Great Lakes Wire

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced that the Department of Attorney General has received a $500,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW). The funds will support Operation Survivor Justice, a collaborative effort to locate and apprehend fugitive offenders with outstanding sexual assault warrants.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Office on Violence Against Women for this grant that will support our ability to apprehend cold-case sexual assault fugitives and bring justice to countless victims,” Nessel said. “The tireless efforts of Criminal Justice Bureau Chief Danielle Hagaman-Clark were invaluable in securing this funding, which will bolster Operation Survivor Justice’s ability to resolve open cases throughout our State.”

Merkeb Yohannes, Co-Executive Director of the Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence, expressed commitment to the partnership: "The Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence remains committed to fostering a strong partnership with the Michigan Department of Attorney General. Together, we will continue to advocate for and support survivors across Michigan, ensuring they receive the resources and justice they deserve."

The OVW awarded the grant through its Fiscal Year 2024 Enhancing Investigation and Prosecution of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking (EIP) Initiative. This initiative aims to improve law enforcement responses to these crimes by enhancing investigation and prosecution capacities.

To date, four defendants have been extradited under Operation Survivor Justice. The operation targets over 800 defendants who have been charged but are currently out on cash bail and believed to be outside Michigan.

The $500,000 grant will be distributed over three years. It will fund a crime analyst who will collaborate with various agencies to identify viable prosecution cases. Additionally, it will provide counseling services for survivors and their families and technical assistance for prosecutors seeking extradition.

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