KENT COUNTY, Mich. — A new court that focuses on domestic violence cases will be launched in Kent County soon with the goal of bringing abusers to justice while supporting victims.
The Domestic Violence Specialty Court was formed with the input of law enforcement, domestic violence survivors, attorneys and support organizations. This comes after an "alarming" increase in domestic violence cases, according to officials.
There will be two courts and judges dedicated to domestic violence cases—Judge Jennifer Faber in the 61st District Court in Grand Rapids and Judge Amanda Sterkenburg in the District 62B Court for the City of Kentwood.
These courts will give special attention to domestic violence cases and better support victims.
"Our goal with the Domestic Violence Specialty Court is to enact transformational change by holding offenders accountable through intensive programs and supervision aimed at changing behavior patterns," said Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker. "At the same time, we are committed to providing tremendous support to victims throughout the process, doing all we can to provide for their protection and offering the resources they need to navigate this challenging time for themselves and their families."
While the court was formed by analyzing how other domestic violence courts are operated, the Kent County Domestic Violence Specialty Court used community input to address the county's specific needs.
The need for a specialty court was discussed back in 2022, when the Domestic Violence Action Network (DVAN) hoped to use $4 million from the American Rescue Plan Act to fund the formation of the court.
A press conference will be held Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. to raise awareness about domestic violence and highlight the new court.
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