Kent County Victim Witness

National Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) Awareness Day is observed annually on May 5, 2026, to honor victims and raise awareness of the crisis of violence against Indigenous people.

Today an annual march was held hosted by the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi (NHBP), Pokagon Band of Potawatomi, and The Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi.

"Across the United States, there are tens of thousands of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People whose cases have gone misidentified, unsolved, and unprosecuted. The BIA estimates that there are 4200 known cases that are currently unsolved. This crisis is not distant, it impacts families and tribal communities across the State of Michigan every day. There are approximately 4,000 open MMIP cases connected to Michigan, despite Native Americans making up less than 1% of the population. This crisis is deeply personal in tribal communities. Many families are still searching for their loved ones and their cases remain unresolved, often without the needed urgency and support. The continued recognition of May 5th through memorial marches and awareness events underscores the ongoing need for enhanced and coordinated action, culturally grounded resources, and sustained public attention to ensure safety and justice for Indigenous people." - https://gunlaketribe-nsn.gov/media-advisory-march-for-missing-and-murdered-indigenous-people-mmip/

Today we had the privilege of attending the 25th Anniversary Celebration for West Michigan Therapy Dogs (WMTD).

WMTD partners with us to provide court support for individuals 17 years or younger and vulnerable adults. We are so appreciative of their support and service.

A special thank you to Judge Feeney. Her tireless advocacy brought about the court support program eight years ago.

Happy National Denim Day from our team! 👖💙

It's National Crime Victims' Rights Week!

During this week, we will be sharing information and resources for victims of crime.

Day 4: Know your national resources:

It's National Crime Victims' Rights Week!

During this week, we will be sharing information and resources for victims of crime.

Day 3: Know your local resources:

Kent County community honors victims of crime during an evening of remembrance gathering Kent County honored victims of crime during an evening of remembrance, reading off names while providing a space for reflection and solidarity for impacted families.

It's National Crime Victims' Rights Week!

During this week, we will be sharing information and resources for victims of crime.

Day 2: Know your resources:



LINKS:

MI Crime Victim Compensation: https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/safety-injury-prev/publicsafety/crimevictims/crime-victim-compensation

VINE: https://www.vinelink.com/

Silent Observer: https://www.silentobserver.org/

“Perhaps by sharing our love, we may give others—and ourselves—hope.”

This evening, Silent Observer and Kent County Victim Witness held our annual Candlelight Vigil for Crime Victims’ Rights Week.

We are grateful to share this meaningful time with the families we serve, coming together in support.

Thank you to all the agencies who help make this event possible.

A big thank-you to Baxter Community Center for welcoming some of our staff last Friday to help put together Thanksgiving baskets. We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday weekend.