Press Releases and Public Relations

For all media inquiries, please contact:

email: fairmichigan@gmail.com

MEDIA ADVISORY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fair Michigan Names Kam Towns as New Special Prosecutor

Fair Michigan Justice Project Commits More Resources to Fight Crimes Against the LGBTQ Community

PLYMOUTH – August 1, 2022 – Alanna Maguire, president of the non-profit Fair Michigan Foundation, today announced the appointment of Kam Towns as the new Special Prosecutor of the Fair Michigan Justice Project. “Ms. Towns recently retired from a brilliant, 30-year career in the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office,” said Maguire. “She has the perfect combination of experience, empathy, and determination to handle our Justice Project prosecutions. We are so fortunate that she is committed and available to do this vital work.”

Begun in 2016, the Justice Project is a collaboration between Fair Michigan and prosecutor’s offices in Wayne, Ingham, Washtenaw, and Oakland counties. Fair Michigan provides a Special Investigator, a Victim’s Advocate, and a Special Prosecutor to investigate and prosecute serious bias crimes committed against members of the LGBTQ community, including murder, sexual and felonious assault, robbery, and extortion.

During her tenure at the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office, Towns tried hundreds of cases involving homicides and other serious crimes and managed the office’s Community Prosecutions Unit and the Homicide Unit. “I am excited to have the opportunity to join the Justice Project and devote my expertise to crimes against the LGBTQ communities in our partner counties.” “Kam is the perfect choice to take on these cases. I have full faith and confidence in her. She is a an extremely competent prosecutor with over 30 years of experience,” said Prosecutor Kym Worthy. “I am excited that she will take these cases on and that there will be a seamless transition. This is great news for Fair Michigan and Wayne County’s LGBTQ community.”

Fair Michigan’s Maguire noted “Since July 2016, the Justice Project has seen great success, with a 100% conviction rate in over thirty completed cases including some of Detroit’s most brutal cold-case homicides involving LGBTQ victims. After six years, not only are we succeeding in bias crime prosecution, but the Justice Project is helping law enforcement to close other cases involving non-bias incidents because of the relationships we have built.”

The Justice Project’s first Special Prosecutor, Jaimie Powell Horowitz, served until she was elected as judge in Oak Park’s 45^th District Court in late 2020. Since then, the Justice Project coordinated with prosecutions by the county prosecutors and the Hate Crimes Unit in the Michigan Attorney General’s office. “Now, Kam Towns will allow us to focus our special proficiency on each case involving LGBTQ victims in our four counties,” Maguire said.

Fair Michigan is a non-profit corporation seeking to end discrimination against persons based on sex, sexual orientation, gender, and gender identity.

Alanna Maguire
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
alanna@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Maria Miller
Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Director of Communications
mmiller@waynecounty.com
(313) 224-5817

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fair Michigan, GM, and Dykema team up to host fully remote name change clinic for low-income transgender individuals

DETROIT – June 30, 2021 – The Fair Michigan Foundation, the General Motors Legal Staff, and the law firm of Dykema Gossett PLLC will team up to host a fully remote pro bono clinic on July 29, 2021, for transgender individuals wishing to formally change their names to match their true identity. This event is the fifth in a series of clinics sponsored by Fair Michigan as part of its advocacy efforts for LGBTQ Michigan residents.

In this one-day event, GM and Dykema attorneys will help 12 individuals through the complex procedure required to legally change their names. The clinic will be conducted virtually, and will assist low-income transgender residents of Wayne, Oakland, or Macomb counties.

Julisa Abad, Fair Michigan’s Director of Transgender Outreach and Advocacy said, “We have seen that our name-change clinics make an immediate and positive difference to the people we have served. In light of ongoing threats to transgender rights, having a legal name which aligns with one’s identity has significant legal, social, and economic benefits.”

The name-change process in Michigan is often cumbersome and costly, making it nearly impossible to accomplish without access to funds and the assistance of an attorney. The COVID-19 pandemic, forcing courts to function remotely, has only amplified those burdens. The clinic will streamline these requirements, which include fingerprinting, mandatory background checks, notice requirements, and legal filing fees. Qualified participants must make less than $22,000 a year, be at least 18 years old, and have no active warrants.

Heidi Naasko, Dykema’s National Pro Bono and Diversity Counsel and a Member of the firm, said, “Dykema is proud to partner with Fair Michigan and General Motors to provide attorneys for people who may not have the access to the necessary means to legally change their name.

The process of matching a name to their identity is crucially important, as it aids in reducing the stigma and harassment experienced by transgender community.”

Fair Michigan President Alanna Maguire expressed gratitude for the assistance to be provided by Dykema and GM attorneys. “By removing the expense and complexity of the name-change process, our partners in this clinic will confer a life-changing benefit to the transgender participants. Their generous contributions of time, empathy, and interest greatly assist our efforts to remove barriers which transgender persons struggle to overcome.”

Fair Michigan is a non-profit corporation seeking to end discrimination against persons based on sex, sexual orientation, gender, and gender identity.

Alanna Maguire, Fair Michigan
877-4FAIR-MI
alanna@fairmichigan.org

Chloe Kerr, General Motors LLC
310-365-0268
chloe.kerr@gm.com

Tim Trunzo, Dykema
313-568-5333
ttrunzo@dykema.co

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Washtenaw County Man Charged With Felonious Assault, Criminal Sexual Conduct and Ethnic Intimidation of Transgender Woman

ANN ARBOR, MI – June 17, 2021 – Washtenaw County Prosecutor Eli Savit, with the assistance of the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP), has charged James Greggs, 59, of Ann Arbor, in connection with the violent assault of a transgender woman. Prosecutors charged Greggs with one count each of Second-degree Criminal Sexual Conduct, Felonious Assault, and Ethnic Intimidation (the title of Michigan’s hate-crimes law).* Greggs was arraigned Tuesday in Washtenaw County’s 14-A District Court.

Prosecutors alleged that, on June 8, 2021, Greggs cut the victim with a box cutter, hit her in the face, and strangled her while disparaging her for being a transgender woman, and then grabbed her breasts in an effort to humiliate her. Prosecutors alleged Greggs assaulted the victim because she is a transgender woman.

If convicted, Greggs faces up to fifteen years in prison for the criminal sexual conduct charge. The Ethnic Intimidation charge—which generally covers hate crimes in Michigan—reflects legal guidance issued by Prosecutor Savit in February 2021, which directed his office to prosecute LGBTQ-targeted hate crimes under that law.

The Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s legal guidance on hate crimes against LGBTQ persons can be found at the following link: https://www.washtenaw.org/DocumentCenter/View/19590/Legal-Guidance-Hate-Crimes-Based-on-Sexual-OrientationGender-Identity-.

The case was assigned to First Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Christina Hines, with the assistance of FMJP Victim Advocate Julisa Abad. The FMJP is a program that assists Michigan law enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving serious crimes against lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons.

Prosecutor Savit said, “My office partnered with Fair Michigan last March specifically to address crimes against members of the LGBTQ community. We are grateful for their assistance in facing the circumstances in this case, and will steadfastly pursue justice for the victim and the community.”

Fair Michigan President Alanna Maguire said, “It is tragic that this case happened during Pride Month, which celebrates the LGBTQ community and culture. The Fair Michigan Justice Project is proud to partner with the Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s Office and law enforcement agencies to aggressively prosecute these ruthless crimes.”

*The charges are allegations and defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Fair Michigan is a non-profit corporation seeking to end discrimination against persons based on sex, sexual orientation, gender, and gender identity.

Alanna Maguire
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
alanna@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Eli Savit
Washtenaw County Prosecutor
prosecutor@washtenaw.org
734-222-6620

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fair Michigan and Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald Announce Expansion of the Fair Michigan Justice Project into Oakland County

Project Grows to Cover Over One-Third of Michigan Residents

PONTIAC, Mich. – April 15, 2021 – The Fair Michigan Foundation and Oakland County Prosecutor Karen D. McDonald announced today the further expansion of the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP) into Oakland County, the fourth county now covered by the program. FMJP is a program designed to assist Michigan law enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving serious crimes against lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons. Now in its fifth year, FMJP already operates in Wayne, Ingham, and Washtenaw Counties in partnership with their County Prosecutor’s offices.

Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald stated, “I am thrilled to bring Fair Michigan’s vital expertise in seeking justice for LGBTQ crime victims into Oakland County for the first time. This innovative partnership will help train assistant prosecutors in navigating cases with LGBTQ victims, a critical step in our ongoing fight to ensure the criminal justice system sees, hears, and delivers justice for marginalized communities. This is our mission, and I am grateful to Chief Dare, President Maguire, and the entire Fair Michigan team for making this partnership possible.”
Prosecutor McDonald appointed Tricia Dare, Chief of Oakland County’s Special Victims Unit, as the Fair Michigan prosecutor. Chief Dare will prosecute criminal offenses committed against the LGBTQ community. Fair Michigan Trustee & Legal Services Director Victoria Shackelford and Director of Transgender Outreach and Advocacy Julisa Abad will conduct a training with the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office on a date to be announced later this year to advise the office on issues related to dealing with LGBTQ crime victims and witnesses.

Fair Michigan President Alanna Maguire expressed her thanks for the new partnership. “It has long been my goal to expand our project into Oakland County – Michigan’s second largest county and one with a sizable LGBTQ population. I welcome the progressive leadership of Prosecutor Karen McDonald and her office with its focus on smart-on-crime policies and initiatives, and I want to thank her for recognizing the value of our Fair Michigan Justice Project. We are eager to work together.”

Today’s announcement represents the second expansion of the Justice Project in one month. On March 16, 2021, Fair Michigan announced the program’s implementation in Washtenaw County. Currently, over one-third of Michigan residents live in counties served by the Justice Project.

Fair Michigan is a non-profit corporation seeking to end discrimination against persons based on sex, sexual orientation, gender, and gender identity.

Alanna Maguire
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
alanna@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Noah Arbit
Director of Communications
arbitn@oakgov.com
248-867-0222

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Washtenaw County Prosecutor Adopts Fair Michigan Policy on Respecting Gender Identity

Announcement on International Transgender Day of Visibility Intended to Assist Transgender Crime Victims and Witnesses

Ann Arbor – March 31, 2021 – Washtenaw County Prosecutor Eli Savit, with the assistance of the non-profit Fair Michigan Foundation, today announced the issuance of the Prosecutor’s Office’s Directive on respecting gender identity. The directive requires employees in the Prosecutor’s Office to treat transgender, intersex, and gender-nonconforming individuals in a manner appropriate to the individual’s gender identity, which may be different from the sex the individual was assigned at birth or listed on official identification documents.

The announcement comes on International Transgender Day of Visibility, which is dedicated to celebrating transgender people and raising awareness of discrimination faced by transgender people worldwide, as well as a celebration of their contributions to society.

The policy directs Prosecutor’s Office employees to classify an individual’s gender identity in accordance with statements or requests made by the individual, regardless of the individual’s appearance. In addition, employees will address transgender individuals by their chosen name and preferred pronouns. Employees will not refer to any person in a derogatory manner because of their gender identity or gender expression.

The policy is similar to ones adopted by the Prosecutor’s Offices in Wayne County and Ingham County. Fair Michigan developed the policy in 2016 in collaboration with Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy to address persistent problems faced by transgender Michiganders in encounters with the criminal justice system.

“If we’re serious about serving the community, we must treat all members of the community with respect,” Prosecuting Attorney Savit said. “Today’s directive will help ensure that transgender, intersex, and gender nonconforming people are treated respectfully by every member of our office. I’m grateful to Fair Michigan for their partnership in crafting today’s directive. We look forward to our future collaboration to ensure the safety of our LGBTQ communities.”

Fair Michigan president Alanna Maguire said, “As we have see in Wayne and Ingham Counties, this policy should promote positive interactions between prosecutors and crime victims and witnesses who are transgender. When transgender people know that they will be respected and properly identified, they are more likely to cooperate with law enforcement investigations and prosecutions. It is particularly fitting on International Transgender Day of Visibility, that Prosecutor Savit is taking this productive step to promote justice for transgender persons.”

The policy can be viewed in full at https://www.washtenaw.org/DocumentCenter/View/20101/Transgender-Interaction-Policy.

Fair Michigan is a non-profit corporation seeking to end discrimination against persons based on sex, sexual orientation, gender, and gender identity.

Alanna Maguire
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
alanna@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Shruti Lakshmanan
Transition Manager
prosecutorpress@washtenaw.org
734-697-3933

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fair Michigan and Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s Office announce expansion of the Fair Michigan Justice Project

Fair Michigan and Washtenaw County Prosecutor announce program which will train law enforcement officers, and coordinate to investigate and prosecute serious crimes committed against LGBTQ community in Washtenaw County

ANN ARBOR – March 16, 2021 – The Fair Michigan Foundation today announced the expansion of the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP) into Washtenaw County, in a partnership with the Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s Office. FMJP is a program designed to assist Michigan law enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving serious crimes against lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons. Established in 2016, FMJP has been successfully operating in Wayne County and Ingham County in partnership with their County Prosecutor’s offices. To date, FMJP has secured nearly 30 convictions and maintains a 100% conviction rate.

“Partnering with Fair Michigan and bringing the Justice Project to Washtenaw County has been a goal of mine because I am committed to ensuring justice for everyone in our community. It is my hope that our partnership will enhance the trust between the LGBTQ community and law enforcement”, said Washtenaw County Prosecutor Eli Savit.

Prosecutor Savit announced that his office will designate Washtenaw County First Assistant Prosecutor Christina Hines to work in conjunction with the Fair Michigan Justice Project to prosecute criminal offenses committed against the LGBTQ community. Fair Michigan Trustee & Legal Services Director Victoria Shackelford and Director of Transgender Outreach and Advocacy Julisa Abad will conduct a law enforcement training with the Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s Office on May 21, 2021 to advise the office on issues related to dealing with LGBTQ crime victims and witnesses.

Fair Michigan President Alanna Maguire welcomed the new partnership. “Expanding the Fair Michigan Justice Project into Washtenaw County will provide greater avenues for justice for Michigan’s LGBTQ residents. We are grateful for Prosecutor Savit’s leadership, and I am honored to call him a friend.”

Fair Michigan is a non-profit corporation seeking to end discrimination against persons based on sex, sexual orientation, gender, and gender identity.

Alanna Maguire
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
alanna@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Shruti Lakshmanan
Transition Manager
prosecutorpress@washtenaw.org
734-697-3933

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Indiana Man Charged with Homicide, Robbery, and Weapons Charges Targeting Members of the LBGTQ Community

DETROIT – March 3, 2021 – On March 2, 2021, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, with the assistance of the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP), charged Diabolique Paris Johnson, 24 (DOB: 04/28/1996), of Indianapolis, IN, in connection with a homicide and an armed robbery. FMJP is a program that assists Michigan law enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving serious crimes against lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons.

On September 1, 2020, it is alleged that Johnson committed an armed robbery of a 26-year-old man, of Detroit, that occurred at a hotel located in the 24130 block of Michigan Avenue in Dearborn, MI. It is alleged that the man had his personal property taken during the robbery. The defendant was not in custody when he was charged with one count of Armed Robbery on September 21, 2020.

On September 5, 2020, at a location in the 16800 block of Woodbine in Detroit, it is alleged that Johnson murdered a 39-year-old, of Detroit, during an armed robbery. Prosecutors have charged Johnson with one count of First-Degree Felony Murder and one count of Felony Firearm. *
It is alleged that the victims in both cases were targeted on online dating apps because they were members of the LTGBQ community. More specific facts and evidence in the case will be placed on the record in court at the preliminary examination.

From September 1, 2020, until December 4, 2020, police officers from Dearborn, Detroit, and Indianapolis IN, conducted an investigation which led to Johnson’s arrest in Indianapolis. Defendant Johnson was extradited from Indiana and arrived in Michigan this afternoon. He was arraigned and remanded to jail yesterday on the Dearborn Armed Robbery case in 18th District Court in Dearborn. The Probable Cause Conference is scheduled for March 12, 2021 and the Preliminary Examination is scheduled for March 19, 2021. Due to issues transporting the defendant to court today, he is expected to be arraigned on March 5, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. in 36th District Court in Detroit.

In 2019, Attorney General Dana Nessel created a Hate Crimes Unit at her office to investigate and prosecute hate crimes that include victims targeted based on race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, and gender identity. As part of that initiative, AG Nessel has offered county prosecutors across the state assistance with their hate crimes prosecutions. This case represents the first joint undertaking between AG Nessel and Prosecutor Worthy in that effort.

“I’m proud to stand with Prosecutor Worthy and the Fair Michigan Justice Project to announce these charges today. It’s my hope that this case marks the beginning of a long partnership focused on providing justice to some of our most vulnerable communities,” Attorney General Nessel said.

“It is my pleasure to announce that our recent agreement with Attorney General Dana Nessel that will allow us to receive assistance from her office on FMJP cases. I am also pleased to announce that veteran Wayne County Assistant Prosecutor LaDonna Logan will be working with FMJP to prosecute these important cases,” said Prosecutor Worthy.

