Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA)
In September 2003, Congress enacted the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA). The purpose of the act is to establish a zero-tolerance standard regarding sexual abuse and sexual harassment of offenders within a correctional setting. PREA applies to all federal, state, and local prisons, jails, lockups, private institutions, and community residential facilities. PREA addresses all types of sexual misconduct in which an offender is a victim, including abuse by fellow offenders as well as sexual misconduct committed by staff.
Sexual abuse and sexual harassment in correctional institutions affect offenders, staff, and even the public.
The act established a national panel to develop a set of national standards and required the U.S. Attorney General to review and publish a final set of PREA Standards.
Seward County Detention Center PREA Policy
The Seward County Jail has enacted policies to establish a Zero-Tolerance of sexual abuse and sexual harassment to ensure that all allegations of sexual abuse or sexual harassment are referred for investigation.
Reporting Sexual Abuse and Sexual Harassment
All offenders have the right to be free from sexual abuse and sexual harassment while in the Seward County Detention Center. The Seward County Detention Center takes all allegations of sexual abuse and sexual harassment seriously and is committed to responding to all reports promptly and taking appropriate steps to protect victims and prevent further harm. Due to the serious nature of these allegations, anyone with knowledge of suspected offender-on-offender or staff-on-offender sexual abuse or harassment occurring within the facility or during placement is encouraged to report the information immediately so appropriate action can be taken. In cases involving imminent danger, designated telephone numbers are provided for immediate reporting and assistance.
The Seward County Detention Center investigates all allegations of sexual abuse and sexual harassment in accordance with applicable PREA standards and facility policies. Administrative investigations of sexual harassment are conducted internally by an individual appointed by the PREA Coordinator or Detention Center Director. Allegations that may constitute criminal conduct are referred to the Seward County Sheriff’s Office PREA Investigator for criminal investigation. The Seward County Detention Center cooperates with the Seward County Sheriff’s Office during criminal investigations and any resulting prosecution, as appropriate.
The identity of individuals making reports and information pertaining to alleged sexual abuse or sexual harassment are maintained as confidential and disclosed only to those with a legitimate need to know, consistent with pertinent laws, policies, and investigative requirements. Information concerning the victim and the alleged incident is handled in accordance with applicable policies, state statutes, and professional licensure and ethical standards.
PREA Coordinator
The Seward County Jail has a designated PREA Coordinator. That person is charged with the development, implementation, and oversight of the efforts to comply with the PREA standards. The PREA Coordinator is responsible for overseeing efforts to eliminate sexual abuse and sexual harassment in the Seward County Jail.
To report an incident of sexual abuse or harassment of an inmate, the public may use the following contact information:
Jessica Cain
Programs Sergeant
261 S. 8th Street, Suite 099
Seward, NE 68434
(402) 643-9453
jcain@sewardcountyne.gov