FLINT, Michigan — From August 12–15, 2025, the Flint Police Department’s S.A.P.P.H.I.R.E.S. Unit will host its second annual “Preventing Sexual Assault Crimes & Empowering Survivors” Conference, a four-day community-centered event focused on justice, healing, and systemic change.
S.A.P.P.H.I.R.E.S., which stands for
Standing Against Predators and Pedophiles while Honoring Individual Rights & Empowering Survivors, was founded by Sergeant Mona Patterson, a Flint native and survivor of sexual assault. The conference is both a professional convening and a personal mission for Sgt. Patterson, who leads the unit.
“As the founder of the S.A.P.P.H.I.R.E.S. Conference, I was inspired by my very own personal experience as a survivor of sexual assault,” said Sgt. Patterson. “I entered law enforcement with a strong desire to see justice, not only for myself, but for others who have been silenced, like many survivors. This initiative is about giving victims a platform where their voices can be heard without judgment, excuses, or minimization.”
This year’s conference will welcome a powerful lineup of speakers and advocates, including:
- Claressa Shields, Olympic gold medalist and undisputed boxing champion
- Mayor Sheldon Neeley, City of Flint
- Chief Terence Green, Flint Police Department
- Sergeant Mona Patterson, Flint Police Department
- Michelle Harrell, author and survivor advocate
- Tia Cole, YWCA Impact Officer
Following a successful inaugural event in 2024, the response from law enforcement, community partners, and survivors motivated Patterson to expand the initiative this year.
“I received so much positive feedback,” she said. “It affirmed that there was a real need and a strong desire for continued conversations, education, and support around sexual assault. Because of that encouragement, I am actively working on building stronger multidisciplinary partnerships and developing resources and trainings that empower both survivors and professionals.”
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Courtesy photoSgt. Mona Patterson.
The 2025 conference aims to deepen conversations started last year, shifting from awareness to action.
In addition to sessions focused on trauma-informed care and survivor-centered justice, this year’s programming will explore the intersections of sexual assault with race, poverty, and other systemic barriers.
“This year, we will dive deeper into actionable strategies,” Patterson shared. “We’re emphasizing collaboration across sectors such as law enforcement, healthcare, education, and community organizations. We want to go beyond raising awareness; we want to change outcomes.”
For Sgt. Patterson, leading this work in her hometown carries immense personal meaning.
“Being part of this community, I see firsthand the unique challenges survivors face, especially in a city that has endured so much,” she said. “It’s a privilege to stand alongside survivors, offering them the empathy, respect, and guidance they deserve. This work is not just about helping others, it’s also about creating a ripple effect of awareness, change, and hope both in Flint and beyond.”
Community members who are unable to attend the full conference are still encouraged to participate by accessing online content, volunteering with survivor-focused organizations, or simply fostering conversations about consent, safety, and accountability.
“You don’t need to be an expert to make a difference,” said Patterson. “Offering your time, voice, and support can have a powerful impact. Every small action adds to a collective effort.”
To those who may be struggling in silence, Sgt. Patterson offered a heartfelt message: “Your pain is real and your experience matters. Healing doesn’t follow a straight path; it’s okay to take it one day or even one moment at a time. You are strong, and your journey matters. Even in silence, your resilience is a powerful force, and there is hope, even when it feels hard to see.”
For more information about the conference or to register, visit this site or follow the Flint Police Department on social media for updates.
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