PREA
The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), a federal law enacted in 2003, was created to eliminate sexual abuse in confinement facilities. In addition to providing federal funding for research, programs, training, and technical assistance to address the issue, the legislation mandated the development of national standards. The National Prison Rape Elimination Commission developed recommended national standards for reducing prison rape. The final standards became effective June 20, 2012, when they were published by the Department of Justice (DOJ) in the Federal Register. The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released final standards for DHS confinement facilities, effective May 6, 2014.
The Fresno County Sheriff's Office complies with the Prison Rape Elimination Act in its entirety and has implemented procedures for appropriate prevention, detection, intervention and treatment for all victims of sexual assault.
Incarcerated persons being held in FCSO custody are encouraged to immediately report allegations of sexual abuse to an officer, nurse, chaplain, or any staff member. They may also call or write to any of the hotline numbers posted in their housing area. Numbers are also available in the Incarcerated Person Orientation Handbook. All calls are free and confidential.
If you were assaulted at one of our facilities, or if you wish to file a third-party complaint of sexual abuse, retaliation, or harassment on behalf of an incarcerated person, you may do so in person, by telephone, anonymously, or by mail by contacting:
Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) Coordinator
Lieutenant Marti Velasco
1225 M Street
Fresno, CA 93721
559-600-8467
In accordance with the standards set forth in PREA, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office has a zero tolerance policy for any act of assault, abuse, misconduct, and harassment of a sexual nature perpetrated by another incarcerated person or staff member, regardless of consent. Sexual conduct between incarcerated persons and staff, volunteers, or contract personnel, regardless of consensual status, is prohibited and subject to appropriate personnel action up to and including termination and potential criminal prosecution. There is no consent for sexual behavior in a custody environment.
The following information and resources reflect the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office’s commitment to PREA.
