On August 17, 2021, Leo Blackwell, Partner in the law firm of Ruckelshaus, Kautzman, Blackwell in Indianapolis, IN was awarded the first ever National Fraternal Order of Police Attorney Lifetime Achievement Award. In a well-orchestrated surprise presentation led by Leo’s law partner, John Kautzman, and Indianapolis FOP Lodge #86 President, Rick Snyder, current General Counsel for the National FOP, Larry James, called Leo to the stage for the presentation at the 2021 National FOP Conference held in Indianapolis, IN. Leo was joined on stage by his family and members of his law firm.
Leo worked for 20 years a police officer with the Indianapolis Police Department (now the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department). Upon retirement as a police officer, Leo went to law school and has been advocating for the men and women of law enforcement ever since. Leo has been representing members of public safety for 36 years and his passion for public service has never wavered. Leo is a frequent lecturer in several aspects of the law as it relates to law enforcement and is a tireless advocate for the men and women in law enforcement to enhance their profession in positive ways. Leo is the current General Counsel to the Indiana State Lodge of the Indiana Fraternal Order of Police and is one of the most respected voices in law enforcement throughout the state.
