Level 2 Felony in Indiana: Sentencing Range, Drug Cases & Examples Explained

Level 2 felonies are among Indiana's most serious criminal offenses, carrying lengthy prison sentences ranging from 10 to 30 years. Understanding the sentencing framework, credit time calculations, and common examples—especially drug-related offenses—is essential for anyone facing these charges or supporting someone through the legal system.

Indiana's felony classification system ranks crimes from Level 1 (most severe) to Level 6 (least severe), with murder as a separate category. Level 2 felonies represent extremely serious offenses—less severe only than Level 1 felonies and murder, but more severe than all other felony levels. These crimes typically involve extreme violence, serious harm to victims, or large-scale drug operations.

This comprehensive guide explains Level 2 felony sentencing under Indiana law, explores common examples (with emphasis on drug offenses), and clarifies how the Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC) credit time system affects actual time served.

Sentencing Ranges Under Indiana Code §35-50-2-4.5
Examples of Level 2 Felonies
Drug Offenses and Level 2 Classification
Credit Time & Early Release
Violent Crime Considerations
Suspension, Probation & Reduction Possibilities
Using Our Level 2 Felony Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions

Sentencing Ranges Under Indiana Code §35-50-2-4.5

Under Indiana Code § 35-50-2-4.5, a person convicted of a Level 2 felony faces:

Standard Sentencing Range

Minimum sentence: 10 years in prison
Advisory sentence: 17.5 years in prison
Maximum sentence: 30 years in prison
Fine: Up to $10,000

The advisory sentence of 17.5 years serves as the judicial starting point. Courts consider aggravating and mitigating factors to determine where within the 10-30 year range a specific case should fall.

Aggravating Factors

These factors may push sentences toward the 30-year maximum:

Prior felony convictions, especially violent or drug-related
Use of a deadly weapon during the offense
Victim was particularly vulnerable (child, elderly, disabled)
Serious or permanent bodily injury resulted
Offense committed while on probation, parole, or pretrial release
Leadership role in criminal organization or conspiracy
Offense was especially heinous, cruel, or brutal
Large quantity of drugs involved (for drug offenses)
Offense occurred near schools or involved minors
No remorse, lack of cooperation, or obstruction of justice

Mitigating Factors

These factors may result in sentences closer to the 10-year minimum:

Minimal or no criminal history
Minor or passive role in the offense
Genuine remorse and acceptance of responsibility
Victim was not seriously or permanently harmed
Strong family support and employment history
Mental illness or substance abuse issues (with treatment commitment)
Substantial restitution offered or paid
Cooperation with law enforcement investigation
First-time offender with strong rehabilitation prospects

Due to the extreme severity of Level 2 felonies, sentencing hearings typically involve extensive evidence and argument from both sides, often including victim impact statements, expert testimony, and detailed criminal history analysis.

Examples of Level 2 Felonies

Level 2 felonies encompass a limited range of Indiana's most serious offenses. Here are the primary categories:

1. Voluntary Manslaughter

IC § 35-42-1-3: Knowingly or intentionally killing another human being while acting under sudden heat or in circumstances where the killing would otherwise be murder but is committed under mitigating circumstances.

Example: During a heated argument, an individual strikes another person with lethal force, resulting in death. The absence of premeditation reduces what might be murder to voluntary manslaughter.

Typical sentence: 15-25 years, depending on circumstances and criminal history. This is among the most common Level 2 felonies.

2. Armed Robbery Causing Bodily Injury

IC § 35-42-5-1: Robbery committed while armed with a deadly weapon that results in bodily injury to any person (victim or bystander).

Example: An individual enters a bank with a firearm, demands money, and during the incident shoots or injures a security guard.

Typical sentence: 15-25 years. The combination of armed robbery and resulting injury makes this extremely serious.

3. Burglary Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury

IC § 35-43-2-1: Breaking and entering a dwelling while a person is present, resulting in serious bodily injury to any person.

Example: An individual breaks into an occupied home, encounters residents, and during the confrontation causes serious injuries requiring hospitalization.

