City of Flint SAPPHIRES Conference

Description

Day one of the conference focuses on justice, healing, and prevention. Experts will discuss cold case development, using forensic genealogy to solve unsolved cases. A survivor will share their powerful story, highlighting resilience and advocacy. Sessions will cover trauma recovery, the mental health of first responders, and the impact of working on sexual violence cases. Experts will also explore investigative forensic methodology, showcasing cutting-edge techniques in identifying perpetrators. The day concludes with a focus on primary prevention and policy, emphasizing strategies to stop sexual violence before it happens and drive systemic change.

Day two of the conference takes a deep dive into the complexities of investigating and prosecuting sexual crimes. Experts will explore the mind of a criminal, offering insights into offender behavior and psychology. Sessions will address strategies for getting witnesses to testify, overcoming fears, and ensuring justice for survivors. Legal professionals will discuss the challenges of trying difficult cases as a prosecutor, sharing real-world experiences and best practices. The day will also focus on the intersection of human trafficking and sexual violence, highlighting the tactics traffickers use and how to combat exploitation.