FAFO Justice Op/Ed By: Autumn Smith
April 7, 2026 – The Battle Creek City Commission put on a show for the cameras. Under Mayor Mark A. Behnke, the city declared April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and Crime Victims’ Rights Week. Photos were snapped, speeches delivered, and the Battle Creek Police Department (BCPD) smiled for the obligatory “supporting victims” photo op.
But behind the pomp and banners, the story is far darker—and far more disturbing.
The Hypocrisy is Blinding
While the Commission applauded victims in the chamber, the city allegedly turned its back on actual victims outside of it. A multi-jurisdictional sextortion ring, linked to former Michigan State Police Detective Kris Douponce, has reportedly harmed dozens of women. And yet, according to victims and investigative reporting from FAFO Justice, the BCPD and city leaders have allegedly lied, denied, hid, buried, delayed, & concealed the investigation.
Translation: Victims cry for help. The city stages photo ops. The predator allegedly walks free.
Victims vs. Optics
On Stage: “We support crime victims!”
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In reality, allegations point to a systematic cover-up to protect someone in law enforcement.
For the women coming forward, proclamations don’t help. They aren’t justice—they are an insult. Every banner and speech feels like a performance while the people who need protection are being silenced.
The Public Deserves the Truth
This isn’t a minor misstep. It’s a full-blown contradiction between words and action. Until the BCPD prioritizes accountability over image, the City Commission’s proclamations are just hollow slogans.
The question Battle Creek residents—and the victims—must ask themselves is simple: Are these proclamations real advocacy, or just a shield to hide inaction?
The community deserves transparency, not theatrics. Every staged “support” moment rings hollow when victims are ignored.
For the full investigation, victim voices, and continuing updates on the Douponce case, visit www.fafojustice.com.