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A Macomb County father faces felony charges for allegedly failing to pay nearly $20,000 in child support, as officials stress accountability and family justice.
Felony Nonsupport Charges Highlight Financial Neglect
MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. — Jason Demski, a 45-year-old from St. Clair Shores, was arraigned on Monday, December 2, 2024, on charges of felony nonsupport for allegedly failing to pay $19,977.69 in court-ordered child support. The Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office brought the charges after years of enforcement actions failed to recover payments.
Demski’s financial obligations were established in April 2019, when Judge Matthew Switalski of Macomb County Circuit Court ordered him to pay $369 per month for his minor child. Despite two show-cause hearings and the issuance of two bench warrants, the unpaid balance persisted, exceeding $5,000 — a threshold for felony nonsupport under Michigan law.
Arraignment Details and Court Proceedings
Demski’s arraignment before Magistrate Ryan Zemke in Clinton Township’s 41B District Court resulted in a bond set at $4,994. His Probable Cause Hearing is scheduled for December 9, 2024, at 8:30 a.m. before Judge Jacob Femminineo, Jr. If convicted, Demski faces up to four years in prison.
Prosecutor Lucido Stresses Accountability
“This case highlights our commitment to holding individuals accountable for their legal obligation to support their children,” said Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido. “When a parent fails to provide the financial support their child depends on, it harms the entire family. Our office will continue to pursue justice and ensure that children receive the resources they need to thrive.”
The Macomb County Prosecutor’s Family Division oversees such cases when arrears exceed $5,000, no payments are made for at least three months, and evidence suggests the noncustodial parent can afford payments. While penalties can be severe, the division prioritizes securing financial support for children, aiming to resolve these cases equitably.
Child Support Enforcement: What’s at Stake
Child support plays a critical role in ensuring a child’s well-being, covering essential needs like food, clothing, education, and healthcare. Nonpayment can strain custodial parents financially, creating additional hardships for children.
Parents facing challenges with support enforcement or unpaid arrears are encouraged to contact the Office of Child Support at (866) 540-0008. For cases involving arrears exceeding $5,000, the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Family Division can be reached at (586) 493-4488.
Broader Context of Child Support Enforcement
Michigan’s child support laws seek to balance punitive measures with efforts to rehabilitate and recover owed payments. While felony nonsupport cases like Demski’s are rare, they serve as critical reminders of the legal and ethical obligations parents have toward their children.
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