Typical sentence: 12-22 years, depending on the extent of injuries and whether weapons were involved.

4. Dealing in Methamphetamine (Large Quantities)

IC § 35-48-4-1.1: Manufacturing, financing, or dealing methamphetamine in quantities exceeding certain thresholds.

Example: An individual is caught manufacturing methamphetamine in quantities over 10 grams, or dealing amounts between 10-28 grams with distribution network.

Typical sentence: 12-20 years for first-time offenders; 18-28 years with prior drug convictions or near-school enhancements.

5. Dealing in Cocaine, Heroin, or Fentanyl (Large Quantities)

IC § 35-48-4-1: Dealing controlled substances in substantial quantities or with aggravating circumstances.

Example: Operating a large-scale cocaine distribution network, dealing heroin near schools, or dealing fentanyl resulting in overdose deaths.

Typical sentence: 15-25 years, potentially reaching 30 years with multiple aggravating factors.

6. Kidnapping (Certain Circumstances)

IC § 35-42-3-2: Removing another person by force or threat, or confining them, with intent to obtain ransom, use them as a shield, or inflict serious bodily injury.

Example: Forcibly taking someone and demanding ransom from family members, or holding someone hostage during a crime.

Typical sentence: 15-28 years. Kidnapping with additional violence or ransom demands receives sentences at the higher end.

7. Arson Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury

IC § 35-43-1-1: Intentionally starting a fire or causing an explosion that results in serious bodily injury to another person.

Example: Setting fire to an occupied structure, resulting in serious burn injuries or smoke inhalation requiring intensive care.

Typical sentence: 14-24 years, depending on number of victims and extent of harm.

8. Sexual Battery (Aggravated Circumstances)

IC § 35-42-4-8: Sexual battery committed with deadly weapon, resulting in serious bodily injury, or facilitated by administering drugs without victim's knowledge.

Example: Sexual assault committed while armed with a weapon or resulting in serious physical injuries.

Typical sentence: 18-30 years. These offenses typically result in credit-restricted felon designation and sex offender registration.

Drug Offenses and Level 2 Classification

Drug-related Level 2 felonies warrant special attention due to their prevalence and complex sentencing considerations.

Indiana Drug Dealing Laws (IC §35-48-4)

Indiana classifies drug dealing based on:

Type of controlled substance
Quantity involved
Location of dealing (proximity to schools, parks, youth centers)
Prior drug convictions
Involvement of minors (as dealers or buyers)

Level 2 Drug Offense Thresholds

Methamphetamine (IC §35-48-4-1.1)

Level 2: 10-28 grams
Enhancement to Level 2: Any amount if dealing within 1,000 feet of school, park, youth program center, or family housing complex
Enhancement to Level 2: Any amount if resulting in serious bodily injury or death

Real-world example: An individual caught with 15 grams of methamphetamine packaged for distribution, along with scales and packaging materials, faces Level 2 charges. The quantity exceeds the 10-gram threshold for Level 2 classification.

Cocaine (IC §35-48-4-1)

Level 2: 10-28 grams pure cocaine
Enhancement to Level 2: Any amount sold to minors or within 1,000 feet of schools
Enhancement to Level 2: Manufacturing or operating distribution network

Real-world example: Operating a cocaine distribution ring with multiple sellers and regular clients, moving 20 grams per week through a network, constitutes Level 2 dealing due to quantity and organizational structure.

Heroin and Fentanyl (IC §35-48-4-2)

Level 2: 3-10 grams heroin or fentanyl
Enhancement to Level 2: Any amount if sold to minors or near schools
Enhancement to Level 2: If overdose death results (may be charged as dealing resulting in death)

Real-world example: An individual dealing fentanyl-laced heroin that results in an overdose death faces Level 2 dealing charges, potentially combined with additional charges related to the death.

Marijuana (Commercial Operations)

While Indiana has not legalized marijuana, Level 2 marijuana charges are rare and typically involve:

Dealing 10+ pounds
Large-scale grow operations (100+ plants)
Interstate trafficking operations
Dealing to minors or near schools

Note: Most marijuana charges are Level 5 or 6 felonies unless aggravating circumstances apply.

