Shelby, Hancock County prosecutors receive grants to fight sexual and domestic violence

Sunday, October 11, 2026 at 5:35 PM

By Johnny McCrory

The Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) announced more than $8.5 million in grant funding awarded to 69 unique organizations across Indiana that provide critical services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other forms of abuse.
The announcement comes as Indiana Governor Mike Braun recognizes Domestic Violence Awareness Month, underscoring the state’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to safety, support, and trauma-informed services for survivors.
“Indiana remains committed to ensuring every Hoosier has access to safety, stability, and compassionate, high-quality support,” Gov. Braun said. “These investments help expand the programs that protect victims, strengthen families, and build safer communities across our state.”
ICJI Executive Director Douglas Huntsinger said the funding reflects the state’s priority of meeting victims’ needs through a strong network of local partners.
“Our communities rely on organizations that step forward every day to support survivors with dignity and care,” Huntsinger said. “These organizations are a lifeline for people navigating some of the most difficult moments of their lives, and this investment ensures they have the resources necessary to respond effectively when someone turns to them for help.”
This year’s awards include $3.9 million through the federal Services, Training, Officers, Prosecutors (STOP) Violence Against Women Grant, provided to 49 organizations to support coordinated, community-driven responses to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. STOP funds will help strengthen court programs, enhance law enforcement and prosecution activities, and expand victim services statewide. The Shelby County Prosector's Office will receive $126,139 from this fund. In Hancock County, the prosecutor's office was granted $54,256.