Indiana statute
Ind. Code § 35-42-2-9 — Strangulation
Current through 2026 Regular Session
Part of Chapter 2: Battery and Related Offenses, Indiana Code.
Criminal charges under this statute
Full text of Ind. Code § 35-42-2-9
Statutory text current through the 2026 Regular Session. This publication reproduces the official statutory text; it is not the official statutes of the State of Indiana.
Sec. 9. (a) This section does not apply to a medical procedure. (b) As used in this section, "torso" means any part of the upper body from the collarbone to the hips. (c) A person who, in a rude, angry, or insolent manner, knowingly or intentionally: (1) applies pressure to the throat or neck of another person; (2) obstructs the nose or mouth of the another person; or (3) applies pressure to the torso of another person; in a manner that impedes the normal breathing or the blood circulation of the other person commits strangulation, a Level 6 felony. (d) However, the offense under subsection (c) is a Level 5 felony if: (1) the offense is committed by a person: (A) against a pregnant woman; and (B) who knew the victim was pregnant at the time of the offense; or (2) the person has a prior unrelated conviction under this section.
Official sources
Legal terms used in this section
Questions this section answers
Is strangulation a felony or a misdemeanor in Indiana?
It depends on the circumstances: strangulation ranges from a Level 6 Felony to a Level 5 Felony in Indiana under Ind. Code § 35-42-2-9.
Strangulation (base offense): Level 6 Felony (Ind. Code § 35-42-2-9(c)) · Strangulation against pregnant victim or with prior conviction: Level 5 Felony (Ind. Code § 35-42-2-9(d))
Which Indiana statute covers strangulation?
Strangulation is governed by Ind. Code § 35-42-2-9 (Strangulation).
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.