Delivering justice for Bay County Families.
Qualified and Ready to Reform the Bay County Prosecutor’s Office
Mike Kanuszewski is a seasoned attorney and proud U.S. Navy veteran, deeply committed to serving Bay County families. With a proven track record in both defense and prosecution, Mike has the experience and skills to tackle complex legal challenges. His military service instilled a strong sense of duty and honor that he carries into the courtroom every day. Now, Mike is ready to bring his experience, integrity, and leadership to the Bay County Prosecutor’s Office, restoring trust and delivering the accountability Bay County deserves.
MIKE KANUSZEWSKI IS ENDORSED
BY THE FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
Law enforcement professionals know that Mike Kanuszewski is the only candidate who can deliver the critical changes the prosecutor's office needs. Mike’s commitment to justice goes beyond just prosecuting cases—it’s about restoring trust in the system and ensuring that every case is handled with the seriousness it deserves.
Mike understands the challenges facing law enforcement and will be a strong partner in keeping our community safe. That's why the Fraternal Order of Police has given him their exclusive endorsement.
Mike will restore trust and accountability in our criminal justice system.
Bay County has a crime problem, and it stems from the incompetence of our current prosecutor, Nancy Borushko. At any given time, there are up to 1,000 backlogged cases. In contrast, neighboring Saginaw County has only about 45 backlogged cases. This means that many cases never go to trial—or even face the threat of going to trial. This creates a dangerous situation where criminals know they likely won’t face real consequences.
One of the key reasons crime is rising and cases are piling up is Nancy Borushko’s disregard for our law enforcement community. She has made it difficult for police officers to collaborate with the prosecutor’s office, which has created serious challenges in trying to bring criminals to justice.
Undermining Homeland Security: The Cost of a Disconnected Prosecutor’s Office
Bay County's safety is not only threatened by a rising crime rate and a backlog of cases, but also by the neglect of crucial partnerships with law enforcement. A functioning prosecutor’s office plays a pivotal role in not only addressing local crime but also in broader security efforts that protect our county from external threats. This lack of collaboration extends beyond criminal cases and into areas critical to Bay County’s homeland security.
Bay County is a Border County
Prior to Nancy Borushko taking office, the Bay County Prosecutor was an active participant in homeland security meetings, collaborating with local and federal law enforcement to ensure our county’s safety.
Under Borushko’s leadership, these meetings have been neglected—despite Bay County’s significant international water traffic.
As a 9/11 veteran who witnessed the horror of terrorist attacks firsthand, Mike takes homeland security personally. While Sheriff Troy Cunningham has kept those meetings going, it’s critical to have a prosecutor who attends, listens, and takes action. Bay County deserves a prosecutor who will not only prosecute cases but also stand as a partner in protecting our county from foreign threats.
MORE ABOUT MIKE
Mike Kanuszewski is committed to making Bay County a safer place to live, work, and raise a family. Mike is determined to implement the reforms necessary to strengthen the Bay County Prosecutor’s office. He believes that by addressing inefficiencies and working closely with law enforcement, the office can more effectively prosecute cases and reduce crime. Mike's vision for a safer Bay County includes modernizing the prosecutor’s office and holding offenders accountable while ensuring justice is swift and fair.
Professional & Education
1999-2003
United States Navy
Current
Staff Attorney
Bay County Office of Legal Defense
2015-2018
Assistant Prosecutor
Saginaw County
Mike served on the aircraft carrier USS George Washington. On September 11, 2001, the Washington was dispatched to New York City to serve as air cover, and was assisted in its mission by the USS Edson, now a museum in Bay City in the Saginaw River.
Responsible for the defense of indigent persons charged in Bay County. Mike ensures that every individual, regardless of their financial situation, receives a fair defense and is treated with dignity throughout the legal process. This is a basic constitutional right.
Served with distinction, gaining valuable experience in prosecuting cases effectively. Mike worked to hold serious offenders accountable for their actions, while ensuring justice was delivered fairly. His experience in handling complex felony prosecutions has strengthened his ability to protect our community and maintain public safety.
2009-2015
Criminal Defense
Attorney
Advocated for clients’ rights, ensuring fair legal representation for all. Mike worked to understand the unique needs of each client, providing strong and compassionate representation. Through his commitment to fairness, Mike ensured that each case was handled with care and diligence.
2012-2015
Guest Speaker
MSU College of Law
Presented on topics of legal ethics, Mike led discussions on the Michigan Rules of Professional Conduct, focusing on ethical standards for both defense attorneys and prosecutors. By addressing key issues like trial ethics, Mike demonstrated his commitment to upholding the highest legal standards in every case.