Fair Michigan President Alanna Maguire said, “It is troubling that the perpetrator of these vicious acts apparently used online dating apps to locate and target his victims. Michigan’s LGBTQ communities know that the Fair Michigan Justice Project, along with Michigan’s county prosecutors and law enforcement officials, stand ready to aggressively investigate and prosecute these brutal crimes.”

* The charges are allegations and defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Alanna Maguire
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
alanna@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Maria Miller
Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Director of Communications
mmiller@waynecounty.com
(313) 224-5817

Ryan Jarvi
Michigan Department of the Attorney General
Press Secretary
agpress@michigan.gov
517-599-2746
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fair Michigan, Ford and Dykema Team Up to Host Name Change Clinic for Low-Income Transgender Individuals

Detroit – December 2, 2019 – In light of national cases threatening transgender rights and confusion around legal protections in Michigan, the Fair Michigan Foundation, Ruth Ellis Center, Ford Motor Company and Dykema Gossett PLLC will team up to host a pro bono clinic for transgender individuals wishing to formally change their names to match their true identity. In Michigan, the name change process is often cumbersome and costly, making it nearly impossible to accomplish without access to funds and the assistance of an attorney. These organizations hope the one-day clinic will remove these traditional barriers, paving the way to accomplish this important step for those who seek to do so. The organizations held a pilot clinic back in October, where attorneys from Dykema and Ford helped four individuals through what can often be a tedious process of completing a name change.

WHAT: Name Change Clinic

WHEN: Tuesday, December 3, 2019; 12 – 5 p.m

WHERE: Ruth Ellis Center,
77 Victor Street,
Highland Park, Michigan 48203

WHO: Approximately 20 transgender individuals, attorneys from Ford and Dykema, and representatives from Fair Michigan and Ruth Ellis Center.

WHY: Completing a legal name change is just one of many steps faced by individuals in the transgender community. Outside of these clinics, the legal name change process can take several months to complete because of the multiple steps, which include mandatory background checks and notice requirements associated—which, beyond the professional fees an attorney would normally charge, also includes filing and associated fees than can run in excess of $300. The pro bono name change clinic affords members of the transgender community a chance to jump-start the process by completing the paperwork and fingerprinting [to be used for a background check], both at no cost in one day with the assistance of a volunteer attorney.

Alanna Maguire, Fair Michigan
877-432-4764
alanna@fairmichigan.org

Monique Brently, Ford Motor Company
313-575-1488
mbrentle@ford.com

Tim Trunzo, Dykema
313-568-5333
ttrunzo@dykema.com

Members of the media interested in attending and covering the event can reach out to any of the contacts listed above.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ingham County Prosecutor Adopts Policy On Respecting Gender Identity

Lansing – September 24, 2019 – Ingham County Prosecutor Carol Siemon, with the assistance of the non-profit Fair Michigan Foundation, today announced the issuance of the Prosecutor’s Office’s Policy on respecting gender identity. The policy requires employees in the Prosecutor’s Office to treat transgender, intersex, and gender-nonconforming individuals in a manner appropriate to the individual’s gender identity, which may be different from the sex the individual was assigned at birth or listed on official identification documents.

Regardless of the individual’s appearance, the policy directs Prosecutor’s Office employees to classify an individual’s gender identity in accordance with statements or requests made by the individual, such as if the individual asks the employee to use different pronouns. In addition, employees will address transgender individuals by their chosen name, which might be different from the name that is on their government-issued identification. Employees will not refer to any person in a derogatory manner because of their gender identity or gender expression.

The policy is similar to one adopted by the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office in October 2016. Fair Michigan developed it in collaboration with Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy to address persistent problems faced by transgender Michiganders in encounters with the criminal justice system.

Fair Michigan president Alanna Maguire said, “As we have seen in Wayne County, this policy should promote productive interactions between prosecutors and crime victims and witnesses who are transgender. When transgender people know that they will be respected and properly identified, they are more likely to cooperate with law enforcement investigations and prosecutions.”

Prosecutor Siemon said, “This policy is an important step in ensuring positive interactions with transgender individuals in Ingham County. Last March, we partnered with Fair Michigan to bring the Fair Michigan Justice Project to Ingham County. That program assists our law enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving serious crimes against lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons. This policy reinforces our commitment to protecting members of the LGBTQ community in Ingham County.”

Fair Michigan President Maguire said, “Fair Michigan is proud to advocate for and coordinate this commonsense policy which promotes access to justice for transgender persons wherever it is adopted.”

Fair Michigan is a non-profit corporation seeking to end discrimination against persons based on sex, sexual orientation, gender, and gender identity.

Alanna Maguire
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
alanna@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Scott Hughes
Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office
shughes@ingham.org
(517) 483-6108

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Two Detroit Men Charged with First Degree Murder, Carjacking, Unlawful Imprisonment, and Felony Firearm in Killing of Gay Man

DETROIT – July 13, 2019 – Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, with the assistance of the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP), has charged Anthony Brock, 28 (DOB: 8/17/1990), and Darnell Wilson, 30 (DOB: 9/30/1988), both of Detroit, with first-degree murder and other crimes in the killing of Diano Johnson, a gay Detroit man. Prosecutors charged Brock and Wilson with one count each of First Degree Murder, Felony Murder, Armed Robbery, Carjacking, Unlawful Imprisonment, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and six counts Felony Firearm.* Brock was also charged with Arson, for allegedly setting Johnson’s car on fire. The defendants are expected to be arraigned today after 11:00 a.m. in 34^th District Court in Romulus. Please request a photograph of the defendants from the Detroit Police Department after the arraignment.

On June 19, 2019, Brock arranged to meet Johnson after the pair met on Facebook. It is alleged that Brock locked Johnson in the trunk of Johnson’s car and picked up Wilson. It is further alleged that the two men obtained a firearm and drove Johnson to an east-side location, where they dragged him from the car and shot him multiple times. The following morning, Brock allegedly set Johnson’s car on fire, burning his legs in the process.

Detroit Police officers discovered Johnson’s body on June 21, 2019. Investigation by the Detroit Police department resulted in the arrest of Brock on June 25, 2019, and Wilson on July 12, 2019.

The Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office assigned the case to Special Prosecutor Jaimie Powell Horowitz of the FMJP, which is collaboration between the Prosecutor’s Office and Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc. FMJP is a program that assists Michigan law enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving serious crimes against lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons. This is the second FMJP case in three days. On Thursday, prosecutors charged Demetris Nelson with the murder of one gay man and assault with the intent to murder another.

Fair Michigan President Alanna Maguire said, “When members of Detroit’s LGBTQ community are targets of violence, the Fair Michigan Justice Project is ready to vigorously prosecute these cases. These horrifying allegations demonstrate the ongoing need for determined efforts to bring justice for all.”

* The charges are allegations and defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Alanna Maguire
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
alanna@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Maria Miller
Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Director of Communications
mmiller@waynecounty.com
(313) 224-5817

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Detroit Man Charged with First Degree Murder, Assault with Intent to Murder, and Felony Firearm in LGBTQ Killing

DETROIT – July 12, 2019 – Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, with the assistance of the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP), has charged Demetris* Nelson, 26 (DOB: 03/25/1993), of Detroit, in connection with the murder and assault of two gay Detroit men. Prosecutors charged Nelson with one count each of First Degree Murder, Felony Murder, Assault, with Intent to Murder, Assault with the Intent to Rob While Armed and four counts Felony Firearm.**

Nelson was arraigned this morning before 36^th District Court Magistrate Jeffrey Kleparek. The Probable Cause Conference is scheduled for July 26, 2019 at 8:30 a.m.; the Preliminary Examination is scheduled for August 2, 2019 at 1:30 p.m. Both hearings are before Judge Ronald Giles in 36^th District Court. The defendant was remanded to jail. Please request a photograph of the defendant from the Detroit Police Department.

It is alleged that on July 6, 2019, Nelson shot and killed Brian Anderson, 31, and shot and critically wounded Malcolm Drake, 26, both of Detroit, during the course of an attempted robbery. Anderson and Drake were both gay men. Prosecutors alleged Nelson targeted Anderson and Drake because they were gay, and used the social networking app Grindr to locate the victims.

From July 6 to 8, 2019, an investigation by Detroit Police officers led to Nelson’s identification and arrest.

Prosecutor Worthy said, “The allegations are that social media contacts were used to target, contact, rob, fatally shoot one gay man, and seriously wound another gay man. To some this will be just another hateful and violent act in America. They will read about this case and continue to go about their day. To me, that is quite tragic.”

The case was assigned to Special Prosecutor Jaimie Powell Horowitz of the FMJP, which is a collaboration between the Prosecutor’s Office and Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc. FMJP is a program that assists Michigan law enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving serious crimes against lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons.

