- CustomLinks_35
- Sheriff's Office
- Corrections
- Prison Rape Elimination Act
Prison Rape Elimination Act
What is PREA?
The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) of 2003 is a federal law established to address the elimination and prevention of sexual assault, sexual misconduct and harassment for those who are incarcerated. The Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office believes that sexual assault affects jail security and staff safety and poses long-term risks to inmates and staff.
PREA Response at the Snohomish County jail
In line with the provisions of PREA, the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office is committed to the safety and security of all persons incarcerated at its Corrections Bureau facilities. The Bureau has a zero tolerance policy toward sexual assault, sexual abuse or misconduct and/or sexual harassment of inmates by either other inmates or staff.
The Corrections Bureau at the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office is one of 200 direct supervision facilities nationwide. This method of supervision allows deputies to be proactive in the day to day operations of the jail. As a result, the inmates are directly supervised while in custody and issues can be readily identified and handled immediately.
Prevention of sexual assault, misconduct and harassment in the Corrections Bureau is paramount. Every allegation will be thoroughly investigated and sanctions up to and including prosecution will be imposed, when warranted. Perpetrators will be held accountable and every victim will be offered services.
Retaliatory actions against employees or inmates who report incidents of sexual abuse or harassment will not be tolerated by the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office and will result in disciplinary action and/or criminal prosecution.
Reporting Sexual Assault
If you or someone you know is or was a victim of sexual assault while in the custody of the Corrections Bureau, report it as soon as possible and please include as much of the following information as possible:
- What happened
- Name of the victim
- Name of the suspect (if known)
- Location in the facility where abuse occurred (if known)
- Time and date of sexual abuse
Reports can be submitted via email to corrections, phone (425-388-5010), in person (3025 Oakes St, Everett, WA 98201) or mail (3000 Rockefeller Ave, MS 509, Everett, WA 98201)
Please be advised that you can report at any time; however, it is imperative to report as soon as possible if an individual’s safety and security at issue. If requested, your anonymity will be protected.