The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) was signed into law in 2003. PREA is a national law that addresses sexual abuse. PREA also calls for “zero tolerance” of all forms of sexual abuse and sexual harassment. PREA applies to all correctional settings.

+ What Does "Zero Tolerance" Mean?

The Dukes County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) fully supports PREA and the National Standards by enforcing a Zero Tolerance Policy concerning Sexual Abuse and Sexual Harassment in its facilities. DCSO investigates all reports of sexual abuse and sexual harassment. DCSO refers all substantiated cases of sexual assault against inmates/detainees for discipline, and when appropriate, for prosecution. DCSO also takes disciplinary action when an investigation reveals that an inmate/detainee knowingly made a false allegation. DCSO views all sexual contact between inmates/detainees or between inmates/detainees and staff, volunteers, or contractors as coercive and NEVER consensual.

+ What does the term "Sexual Abuse" Mean?

In the context of PREA, "sexual abuse" refers to:

• Any attempt or, threat to engage in sexual acts

• Any touching between the genitals, anus, or mouth

• Penetration or insertion by a finger, object, or another method

• Any other intentional touching of the genitals, anus, groin “crotch”, breast, inner thigh, or butt, unless it is part of official duties

• Indecent exposure (showing genitals on purpose), invasion of privacy, or staff voyeurism (spying or watching) for sexual pleasure

+ What does the term "Sexual Harassment" Mean?

In the context of PREA, "sexual harassment" refers to:

• Repeated attempts or pressure to have sexual activity

• Requests for sexual favors

• Repeated negative sexual talk

• Sexual actions or gestures (acting out sexual acts)

• Negative comments about gender

• Negative comments about body or clothing

What should I do if I am made aware that an inmate has been sexually assaulted or victimized by an inmate or staff person?

If you, or someone you know, were the victim of a sexual abuse or sexual harassment while in the custody of the Dukes County Sheriff's Office, we urge you to please report the incident by any of the avenues listed below. Any reports will be kept as confidential as the circumstance allows.

-You may make a report to any staff person you feel comfortable telling

-You may also call the DCSO PREA Manager to make a report: (774) 549-6093

-You may email the DCSO PREA Manager: kpachico@dcsoma.org

- You may report in writing to: DCSO PREA Investigations, P.O. Box 252, Edgartown, MA 02539

+ PREA DATA

+ PREA Policy

+ Support

Ongoing counseling and support may be accessed by calling CONNECT to end violence (Rape Crisis Center) at: 508-696-SAFE (7233), or the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (800-656-4673). PLEASE NOTE: these resources are not for reporting purposes. If you, or someone you know, were the victim of a sexual abuse or sexual harassment while in the custody of the Dukes County Sheriff's Office, we urge you to please report the incident by any of the avenues listed above.