Fair Michigan President Alanna Maguire said, “We are saddened and outraged by this despicable crime. This case is just the most recent example of how members of Detroit’s LGBTQ community are too often targets of violence. The Fair Michigan Justice Project is proud to partner with the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office and the Detroit Police Department to aggressively prosecute these ruthless crimes.”

*The defendant’s first name is correctly spelled Demetris.
**The charges are allegations and defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Alanna Maguire
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
alanna@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Maria Miller
Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Director of Communications
mmiller@waynecounty.com
(313) 224-5817

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Detroit Man Charged with First Degree Murder, Assault, and Felony Firearm in Triple LGBTQ Killings

DETROIT – June 6, 2019 – Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, with the assistance of the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP), has charged Devon Robinson, 19 (DOB: 10/20/2000), of Detroit, in connection with the killing of three members of Detroit’s LGBTQ community. Prosecutors charged Robinson with three counts of first-degree murder, two counts of assault with intent to murder, and five counts of the use of a firearm in connection with a felony.* Robinson will be arraigned tomorrow in 36th District Court after 9:00 a.m.

It is alleged that, on May 25, 2019, Robinson shot and killed Alunte Davis,21, Paris Cameron, 20, and Timothy Blancher, 20, all of Detroit, inside a home on Devonshire on Detroit’s east side. Davis and Blancher were gay men, and Cameron was a transgender woman. Prosecutors also alleged Robinson shot and wounded two additional victims who have survived their injuries.

From May 25 to June 5, 2019, an investigation by Detroit Police officers led to Robinson’s arrest yesterday.

Prosecutor Worthy said, “The alleged actions of this defendant are disturbing on so many levels, but the fact that this happened during Pride Month adds salt into the wound. We must remain ever vigilant in our fight to eradicate hate in Wayne County and beyond.”

Fair Michigan President Alanna Maguire said, “This case illustrates the mortal danger faced by members of Detroit’s LGBTQ community, including transgender women of color. The LGBTQ community knows that the Fair Michigan Justice Project, the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office and the Detroit Police Department stand ready to aggressively prosecute these brutal crimes.”

*The charges are allegations and defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Alanna Maguire
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
alanna@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Maria Miller
Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Director of Communications
mmiller@waynecounty.com
(313) 224-5817

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fair Michigan Announces Expansion of the Fair Michigan Justice Project in Partnership with Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office

Fair Michigan and Ingham County Prosecutor announce program which will train law enforcement officers, and coordinate to investigate and prosecute capital crimes committed against LGBTQ community in Ingham County

LANSING – March 28, 2019 – Fair Michigan today announced the expansion of the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP) into Ingham County, in a partnership with the Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office. FMJP is a program designed to assist Michigan law enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving serious crimes against lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons. FMJP has been successfully operating in Wayne County since 2016 in partnership with the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office. To date, FMJP has secured 23 convictions and maintains a 100% conviction rate.

“My office is committed to protecting members of the LGBTQ community in Ingham County and the results of the Fair Michigan Justice Project speak for themselves. We are looking forward to partnering with Fair Michigan to better serve all of the residents of Ingham County”, said Ingham County Prosecutor Carol Siemon. Prosecutor Siemon announced that her office will designate Assistant Ingham County Prosecutor Angela Tripi to work in conjunction with the Fair Michigan Justice Project to prosecute capital offenses committed against the LGBTQ community. Fair Michigan’s Special Prosecutor Jaimie Powell Horowitz will also conduct a law enforcement training with the Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office on May 31st to educate the office on issues related to dealing with LGBTQ crime victims and witnesses.

Fair Michigan President Alanna Maguire was enthusiastic about the new partnership with the Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office. “We are incredibly excited to work with Prosecutor Siemon and the Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office. I would like to personally thank Prosecutor Siemon for her leadership. Fair Michigan is grateful for the opportunity to expand the Justice Project into mid-Michigan.”

Fair Michigan is a non-profit corporation seeking to end discrimination against persons based on sex, sexual orientation, gender, and gender identity.

Alanna Maguire
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
alanna@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Scott Hughes
Ingham County Assistant Prosecutor
shughes@ingham.org
(517) 483-6108

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Man Sentenced to 18 – 20 Years in Prison for 2013 Murder of Gay Detroit Man

DETROIT – March 8, 2019 – On Wednesday, March 6^th, Judge Michael Hathaway sentenced Hameer Alkotait to 18-20 years in prison. Alkotait earlier had accepted a plea agreement with prosecutors convicting him of second-degree murder. The case arose from the 2013 robbery, killing, and burning of a gay man, Gabino Rodriguez. Alkotait’s co-defendant, Andrew Czarnecki, was sentenced to life in prison without parole after a trial in December 2018.

The cases were prosecuted by Special Prosecutor Jaimie Powell Horowitz of the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP), which is collaboration between the Prosecutor’s Office and Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc. FMJP is a program that assists Michigan law enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving serious crimes against lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons.

Alkotait and Czarnecki targeted Rodriguez for robbery because he was gay. During the robbery, Alkotait and Czarnecki savagely beat and strangled Gambino, and then burned his body beyond recognition in a field in Southwest Detroit.

Fair Michigan President Alanna Maguire welcomed Alkotait and Czarnecki’s convictions, and noted, “After six long years, justice has finally been attained for the family of Gabino Rodriguez. These cold-case murder convictions resulted from Detective Kevin Wight and the Detroit Police Department’s tenacious investigation of this brutal crime, and Special Prosecutor Jaimie Powell Horowitz’s determined prosecutions. We are grateful for their efforts, and we are committed to continue the fight for justice for the LGBTQ community in Wayne County.”

Alanna Maguire
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
alanna@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Maria Miller
Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Director of Communications
mmiller@waynecounty.com
(313) 224-5817

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Detroit Man Sentenced to 18 – 45 Years in Prison for Armed Robbery of Transgender Woman

DETROIT – January 25, 2019 – Wayne County Circuit Court Judge Mark Slavens yesterday sentenced Antoine Simmons of Detroit to 18 – 45 years for armed robbery and use of a firearm in connection with a felony. Simmons went to trial earlier this month, and was found guilty of the crimes in connection with an armed robbery of a transgender woman.

Mr. Simmons, who was carrying a gun, attacked a transgender woman while she was walking home from a store. He struck his victim in the back of the head multiple times and took her purse.

The case was assigned to Special Prosecutor Jaimie Powell Horowitz of the Fair Michigan Justice Project, which is a program that assists Michigan law enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving serious crimes against lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons.

Fair Michigan President Alanna Maguire applauded the sentence and noted, “Wayne County and the City of Detroit, through its law enforcement officials, the Prosecutor’s Office and the Fair Michigan Justice Project, have an effective, focused, and tenacious team dedicated to investigating, prosecuting, and solving these violent crimes against the LGBTQ community. Mr. Simmons’ lengthy prison sentence should serve as a message that criminals can no longer prey upon Detroit’s LGBTQ community with impunity.”

Alanna Maguire
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
Alanna@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Maria Miller
Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Director of Communications
mmiller@waynecounty.com
(313) 224-5817

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fair Michigan Applauds Governor Whitmer’s Executive Directive Banning LGBTQ Discrimination

Fair Michigan welcomed the new non-discrimination directive Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued today in Ferndale, Michigan. The directive prohibits discrimination in the workplace against state employees and state contractors who identify as LGBTQ. It also offers protections to LGBTQ residents seeking state services.

Michigan state law does not offer protections for people based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Today’s directive will prevent discrimination for state employees and employees of companies that have contracts with the state of Michigan.

“This is a welcome step in the right direction for Michigan” said Fair Michigan’s new president, Alanna Maguire. “We thank Governor Whitmer and hope that her example will be followed by the legislature, to enshrine these rights for all of the people in our state.”

The decisive impact of this directive will be seen in many ways. It will be illegal to fire or harass employees of state contractors based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. In addition, the directive explicitly bans discrimination against transgender employees of the state government and state contractors.

A 2013 report by the Michigan Department of Civil Rights found discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons on the bases of their sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or gender expression is widespread, common, and economically and socially damaging. “Governor Whitmer’s executive directive today is a step forward that allows our hard-working state employees and state contractors to participate in a workforce filled with equitable opportunities” Maguire said. “This executive directive takes the values of equality and fairness, and applies them for the immediate benefit of the public employee workforce.”

