Council approves courthouse victim-assistance suite renovation; families, advocates describe need

Porter County Council approved an additional facilities appropriation on Monday to renovate a suite of offices in the county courthouse for the prosecutor’s victim-assistance program.

Anna Torres, who identified herself as with the prosecutor’s victim-assistance program, told the council the plan would convert five existing offices into a suite with private “comfort rooms” and child-appropriate spaces for victims and families going through criminal processes. “We’re hoping to get your support to renovate the former victim-assistant offices. There’s five offices there, and we’re in need of better support for our victims,” Torres said.

Mark Bajewski, who described himself as someone with lived experience of a homicide in his family, urged the council to approve the project, saying families need privacy and a place to regroup when in court. “There’s nowhere to breathe, relieve your feelings,” Bajewski said.

County facilities staff said contractors are engaged and the facilities department will facilitate the build-out. Council members discussed whether the work could proceed now using budgeted funds or should wait until year-end accounting; some members noted available unallocated net funds and urged moving forward. One council member asked for an estimate of potential additional funding requests; the prosecutor’s office representative replied that the amount was not yet certain.

A motion to approve an additional $24,157.54 to the facilities/building-maintenance line for the prosecutor’s office victim-assistance build-out passed on roll call.

Supporters said the renovation would provide private, calming space for victims of sexual assault, homicide survivors and children preparing for depositions, and would allow co-facilitation of services with community partners. County staff said no current occupants would be displaced and the chosen office suite is a good fit for the program.