Drug Dealing Enhancements

Several factors automatically elevate drug charges to Level 2:

1. School Zone Enhancement (1,000-Foot Rule)

Dealing any amount of controlled substances within 1,000 feet of:

Public or private schools (K-12)
Public parks
Youth program centers
Family housing complexes (public housing)

This enhancement applies regardless of whether school is in session or children are present.

Example: Selling 3 grams of methamphetamine from an apartment 800 feet from an elementary school results in Level 2 charges, even though 3 grams would normally be Level 4.

2. Dealing to Minors

Selling or delivering controlled substances to anyone under 18 years old, regardless of quantity, typically results in enhanced charges.

Example: An adult selling prescription opioids to a 17-year-old faces Level 2 charges even for small quantities.

3. Prior Drug Convictions

Repeat drug offenders face enhanced charges:

Second dealing conviction within 5 years: Charge elevated by one level
Third or subsequent: May face habitual offender enhancement (additional 6-20 years)

Example: An individual with a prior Level 3 drug dealing conviction who commits another dealing offense within 5 years faces Level 2 charges for the second offense.

4. Resulting in Death or Serious Injury

If drug dealing results in overdose death or serious bodily injury, charges are enhanced to Level 2 or Level 1.

Example: Dealing fentanyl-laced heroin that causes an overdose death results in Level 2 dealing charges and potentially additional counts for dealing resulting in death.

Manufacturing vs. Dealing

Manufacturing (producing, growing, or synthesizing drugs) is often charged more seriously than simple dealing:

Meth labs: Almost always Level 2, even for small operations
Grow operations: Level 2 for commercial-scale operations
Pill pressing operations: Level 2 when producing counterfeit prescription drugs

Example: Operating a methamphetamine lab in a residential area, even producing small quantities for personal use and limited distribution, typically results in Level 2 manufacturing charges due to the dangers posed to neighbors and first responders.

Credit Time & Early Release (IC §35-50-6-3.1)

Understanding Indiana's credit time system is crucial for estimating actual prison time. Under Indiana Code § 35-50-6-3.1, inmates can earn "good time" credits that reduce sentence length.

Credit Class System

The Indiana Department of Correction assigns each inmate to one of four credit classes (A, B, C, or D) based on offense type and criminal history.

Class A Credit

Earn rate: 1 day of credit for every 1 day served
Effective time: Serves approximately 50% of sentence
Eligibility: Extremely rare for Level 2 felonies; typically unavailable
Example: A 20-year sentence = ~10 years served (rarely applicable to Level 2)

Class B Credit (Most Common for Drug Offenses)

Earn rate: 1 day of credit for every 3 days served
Effective time: Serves approximately 75% of sentence
Eligibility: Non-violent Level 2 drug offenses, first-time offenders, good behavior
Example: A 20-year sentence = ~15 years served

Class B is the most common credit class for Level 2 drug offenses without violent circumstances. An individual sentenced to 20 years for large-scale methamphetamine dealing (no violence, first serious conviction) typically receives Class B designation and serves approximately 15 years with good behavior.

Class C Credit

Earn rate: 1 day of credit for every 6 days served
Effective time: Serves approximately 85.7% of sentence
Eligibility: Violent offenses, crimes causing injury, repeat offenders
Example: A 20-year sentence = ~17.1 years served

Class C applies to violent Level 2 felonies such as armed robbery causing injury, voluntary manslaughter, or repeat violent offenders.

Class D Credit (Credit-Restricted Felons)

Earn rate: No credit time earned
Effective time: Serves 100% of sentence
Eligibility: Credit-restricted felons (CRF) including certain violent and sexual offenses
Example: A 20-year sentence = 20 years served (full term)

Credit-Restricted Felons (CRF)

Certain Level 2 felonies are classified as "credit-restricted" under IC § 35-50-6-3.1, meaning the offender cannot earn any credit time and must serve the entire sentence day-for-day. Credit-restricted Level 2 offenses include:

Voluntary manslaughter (in many cases)
Armed robbery causing serious injury
Kidnapping
Sexual battery
Arson causing serious injury
Offenses committed by repeat violent offenders

Example: An individual sentenced to 25 years for voluntary manslaughter with CRF designation must serve the full 25 years without possibility of credit time reduction.

