Sex Trade Offender Program (STOP)
Building safe and caring communities through support and education
The Sex Trade Offender Program (STOP) is a post-court diversion program for first time offending sex buyers. Participants agree to spend a full day hearing directly about how sex trade survivors, families, neighborhoods, businesses, and communities are harmed by their actions.
The Grande Prairie STOP program is presented in partnership with Grande Prairie RCMP, the Crown Prosecutor, Probation, Crime Prevention, Alberta Health Services, ACT Medical, and HIV North. Each community partner is responsible for presenting different aspects of the impact purchasing sex has on the individual, the family, the community and society.
Topics covered will include; Vice Laws and Street Facts, Pimps & Predators, Health Risks & Facts, Voluntary STI testing, Healthy Sexual Behaviors & Addictions, Impact of Buying Sex: Self, Family, Neighborhood, Community, Impact of Sexual Exploitation on: Victim, Survivor and Family/Parents.
Participants to the program must NOT have a history of violence and/or child exploitation and strict adherence to guidelines for participation are enforced.
A fee of $750 must be paid to take part in the program as an alternative to a court-imposed fine for the charge. This fee will be used to support programming for victims of sexual violence and exploitation in the Northwest Region. Participation for the entire day is mandatory for successful completion.
If you have NOT been arrested, but think this program could help you, please contact Pace. You may be able to attend with a reduced fee. 780-539-6692.
What is an Adult Alternative Measures Program? What does this mean for me?
You will not have a criminal record. Once you complete the program the charge will be withdrawn.
https://justice.alberta.ca/programs_services/criminal_pros/crown_prosecutor/Pages/AdultAlternativeMeasuresProgram.aspx
Will I have a criminal record if I go to the Sex Trade Offender Program?
No, because it is an approved Adult Alternative Measures Program. However, when you apply for a Security Clearance, it will state for 1 year that you have had “criminal involvement but dealt with by way of Alternative Measures.” It is your responsibility to explain this to whoever is requesting the security clearance.
How much does the program cost?
$750. A money-order payable to Pace is preferred. We cannot accept a cheque. However, we do accept debit or credit card payment. A processing fee will apply to digital transactions. A cash payment must be discussed with the Program Coordinator first. Call 780-539-6692.
Do I have to attend my Court date after I have completed the Sex Trade Offender Program?
It’s a good precaution to either attend or have someone attend to you so that you are confident that your charge is withdrawn. There is always the potential for a slip-up in a big system.
Can I go to the Sex Trade Offender Program even if I have not been arrested, but I know I have a problem cruising the internet or street looking for women?
YES. Please call Pace at 780-539-6692. The STOP Program
Crime Prevention – Report-A-John: Help Keep Our Community Safe
To report a “John”, call 780-830-7077 and leave a message providing as much detail as possible including:
- Location, date & time
- Vehicle information
- A description of the offender
- A description of the “john” activity
All information is confidential.
Please assist Grande Prairie Crime Prevention in the tracking of ‘John’ activity in your community. This information will be used to understand where and how much prostitution activity is occurring in Grande Prairie neighbourhoods.
“John” activity can be described as:
- Anyone who propositions a prostitute or pays for sexual services
- Repeated drives by a location for a sexual purpose
- Slowing down to observe or talk to a prostitute
- Dropping off prostitutes
- Parking and watching prostitutes
Crime Prevention Confidential Tip Line: 780-830-7077
Sexual Abuse and Addiction
Sex is uncontrollable energy
Sex is an obligation
Sex is addictive
Sex is hurtful
Sex is a condition for love
Or void of love
Sex is “doing to” someone
Sex is void of communication
Sex is secretive
Sex is exploitative
Sex is deceitful
Sex benefits one person
Sex is emotionally distant
Sex is irresponsible
Sex is unsafe
Sex has no limits
Sex is power over someone
Sex requires a double life
Sex compromises your values
Sex feels shameful
Healthy Sex
Sex is controllable energy
Sex is a choice
Sex is a natural drive
Sex is natural, healing
Sex is an expression of love
Sex is sharing with someone
Sex is part of who I am
Sex requires communication
Sex is private
Sex is respectful
Sex is honest
Sex is mutual
Sex is intimate
Sex is responsible
Sex is safe
Sex has boundaries
Sex is empowering
Sex enhances who you really are
Sex reflects your values
Sex enhances self-esteem
The Grande Prairie STOP is modeled on the successful and longstanding Edmonton STOP created and implemented by The Centre to End All Sexual Exploitation (CEASE). The Grande Prairie STOP is possible thanks to the ongoing support and mentoring of CEASE.
The Grande Prairie STOP is an ongoing community partnership made possible by the contributions of Grande Prairie RCMP, the Crown Prosecutor, Probation, Crime Prevention, Alberta Health Services, ACT Medical, and HIV North.
The Grande Prairie STOP recognizes the support of the Government of Alberta Status of Women Community Grant Program.
