INDIANAPOLIS (WTHR) — Marion County Prosecutor Terry Curry is resigning from his position.
Eyewitness News has learned Curry said the decision is due to health reasons. In a statement released Monday morning, Curry said he has been getting treatment for prostate cancer since 2015.
"Serving as the Marion County Prosecutor has been the privilege of my professional life. It has been my honor to seek justice on behalf of those who are wronged in our community and to ensure that victims’ rights are protected.
In leading our office, I have always approached our responsibilities with fairness and respect, integrity, and the highest ethical standards."
Curry said it was a tough decision to make, but a necessary one so he could focus on his health and family. He pointed to the successes of his time as prosecutor in putting away violent criminals and taking a harsher approach to "white collar" crimes.
He was emotional as he thanked his staff and supporters.
"I am confident the office is in capable hands," Curry said. "But make no mistake, it's killing me to step down at this time. I love this office."
Chief Trial Deputy Ryan Mears will step in as acting prosecutor. A caucus of Marion County Democratic Precinct Committeepersons is expected to elect another person within 30 days to fulfill the term through Dec. 31, 2022.
Curry also pointed out his office has been at the forefront of pushing for a comprehensive hate crime bill for Indiana and gun regulation.
Curry said he will continue working with the office as a deputy prosecutor. He ended by saying he appreciated everyone's understanding.
Mayor Joe Hogsett released a statement about Curry's resignation:
“Over the last forty years, Terry Curry has proven himself to be a dedicated public servant and a fierce advocate for our city. Since being elected Marion County Prosecutor, he has worked to balance the responsibilities of his office with the needs of the community and I am grateful for his efforts."
Lawrence Police Chief David Hofmann released the following statement:
The Lawrence Police Department extends our heartfelt gratitude to Marion Co Prosecutor Terry Curry for his career-long commitment of service to the citizens of Marion Co, the State of Indiana, and our great Nation.
During his tenure as the elected Prosecutor of Marion Co, Mr Curry was well-respected for his fairness & tireless advocacy for victims of crime. The relationship between the Marion Co Prosecutors Office & law enforcement agencies has never been better than during Mr Curry’s leadership.
While we are saddened to learn of his ongoing medical condition, we remain hopeful for swift restoration to Mr Curry’s good health. Our thoughts are with Mr Curry and his family as they walk along the pathway to recovery together.
We also have full faith and confidence in the continuing capable leadership at the Marion Co Prosecutors Office of Acting Prosecuting Attorney Ryan Mears, whose years of service as a Deputy Prosecutor, including Chief Trial Deputy, will serve him well.
Curry had been the Marion County prosecutor since 2010 and was a deputy prosecutor for six years before that.