Jail Credit (Pre-Sentence Time)

Time spent in jail before sentencing is credited day-for-day against the imposed sentence. This applies regardless of credit class.

Example: If someone spends 365 days (1 year) in county jail awaiting trial and is then sentenced to 20 years, their sentence effectively begins with 1 year already served.

Calculating Actual Time Served

Here's a real-world calculation example for a drug offense:

Scenario: Defendant sentenced to 20 years for Level 2 dealing in methamphetamine (large-scale operation). Defendant is assigned Class B credit and spent 45 days in jail before sentencing.

Imposed sentence: 20 years = 7,300 days
Jail credit (pre-sentence): 45 days
Remaining sentence: 7,300 - 45 = 7,255 days
Class B credit: Earns 1 day per 3 days served
Actual time to serve: 7,255 ÷ (1 + 1/3) = ~5,441 days = 14.9 years
Total time served: 45 days (jail) + 5,441 days (prison) = ~15 years

Use our Level 2 Felony Indiana Jail Time Calculator to estimate release dates based on your specific sentence and credit class.

Disciplinary Credit Loss

Inmates who commit major disciplinary violations can lose earned credits. Common violations include:

Violence against staff or inmates
Contraband possession (weapons, drugs, cell phones)
Escape attempts
Sexual misconduct
Gang activity

Example: An inmate serving a 20-year sentence with Class B credit expects to serve ~15 years. If they lose 365 days of credit due to violent infractions (assaulting another inmate), their actual release would be pushed back approximately 1 year, extending their sentence to ~16 years served.

Violent Crime Considerations

Violent Level 2 felonies receive significantly harsher treatment than drug offenses:

Limited Credit Eligibility

No Class A or B credit: Violent offenders typically receive Class C or D
Longer actual time served: 85-100% of imposed sentence
CRF designation: Many violent Level 2 offenses carry credit-restricted status
Parole restrictions: Stricter parole board review and conditions

Example: Two defendants receive identical 20-year sentences. Defendant A (drug dealing, Class B) serves ~15 years. Defendant B (voluntary manslaughter, Class D/CRF) serves the full 20 years.

Habitual Offender Enhancement

Indiana's habitual offender statute (IC § 35-50-2-8) adds 6-20 additional years to sentences for defendants with prior unrelated felony convictions.

Requirements:

Current conviction for Level 1, 2, or 3 felony
Prior unrelated felony conviction
Prior felony must have occurred before current offense

Example: An individual convicted of Level 2 armed robbery (20-year sentence) who has a prior Level 4 felony conviction from 3 years ago may face habitual offender enhancement, resulting in a total sentence of 26-40 years.

Violent Offender Registry

Many Level 2 violent offenders must register with Indiana's Violent Offender Registry, similar to sex offender registration, with public disclosure requirements.

Suspension, Probation & Reduction Possibilities

While Level 2 felonies carry substantial mandatory incarceration, some reduction possibilities exist:

1. Plea Agreements

Most Level 2 felony cases are resolved through plea bargains. Possible outcomes include:

Charge reduction: Level 2 reduced to Level 3 or 4 in exchange for guilty plea (typically results in 5-10 year sentence reduction)
Sentence cap: Prosecution agrees to recommend specific sentence (e.g., no more than 15 years)
Credit class negotiation: Agreement on Class B vs. Class C designation
Dismissal of habitual offender enhancement: Trading enhancement dismissal for guilty plea

Example: A defendant facing Level 2 drug dealing charges (potential 20-25 years) negotiates a plea to Level 3 drug dealing, resulting in a 12-year sentence with Class B credit (serving ~9 years instead of potentially 15-20 years).