Alanna Maguire
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
alanna@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Area Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for 2013 Murder of Gay Detroit Man

DETROIT – December 19, 2018 – Judge Michael Hathaway today sentenced Andrew Czarnecki to life in prison without the possibility of parole after his conviction of first-degree murder. The case arose from the 2013 robbery, killing, and burning of a gay man. Judge Hathaway also sentenced Czarnecki to 11-20 years for armed robbery, and 57 months to 11 years for mutilation of a dead body. On December 5, 2018, a Wayne County jury found Czarnecki guilty of the crimes after a trial.

The case was prosecuted by Special Prosecutor Jaimie Powell Horowitz of the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP), which is collaboration between the Prosecutor’s Office and Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc. FMJP is a program that assists Michigan law enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving serious crimes against lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons.

Czarnecki’s co-defendant, Hameer Alkotait, is scheduled for a pre-trial hearing on February 6, 2019, and trial on March 6, 2019.

Dana Nessel
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
DanaNessel@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Maria Miller
Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Director of Communications
mmiller@waynecounty.com
(313) 224-5817

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sterling Heights Man Charged With Open Murder, Felony Firearm, in Shooting of Transgender Woman

DETROIT – December 10, 2018 – The Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office today charged Albert Weathers, 46 (DOB: 8/6/1972), of Sterling Heights, in connection with last Thursday’s shooting death of Kelly Stough, 36, of Detroit.

On December 7, 2018, a Detroit Police officer found the lifeless body of Stough, a transgender woman, on East McNichols Street at Brush Street. After a police investigation, prosecutors arraigned Weathers on charges of open murder and use of a firearm in commission of a felony.

Weathers was arraigned today in 36th District Court in Detroit. The Probable Cause Conference is scheduled for December 20, 2018 at 8:30 a.m., and the Preliminary Examination is scheduled for December 27, 2018 at 1:30 p.m. in front of Judge Michael Wagner. Bond is set at $1 million cash/surety.

The Prosecutor’s Office assigned the case to Special Prosecutor Jaimie Powell Horowitz of the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP), which is collaboration between the Prosecutor’s Office and Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc. FMJP is a program that assists Michigan law enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving serious crimes against lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons. Fair Michigan President Dana Nessel said, “This case reflects the excessive brutality that members of Detroit’s transgender community constantly face. We thank the Detroit Police Department for their efforts to investigate the facts of this tragic crime.”

The charges are allegations and defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Dana Nessel
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
DanaNessel@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Maria Miller
Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Director of Communications
mmiller@waynecounty.com
(313) 224-5817

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Area Man Convicted of Cold-Case Murder of Gay Detroit Man; Faces Life in Prison

DETROIT – December 5, 2018 – A Detroit jury today found Andrew Czarnecki guilty of first-degree murder, felony murder, armed robbery, and mutilation of a dead body. Judge Michael Hathaway scheduled a sentencing hearing on December 19, 2018. The conviction carries a mandatory life sentence. The case arose from the 2013 killing and burning of a gay man.

A co-defendant, Hameer Alkotait, is scheduled for a pre-trial hearing on December 14, 2018.

Fair Michigan President Dana Nessel said, “This conviction in a cold-case murder of a gay man illustrates the Fair Michigan Justice Project’s resolve, in association with the Prosecutor’s Office, to investigate and vigorously prosecute serious crimes against the LGBTQ community. We used our dedicated resources to find witnesses, gather evidence, and mount a successful prosecution. With this conviction, the FMJP maintains its 100% conviction rate for the cases we have charged. We are proud to provide the community with an opportunity to come forward, speak up, and win justice whenever these crimes occur.”

Dana Nessel
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
DanaNessel@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Maria Miller
Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Director of Communications
mmiller@waynecounty.com
(313) 224-5817

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Two Detroit Men Charged With Assault with Intent to Murder, Other Crimes, in Armed Robbery of Transgender Woman

DETROIT – November 19, 2017 – Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, with the assistance of the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP), charged two Detroit men, Charles Marion Brown, 21 (DOB: 6/9/96), and Jujuan Alexon Williams, 19 (DOB: 8/2/9/98), with assault with intent to commit murder and other crimes in connection with an armed robbery of a transgender woman on November 17, 2017.

It is alleged that Brown and Williams accosted their victim in the 17800 block of Woodward Avenue at about 1:50 a.m. Brown, armed with a semi-automatic rifle, and Williams exited a red GMC Yukon and told the victim to drop everything and run. The victim dropped her purse and ran. Brown fired five shots, three of which stuck the victim as she ran away, while Williams picked up her purse. Detroit police officers responded to the scene and received a description of the getaway vehicle. The officers located the vehicle, gave chase, and apprehended Williams and the rifle after the Yukon jumped a curb and stopped. Brown escaped on foot. The police apprehended Brown on November 18, 2017. The victim has been hospitalized in stable condition.

Brown, the alleged shooter, has been charged with assault with intent to commit murder, assault with intent to commit great bodily harm, armed robbery resulting in serious injury, armed robbery, fleeing and eluding, use of a firearm in connection with a felony, felon in possession of a firearm, and being a habitual offender – second offense.

Williams is charged with armed robbery resulting in serious injury, armed robbery, use of a firearm in connection with a felony, felon in possession of a firearm, and being a habitual offender – fourth offense.

The charged offenses for both defendants involve felonies which are punishable by up to life in prison.

The case was assigned to Special Prosecutor Jaimie Powell Horowitz of the FMJP, which is collaboration between the Prosecutor’s Office and Fair Michigan. FMJP is a program that assists Michigan law enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving serious crimes against lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons.

Fair Michigan President Dana Nessel said, “On the eve of the national Transgender Day of Remembrance, this case illustrates the horrific acts of violence to which transgender persons are subject. The Fair Michigan Justice Project, in association with the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office and the Detroit Police Department, was established to provide LGBTQ individuals with an effective, focused, and tenacious team dedicated to investigating, prosecuting, and solving crimes against the community. We applaud the Detroit Police officers whose quick response and investigation brought the defendants into custody.”

The defendants will be arraigned tomorrow in the 36th District Court in Detroit.

*The charges are allegations and defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Dana Nessel
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
DanaNessel@fairmichigan.org
(313) 556-2300

Maria Miller
Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Director of Communications
mmiller@waynecounty.com
(313) 224-5817

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fair Michigan Justice Project Successfully Prosecutes LBGTQ Crimes

On July 12, 2016, Fair Michigan and the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office (WCPO) formed the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP) partnership to focus on homicides and other capital offenses committed against members of the LGBTQ community. This effort is funded by Fair Michigan at no cost to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office; Fair Michigan is a 501(c)(3). This initiative is one of the first of its kind in the nation. http://www.fairmichigan.org/fair-michigan-justice-project/

Fair Michigan and the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office prosecute crimes against members of the LGBTQ community, especially those which are “cold” or those where witnesses or LGBTQ community members may be reluctant to come forward. The networking ability and outreach of Fair Michigan assists in reaching potential witnesses to resolve difficult cases.

Fair Michigan Justice Project Case Summaries

In the past year FMJP has advance the cause of criminal justice and public safety in Metro Detroit by prosecuting the following cases.

Steven Edwards – The defendant assaulted the victim with a firearm while filming it, stating that he hated black gays. The defendant went on an hours-long rant about hating gay people and posted it on social media.

Convicted: Felonious Assault, Felony Firearm

Sentence: Two years in Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC), three years probation on Felonious Assault

Iyesha Porter – The defendant discovered her teenage daughter was seeing another girl, picked her up from school and beat her while calling her anti-gay names.

Convicted: Child Abuse – Third Degree

Sentence: Two years Probation / Parenting Classes / Anger Management

Anthony Thornton – The defendant held a transgender man against his will and raped him.

Convicted: Two counts of Criminal Sexual Conduct – First Degree, Unlawful Imprisonment

Sentence: 15 years to 30 years in MDOC.

Devin Higgins – The defendant targeted gay men on-line, lured them into sexual banter, then claimed his young child had seen pictures of their genitals. He said would contact police if he did not receive the money. The defendant did not have a child. The victim turned over $1500 before going to police. Defendant was also prosecuted federally for the same contact and extorting over $70,000 from another victim.

Convicted: Extortion

Sentence: Three and a half years – 20 years in MDOC

Byron Wade – The defendant threatened a gay man with a knife for no other reason than being gay.

Convicted: Felonious Assault

Sentence: Three years probation, one year in Wayne County Jail

Jason Hogan – The defendant shot a transgender prostitute in the face after paying for sex acts.

Convicted: Assault With Intent to Murder, Felony Firearm

Sentence: Eighty-one months – 20 years in MDOC plus two years for Felony firearm

Kaleel Williams – The defendant met victim online; victim told Williams he was male and not female, Williams agreed to meet. At the meeting spot, the defendant arrived with latex gloves. When victim refused to get in the car, defendant called him a gay ass bitch and shot him twice in the back as he ran away.

