Indiana is facing new challenges in combating modern criminal technology, especially the use of signal jammers. In a burglary case in June 2024, criminals used signal jammers to successfully destroy the victim's home monitoring system and avoid timely police response. cell phone jammer This case has attracted the attention of Vanderburgh County Sheriff Noah Robinson and prompted him to testify in the state legislature, calling for a new law to curb such crimes.

　　Criminal applications and threats of signal jammers

　　A signal jammer is a device specifically used to block communication signals, which can effectively interfere with Wi-Fi, cellular networks and GPS signals.signal jammer In this Vanderburgh County case, the suspect used a jammer to prevent the home security system from sending alarm signals, rendering the victim's Ring doorbell and other security devices inoperable. This technology enables criminals to commit thefts without being monitored, which greatly hinders the police's investigation.Wifi jammer

　　Robinson testified in Congress that signal jammers give modern criminals a huge technological advantage. These devices can not only easily bypass security systems, but also give criminals more time to escape when committing crimes. He emphasized that the use of such devices is not limited to burglary, but may also be used for other more serious crimes, such as destroying public safety systems and blocking emergency calls.

　　Legislative proposal: Strengthen the control of signal jammers

　　Sheriff Robinson's testimony prompted Assemblymember Wendy McNamara to recognize the shortcomings of current laws. Although the use of signal jammers is illegal at the federal level, Indiana has no relevant state law specifically addressing such behavior. This means that criminals can use signal jammers to commit crimes in the state without worrying about additional legal sanctions. To this end, Robinson called on the state legislature to enact laws that explicitly criminalize the importation, possession and use of signal jammers.

　　His proposed bill includes a graded penalty for the illegal use of signal jammers, setting different penalties based on their specific use and impact on public safety. For example, if a jammer is used for burglary, it may be considered a lesser crime; but if it is used to hinder emergency communications or public safety systems, it will face a more severe penalty. He also suggested that the sales channels of signal jammers be brought under the scope of regulation to restrict their circulation in the market.

　　Challenges facing public safety

　　McNamara supports Robinson's proposal and plans to promote the passage of relevant bills during the 2025 legislative session. She pointed out that signal jammers not only threaten home safety, but may also prevent victims from calling 911 for help in an emergency. She believes that there are obvious loopholes in the existing legal system and it cannot cope with this emerging technological threat. She said: "These jamming devices may mean that victims cannot call 911 for help or access their security cameras. We hope to close any loopholes in state laws to ensure that criminals are held accountable."