2. Sentence Modification

Under Indiana Trial Rule 22.1, defendants can petition for sentence modification after serving at least one year. Courts consider:

Rehabilitation efforts and program completion
Good behavior and disciplinary record
Changed circumstances since sentencing
Support from victims or their families
Employment or educational plans upon release

Success rate for sentence modifications is very low for Level 2 felonies, but worth pursuing with strong supporting evidence such as:

Completion of advanced degrees while incarcerated
Exceptional disciplinary record (zero infractions)
Significant victim restitution or reconciliation
Terminal illness or extraordinary medical circumstances

3. Alternative Sentencing & Programs

Some defendants may qualify for:

Recovery While Incarcerated (RWI): Substance abuse treatment programs within IDOC (particularly relevant for drug offenders)
Therapeutic Communities: Intensive in-prison treatment programs
Education & Vocational Programs: College degrees, trade certifications
Faith-based programs: Demonstrated rehabilitation through religious programs

Successful program completion improves parole prospects and strengthens modification petitions.

4. Suspended Sentences

Suspended sentences are extremely rare for Level 2 felonies and typically only occur in exceptional circumstances:

First-time offender with extraordinary mitigating factors
Defendant's cooperation resulted in dismantling major criminal organization
Serious medical conditions making incarceration impractical
Victim and prosecution both support suspended sentence

Example: A first-time offender convicted of Level 2 drug dealing who immediately cooperated with federal authorities, leading to the arrest of major drug suppliers, might receive a sentence of 15 years with 5 years suspended in favor of probation. This is extremely rare.

5. Expungement

Level 2 felonies may be eligible for expungement, but with significant restrictions:

Waiting period: Typically 8-10 years after completion of entire sentence (including parole)
No subsequent convictions: Clean record during waiting period
Victim/prosecutor notification: Victims and prosecutors can object
Violent offense exclusions: Many violent Level 2 felonies are permanently ineligible
Sex offense exclusions: Sexual battery and similar offenses cannot be expunged

Expungement is a complex legal process requiring an experienced attorney. Even when granted, certain records remain visible to law enforcement and some licensing boards.

Using Our Level 2 Felony Calculator

Estimating actual jail time for Level 2 felonies requires understanding:

Imposed sentence length (years and months)
Pre-sentence jail credit (days served before sentencing)
Custody type (State Prison—always IDOC for Level 2)
Credit class (A, B, C, or D based on offense severity and CRF status)
Disciplinary credit loss (if any infractions occurred)

Our Level 2 Felony Indiana Jail Time Calculator automates these calculations based on official IDOC credit formulas. Simply enter your sentence details and credit class to receive:

Estimated release date
Actual days to serve
Credit breakdown showing imposed sentence, credits earned, and time remaining
Educational explanations of Indiana's Level 2 felony sentencing system

Important Disclaimer: This calculator is for educational purposes only. Actual release dates are determined by the Indiana Department of Correction based on multiple factors including behavior, program participation, and administrative calculations. Always consult with a qualified Indiana criminal defense attorney for case-specific guidance.

Example Scenarios

Scenario 1: Large-Scale Meth Dealing

Sentence: 20 years Level 2
Credit Class: B (non-violent drug offense)
Jail Credit: 45 days
Estimated Time Served: ~15 years

Scenario 2: Armed Robbery with Injury

Sentence: 15 years Level 2
Credit Class: C (violent offense)
Jail Credit: 30 days
Estimated Time Served: ~12.8 years

Scenario 3: Voluntary Manslaughter (CRF)

Sentence: 25 years Level 2
Credit Class: D (credit-restricted felon)
Jail Credit: 0 days
Estimated Time Served: 25 years (full term)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sentence for a Level 2 felony in Indiana?

10–30 years, with a 17.5-year advisory sentence. Fines may reach $10,000. The actual sentence depends on aggravating and mitigating factors, with most sentences falling between 12-25 years depending on the specific offense and criminal history.

How much time do you serve for a Level 2 felony?

