Detective Sergeant Ralph Akeman suffered a heart attack while testifying during a criminal trial in a change of venue at the Vanderburgh County Courthouse in Evansville.

   On February 5, three men were arrested at one of the suspect's homes as they were cutting open a stolen safe in the basement. During a court hearing, a heated exchange ensued as Detective Sergeant Akeman was being examined by a defense attorney seeking the identity of a confidential informant and he collapsed on the witness stand.

   Detective Sergeant Akeman, who had previously suffered a heart attack four years earlier, was transported to Welborn Hospital in Evansville where he died.

   The 27-, 35- and 39-year-old men on trial were subsequently convicted and each were sentenced to 10 years in prison for second-degree burglary and auto banditry that was later affirmed upon appeal.

   Detective Sergeant Akeman was survived by his wife, 10-year-old son and brother.

The responsibilities of the Indianapolis Police Department (1854–2006) are now under the jurisdiction of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department.