Indiana Attorney General Calls Allegations 'False,' Won't Resign

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Indiana Attorney General Curtis Hill hasn't had a change of heart less than a week after saying he will not resign from his position following recent accusations that he inappropriately touched four women at a bar during an event in March. All eyes and ears were on Hill during a Monday morning press conference at the Attorney General’s Statehouse Office in downtown Indianapolis, where Hill didn't take long to explain he will not resign from his position, saying the allegations against him are false. According to a release from the Attorney General's Office, AG Hill said he now stands "falsely and publicly accused of abhorrent behavior."

"These false accusations have irretrievably damaged my reputation," Hill said. "We are living in a time where accusations alone have the power of conviction."

This comes one week after accusations from four woman were released on July 2 in a report via The Indianapolis Star, alleging Hill inappropriately touched them during a March party at an Indianapolis bar on the last day of the legislative session.

During the 10 a.m. event Monday, July 9, in which Hill cited the U.S. Constitution while discussing justice and fairness, Hill also said, "I never dreamed this could happen to me, and yet here I stand. I stand before you a condemned man. Condemned without trial, condemned without notice. Condemned without the benefit of any basic rights that ensure fairness."

As of Friday, Patch reported more legislative officials joined the ranks of those requesting an investigation into allegations made against Indiana Attorney General Curtis Hill, while many from both parties are calling on him to resign. Indiana's Inspector General Lori Torres said officials from the state's Republican and Democratic parties are seeking a formal investigation into the allegations, adding that her office is prepared to do a formal investigation.

Hill said that as a prosecuting attorney he has fought for victims, while also safeguarding the rights of the accused.

“Those who know me well know that I have been a champion for victims, particularly women and children who have suffered abuse," Hill said.

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According to the attorney general, he received a call about these accusations before any of those accusing him identified themselves. He also noted how social media plays a role today when it comes to accusations and reports.

“The coordinated calls for my resignation occurred before any anonymous accusers identified themselves," Hill said. "On Friday, one of the accusers came forward with a new statement. She said I arrived at AJ’s alone, when in fact I was a guest of Tony Samuel. Furthermore she confirmed that her accusation contained in the confidential report was materially inaccurate."

One of those calling for Hill to resign is Gov. Eric Holcomb.

"I respect the governor and believe him to be an honorable man," Hill said during his press conference, where he also said he wished the governor would have reached out instead of judged him.

"I anticipate and welcome the opportunity to have my side heard," Hill said. "Now, I'm going to get back to work, but before I do, I have one last thing to say. A week ago, I had a name. Today, I want my name back."

Photo and video credit: Office of Indiana Attorney General

Note: Video is of the July 9 press conference, not July 7 as dated.