INDIANAPOLIS (AP) _ Former U.S. Attorney Joe Hogsett has taken a key step toward a possible run for mayor of Indianapolis.
Hogsett said Thursday he's filed the necessary paperwork for forming a mayoral campaign exploratory committee.
The Democrat announced July 14 that he would step down at the end of July after four years as a federal prosecutor. Hogsett has joined an Indianapolis law firm amid speculation that he will enter next year's Indianapolis mayor's race.
Hogsett has said the violent crime plaguing Indianapolis had spurred his interest in a possible mayoral bid.
Incumbent Mayor Greg Ballard, a Republican, is expected to seek a third term. Two other Democrats are running: state Rep. Ed DeLaney and Washington Township Trustee Frank Short.