AGENCY TESTIMONY
Sexual abuse and harassment policies (PREA compliance)
1:17:01
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4 min
Deputy Commissioner Torres outlines the Department of Correction's policies and procedures regarding sexual abuse and harassment, emphasizing the department's zero-tolerance stance and compliance with the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA).
- DOC has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual abuse and harassment
- Multiple reporting pathways are provided for individuals in custody
- Staff, contractors, and volunteers receive training on identifying and reporting abuse
- Investigations are conducted promptly, with victim support and evidence collection
- Separate processes exist for incidents involving staff members as victims
- Support and resources are provided for staff victims through the CARE unit
Francis Torres
1:17:01
The New York City Department of Correction has a 0 tolerance policy regarding sexual abuse and sexual harassment.
1:17:10
When the identified victim is a person in custody, the department is guided by the Federal Prison raped Elimination Act, Priya, which provides standards for prevention detection and response to sexual abuse and harassment in correctional facilities.
1:17:30
We recognize that reporting an incident of sexual assault can be incredibly difficult and the department provides many different pathways for people in custody to report an allegation.
1:17:45
The department's pre compliance unit conducts in person orientation with all new admissions This allows individuals to ask the pre facility compliance unit, staff questions during the orientation or privately at its conclusion.
1:18:06
During the orientation, staff informed people in custody of the many ways to report an allegation.
1:18:13
People in custody can report an allegation to the department by speaking with facility staff from any unit, whether uniformed or non uniformed or previous staff who tour the facilities regularly or by calling a confidential hotline.
1:18:32
They can also make reports to the board and the Department of Investigation and by calling 311 or the Safe Horizon hotline confidentially.
1:18:46
In addition, sexual abuse reporting hotlines are stenciled throughout facility corridors and house scenarios so they cannot be removed or defaced.
1:19:00
Reporting methods are also outlined on posters throughout the facilities.
1:19:06
All DOC staff as well as contractors and volunteers who work with people in custody are required to take a training designed to identify and eliminate sexual harassment and abuse, which directs participants to take all reports seriously and forward reports immediately to the department's preinvestigation unit so they can be investigated.
1:19:37
Once a report has been received, the preinvestigation unit response usually within 24 hours to take initial statements and ensure victims are separated from their alleged perpetrators.
1:19:51
Offer counseling, medical, and mental health support, and collect evidence.
1:19:59
The department takes every allegation of sexual misconduct and harassment seriously and investigates each complain thoroughly.
1:20:12
It is the department's goal to achieve full compliance with all previous standards, as well as provide a safe environment for all staff and persons in custody.
1:20:26
When the identified victim is a staff member, a separate process is undertaken that is not within the purview of Priya guidelines and is managed by the department's correction intelligence Bureau, CIB.
1:20:42
Following a report, CIB interviews the victim as soon as possible, usually within 24 to 48 hours, collects witness statements and other potential evidence to support a charge and arrest.
1:21:00
Once the arrest is effectuated, all pertinent documents are forwarded to the Bronx district attorney.
1:21:09
For review and handling.
1:21:11
The Bronx DA ultimately determines if a matter will be pursued.
1:21:16
And if so, the DA will manage any further investigation.
1:21:23
We recognize that assaults on staff including sexual assault or harassment perpetrated by individuals in custody or other staff are no less sensitive or traumatic.
