The Prison Rape Elimination Act Program (PREA) in the Office of Crime Victims Advocacy (OCVA) works to facilitate a statewide approach to sexual assault victim advocacy services for incarcerated survivors in Washington State through direct services and grants with community-based sexual assault programs.
Services
- Technical assistance and grant management for local sexual assault coalition and sexual assault programs.
- Confidential telephone advocacy for incarcerated survivors in Department of Corrections (DOC) facilities.
- In-person advocacy services for DOC inmates at sexual assault forensic medical exams.
- Leading partnerships to assist in PREA compliance in Washington State.
Strategic Goal
Mobilize and enhance local assets that strengthen a community’s ability to meet the economic and social needs of Washington’s families, workers, and employers.
Statutory Authority
State funding through an interagency agreement with the Washington State Department of Corrections Prison Rape Elimination Act : 42 USC Ch. 147
Fast Facts
PREA was signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2003, and national standards for state compliance were released in 2012.
In a study released in May 2013, the Bureau of Justice Statistics estimated 200,000 inmates per year in the United States are sexually abused.
OCVA is continuing to develop partnerships working toward meaningful access to sexual assault advocacy services for incarcerated survivors in all detention facilities statewide.
Need help?
Megan Baskett
Direct Services and PREA Specialist
360.725.2898
megan.baskett@commerce.wa.gov
