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Juvenile Justice and Opportunities for Youth

PREA Compliance

PREA Defined

The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) was signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2003. The purpose of the act is to: “provide for the analysis of the incidence and effects of prison rape in Federal, State, and local institutions and to provide information, resources, recommendations and funding to protect individuals from prison rape.” (Prison Rape Elimination Act, 2003).

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has promulgated standards for prisons and jails, lockups, residential community confinement facilities, and juvenile facilities. These standards became effective August 20, 2012. Only the Juvenile Facility Standards apply to OCFS and may be found by clicking here. For additional information please visit the National PREA Resource Center website.

OCFS PREA Policies

Reporting Abuse

The New York State Justice Center is the focal point for sexual abuse incident reporting and investigations for OCFS. If you suspect an occurrence of sexual abuse in an OCFS residential juvenile justice facility please contact the New York State Justice Center at 1-855-373-2122. All reports of potential sexual abuse will be investigated by the Justice Center. False accusations may result in prosecution.

Data Assessment

OCFS routinely reviews policies and practices assessing their effectiveness in reducing and eliminating sexual abuse in residential placement. Prevention, detection and training are keys to success in this area.

Audits

All OCFS operated facilities must be audited at least every three years to be considered compliant with the PREA standards. At least one third of the facilities operated by OCFS must be audited each year.

The schedule of audits for each audit cycle will be posted here once the dates are finalized.

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