Section 35-47-5-2.5 - Possession of a knife on school property(a) As used in this section, "knife" means an instrument that: (1) consists of a sharp edged or sharp pointed blade capable of inflicting cutting, stabbing, or tearing wounds; and(2) is intended to be used as a weapon.(b) The term includes a dagger, dirk, poniard, stiletto, switchblade knife, gravity knife, or throwing star.(c) A person who recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally possesses a knife on: (1) school property (as defined in IC 35-31.5-2-285);(2) a school bus (as defined in IC 20-27-2-8); or(3) a special purpose bus (as defined in IC 20-27-2-10); commits a Class B misdemeanor. However, the offense is a Class A misdemeanor if the person has a previous unrelated conviction under this section and a Level 6 felony if the offense results in bodily injury to another person.
(d) This section does not apply to a person who possesses a knife:(1) if: (A) the knife is provided to the person by the school corporation or possession of the knife is authorized by the school corporation; and(B) the person uses the knife for a purpose authorized by the school corporation; or(2) if the knife is secured in a motor vehicle.Amended by P.L. 22-2023,SEC. 3, eff. 7/1/2023.Amended by P.L. 158-2013, SEC. 592, eff. 7/1/2014.Amended by P.L. 114-2012, SEC. 140, eff. 7/1/2012.As added by P.L. 72-2006, SEC.9.