Michigan crime victims win appeal on travel costs

 CHEBOYGAN (AP) — The Michigan Supreme Court says crime victims in certain cases can be reimbursed for travel expenses.

In a 5-2 decision, the justices say a Cheboygan County judge properly ordered a thief to pay nearly $1,000 to three snowmobile owners who traveled more than 2,000 miles to secure their stolen property and attend court hearings.

The Supreme Court says the costs fit a Michigan law that directs judges to order “full restitution.” The court overturned a decision by the state appeals court.

Justices Stephen Markman and Bridget McCormack disagreed with the majority last Thursday. They say the law has 1,006 additional words, and they find no specific authority allowing judges to hit criminals up for travel expenses.

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