Written by Tanya Terry

Photos courtesy of Detective Sergeant Mona Patterson, City of Flint Police Department

Featured photo: D/Sergeant Mona Patterson with APA Jennifer Janetsky at the 2024 Preventing Sexual Assault Crimes & Empowering Survivors” Conference

The Flint Police Department’s S.A.P.P.H.I.R.E.S. Unit (Standing Against Predators and Pedophiles while Honoring Individual Rights & Empowering Survivors)  is inviting the Flint community to its 2nd Annual “Preventing Sexual Assault Crimes & Empowering Survivors” Conference from August 12–15.

This event is intended to raise awareness and promote healing and prevention around sexual assault.

The lineup of speakers and participants includes Olympian & Undisputed Boxing Champion Claressa “GWOAT” Shields, Mayor Sheldon Neeley, Flint Police Department’s Chief Terence Green and Sergeant Mona Patterson, Author and Advocate Michelle Harrell and YWCA Impact Officer Tia Cole.

 “Our goal is to break the silence surrounding sexual assault and reduce the stigma that often comes from fear or a lack of support,” stated Detective Sergeant Mona Patterson, criminal sexual conduct investigator with the City of Flint Police Department.
She added: “We aim to educate the public about the impact of sexual assault on survivors, how to recognize the signs and to reassure victims that their voices matter.”
Detective Sergeant Mona Patterson, criminal sexual conduct investigator with the City of Flint Police Department

As a result of the 2024 conference, Patterson said victims began reaching out to them more frequently to ensure their voices were heard.

The Flint Police Department’s S.A.P.P.H.I.R.E.S. Unit  aspires to see an even larger audience this year.

Attendees listen intently at the 2024 conference.

According to Patterson, Claressa “GWOAT” Shields will bravely share her journey as a survivor of sexual assault.

“She will illuminate the path she took to overcome her profound challenges and ultimately rise to the pinnacle of her sport, all while confronting the lasting effects of her trauma.”
Claressa Shields will discuss both how she overcame profound challenges to rise to success and the lasting impact of her trauma.
Mayor Sheldon Neeley of Flint will introduce the inspiring SAPPHIRES. Chief Terence Green of the Flint Police Department will highlight the SAPPHIRES vital role in the community and the importance of fostering support and safety for all. Patterson will herself speak on diversity within law enforcement and the critical nature of case reviews to help emphasize the need for transparency and inclusivity. Michelle Harrell, a passionate author and advocate, will share her heartfelt story, detailing how her experiences have fueled her advocacy work and inspired her to become a best-selling author, while empowering others along the way. (And) Tia Cole, the YWCA’s impact officer, will discuss the diverse array of services the agency offers to uplift and support the community and help empower all within the community.
The conference consist of a meet and greet on August 12.

On August 13, the mayor will speak, followed by discussions on various topics, including “Victims’ Voices,” diversity, a case study, “Voices of Children,” and “Remembering the Why.” Lunch will be served, and afterwards, the challenges of getting reluctant witnesses to testify and delve into topics such as sexual assaults leading to homicide, sex trafficking and internet dangers will be discussed. The theme “What’s Your Story” will conclude the day’s discussions.

On August 14, the agenda will include an overview of organizations, perspectives and preparation for defense, understanding the mind of the criminal, first responder mental health and revictimization.

“We will introduce a special guest who is an overcomer, sharing ‘A Story of a Champion.’ We will then close out the day with a spoken word performance.”

On the final day of the discussion, attendees will have the opportunity to get food, beverages and information at a resource tent located at the front lawn of City Hall.

“We will be available to answer questions and provide resources.”
Detective Nelson Hadley, Detective Sergeant Mona Patterson, and APA Glenn Cotton
Patterson said the upcoming conference is not just about sharing information; it is also about transformation.
“…It focuses on breaking silences, building bridges and reaffirming that survivors are seen, heard, and believed….”