By Lasca Randels
InkFreeNews

INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Attorney General Curtis Hill is officially suspended from practicing law in Indiana for 30 days.

The suspension begins May 18 and stems from allegations of sexual misconduct that occurred at a 2018 gathering of legislative staffers.

The alleged incidents took place at AJ’s Lounge in downtown Indianapolis in March 2018 where Hill, a former Elkhart County Prosecutor, was accused of groping four women. 

An excerpt from the Indiana Supreme Court document, filed at 11:58 a.m. Monday, May 11,  reads, “We find, as did the hearing officer, that Respondent committed acts of misdemeanor battery, conduct that under the circumstances of this case violated Indiana Professional Conduct Rules 8.4(b) and 8.4(d).”

Hill engaged in acts against four women, including a state representative and three legislative assistants. Those acts involved “various forms of nonconsensual and inappropriate touching,” according to the court document.

At the conclusion of the period of suspension, Hill will be automatically reinstated to the practice of law, provided there are no other suspensions in effect at that time. 

Hill issued a statement following the disciplinary action.

“I accept with humility and respect the Indiana Supreme Court’s ruling of a 30-day suspension of my license with automatic reinstatement,” Hill said in the statement.

Hill said he has directed that beginning Monday, May 18, Chief Deputy Aaron Negangard will assume responsibility for the legal operations of this office during the suspension.

“I offer my deepest gratitude to my family, friends and the entire staff of the Office of the Attorney General. My staff has worked tirelessly and without interruption and will continue to do so on behalf of all Hoosiers,” Hill wrote.

Gov. Eric Holcomb had called on Hill to resign shortly after the allegations.

Hill is up for re-election this year.