What Is PREA?
The Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003 prohibits and seeks to eliminate sexual assaults and sexual misconduct in correctional institutions. Sexual abuse includes inmate on inmate sexual abuse, inmate on inmate sexual harassment, staff on inmate sexual abuse and staff on inmate sexual harassment.
The Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office has a zero-tolerance policy for incidences of sexual abuse or misconduct within its facility. It is the policy of the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office to provide a safe, humane and secure environment free from threat of sexual abuse for all inmates in custody by maintaining a program of prevention, detection and response. Any person accused of such inappropriate acts will be subjected to an investigation and will be referred to the district attorney’s office for criminal charges when appropriate.
Purpose of the Prison Rape Elimination Act
The purpose of the Prison Rape Elimination act is to “provide for the analysis of the incidence and effects of prison rape in federal, state and local institutions and to provide information, resources and recommendations to protect individuals from prison rape.”
How to Report Sexual Harassment or Sexual Misconduct
Inmates who have been subjected to sexual assault, sexual harassment, sexual misconduct or victimization, or know someone who has been the victim of sexual harassment while in the custody of the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office at the Milwaukee County Jail, should either:
- Notify their housing unit officer or assigned supervisor immediately
- Notify the Mental Health Professional (MHP) via the medical request form (free of charge)
- Call the PREA hotline by dialing *789
- Fill out an inmate grievance form or inmate request form on the housing unit kiosk
- Send a written letter to the Milwaukee County Jail Administrator, 949 N. 9th St., Milwaukee, WI 53233
- Ask a family member or friend to call the jail shift commander at (414) 226-7047
Inmates calling the hotline regarding another inmate do not have to give their name; however, it is critical that as many details as possible are given; including:
- The names and locations of persons involved
- The dates and times the incident occurred
- Any potential witnesses to the incident
- A brief description of the incident or specific details
Civilians who have information regarding a Milwaukee County Jail inmate who has been the victim of sexual misconduct while in the custody of the Milwaukee County Jail may report information by mail or email.
Mail
Milwaukee County Jail
Prison Rape Elimination Act Coordinator
949 N. 9th Street
Milwaukee, WI 53233
(414) 226-7047
Email
It is the resolution of the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office that no inmate will suffer in silence. We will maintain and ensure a safe and secure environment for the public, staff and inmates.
PREA Resource Center