Franklin Co. Prosecutor Wilhelm Awarded For 40 Years In Office

Mel Wilhelm is one of Indiana's most-tenured prosecuting attorneys.

(From left) Franklin County Prosecutor Melvin Wilhelm, IPAC Executive Director David Powell and Grant County Prosecutor James Luttrull. Photo provided.

(Franklin County, Ind.) - Franklin County’s longtime prosecutor is being recognized for his career.

Mel Wilhelm has been the prosecutor in Franklin County for 40 years. First elected in 1978, he is retiring at the end of this year after not seeking re-election.

Wilhelm was awarded a Eugene “Shine” Feller Award from the Indiana Prosecuting Attorneys Council during the organization’s winter conference earlier this month.

“It’s a true testament to Mel’s character and ability as a prosecutor that he’s been in that office for so long,” IPAC Executive Director David Powell said. “We’re losing a lot of experience with his departure.”

Wilhelm is a former president of the IPAC.

Created in 1975 to commemorate the late Harrison County Prosecutor Eugene Feller, the award is the highest honor the council gives out. The award has been given to prosecutors, governor and judges and is meant to award Indiana’s outstanding citizens. This is just the third time that two ‘Shine’ Feller awards have been given out in the same year. Both Luttrull and Wilhelm are also former presidents of the Association.

A second Feller award was given to Grant County Prosecutor James Luttrull. It is just the third time two of the awards have been handed out in the same year.

More from Local News

Comments

Add a comment

Log in to the club or enter your details below.
Rating *

Events

INDOT, ISP Urge Safe Travel Following Severe Storms

Locally, Franklin County is under a Level Orange Travel Watch

George Street Bridge Closure

The closure is for the installation of lighting on the bridge.

UPDATE: Significant Flooding Expected Along Whitewater River

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is advising that the Whitewater River is expected to reach approximately 23 feet around 2:00 AM Thursday morning.

2026 Team Preview: East Central Returns to Class 4A as Top-Ranked Team

The Trojans will host Lawrenceburg to kick off the season on Friday, August 21.

Batesville Announces New Varsity Baseball Head Coach

A familiar face takes over the program

Local Sports Report - August 10, 2026

IHSAA Girls Golf State Preview took place on Monday in Carmel

On Air

Chelsie playing
Brooks & Dunn - That's What It's all About

Kip Moore Beer Money 6:26
Travis Tritt Best of Intentions 6:18
Carly Pearce Truck On Fire 6:15
Blake Shelton Sangria 6:08