Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA)

The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) was signed into federal law in 2003 and in 2012, the U.S. Department of Justice (USDOJ) finalized national PREA Standards. The Rhode Island Department of Corrections (RIDOC) is committed to adhering to the PREA Standards in order to continue to prevent, detect and respond to all incidents of sexual abuse and sexual harassment alleged to have occurred in its facilities.

The RIDOC has zero tolerance of inmate sexual abuse and sexual harassment, and accepts all reports of sexual abuse and sexual harassment whether made verbally, in writing, anonymously or from third parties. There is no time limit on when an incident of sexual abuse or sexual harassment can be reported.

Every allegation of inmate sexual abuse and sexual harassment is thoroughly investigated by RIDOC's Office of Inspections or Special Investigations Unit, and/or the Rhode Island State Police. Where warranted by evidence, proportional sanctions up to and including criminal prosecution are implemented.

To report incidents of sexual harassment or sexual abuse, please contact:

RIDOC's Special Investigations Unit at 401-462-2282 or doc.siu@doc.ri.gov

RIDOC's Office of Inspections at 401-462-2551 or doc.inspector@doc.ri.gov

The Rhode Island State Police at 401-462-2650

The Help Line at 1-800-494-8100

ICE at 1-888-351-4024

External Resources:

National PREA Resource Center