FLINT PD
SAPPHIRES
At the Flint Police Department’s SAPPHIRES Unit, we believe that real change comes from action, accountability, and unwavering support for survivors. Since our inception, we have worked tirelessly to combat sexual violence, seek justice for victims, and prevent future crimes in our community. Our efforts span investigation, advocacy, education, and prevention, leading to measurable results that have transformed countless lives.
Bringing
Justice To
Survivors
One of our most significant accomplishments is our commitment to processing and investigating previously untested sexual assault kits (SAKs). Through partnerships with state and federal agencies, our work has led to:
💎 Thousands of backlogged sexual assault kits tested
💎 Hundreds of serial offenders identified and arrested
💎 Multiple cold cases solved and survivors given justice
This work has directly led to convictions, preventing repeat offenders from harming others and ensuring survivors’ voices are heard in the pursuit of justice.
Preventing
Future
Crimes
While we remain committed to solving past cases, prevention is just as crucial. The SAPPHIRES Unit collaborates with local schools, community organizations, and advocacy groups to provide training and education aimed at reducing sexual violence in Flint. Our prevention efforts include:
✔️ Educational workshops for students and community members
✔️ Self-defense and safety training for vulnerable populations
✔️ Training for law enforcement on trauma-informed responses
We also focus on public awareness campaigns to educate the community about consent, reporting mechanisms, and how to support survivors.
Empowering Survivors
Survivors deserve more than just justice—they deserve healing, support, and empowerment. Our victim advocacy initiatives include:
💙 24/7 crisis support and resources for survivors
💙 Trauma-informed case management
💙 Assistance in navigating the legal system
Through collaboration with counselors, social workers, and advocacy groups, we connect survivors with essential resources, including mental health services, legal aid, and safe housing options.
Measurable
Change
in Flint
Since the establishment of the SAPPHIRES Unit:
📉 Reports of sexual violence have been met with quicker responses and more survivor-centered support
📉 Serial offenders are being arrested and held accountable
📉 Public awareness has increased, leading to a stronger culture of reporting and prevention
📉 Less survivors suffering alone thorugh increased support financially, mentally, and emotional creating a wholistic approach to healing
📉 Increased conviction rates for sexual assault cases, ensuring more offenders are held accountable
📉 Expanded survivor services, providing more access to counseling, legal aid, and emergency housing
📉 Stronger collaboration between law enforcement and advocacy groups, leading to more survivor-centered investigations
Building
Stronger Partnerships
We understand that we can’t do this work alone. By forming strong partnerships with prosecutors, forensic labs, medical professionals, and advocacy organizations, we ensure a holistic approach to combating sexual violence.
Our impact is strengthened by:
🔹 Annual training for law enforcement, first responders, and prosecutors
🔹 Collaborative efforts with forensic scientists to improve evidence processing
🔹 Community-driven task forces that amplify survivor voices
Looking
Ahead
Our work is far from over. As we continue expanding our impact, we are dedicated to:
🚀 Advocating for more funding to support our mission
🚀 Expanding survivor support services
🚀 Enhancing training programs for law enforcement
🚀 Launching more community outreach programs to educate Flint residents on prevention and survivor support
🚀 Implementing advanced forensic technology to strengthen investigations and increase case resolution rates
The Flint Police Department’s SAPPHIRES Unit is committed to making Flint a safer place for everyone. Together, with the support of our community, we will continue the fight against sexual violence, advocate for survivors, and hold offenders accountable.
Our Impact: Bringing Hope Beyond the Courtroom
At SAPPHIRES, our commitment to survivors and their families doesn’t stop in the courtroom; it extends into their everyday lives.
Every year, through our Adopt A Family for Christmas Wheelbarrow Fundraiser, we come together to make the holiday season a little brighter for those in need. Whether it’s providing gifts, essentials, or simply a reminder that they are not forgotten, this initiative has touched 68 families and counting; families who deserve joy, love, and support during what can be the hardest time of the year.
And we’re not stopping there.
The 2025 Adopt A Family for Christmas Wheelbarrow Fundraiser is already in motion, and we need your help to make this year bigger than ever. Whether you choose to donate, sponsor a family, or volunteer your time, you can be the reason a survivor and their loved ones experience the magic of the holidays.
💙 Join us in making a difference. 💙
Because when we lift up survivors, we remind them that they are not alone—not during the holidays, not ever.
Donate or Sign Up to Participate in the 2025 Adopt A Family for Christmas Wheelbarrow Fundraiser Today!
Contact Us
210 E Fifth Street
Flint, MI 48502
United States of America
Office: +1 810-237-6939
Get in touch with us via email: fpdsapphires@cityofflint.com