Alting will resign from state senate amid shoplifting allegations

INDIANAPOLIS — Longtime state Sen. Ron Alting on Wednesday announced he will resign his seat if re-elected, citing neurological problems following accusations of shoplifting.

Alting, a Republican, was first elected in 1998 and currently represents eastern Tippecanoe County and Carroll County. Last week, accusations surfaced that he had shoplifted from a store in West Lafayette. Alting is running for another term and faces Democrat Natasha Baker.

In a statement posted to his official Facebook page, Alting said he has been undergoing a number of medical tests due to “concerning changes in my judgment, behavior and cognitive functioning.” He said those tests are still ongoing.

Alting said if he is re-elected on Nov. 3, he will resign his seat, in which case the Republican Party will caucus in a replacement. He said he has informed Senate President pro tempore Rod Bray of his intention to resign. Bray’s office confirmed this but did not provide further comment.

Full statement from Alting:

“Twenty-eight years ago, I asked the people of this community for the privilege of representing them in the Indiana Senate. It has been the greatest honor of my life.

“Over the past several weeks, I have been undergoing extensive medical evaluation for concerning changes in my judgment, behavior and cognitive functioning. That evaluation has included specialists in neurology, geriatrics and mental health, as well as an MRI and other testing. That work is continuing as my doctors seek a definitive diagnosis.

“During this time, I did things that were wrong and completely out of character for me. I take responsibility for my actions. I am deeply sorry for the hurt and disappointment I have caused my family, friends, colleagues, constituents and the store employees involved.

“After many difficult conversations with my family, my doctors and people I have trusted for many years, I have concluded that I need to bring my time in public office to an end and devote my attention to my health and my family.

“I have informed Senate President Pro Tem Rod Bray of my decision to resign from the Indiana Senate.

“Because voting in this year’s election is already underway, my name will remain on the ballot. If I am elected, my successor will ultimately be chosen through the Republican Party’s vacancy process. I have great confidence that this process will produce an outstanding leader who will serve Senate District 22 and its people well.

“For nearly three decades, the people of Tippecanoe County have entrusted me with something very precious: the opportunity to represent them. I will never be able to adequately express my gratitude for that trust.

“There will be time in the days ahead to say more. Tonight, I simply want to say thank you.

“As I continue through this medical evaluation and we work toward answers, I ask that you keep me, my family and the doctors caring for me in your prayers.”

Sen. Ron Alting, R-West Lafayette

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