Steering Committee

In 2008, OJJ began regular meetings of the PREA Steering Committee to raise awareness of the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) and undertake a dedication to advancing OJJ PREA efforts. This Steering Committee has dedicated itself to education on PREA initiatives and to continuous improvement in training, security measures, health/victim services, physical plant issues, as well as areas in community/family involvement. PREA Steering Committee members meet quarterly to review the latest PREA resources, to advance agency efforts and initiatives, and review any PREA related incidents or concerns. Committee members have attended PREA trainings, and have participated in on-line PREA training through the National Institute of Corrections (NIC). In 2009, the Steering Committee developed OJJ’s policy on PREA. That policy has since been expanded and revised. Other committee accomplishments include developing staff/youth orientation and training on PREA; developing posters/flyers to raise PREA awareness; establishment of the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) at secure facilities; initiating physical plant improvements to improve visibility/enhance privacy where needed; and improving the notification process of PREA-related concerns with youth.