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ABOUT US

FLINT PD SAPPHIRES

History & Formation

The Flint Police Department's S.A.P.P.H.I.R.E.S. unit, which stands for "Standing Against Predators and Pedophiles While Honoring Individuals’ Rights and Empowering Survivors," was established in late 2023 under the leadership of Sergeant Mona Paterson. This specialized unit evolved from the department's Sexual Assault Kit Investigation (SAKI) Unit, reflecting a strengthened commitment to addressing sexual assault and supporting survivors in the Flint community.

The inception of the Flint PD S.A.P.P.H.I.R.E.S. unit marked a pivotal advancement in Flint's approach to combating sexual violence. By integrating multidisciplinary collaboration, victim advocacy, policy reform, and the utilization of advanced investigative technologies, the unit aims to enhance the effectiveness of major crime investigations. This comprehensive strategy underscores the Flint Police Department's dedication to fostering a safer community and ensuring justice for survivors.

To further these objectives, the Flint PD S.A.P.P.H.I.R.E.S. unit organizes a five-day statewide conference every August, bringing together professionals from various sectors to share knowledge and reimagine responses to major crimes, including sexual assault. This initiative exemplifies the unit's proactive stance in addressing complex criminal cases and supporting victims.

Join Us At The 2025 Conference

Our Impact

Survivor Resources

Advocacy In Action

2nd Annual Conference

Meet The Flint PD SAPPHIRES Team

Police Sergeant Mona Patterson

Sergeant Mona Patterson leads the SAPPHIRES Unit within the City of Flint Police Department, where she is dedicated to investigating and prosecuting criminal sexual conduct cases.

With over 20 years of law enforcement experience, she has played a pivotal role in advancing investigations, supporting survivors, and securing convictions.

Her expertise in evidence analysis, suspect identification, and case prosecution ensures that survivors receive the justice they deserve. Under her leadership, the SAPPHIRES Unit continues to drive systemic change, improve investigative practices, and advocate for those impacted by sexual violence in the Flint community.

Lead Detective Nelson Hadley

Detective Nelson Hadley has served with the City of Flint Police Department since 1998, bringing over 26 years of law enforcement experience to his role as the Lead Detective of the SAPPHIRES Unit. His expertise in major crime investigations, sexual assault casework, and victim advocacy has been instrumental in securing justice for survivors and holding offenders accountable.

With prior assignments in the Major Crimes Division, SAKI Unit, and Patrol, Detective Hadley has developed a comprehensive investigative skill set that enhances the SAPPHIRES Unit’s mission. His leadership ensures that sexual assault cases are thoroughly investigated, survivors receive the support they deserve, and the Flint community continues to fight against sexual violence.

Prosecuting Attorney Glenn Cotton

Attorney Glenn Cotton serves as the Prosecuting Attorney for the SAPPHIRES Unit, bringing his extensive legal expertise and dedication to justice to the fight against sexual violence in Flint. As a Senior Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for the Genesee County Prosecutor's Office, he plays a critical role in ensuring offenders are held accountable and survivors receive the justice they deserve.

With nearly three decades of legal experience, including 25 years as a defense attorney, Attorney Cotton has a deep understanding of the legal system from multiple perspectives. His commitment to advocating for victims, securing convictions, and strengthening prosecution efforts makes him a vital force in the SAPPHIRES Unit’s mission to combat sexual violence and protect the Flint community.

Program Coordinator Tanisha Jones

Tanisha Jones serves as the Program Coordinator for the SAPPHIRES Unit, overseeing initiatives that support survivors, improve case management, and enhance community outreach. Since joining the City of Flint Police Department in 2022, she has played a key role in strengthening victim advocacy efforts, coordinating resources, and ensuring the unit operates efficiently to bring justice to survivors of sexual violence.

With over 20 years of experience in Human Services and nonprofit program management, Tanisha brings a deep commitment to community development and survivor support. Her leadership ensures that the SAPPHIRES Unit remains a powerful force for change, empowering survivors and driving initiatives that combat sexual violence in Flint.

Finance Manager Carissa Bush

Carissa Bush is a dedicated Finance Manager for SAPPHIRES, where she has been in her role since March 2022. With a strong background in financial planning, Carissa has previously worked with organizations like Northwestern Mutual, Mass Mutual, and TransAmerica, where she specialized in creating comprehensive wealth plans for clients.

A proud native of Flint, MI, Carissa holds a master's degree from Northwood University Business School. She is deeply committed to reducing crime and promoting economic growth in her community, particularly through initiatives like the SAKI program. She is also passionate about enhancing financial literacy for residents, youth, and local businesses.

Carissa is actively involved in several boards within the Flint and Genesee Chamber of Commerce and other non-profit organizations. Outside of her professional commitments, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three boys and aspires to read whenever possible.

Victim Advocate Jessica Weathersby

Jessica Weathersby is a dedicated Victim Advocate for SAPPHIRES, serving with the YWCA and assigned to the City of Flint Police Department SAKI Unit. With over 10 years of experience at the YWCA, Jessica has held key roles in the Safehouse and District Court, providing essential support and advocacy for survivors of sexual assault.

Since joining the SAKI Unit in 2015, Jessica has worked tirelessly to ensure that each survivor receives the justice and support they deserve. Her responsibilities include guiding survivors through the legal process, providing emotional support, and connecting them with resources to aid in their recovery. Jessica also advocates for the rights of victims, helping them navigate the complexities of the justice system while ensuring their voices are heard.

Her passion for helping survivors is evident in her commitment to reducing the trauma that victims often experience during investigations and court proceedings. Jessica's work plays a critical role in fostering a supportive and empathetic environment for those affected by sexual assault in the Flint community.

IB Clerk Lynetta Warren

Lynetta Warren currently serves as the IB/Property Clerk for the Flint Police Department SAKI Unit, a role she has held since 2016. Lynetta began her career with the Flint Police Department in 2003 as a Police Terminal Operator and later advanced to the position of Property Clerk, where she played a key role in developing the department's property policy.

In her current role within the SAKI Unit, Lynetta is responsible for managing and overseeing the handling of sexual assault kits (SAKs), ensuring that they are properly logged, stored, and tracked through the legal and investigative process. Her meticulous attention to detail and organizational skills are essential in maintaining the integrity of the evidence and ensuring that the kits are accessible for testing and investigation. Lynetta's work is vital in helping to bring justice to survivors of sexual assault by ensuring that no kit is overlooked and that every piece of evidence is treated with the utmost care and respect.

Lynetta’s commitment to the SAKI Unit and her role in managing the property related to sexual assault investigations have made her a crucial part of the team, dedicated to improving the investigative process and supporting survivors in their pursuit of justice.