Indianapolis City-County Council Democrat accused of physical and sexual abuse – IndyStar

Report on Allegations Against Indianapolis City-County Councilor Keith Graves

Introduction

Keith Graves, elected to the Indianapolis City-County Council in 2019, faces serious allegations of domestic abuse and sexual assault. These allegations raise significant concerns regarding the protection of human rights and gender equality, directly relating to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).

Summary of Allegations

• Laurin Embry, a social worker and Democratic campaign volunteer, alleges that Graves physically assaulted her during their relationship (2020-2022) and sexually assaulted her after their breakup. Graves denies these allegations.
• In 2024, another woman was granted a civil protective order against Graves following allegations of domestic violence. This order was later dismissed at the woman’s request.
• No criminal charges have been filed in either case.

Context and Political Implications

Graves is a Democratic member of the Indianapolis City-County Council, which has been tasked with oversight of Mayor Joe Hogsett’s administration, including investigations into sexual harassment and abuse allegations within city government. The council’s role aligns with SDG 16, which emphasizes accountable and transparent institutions.

Despite the allegations, Graves continues to serve as chairman of the council’s education committee. The council and Democratic leadership have been criticized for a lack of accountability and transparency regarding these issues.

Detailed Account of Allegations by Laurin Embry

Relationship Background

1. Embry met Graves in late 2019 at a political event. At the time, she was 24 years old and Graves was 53.
2. Embry trusted Graves due to his elected position, although Graves misrepresented his age.
3. The relationship progressed quickly, with Graves inviting Embry to his home and pressuring her to consume alcohol.

Incidents of Abuse

• Physical Assault: In 2020, Graves allegedly grabbed Embry by the neck, applied pressure, and threatened her after suspecting infidelity.
• Sexual Assault: In summer 2022, after their breakup, Graves reportedly sexually assaulted Embry at her home despite her repeated requests to stop.
• Embry did not report these incidents to the police but shared her experience publicly to raise awareness and support other victims.

Impact on Victim

• Embry experienced severe mental health consequences, including depression and multiple suicide attempts.
• She incurred significant financial costs for medical treatment and personal security.
• Embry expressed concern over the lack of accountability and support from political institutions, highlighting systemic issues in addressing abuse.

Additional Protective Order Case in 2024

• Another woman filed and was granted a protective order against Graves in 2024, citing credible threats to her safety.
• Police responded to a domestic disturbance at Graves’ residence; however, no criminal charges were filed.
• Graves filed a counter-petition for a protective order, which was denied due to insufficient evidence.
• The protective order was later dismissed by the woman to maintain her privacy.

Institutional Response and Accountability

Political and Council Reactions

• The 2024 protective order was known within political circles but was not publicly addressed or discussed among council Democrats.
• Calls for Graves’ censure and removal from committee chairmanship have been made by some council members and critics.
• Council leadership has declined to comment publicly on the allegations.

Statements from Keith Graves

• Graves denies all allegations, stating he has never jeopardized anyone’s safety, comfort, or dignity.
• He emphasizes his commitment to transparency, accountability, and creating a harassment-free work environment.
• Graves rejects comparisons of his situation to other unrelated abuse cases within city government.

Victim Advocacy and Calls for Reform

Laurin Embry advocates for truth-telling and systemic change to protect women and vulnerable individuals in politics and public service. Her actions align with SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), emphasizing the need for inclusive, safe, and accountable governance.

Conclusion

The allegations against Councilor Keith Graves highlight critical challenges in addressing domestic violence and sexual assault within political institutions. The situation underscores the importance of implementing effective policies and mechanisms to uphold the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 5 and SDG 16, ensuring gender equality, justice, and strong institutions that protect all citizens.

Recommendations

1. Establish clear protocols within political bodies for handling abuse allegations to ensure accountability and victim support.
2. Promote transparency and open communication regarding allegations to build public trust.
3. Enhance training and awareness programs on gender-based violence and harassment for elected officials and staff.
4. Support victims through accessible mental health services and legal assistance.

Report compiled to emphasize the relevance of Sustainable Development Goals in addressing abuse allegations within political institutions.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 5: Gender Equality
   • The article discusses allegations of domestic abuse, sexual assault, and harassment involving a public official, highlighting issues of violence against women and gender-based discrimination.
2. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • The article covers issues related to justice, accountability, protection from violence, and governance challenges within a local government council.
3. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • The mental health impacts on the victim, including depression and suicide attempts, relate to well-being and access to support services.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 5: Gender Equality
   • Target 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation.
   • Target 5.5: Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and public life.
2. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • Target 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.
   • Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels.
   • Target 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making at all levels.
3. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.4: Promote mental health and well-being.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. For SDG 5 (Gender Equality)
   • Indicator 5.2.1: Proportion of women and girls subjected to physical, sexual or psychological violence by a current or former intimate partner in the previous 12 months.
   • Indicator 5.5.1: Proportion of seats held by women in national parliaments and local governments.
2. For SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions)
   • Indicator 16.3.1: Proportion of victims of violence in the previous 12 months who reported their victimization to competent authorities or other officially recognized conflict resolution mechanisms.
   • Indicator 16.6.2: Proportion of the population satisfied with their last experience of public services.
   • Indicator 16.7.2: Proportion of population who believe decision-making is inclusive and responsive.
3. For SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being)
   • Indicator 3.4.2: Suicide mortality rate.
   • Implied indicators related to access to mental health services and support for victims of abuse.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: indystar.com