April 26, 2023
Contact: Chris Gautz
Lansing, Mich.- During National Crime Victims' Rights Week, which promotes victims' rights and services, the Michigan Department of Corrections encourages victims of crime to register for the department's Victim Information Notification system.
This week also serves as a reminder for those who registered in the past to ensure their information is up to date. If an individual has moved or changed phone numbers, the MDOC encourages them to update their information to ensure they receive timely notifications.
“Registering with the department’s Crime Victims Services Unit allows individuals to stay informed on the status of the offender who committed the crime,” said Michigan Department of Corrections Director Heidi Washington. “We continue to support the victims of crime and urge individuals to keep their contact information up to date for their safety and peace of mind.”
Crime victims are encouraged to register for written notifications from Crime Victim Services, to stay up to date on the status of the offender. Victims may request notifications by completing an MDOC Crime Victim Notification Request Form available from the Prosecuting Attorney, contacting Crime Victims Services, or the MDOC victim services website. Those registered for services through Crime Victim Services must maintain a current address and telephone number to ensure future notifications.
Crime Victims Services offers several additional services for victims including, written notifications, telephone notifications, information on MDOC programs, and referrals to local agencies.
Written notifications victims receive include the earliest parole eligibility date, transfer of the prisoner to a minimum-security facility, discharge release of the prisoner, notice of a public hearing, escape of the prisoner, notice of a parole board decision, movement to and from Special Alternative Incarceration, prisoner's legal name change, new convictions, and parole violations.
National Crime Victims’ Rights Week runs from April 23-29, 2023. This year’s selected theme - Survivor Voices: Elevate. Engage. Effect Change – calls on communities to amplify the voices of survivors and commit to creating an environment where survivors have the confidence that they will be heard, believed, and supported.
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