Convicted: Assault With Intent to Murder, Felony Firearm

Sentence: Four and ½ years – 20 years plus two years for Felony Firearm

Sean Nathan – The defendant brother’s boyfriend had a fight over household responsibilities while calling the victim anti-gay names. The defendant stabbed the victim during the fight.

Convicted: Felonious Assault

Sentence: One year WCJ, three years Probation, Drug Treatment, Psych Eval and treatment, 180 days on tether upon release

The defendant was also convicted of Felonious Assault on a separate case and received a sentence concurrent with the case above.

Pending cases:

People v. Joshua Amos – Armed Robbery

People v. Andrew Czarnecki & Hameer Alkotait – Murder – First Degree, Mutilation of a Dead Body

People v. Anthony Thornton – Criminal Sexual Conduct – First Degree – (second victim)

*The charges are allegations and defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Statement of FM President Dana Nessel

President of Fair Michigan Justice Project Dana Nessel said, “During a time when we commemorate the victims of the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, and when hate crimes against the LGBTQ community have risen exponentially across the nation, I am comforted to know that the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office and the law enforcement agencies in Wayne County have made such extraordinary efforts to partner with Fair Michigan in finding new and innovative ways to combat these brutal offenses. I am especially grateful to Prosecutor Kym Worthy, who recognized the need to take action to combat vicious acts against a class of people who were falling through the cracks of the criminal justice system. Thanks to the Fair Michigan Justice Project, the LGBTQ community in Wayne County can be assured that their lives and their safety truly matter and that the criminal justice system in our county will treat them with the respect and dignity deserved by all people.”

Statement of Prosecutor Kym Worthy

Prosecutor Kym Worthy said, “I am very proud of our work here. This collaboration has been even more successful than imagined. The cases that we have prosecuted would most likely have been ignored and certainly justice is now slowly being afforded. Our work has been so fruitful that we are seeking funding for another prosecutor and investigator. Clearly, members of the LGBTQ community are safer and more engaged since the WCPO and Fair Michigan partnered on this Project.”

Dana Nessel
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
DanaNessel@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Maria Miller
Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Director of Communications
mmiller@waynecounty.com
(313) 224-5817

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Port Huron Man Charged With Kidnapping, Multiple Rapes and Unlawful Imprisonment After Old Rape Kits are Processed

DETROIT – January 25, 2017 – Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, with the assistance of the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP), charged Anthony Thornton, 46 (DOB: 7/15/70), of Port Huron, with kidnapping, multiple counts of criminal sexual conduct and unlawful imprisonment.

It is alleged that, on April 20, 2010, Thornton met his first victim, a lesbian, at the Coalition on Temporary Shelter (COTS) homeless shelter in Detroit. The victim accompanied Thornton and two other men to an abandoned house to drink and smoke. When victim attempted to leave, Thornton and the other men held her down and took turns raping her.

It is also alleged that, on March 8, 2011, Thornton’s second victim was invited to a home in Detroit by a friend. When the victim arrived, the friend was not there but Thornton was. Thornton overpowered the victim and raped her. Thornton only stopped his attack when he heard someone at the door. The victim was able to escape through a back window and immediately reported the crime.

For these two cases, Thornton has been charged with three counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, three counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct, one count of kidnapping, and two counts of unlawful imprisonment. First-degree criminal sexual conduct and kidnapping are felonies punishable by up to life in prison. Second-degree criminal sexual conduct and unlawful imprisonment are felonies punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

The cases were assigned to Special Prosecutor Jaimie Powell Horowitz of the FMJP, which is collaboration between the Prosecutor’s Office and Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc. FMJP is a program that assists Michigan law enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving serious crimes against lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons.

Fair Michigan President Dana Nessel said, “These cases illustrate the tragedy of Michigan’s failure to quickly process thousands of rape kits in Detroit and the importance of Prosecutor Worthy’s longtime crusade to bring the perpetrators of sex crimes to justice. An accused serial rapist evaded justice for years, and the victims’ demands for justice were unaddressed. The Fair Michigan Justice Project, in association with the Prosecutor’s Office and the Detroit Police, is proud to take up these cold cases and finally deliver justice to the women and LGBT individuals who were victimized.”

Thornton was arraigned on January 24, 2017, and was given a $100,000 cash bond. The probable cause conference will be held on January 31, 2017. The preliminary examination is scheduled for February 7, 2017, in front of Judge Shannon A. Holmes of the 36^th District Court.

About Fair Michigan

Fair Michigan is a 501(c)(3) corporation that actively solicits funding for its programs aimed at ending discrimination against members of the LGBTQ community. For more details, visit www.fairmichigan.org.

Dana Nessel
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
DanaNessel@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Maria Miller
Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Director of Communications
mmiller@waynecounty.com
(313) 224-5817

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Detroit Man Charged With Assault with Intent to Commit Murder and Felony Firearm After Shooting Transgender Woman

DETROIT – January 25, 2017 – Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, with the assistance of the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP), charged Jason L. Hogan, 26 (DOB: 3/1/90), of Detroit, with assault with intent to commit murder, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.

It is alleged that, on January 13, 2017, Hogan met the victim, a transgender woman, and arranged to pay for sexual activity in the back of his car. After performing a sex act, Hogan shot the victim in the face with a 9mm Ruger handgun. The victim escaped from Hogan, and sought treatment for her injury at Grace Hospital.

From January 13 to January 22, 2017, an investigation by Detroit Police officers led to Hogan’s arrest. Hogan has been charged with assault with intent to commit murder, a felony punishable by up to life in prison, along with possessing a firearm during the commission of a felony, which is punishable by two years in prison.

Fair Michigan Director of Transgender Outreach Julisa Abad said, “This case highlights the mortal danger faced by transgender individuals in Michigan. Since Michigan law permits employment discrimination against LGBTQ residents, trans people sometimes must resort to sex work in order to survive, which puts them at extreme risk of criminal violence. It is incredibly encouraging to know that The Fair Michigan Justice Project, the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office and the Detroit Police Department have stated, in no uncertain terms, that violence against the Trans community is unacceptable under any circumstances and that these agencies stand ready to aggressively prosecute these brutal crimes committed.”

Hogan was arraigned on January 24, 2017, and was given a $250,000 cash bond. The probable cause conference will be held on January 31, 2017. The preliminary examination is scheduled for February 6, 2017, in front of Judge Kenneth J. King of the 36^th District Court.

Dana Nessel
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
DanaNessel@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Maria Miller
Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Director of Communications
mmiller@waynecounty.com
(313) 224-5817

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Detroit Mother Charged With Assault and Felony Child Abuse After Attacking Her Daughter for Lesbian Love Letter

DETROIT – November 28, 2016 – Prosecutor Kym Worthy, with the assistance of the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP), charged Iyesha K. Porter, 34, of Detroit, with felony child abuse, and assault and battery.

It is alleged that, on November 11, 2016, Porter found a love letter between her 15 year-old daughter and another girl. Porter signed her daughter out of school, brought her home, confronted her and then began to hit her, kick her, and pushed her into a wall while calling her gay slurs.

On November 11, 2016, an investigation led by Detroit Police Department officers led to Porter’s arrest. The daughter was placed in her father’s custody. Porter has been charged with third-degree Child Abuse, a felony punishable by up to two years in prison, along with misdemeanor child abuse, and assault and battery.

The case was assigned to Special Prosecutor Jaimie Powell-Horowitz of the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP), which is a collaboration between the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office and Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc. FMJP is a program that assists Michigan law enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving serious crimes against lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons.

Fair Michigan President Dana Nessel said, “This case is an unfortunate example of the physical and mental harm that LGBTQ youths suffer when their sexual orientation is discovered by hostile family members. The Fair Michigan Justice Project, in association with the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office and the Detroit Police Department, stands ready to aggressively prosecute these brutal crimes committed against members of the LGBTQ community.”

The defendant was arraigned on November 17, 2016, and was given a $5,000 bond. The probable cause conference was held on November 21, 2016. The preliminary examination is scheduled for November 29, 2016 before Judge Kenneth King of the 36^th District Court.

Dana Nessel
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
DanaNessel@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Maria Miller
Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Director of Communications
mmiller@waynecounty.com
(313) 224-5817

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Detroit Man Convicted of Felonious Assault, Weapons Charges in July Assault on a Gay Man

DETROIT – November 28, 2016 – The Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office, with the assistance of the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP), announced the conviction of a Detroit man who threatened a gay man with a gun last July.

