USI Political Science, Public Administration and Philosophy Departments to host annual Law Day 2024

The University of Southern Indiana College of Liberal Arts is excited to host the annual Law Day at 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 12 in Carter Hall, made possible by Appeals on Wheels. The Appeals on Wheels program takes Indiana Court of Appeals across the Hoosier state to hear cases in communities outside Indianapolis. 

"Regardless of major or programs, we are all part of the same political community and all have an interest in good government," said Nicholas LaRowe, Associate Professor of Political Science and Pre-Law Coordinator. 

This year, the Indiana Court of Appeals will hear oral arguments for the case Vlietstra v. State (Indiana).  

A jury convicted Vlietstra of Level 5 felony burglary and Vlietstra admitted to being a habitual offender.  On appeal, Vlietstra argues that the trial court improperly took judicial notice of and relied upon suppression proceedings in a pending case in Porter County. Vlietstra additionally asserts that certain evidence admitted at trial over his objection should have been excluded. Vlietstra further claims that the State failed to present sufficient evidence to support his burglary conviction. 

Following the arguments there will be a brief Q&A with the audience. At 12:45 p.m. a special recording of the WNIN program Shively and Shoulders with special guests Judge Melissa May, Judge Leanna Weissmann and Judge Elaine Brown will be done at USI. 

For more information, contact LaRowe at nllarowe@usi.edu.