Sexual Assault
Resources on Sexual Assault from the Kent County Sexual Assault Prevention Action Team
- Frequently Asked Questions
- FAQ's Regarding Child Sexual Behavior and Abuse Among Children
- Myths and Facts
- Kent County Sexual Violence Prevention Programming and Educational Resources
About the Kent County Sexual Assault Prevention Action Team
The Kent County Sexual Assault Prevention Action Team was formed in Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1999 and consists of local experts in the field of sexual assault prevention, treatment, counseling and law enforcement. The action team is committed to reducing the incidence of sexual perpetration and victimization in our community.
Action Team Members: Children's Assessment Center, Grand Rapids Institute for Information Democracy, Grand Valley State University Women's Center, 17th Circuit Court - Family Division, Kent County Health Department , Kent County Sheriff Department, Devos Children's Hospital, YWCA Sexual Assault Program
Accomplishments and Services: The Sexual Assault Prevention Action Team coordinates a Speakers' Bureau and Educational Programs for Kent County youth, parents, adults and professionals. To better educate the community on issues and resources concerning sexual violence, the Action Team provides training opportunities and resources for reporters and journalists that report on crimes of sexual violence.
Research: In 2004, Grand Rapids, Michigan was one of 16 communities selected through a competitive application process by End Violence Against Women International (www.evawinc.com) to participate in a research project studying the low rate of prosecution and conviction of sex offenders in the U.S. and Canada. This research will be used to challenge the legal process to effectively prosecute sex offenders by redefining the way sexual assaults are conceptualized by the criminal justice system. Ultimately, the research will be used to effect change in public policy.
