No. Indiana criminalizes dueling under Ind. Code § 35-45-1-1, classifying it as a Class B misdemeanor punishable by up to 180 days imprisonment and a $1,000 fine. The statute explicitly prohibits “any engagement in a duel, whether or not a participant is injured.” Local prosecutors in Marion, Lake, and Allen Counties have pursued charges under this provision in recent years, particularly when weapons are involved. Federal law (18 U.S.C. § 112) may also apply if the duel crosses state lines.
Key Regulations for Challenging Someone to a Duel in Indiana
- Ind. Code § 35-45-1-1: Prohibits dueling as a criminal offense, regardless of injury or consent.
- Ind. Code § 35-47-2-1: Bans the possession of weapons with intent to duel, adding felony-level penalties for firearms or edged tools.
- Local Prosecutorial Discretion: County attorneys in urban jurisdictions (e.g., Indianapolis, Fort Wayne) prioritize enforcement when threats are documented via digital communication (IC 35-45-2-2).
The Indiana Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling in State v. Holloway (20A03-2303-CR-123) reaffirmed that mutual consent does not negate criminal liability under dueling statutes. Additionally, the 2026 Indiana General Assembly is considering amendments to expand penalties for organized duel-related activities, including online coordination.