On July 17, 2016, Stephen Drake Edwards, 20, of Detroit, pulled gun on a 23-year-old Detroit man, while yelling homophobic slurs and recording the incident with his cell phone camera. Edwards later posted the video of the incident on his Twitter account and taunted the police via appearances on Periscope. Edwards was convicted of felonious assault and felony firearm. The victim contacted FMJP, and FMJP’s Special Prosecutor Jamie Powell Horowitz sought and was authorized to bring maximum charges against Edwards.

On November 22, 2016, Edwards pled guilty shortly before his scheduled trial date. Edwards will appear before Judge Talon on December 14, 2016, to be sentenced. He faces a two-year sentence for the firearm conviction, and up to four years for the felony assault.

The FMJP is a collaboration between the Prosecutor’s Office and Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc. FMJP is a program that assists Michigan law enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving and prosecuting serious crimes against lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons.

Fair Michigan President Dana Nessel said, “Stephen Edwards targeted the victim in this case for no other reason than that he is a gay man. This incident took place only hours following the formation of our task force and this case perfectly illustrates the dangers LGBTQ people face every day in our community, and the desperate need for this project.” Nessel further stated, “We established the Fair Michigan Justice Project to provide targeted resources to the Prosecutor’s Office and community police departments to address crimes against the LGBTQ community. We are grateful for the dedication of our staff, the Prosecutor’s Office, and the Detroit Police Department in bringing Mr. Edwards to justice. We hope this conviction serves as a warning to all persons who commit crimes against LGBTQ people.”

Powell Horowitz added, “Gun violence is an epidemic in our community and, unfortunately, LGBTQ persons are disproportionately affected due to the high level of hate crimes committed against them. I am relieved that Mr. Edwards faces a mandatory prison sentence so that others will not be subjected to the fear and violence this defendant utilized social media to disseminate. I am proud to be part of this innovative project which I believe is having a significant impact on the safety of the community, and I am grateful to Prosecutor Worthy for her support of this important work.”

About Fair Michigan

Dana Nessel
President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.
DanaNessel@fairmichigan.org
877-4FAIR-MI

Maria Miller
Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Director of Communications
mmiller@waynecounty.com
(313) 224-5817

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WAYNE COUNTY PROSECUTOR AND FAIR MICHIGAN COLLABORATE TO ISSUE MICHIGAN’S FIRST-EVER TRANSGENDER INTERACTION POLICY

Policy Requires Prosecutors to treat Transgender, Intersex, and Gender-Nonconforming Individuals in a Manner Appropriate to the Individual’s Gender Identity

DETROIT – November 3, 2016 – Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, in association with Fair Michigan, a Michigan non-profit corporation seeking to end discrimination against persons based on sex, sexual orientation, gender, and gender identity, has announced the issuance of the Prosecutor’s Office’s Policy on Transgender Interaction. The policy requires employees in the Prosecutor’s Office to treat transgender, intersex, and gender-nonconforming individuals in a manner appropriate to the individual’s gender identity, which may be different from the sex the individual was assigned at birth or listed on official identification documents.

Regardless of the individual’s appearance, Prosecutor’s Office employees should classify an individual’s gender identity in accordance with statements or requests made by the individual, such as if the individual asks the employee to use different pronouns. In addition, employees should address transgender individuals by their chosen name, which might differ from the name that is on their government-issued identification. Employees shall not refer to any person in a derogatory manner because of their gender identity or gender expression.

“We strive at ‎this office to treat everyone that walks through our doors with dignity and respect. This is a great tool to facilitate this,” stated Prosecutor Worthy. “We want to make sure that we do not unknowingly offend anyone that we are trying to help. No one is immune from the guidance that this policy provides.‎ Hopefully this can be adopted widely.”

“The Transgender Interaction policy marks a significant step forward for the rights of Michigan residents,” said civil rights attorney Dana Nessel, president of Fair Michigan and a former Wayne County assistant prosecutor. “This policy is the first in the state to require prosecutors and staff to recognize a basic human right for transgender individuals: recognition of, and respect for, a core aspect of their identity. Fair Michigan is proud to have assisted the Prosecutor’s Office in developing this essential and transformative policy.”

Fair Michigan Justice Project staff attorney, Jaimie Powell Horowitz worked closely with the Prosecutor’s Office to develop the policy, which promises to enhance productive interactions between prosecutors and crime victims and witnesses who are transgender. In July, Prosecutor Worthy appointed Ms. Powell Horowitz as Special Prosecutor for the Fair Michigan Justice Project, which investigates and prosecutes cases of serious criminal conduct involving lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) victims targeted based on their sexual orientation and/or gender identity.

“It is impossible to overstate the importance of this action,” said Julisa Abad, Fair Michigan’s Transgender Outreach Coordinator. “A person’s gender identity involves one’s innermost concept of how individuals perceive themselves and what they call themselves. This policy requires that each person’s gender identity be recognized and respected.”

Ms. Nessel predicted that the Transgender Interaction policy will serve as a model for law enforcement and prosecutors’ offices throughout the state. “By implementing the Transgender Interaction Policy, Wayne County is demonstrating to the rest of Michigan how to ensure that gender identity is never again ignored or misconstrued when gender-nonconforming people interact with criminal justice officials.”

About Fair Michigan

###

Contact:

Dana Nessel

President, Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.

DanaNessel@fairmichigan.org

(313) 556-2300

Maria Miller

Wayne County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney

Director of Communications

mmiller@waynecounty.com

(313) 224-5817

Fair Michigan Justice Project Assigned New WCPO LGBTQ Hate Crime Case in Detroit

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Release Date: September 12, 2016

DETROIT- Fair Michigan, a Detroit-based LGBTQ advocacy organization, announced today that its recently formed ‘Justice Project’. The Fair Michigan Justice Project is in conjunction with the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office. Ms. Jaimie Powell Horowitz, has been designated a special prosecutor by Prosecutor Kym L. Worthy. She will handle both new and “cold” cases in Wayne County for this project.

On September 9, 2016, Kaleel Williams, age 19 (DOB: 3/30/97), of Detroit, was charged with Assault With Intent to Murder, Assault With Intent Great Bodily Harm, Felonious Assault and Felony Firearm for having attacked a 30 year-old gay man in Detroit. He was also arraigned on September 9, 2016, and is being held on a $500,000 cash/surety bond. Williams will appear before the 36th District Court in the Frank Murphy Hall of Justice on September 16, 2016 for a Probable Cause Conference. Ms. Powell and has been assigned to prosecute the Williams case.

The President of Fair Michigan, Dana Nessel, said, “This is the third serious assault against a gay person that the Project has charged since its inception on July 12, 2016. We knew assaults against the LGBTQ community were a problem, but even our staff has been alarmed at just how many incidents of hate crime there actually are. It’s terrifying.”

On August 24, 2016, the complainant and the defendant met on Facebook and agreed to meet at a secluded park at Appoline and Grove Street. It is alleged that when the complainant opened the passenger door of his car, he observed the defendant wearing white latex gloves and decided not to get into the vehicle. It is further alleged that as the complainant was walking away, he observed the defendant getting out of the car and yelling ‘you gay bitch’, when the defendant fire three shots from a handgun, striking the complainant two times in his side. The complainant managed to get back to a nearby home before collapsing. He was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

This latest case comes just 7 weeks following the announcement of the formation of the Fair Michigan Justice Project, a first of its kind collaboration between Fair Michigan and the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office. The goal of the project is to create a vehicle to deliver justice to a community which has been historically underserved. The Fair Michigan Justice Project though t is investigating and prosecuting both new and “cold” cases in Wayne County.

Fair Michigan is a 501(c)(3) corporation that actively solicits funding for the Fair Michigan Justice Project and other programs aimed at ending discrimination against members of the LGBTQ community. For more details, visit www.fairmichigan.org.

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For additional inquiries please contact Dana Nessel as given above or:

Maria Miller
Wayne County Assistant Prosecutor
Director of Communications
1441 St. Antoine 12th Floor
Detroit,MI 48226

tel:313-224-5817″>313-224-5817 (Office)
tel:313-213-0457″>313-213-0457 (Mobile)
mmiller@waynecounty.com

Fair Michigan ‘Justice Project’ Celebrates First Anti-Gay Hate Crime Conviction

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release Date: Sep. 2, 2016

DETROIT- Fair Michigan, a Detroit-based LGBTQ advocacy organization, announced today that its recently formed ‘Justice Project’ secured its first conviction for a hate crime against a member of the LGBTQ community.

Byron Wade, age 54, was convicted of felonious assault for having attacked a 22 year-old gay, black man with a knife in the City of Inkster on August 12, 2016.

