Letter to the Editor: Clark County Sheriff stresses importance of Marsy’s Law

As part of our ongoing effort to elevate voices calling for equal rights for crime victims, we’re pleased to share this letter to the editor from Kerry Kirn, originally published by the Enterprise Sentinel.

Dear Editor, 

In law enforcement, we, unfortunately, too often meet individuals on some of the worst days of their lives. The Sheriff’s Office is typically the first point of contact when someone has been victimized, and we do all we can to help a victim through these tough moments.

I’m grateful we live in a state that has adopted strong rights for crime victims in our constitution known as Marsy’s Law. Marsy’s Law gives victims enforceable rights including to be informed, present, and heard at every stage of the criminal justice process. These rights recognize that victims are not bystanders. They are directly affected by crime, and their voices deserve to be part of the system that responds to it.

When victims understand their rights from the very beginning, they feel more supported and respected as their cases move forward. Knowing they have a voice can reduce feelings of isolation during an already overwhelming time.

Marsy’s Law reinforces this principle by formally acknowledging victims’ roles in the justice process. Upholding these rights strengthens trust in the justice system and builds stronger connections between law enforcement and communities.

Ensuring victims are informed, heard, and included is essential to building a justice system that truly serves and respects those it is meant to protect. We are glad to play our part in the Sheriff’s office to make these rights a reality in Clark County.

Kerry Kirn
Clark County Sheriff
Neillsville