Ionia County, MI – Residents with certain outstanding bench warrants now have a limited-time opportunity to resolve them without being taken into custody, as the 64A District Court launches a holiday bench warrant amnesty program running through the end of the year.
According to the Ionia County Sheriff’s Office, the amnesty period is underway from Monday, November 17, 2025, through Wednesday, December 31, 2025, allowing eligible individuals to clear open bench warrants tied to unpaid fines, court costs, missed court dates, or failure to comply with court orders.
Court officials say individuals can resolve their warrants by presenting themselves in person to the 64A District Court probation department during regular business hours, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The court is located at 100 W. Main St. in Ionia, within Ionia County, about 40 miles east of Grand Rapids.
Under the program, those who are behind on fines and costs will be allowed to resume a payment schedule, while individuals who missed court appearances will be issued new court dates. Once processed, the bench warrant or warrants will be canceled, and participants will be allowed to leave without being arrested.
Court officials stress the amnesty applies only to bench warrants issued by the Ionia 64A District Court. Warrants from other courts or jurisdictions remain active and could still result in arrest.
Anyone unsure of their warrant status is encouraged to contact the court directly at 616-527-5342 during normal business hours for verification before appearing in person.
Officials say the program is designed to help residents resolve outstanding legal issues before the holiday season while reducing unnecessary arrests tied to older, non-violent court matters.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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