 317-327-3331 for support in navigating through legal and emotional aftermaths of domestic violence.

- Indy Champions: A local initiative, reachable at 317-210-0866, offering further aid to victims.