Indiana Supreme Court Suspends Attorney Darrin Blaine
The state court suspended the Fishers-based lawyer following a 14-year prison sentence for financial fraud.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Financial Crime
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The Indiana Supreme Court has suspended attorney Darrin Wesley Smith Blaine from the practice of law following his recent conviction on nine felony charges. Blaine, who served as chief legal officer for two companies, was sentenced to 14 years in prison for his role in a fraudulent investment scheme.
Why it matters
The suspension marks a legal end to a case where investors were defrauded by an attorney who concealed material information regarding company bankruptcies. It underscores the importance of regulatory oversight in protecting investors from mismanaged corporate legal counsel.
Blaine was sentenced to 14 years with the Indiana Department of Correction following a guilty verdict on nine felony charges. His law license suspension became effective October 22, 2026, while his appeal of the conviction remains active.
The players
Darrin Wesley Smith Blaine
He is a former attorney based in Fishers who served as the chief legal officer for Akamai Physics Inc. and Porrima Photonix Inc.
Indiana Supreme Court
This is the highest judicial body in the state of Indiana responsible for the regulation and licensing of attorneys practicing within the jurisdiction.
Indiana Department of Correction
This state agency manages the prison system and the incarceration of individuals convicted of felonies under Indiana law.
The details
Blaine orchestrated an investment club to sell a $1 million promissory note from Akamai Physics Inc., failing to disclose that the company had filed for bankruptcy. Investors were instructed to wire funds directly to Blaine or his associated firms, Akamai Physics and Porrima Photonix.
Timeline
Criminal accusations against Darrin Wesley Smith Blaine first began in June 2020.
Blaine was formally charged with nine level 5 felonies in 2023.
A jury found Blaine guilty of nine felony charges in August 2026.
Blaine filed an appeal for his criminal conviction in September 2026.
The suspension from the practice of law took effect on October 22, 2026.
Legal Context
This suspension follows established protocols within the Indiana Rules of Professional Conduct regarding attorney misconduct, mirroring how other states address ethical breaches. The action reflects a broader trend of state bars utilizing license revocation to address financial crimes.
The suspension ensures that the public is protected from further legal services provided by an individual convicted of money laundering and fraud. Local clients of the former attorney should verify the status of their legal matters and consider seeking alternative counsel.
The takeaway
Investors should always perform due diligence by verifying the bankruptcy status of companies before committing capital to promissory notes. Attorneys hold a position of public trust, and legal penalties serve to maintain the integrity of professional practice.
Further reading
For more information on legal proceedings and regulatory actions, visit the Financial Crime section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Indiana Lawyer.
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