Denise Paul-Hatch

Denise Paul Hatch, the former Center Township Constable in Marion County, Indiana, was removed from office in 2023 following a series of criminal charges and convictions. In October 2023, Hatch pleaded guilty to one count of felony official misconduct, one count of unlawful carrying of a handgun, and one count of disorderly conduct. These charges arose from multiple incidents, including interfering with police during an investigation of one of her deputies, possessing a firearm while prohibited by pending felony charges, and a verbal confrontation with a township trustee. She was sentenced to 288 days of time served. Other controversies and allegations during her tenure included an August 2023 incident where she was accused of theft following a dispute over produce at a grocery store. She was also involved in a public dispute regarding her interference in a court-ordered eviction, which led to a judge appointing special constables to handle her duties. Hatch has subsequently filed motions to vacate her guilty plea, alleging inadequate counsel and duress, though previous attempts to overturn the agreement have been denied.