[katv.com]Police department creates 'soft interview room' to accommodate sexual assault survivors

Published June 23rd, 2024

By: Stefanie Dyga

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (TND) — A police department in Missouri debuted the first "soft interview room" in the state to accommodate sexual assault survivors and make them feel more comfortable during the interview process.

The Kansas City Missouri Police Department posted before and after photos of the room as it went through a big makeover. Police said soft rooms act as a "critical component of Trauma-Informed Care, allowing survivors to feel physically and emotionally safe."

This can have a positive impact on the interview process," the department continued in the post.

Texas-based nonprofit organization Project Beloved: The Molly Jane Mission installed the soft care room.

We are honored to partner with you and grateful for your commitment to do better," Project Beloved said in a comment on the Facebook post. "It is our hope your Soft Interview Room will provide a comfortable environment for the survivors you serve."

Another nonprofit, the Police Foundation of Kansas City, funded the remodeling process which included new carpet, lighting, furniture and artwork.