A program designed to deliver critical aid straight to crime victims is underway in Calhoun County. The local prosecutor’s office is leading this effort with the dual goals of assisting survivors and tackling the area's elevated levels of violence.
Jim Jordan, the Chief AssistantProsecuting Attorney of Calhoun County, noted that when considering violent crimes per person, Calhoun County trails only Wayne County inMichigan. He stressed the significance of victims knowing what support services are accessible, adding, “Perhaps understanding these resources could encourage more individuals to step forward.”
Demarra West, a crime survivor and activist from Kalamazoo, spoke with News Channel 3 about her ordeal, stating, "I am not isolated in this. Many individuals share similar experiences of staying silent about their stories."
West pointed out the hesitation of numerous victims when it comes to reporting crimes, stating, "I have encountered women within my social group who experienced sexual assault but will never choose to report it to the police."
Kelly Jo Fournier, who coordinates the Victim’s Unit for Calhount County, stated that numerous victims opt against pressing charges and frequently remain uninformed about the assistance accessible to them. She explained, “Often, if they wish to drop the charges, we must respect their decision and provide our support accordingly,” as reported by Fournier.
For the first time, the prosecutor's office is organizing an event aimed at linking victims with assistance outside the legal framework, emphasizing recovery and support services. This initiative coincides with National Crime Victims Rights Week and is facilitated via a VOCA grant—a funding source established under federal law, which receives money from criminal charges, fees, and seized funds obtained in federal court proceedings.
The event scheduled for April 7th will include a minimum of 15 local resources aimed at assisting crime victims, covering topics such as:
- Guiding You Through the Personal Protection Order (PPO) Procedure
- Sexual assault resources
- Intervention for intimate partner violence/ domestic abuse
- Emergency shelter/housing
- Children’s programs
- Expert therapy and psychological assistance
- Legal advocacy
- Psychiatric urgent care
- Crisis hotline
Jordan pointed out the importance of timely action, indicating that one in five murder victims have histories involving prior incidents of domestic abuse. According to Jordan, Calhoun County holds the second spot for homicides per person statewide, with Wayne County being number one. He mentioned that currently, the county is dealing with 17 unsolved homicide cases, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Jordan, who serves as the Chief Assistant Prosecutor for Calhoun County, stated, “I do not believe the figures are disproportionate when comparing Battle Creek’s numbers to those of other areas. Instead, I think that due to our available resources, individuals feel more at ease reporting crimes to law enforcement and collaborating with these organizations.”
He highlighted the significance of having adequate resources and understanding them, saying, "Greater access to resources or knowledge about these resources increases the likelihood that those affected will speak up."
