Michigan launches ads on crime victim services

LANSING (AP) -- Michigan is running a statewide ad campaign to educate residents about services available to crime victims. The Michigan Department of Community Health launched the campaign Wednesday. The ads will feature information about the state's compensation program for victims. The Crime Victim Services Program pays for things like medical expenses and funeral bills that may result from a crime. The health department says the program is paid for by criminal fines. Two 30-second public service announcements will begin airing this week in areas including Detroit, Lansing and Grand Rapids. The ads and YouTube videos feature two victims of sexual and physical assault who discuss the services the program provided them. Between 2010 and 2011, the program paid $4.9 million to crime victims. Published: Fri, Apr 5, 2013