July 8, 2026 – A Newsworthy Wednesday
Judge David Riggins has been a significant figure in Shelby Superior Court 2 for over 15 years. His journey towards this notable position began with him serving as a federal law clerk and later as a deputy prosecutor before being appointed as a judge. However, beyond his professional achievements, the objects in his office shed light on a different aspect of his life.
Among the various items in Judge Riggins’ office, two small baby shoes crafted from potato chip bags catch the eye. These unique shoes, created by an inmate at the Shelby County Jail, serve as a reminder of the humanity that lies beneath the legal proceedings. They were presented to Riggins in gratitude for his fair treatment of the inmate, showcasing a touching moment in the midst of legal duties.
Another intriguing object in the judge’s office is a battered crescent wrench that belonged to his great-grandfather, a steam engine repairman. Despite once being broken, the wrench serves as a reminder that things can be fixed with some effort and care. Riggins humorously mentions that his family’s thrifty tendencies seem to have been passed down through generations, joking that frugality is in his DNA.
A significant item that holds both sentimental and professional value to Judge Riggins is his firefighter’s helmet. As a volunteer firefighter, he received this leather chief’s helmet as a Christmas gift after serving as the Chief of the Moral Township Fire Department for a decade. The helmet symbolizes the countless emergency calls and the strong friendships forged during his service as a firefighter, highlighting his commitment to community safety.
Judge Riggins proudly displays a memento from his youth as an Eagle Scout, illustrating the values instilled in him through scouting. The Eagle Scout rank, achieved with Troop 248 in Fairland, serves as a reminder of the hard work and dedication required to obtain such an honor, along with the lifelong lessons learned along the way.
A collection of old coffee cups from Hinkle Fieldhouse holds a special place in Judge Riggins’ heart, as they once belonged to his grandfather, Charlie McElfresh. McElfresh, the equipment manager at Butler University post-World War II, hosted gatherings in the equipment room during Indiana’s renowned high school basketball tournament, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among attendees. This collection serves as a testament to the impact of personal connections and shared experiences, emphasizing the importance of human relationships over material wealth.
As the interview drew to a close, Judge Riggins pointed out one more poignant keepsake – an Iraqi bayonet gifted to him by a close friend who had returned from serving in the war. This item, like the rest in his office, holds sentimental value beyond its physical composition, reflecting the stories and experiences that have shaped Judge David Riggins’ life and career.