PREA – PRISON RAPE ELIMINATION ACT

Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) Audit Report 2022

Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA)
Audit Report

- Yearly review P.R.E.A Standard §115.288
- Third Party Grievance P.R.E.A Standard §115.251

The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) of September 4, 2003 (Public Law 108-79) was enacted by Congress to address the problem of sexual abuse in all US penal facilities, which includes community corrections facilities like the West Texas Behavioral Health Residential Treatment Center (BHRTC). Adherence to PREA standards supports the prevention, detection and elimination of sexual abuse within these settings.

The BHRTC has a ZERO-TOLERANCE policy towards all forms of sexual misconduct within our facilities and program activities. All residents, clients, staff, volunteers, visitors, contractors and vendors have a right to be free from any form of sexual misconduct while on BHRTC premises or engaged in BHRTC services.

BHRTC procedures and training ensure our staff will act to prevent and detect such activity at all times. BHRTC will respond to all allegations, thoroughly investigate reported incidents and pursue disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment or removal from the program.

When criminal sexual misconduct is identified or suspected, staff will refer the matter to the El Paso Police Department for investigation and prosecution.

BHRTC staff will accept complaints on behalf of residents or staff from anyone. These reports can be made verbally or in writing and may be kept anonymous.

The BHRTC’s ZERO-TOLERANCE policy includes protection against retaliation for anyone who reports or cooperates in an investigation regarding sexual misconduct. Reports about sexual misconduct and/or retaliation can be made via any of the following:

BHRTC Facility
3700 Mattox
El Paso, Texas 79925
Phone: (915) 273-3393

Fax: (915) 273-3394

El Paso County Community Supervision and Corrections Department
800 East Overland, Suite 225
El Paso, Texas 79901
Phone: (915) 273-3344

TDCJ PREA Ombudsman Office:
PO Box 99
Huntsville, TX 77342-0099
Phone: 936-437-5570
Fax: 936-437-5555
E-mail: preaombudsman@tdcj.texas.gov