Chief Deputy John Lowes (fourth from left) joined his colleagues from across the state for a panel discussion on illegal immigration. (Photo provided)
Posted By: The Reporter October 15, 2025
Submitted by Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office
Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy John Lowes joined leaders from across the state on Tuesday, Oct. 14 at the Indiana Statehouse for a high-level panel discussion on pressing issues related to illegal immigration.
The panel was sponsored in part by Attorney General Todd Rokita. (Photo provided)
Hosted by Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita and State Representative J.D. Prescott (R-Union City), the event served as a platform to introduce and discuss the FAIRNESS Act – proposed legislation set to be introduced in the 2026 General Assembly session. The acronym FAIRNESS stands for Fostering and Advancing Immigration Reforms Needed to Ensure Safety and Security.
Border Czar Tom Homan spoke at the Statehouse. (Photo provided)
The keynote address was delivered by Tom Homan, White House Border Czar and a nationally recognized voice on immigration enforcement.
Key areas of concern addressed during the panel and roundtable included:
- Employment of illegal aliens
- Sanctuary city policies
- ICE detainer cooperation
- Sanctuary enforcement authority
- Tracking the use of state welfare benefits by undocumented individuals
Chief Deputy Lowes participated in a roundtable session with fellow representatives from the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association, Attorney General Rokita, and other guests to further collaborate on law enforcement solutions.
Governor Mike Braun spoke at the Statehouse. (Photo provided)
Key Components of the FAIRNESS Act Include:
- Expanding the Indiana Attorney General’s authority to investigate and enforce laws targeting illegal immigration.
- Establishing state-level penalties for employers who knowingly hire unauthorized workers.
- Strengthening compliance with federal immigration enforcement, including enhanced cooperation with ICE detainers.
- Increasing transparency around the use of public benefits by non-citizens through mandated reporting.
“This legislation aims to give local and state authorities the tools they need to protect our communities and uphold the rule of law,” Chief Deputy Lowes said. “Hamilton County is proud to be part of the conversation and part of the solution.”
