Effective July 1, Indiana’s legal system began using new classifications for felony offenses. It means the traditional A through D system is out and Levels 1 through 6 are in. In general, it also means drug crimes will see softer penalties, but those convicted of crimes will serve more of their sentences.

The Indiana General Assembly enacted the new system during the 2013 session to take effect July 1. The changes were made in an effort to separate more violent crimes from so-called “victimless” crimes such as drug offenses.

Under the new guidelines, punishment for drug possession offenses will be greatly reduced. For example, someone charged with possession of 3 grams or more of a narcotic drug under the A through D system would have faced a Class B felony, punishable by between 6 years and 20 years in prison. Now, if the possession includes no more than 10 grams of a narcotic, the offense will be capped at a Level 5 Felony, punishable by 1 year to 6 years imprisonment.

Sex crimes will also see changes. Rape is now a Level 1 felony (20 years to 40 years imprisonment) if a deadly weapon or deadly force is used and a Level 3 (3 years to 16 years) if not. Sexual misconduct with a minor (for a child between the ages of 14 and 15) is now a Level 1 if a deadly weapon or deadly force is involved. Child solicitation is now a Level 5 felony, and sexual battery will likely be a Level 4 if a weapon or deadly force is used.

Length of sentences are also affected under the new law. Prior to July 1, most everyone sentenced to jail or prison received 1 day credit for every day served. Now, other than those convicted of a Level 6 felony, convicts will receive 1 day credit for every 3 days served. Those convicted of Level 6 felonies will still receive 1 day credit for every day served.

The new level classifications and punishments are as follows:

• Murder — 45-65 years
• Level 1 Felony — 20-40 years
• Level 2 Felony — 10-30 years
• Level 3 Felony — 3-16 years
• Level 4 Felony — 2-12 years
• Level 5 Felony — 1-6 years
• Level 6 Felony — 6 months to 2.5 years

Indiana’s former A-D system penalties:

• Murder — 45-65 years
• Class A Felony — 20-50 
• Class B Felony — 6-20 
• Class C Felony — 2-8 
• Class D Felony — 6 months to 3 years