Typically 75–85% depending on credit class and behavior. Class B offenders (common for drug crimes) serve approximately 75%, while Class C violent offenders serve approximately 85.7%. Credit-restricted felons serve 100% of their sentence. For a 20-year sentence: Class B serves ~15 years, Class C serves ~17 years, Class D serves 20 years.

What is a Level 2 drug felony?

Serious drug dealing or manufacturing cases involving large quantities (e.g., meth over 10 grams, cocaine over 10 grams, heroin over 3 grams) or aggravating circumstances such as dealing near schools, to minors, or resulting in overdose deaths. These charges typically result in 12-25 year sentences.

Can a Level 2 felony be suspended or reduced?

Only for non-violent offenses, first-time offenders, and exceptional circumstances. Suspended sentences for Level 2 felonies are extremely rare. Charge reduction through plea bargaining (Level 2 reduced to Level 3 or 4) is more common. Violent or habitual offenders almost never receive suspended sentences.

Where to estimate your release date?

Use the Level 2 Felony Indiana Calculator to calculate your potential release time based on credit class and offense type. The calculator provides estimated release dates, time served breakdowns, and explanations of Indiana's credit time system.

What is the difference between Level 2 and Level 3 felonies?

Level 2 carries 10-30 years (advisory 17.5 years), while Level 3 carries 3-16 years (advisory 9 years). Level 2 offenses are more serious and typically involve greater harm, larger drug quantities, or more aggravating circumstances. For example, armed robbery causing injury is Level 2, while armed robbery without injury is Level 3.

Will I go to state prison for a Level 2 felony?

Yes, absolutely. All Level 2 felonies are served in Indiana state prison (IDOC facilities) due to their extremely serious nature and lengthy sentence ranges. County jail is never used for Level 2 offenses.

How does the advisory sentence work?

The advisory sentence (17.5 years for Level 2) serves as the starting point. Judges consider aggravating factors (prior record, weapon use, victim injury, drug quantity) to increase sentences toward the 30-year maximum, or mitigating factors (no criminal history, remorse, cooperation, first offense) to reduce sentences toward the 10-year minimum.

Can Level 2 drug offenses be reduced to Level 3?

Yes, through plea bargaining. Many Level 2 drug cases are resolved with charge reductions to Level 3 or 4, especially for first-time offenders or defendants who cooperate with investigations. This typically results in sentences of 6-12 years instead of 15-25 years.

What happens if someone dies from drugs I sold?

Dealing resulting in death can be charged as Level 1 felony (20-40 years) or Level 2 with enhanced circumstances (15-30 years). These cases are prosecuted aggressively and almost always result in credit-restricted status (serving full sentence). Fentanyl-related deaths are particularly serious due to the lethal nature of the substance.

Conclusion

Level 2 felonies in Indiana carry severe consequences including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and permanent life-altering impacts on employment, housing, civil rights, and family relationships. Understanding the sentencing framework under IC § 35-50-2-4.5 and the IDOC credit time system under IC § 35-50-6-3.1 is crucial for anyone facing or navigating these charges.

Key takeaways:

Sentencing range: 10-30 years with 17.5-year advisory sentence
Common offenses: Voluntary manslaughter, armed robbery with injury, large-scale drug dealing (meth, cocaine, heroin, fentanyl)
Drug enhancements: School zones, dealing to minors, quantities exceeding thresholds, manufacturing operations
Credit time: Most drug offenders serve 75% (Class B); violent offenders serve 85-100%
Reduction options: Plea bargains most common; suspended sentences extremely rare; sentence modifications difficult but possible
Long-term consequences: Expungement possible for some non-violent cases after 8-10 years; violent offenses often permanently ineligible

Results vary significantly based on individual case facts, drug quantities, criminal history, victim impact, and legal representation quality. Always consult with a qualified Indiana criminal defense attorney experienced in serious felony cases for accurate legal advice tailored to your specific situation.

Use our Level 2 Felony Indiana Jail Time Calculator to estimate release dates and better understand how Indiana's sentencing system works for Level 2 offenses. Remember: this is an educational tool designed to help you understand the system, not a substitute for professional legal counsel.

Related Resources:

Table of Contents