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IMPD Names New Chief, Mears Files For Reelection, Foreign Adversaries Bill, Syringe Services Programs Bill, Indiana LGBTQ Day At Statehouse

IMPD Names New Chief, Mears Files For Reelection, Foreign Adversaries Bill, Syringe Services Programs Bill, Indiana LGBTQ Day At Statehouse

January 29, 2026

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department has its new chief of police, and the appointment makes history for the city. Ryan Mears has taken himself off the short list of potential successors to Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett — at least for now. Some non-US citizens and foreign businesses could face restrictions to landownership and higher education with a proposed bill at the Statehouse. Indiana senators approved a bill this week that would extend syringe services programs another 10 years. Indiana LGBTQ plus advocates gathered at the statehouse Wednesday for a day of advocacy.

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WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

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