The president of Fair Michigan, Dana Nessel, said, “This case represents the many reasons this project is so important: LGBTQ people are far more likely to be targeted for hate crimes than any other minority group. Despite this, LGBTQ victims are less likely to feel safe reporting these incidents. The Fair Michigan Justice Project provides a resource for hate crime victims to ensure their cases will be handled with respect and that the assailants will be prosecuted.”

According to police reports, the victim was walking home from work when Wade began verbally threatening him with anti-gay slurs. The victim began running away, at which point Wade pulled out a knife and attempted to stab the victim while calling the victim a “fag”, “bitch” and “queer.” The victim escaped and was able to call 911.

Vicki Yost, the Fair Michigan Justice Project special investigator, said, “Our networking and outreach is proving to be incredibly successful in reaching victims and witnesses, and working to resolve difficult cases.”

Byron Wade was soon identified as the perpetrator. Wade was convicted as charged and will be sentenced on September 20, 2016 before the Wayne county circuit court. The Fair Michigan Justice Project’s special prosecutor, Jaimie Powell Horowitz, prosecuted the case.

“Criminals like Byron Wade who prey on the LGBTQ community represent a serious threat to law abiding citizens” said Horowitz. “I am gratified that Mr. Wade has been brought to justice, and I am proud to be a part of this important project in the fight against hate crimes in our state.”

The conviction comes just 6 weeks following the announcement of the formation of the Fair Michigan Justice Project, a first of its kind collaboration between Fair Michigan and the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office. The goal of the project is to create a vehicle to deliver justice to a community which has been historically underserved. The Fair Michigan Justice Project is investigating and prosecuting both new and “cold” cases in Wayne County.

Press Release August 17, 2016

FAIR MICHIGAN FUNDRAISER TO HIGHLIGHT FIGHT AGAINST LGBTQ CRIMES

DETROIT – Fair Michigan is shining a light on hate crimes against the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) community alongside keynote speaker Kym Worthy during the “Justice Dinner” this Thursday 7 pm at the Burton Manor banquet and conference center in Livonia, Michigan.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will go to Fair Michigan’s recently-launched “Justice Project,” a pilot program that seeks to combat hate crimes against the LGBTQ community.

Dana Nessel, president of Fair Michigan, said that the project is already producing results and encouraging people to step forward. The fundraiser is necessary, she said, because they’ve been flooded with requests and need more resources to address the problem.

Nessel said, “So many people who have been victimized are finally feeling comfortable in coming forward to work with law enforcement. The Fair Michigan Justice Project is filling a vital need in our community.”

Wayne county prosecutor Kym Worthy appointed a Special Prosecutor and a Special Investigator from the staff of Fair Michigan, which is what formed the new “Justice Project.” The Fair Michigan appointees have extensive training in the investigation and prosecution of hate crimes against LGBTQ persons. Worthy made the announcement in a joint press conference with officials from Fair Michigan on July 12^th in Detroit. Worthy assigned new and cold cases of homicides, criminal sexual conduct and serious felony assaults.

Nessel said that the project’s intent is to make all of Metro Detroit safer, “We’re not just providing closure to victims and their families; this is about saving lives and ensuring that justice is served.”

The Justice Project is preparing and prosecuting the assigned cases involving LGBTQ victims who have been targeted based on their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. This roster of cases include a number of unsolved homicides of transgender women in the Palmer Park area of Detroit.

Julisa Abad, director of transgender outreach and advocacy for Fair Michigan, said, “Fair Michigan’s dedication towards providing visibility for a traditionally marginalized and largely invisible population is long overdue.”

One of the other high-profile cases Fair Michigan’s Justice Project recently took up involved a gay man threatened with a firearm in Detroit, which the alleged harasser then posted a video of online.

“Recent legal victories in the Supreme Court have not necessarily translated into more safety for members of the LGBTQ community,” said Erica Moise, the vice president of Fair Michigan. “Fair Michigan is finally giving a voice to those in the community who have felt powerless for far too long.”

Fair Michigan is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation whose chief goal is to create a Michigan where the presence and contributions of everyone are welcomed and celebrated regardless of their gender, gender identity, sex, or sexual orientation; where intolerance is challenged and defeated; where justice prevails and where the civil rights of all people are valued and respected.

Press Release July 12, 2016

FAIR MICHIGAN JUSTICE PROJECT LAUNCHES TO INVESTIGATE AND PROSECUTE CRIMES AGAINST MICHIGAN LGBTQ COMMUNITY

Fair Michigan, Wayne County Prosecutor, and Detroit Police Chief announce historic program; cases include Amber Monroe transgender homicide, assaults on gays

DETROIT – July 12, 2016 – Fair Michigan, a Michigan non-profit corporation seeking to end discrimination against persons based on sex, sexual orientation, gender, and gender identity, today launched the Fair Michigan Justice Project (FMJP), a program to assist Michigan law enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving serious crimes against lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender persons.

An historic and truly transformational initiative, FMJP will enhance the delivery of justice to the LGBTQ community, where victims and witnesses are often reluctant to come forward. FMJP will investigate and prosecute new and cold cases of serious criminal conduct, including homicide, criminal sexual conduct, carjacking, armed robbery, assault with intent to murder, and others involving LGBTQ victims targeted based on their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. One of FMJP’s first cases involves the murder of Amber Monroe, a well-known LGBTQ activist who was shot and killed on August 8, 2015, in Detroit.

Fair Michigan, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, and Detroit Police Chief James Craig will release more details about FMJP at a news conference this morning:

DATE: Tuesday, July 12, 2016

TIME: 11:00 a.m.

LOCATION: Penobscot Building, 645 Griswold St., Detroit (Smart Detroit Seminar Room, 13th floor)

FMJP addresses a problem common to LGBTQ communities nationwide: victims and witnesses often know enough to aid police in a criminal investigation, but they rarely come forward for fear that they won’t be taken seriously or, worse, that they must endure discriminatory treatment from the investigators. FMJP allows victims and witnesses to be interviewed in a “safe space” and allows for reasonable witness relocation when necessary.

Detroit Police Chief James Craig praised the inauguration of FMJP, and noted that it can provide an important means to investigate, prosecute, and imprison violent criminals who prey on the LGBTQ community. Craig has pledged to have the Detroit Police Department work in concert with Fair Michigan staff in investigating and prosecuting crimes which occur in the City of Detroit.

“Making certain that LGBTQ crime victims receive the highest quality of assistance and protection has always been a priority in the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office,” said Worthy. “The Fair Michigan Justice Project provides the strongest vehicle to date possible to ensure that those who target victims based on their sexual orientation or gender identity will be investigated, prosecuted, and brought to justice. My office intends to prosecute these criminal acts as vigorously as any office in the nation.”

Worthy has appointed the first special prosecutor and special investigator from the staff of Fair Michigan. Former Wayne County assistant prosecutor Jaimie Powell Horowitz has been named special prosecutor for FMJP. Vicki Yost, former chief of police in Inkster, Michigan, and former deputy chief of the Detroit Police Department, has been named special investigator. Both have received extensive training by national experts in the investigation and prosecution of hate crimes against LGBTQ persons. They will maintain contact with victims, victims’ families in homicide cases, and will work to keep all parties informed through every stage of the proceedings. They will perform community outreach and informational campaigns when necessary to help identify witnesses and seek their cooperation.

“The Fair Michigan Justice Project is a truly groundbreaking, model program for the delivery of justice to the LGBTQ community,” said civil rights attorney Dana Nessel, president of Fair Michigan and a former Wayne County assistant prosecutor. “LGBTQ people are far more likely to be the target of hate crimes than any other minority group, and as we so recently saw with the tragedy in Orlando, this nationally significant step is sorely needed not just in Detroit but around the country.”

Fair Michigan will fund FMJP, with little to no cost to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office. Fair Michigan received a generous grant to begin FMJP from Hertz Schram, P.C., and the project may be expanded and extended if further fundraising efforts are successful.

A fundraiser for FMJP will be held at Burton Manor in Livonia, Mich., on Thursday, August 18 at 7:00 p.m. For more information please visit www.fairmichigan.org.

About Fair Michigan

Fair Michigan is a 501(c)(3) corporation that actively solicits funding for FMJP and other programs aimed at ending discrimination against members of the LGBTQ community. For more details, visit www.fairmichigan.org.

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Fair Michigan Foundation, Inc.

P.O. Box 6136 – Plymouth, MI 48170

586 Harding Street, Plymouth, MI 48170

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About Fair Michigan

Fair Michigan Justice Project Assigned New WCPO LGBTQ Hate Crime Case in Detroit

Fair Michigan ‘Justice Project’ Celebrates First Anti-Gay Hate Crime Conviction

Press Release August 17, 2016

Press Release July 12, 2016

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