The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) was passed in 2003 to support the prevention of sexual assault and sexual harassment within the corrections systems. It mandates national data collection efforts, provides funding for program development and research, and creates a national commission to develop standards and accountability measures.

The Los Angeles County Probation Department has established a zero-tolerance policy regarding sexual assault and sexual harassment. Compliance with PREA is part of the departments continuous effort to keep youth safe while in its care.

While PREA speaks directly to residential and detention services for juvenile institutions, all employees, contractors, juveniles, and volunteers are expected to have a clear understanding that the Department strictly prohibits any type of sexual relationship with an individual under Department supervision, and considers such a relationship a serious breach of the standards of employee conduct and contract compliance. These relationships will not be tolerated.

Establishing data collection systems to accurately track sexual misconduct, analyze any incidents, and annually incorporate “lessons learned” into improved operations and the departments continuous quality improvements process to ensure PREA compliance and ultimately the safety and security of our youth.