INDIANAPOLIS — Governor Eric Holcomb is asking the Supreme Court of the State of Indiana if he can replace Attorney General Curtis Hill.
It comes after the court announced Hill would face a 30-day suspension.
"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)."
The suspension, which prohibits Attorney General Curtis Hill from practicing law in Indiana, will start May 18, according to the court document.
Governor Holcomb is asking if that means Hill is not “duly licensed to practice law in Indiana,” a requirement for his position as Attorney General. If that were true, the Governor is asking for clarification on whether there would then be a vacancy for the office of Attorney General. If the court rules yes on both of those issues, the Governor could name a successor for the remainder of Attorney General Hill’s current term.
The governor's filing asks for the court to respond quickly because of the 30-day suspension beginning May 18.
On Monday, Hill released the following statement in response to the court ordered suspension:
“I accept with humility and respect the Indiana Supreme Court’s ruling of a 30-day suspension of my license with automatic reinstatement. I have directed that beginning Monday, May 18, Chief Deputy Aaron Negangard will assume responsibility for the legal operations of this office during the temporary suspension of my license until it is reinstated on Wednesday, June 17. 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 is accused of inappropriately touching women at a party celebrating the end of the legislative session in March 2018.
