In a powerful reminder of the importance of the jury system and the legal protections provided by Indiana’s self-defense laws, a recent case in Marion County ended in complete acquittal for a young defendant charged with aggravated battery, battery by means of a deadly weapon, and pointing a firearm.
The case, which originated from a high-profile incident in 2024 that was widely covered in local news, centered around a physical altercation that escalated to gunfire. After a two day jury trial in July 2025, the defendant was found not guilty on all charges. This was a resounding validation of the legal right to self defense in the state of Indiana.
The Background: From Fistfight to Felony Charges
The initial incident took place following the Brickyard 400 in Indianapolis, when tensions boiled over between parties with a history of domestic conflict. The confrontation involved multiple people, conflicting witness accounts, and a chaotic scene outside a west-side Indianapolis home.
Police and prosecutors moved swiftly to charge the young man with three felonies:
- Aggravated Battery (Level 3 Felony) (IC 35-42-2-1.5(2))
- Battery by Means of a Deadly Weapon (Level 5 Felony) (IC 35-42-2-1(c)(1) & IC 35-42-2-1(g)(2))
- Pointing a Firearm (Level 6 Felony) (IC 35-47-4-3(b))
What followed was over a year of litigation, pretrial delays, and negative media coverage—all before a single fact had been proven in court.
The Trial Team: Fighting for Justice
When the case finally reached the courtroom, it was Attorneys Ben Shoptaw and Zach Richey of the Marc Lopez Law Firm who stood beside the accused. Together, they built a meticulous defense grounded in Indiana’s legal standards for self defense and the constitutional presumption of innocence.
Their courtroom strategy focused on:
- Contradicting misleading witness statements
- Presenting video evidence that supported the self-defense narrative
- Demonstrating that the accused did not initiate the deadly force, but rather responded to an immediate and violent threat
Ben Shoptaw, the lead trial attorney, emphasized the importance of allowing the jury to see the complete picture:
Attorneys Zach Richey and Ben Shoptaw with a very relieved client.
“We appreciate the jury’s thoughtful and rigorous analysis of the facts and video evidence. This was not an easy case—but the evidence clearly showed that our client acted in self-defense, and the jury saw that. We are pleased with the outcome and proud to have helped our client reclaim his future.”
Co-counsel Zach Richey contributed significantly to both trial preparation and in-court examination, helping the defense team untangle a complicated web of accusations and arrive at a clear truth.
NOT GUILTY Jury Verdict
The Jury’s Decision: Self Defense Upheld
The jury’s not guilty verdict on all charges reflects the strength of Indiana’s self-defense laws, which allow individuals to protect themselves when facing a credible threat of harm. The verdict is a reminder that accusations alone do not equal guilt—and that even in high-stakes criminal trials, facts and fairness can prevail.
After the verdict was read, the defendant expressed his relief in a simple but powerful statement:
“I am happy to be cleared of all wrongdoing and move forward with my life.”
Why This Case Matters for Indiana Criminal Defense
This case underscores several critical truths about criminal defense work in Indiana:
- Aggravated Battery charges can carry life-altering consequences, and must be fought with precision and passion.
- Self defense is not just a legal theory—it’s a fundamental right, and one that must be protected in court.
- The role of experienced criminal defense attorneys in Indiana cannot be overstated. When your freedom is on the line, you need lawyers who understand the law, believe in the Constitution, and are willing to fight.
The Marc Lopez Law Firm is proud of the work done by attorneys Ben Shoptaw and Zach Richey in this case. Their victory demonstrates what’s possible when defense attorneys stay focused on justice—even in the face of intense scrutiny.
Need Help with an Aggravated Battery or Self Defense Case?
If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges in Indiana, don’t wait for the system to define your future. The attorneys at the Marc Lopez Law Firm are ready to help. Whether you’re facing allegations of aggravated battery, need to assert a claim of self defense, or simply want guidance from experienced Indiana criminal defense lawyers, we’re here to fight for you.
Call us now at 317-632-3642 or visit www.MarcLopezLaw.com to schedule a free consultation.
Bonus Section:
Q: What is aggravated battery in Indiana?
A: Aggravated battery in Indiana (IC 35-42-2-1.5) involves knowingly or intentionally inflicting injury that creates a substantial risk of death or causes serious permanent disfigurement or impairment. It is typically charged as a Level 3 felony with a maximum punishment of 16 years imprisonment. Check out this blog for more information about aggravated battery.
Q: What are the self defense laws in Indiana?
A: Indiana allows individuals to use reasonable force, including deadly force, if they believe it’s necessary to protect themselves from serious bodily harm or death. Check out this blog for more information about self defense.
Q: How can a criminal defense lawyer help?
A: A skilled Indiana criminal defense attorney can investigate, gather evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and assert defenses such as self defense or lack of intent to ensure a fair trial.