Promoting Safety & Accountability

The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), signed into law in 2003, is a federal initiative aimed at eliminating sexual abuse in all correctional facilities. At NWRRC, resident and staff safety is our top priority, and PREA compliance plays a critical role in maintaining a safe, respectful environment for all.

NWRRC’s leadership and staff are committed to upholding PREA standards through best practices in community corrections, helping prevent sexual abuse and ensuring an effective response when incidents occur. By integrating PREA protocols into our existing policies and prioritizing staff training, we have developed a proactive approach that fosters safety without unnecessary bureaucracy. Our approach focuses on:

• Clear Policies and Procedures: NWRRC is dedicated to maintaining the safety and well-being of all residents, with a strict zero-tolerance policy for any violations under PREA. We are committed to preventing sexual abuse and harassment, responding promptly to all reports, and upholding accountability through thorough investigations.
• Comprehensive Staff Training: NWRRC staff receive specialized training to investigate PREA allegations with care and professionalism. Each report of sexual abuse or harassment is treated with the utmost seriousness. When criminal behavior is suspected, we promptly contact the Portland Police Bureau to conduct an independent investigation. If an incident involves a potential policy violation, NWRRC’s trained investigators handle the matter internally and, if needed, work in coordination with the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) to ensure a thorough review based on BOP protocols.
• Swift, Thorough Investigations: All PREA reports are taken seriously, with incidents investigated by trained professionals. When an incident appears criminal, we work directly with the Portland Police Bureau to ensure a thorough investigation. Our PREA Coordinator is responsible for tracking every report from initial receipt through the investigation’s conclusion, and, if applicable, any subsequent prosecution. This process ensures a clear and consistent response, with a focus on resident safety, transparency, and compliance.