Justice Systems

During this period, Wisconsin DOC closed out their grant. By the end of the grant, Wisconsin DOC was able to hire the Regional PREA Compliance Manager (PCM) position, expand the Regional PCM role throughout the state and create an additional five (5) positions.

Essex County closed out their grant during this reporting period. By the end of the grant, Essex County established a permanent state-level position for a mental health clinician. The county tried multiples measures to solicit and hire for this position, including advertising through the existing contract medical provider and the local rape crisis center. Unfortunately, perhaps due to COVID or the impermanence of the position, they continued to encounter barriers to hiring.

Cases responded to and closed during the reporting period July - December 2024 were 409.

During the reporting period, the Washington Department of Corrections (WADOC) continued to work towards their goals under their FY 22 grant. Two positions that play a major role under this grant, the Gender Responsive Administrator and the Transgender Housing and Program Manager, were successfully filled with new full time staff members. The coaches are hopeful that with new staff in place to make housing determinations for the transgender population will meaningfully consider transfers to gender-affirming institutions.

During the reporting period, the team reviewed and discussed sections of their PREA audit interim report. Rockford Sexual Assault Counseling (RSAC) staff provided training to RSAC about their role in the community and the services provided under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The telephones in holding can call the assigned PREA reporting numbers. Hiring staff is a priority to address shortages in supervision. WCJDC direct supervision staff were approved for a pay raise and adjustments to the bachelor's degree requirement were made.

During this reporting period, Muscogee County Jail decided to change the food flap goal to cameras, JMS and supporting technology, and a PREA investigations conference. The volunteer and contractor PREA training was scheduled. Religious volunteers and social service providers were PREA trained October 9, 2024. The PREA Coordinator (PC) scheduled medical, mental health, and food services staff for PREA training in November 2024. Officers who missed in-service training are scheduled to be trained in November and December 2024.

During this period, an online forensic interview training was scheduled. ACES training is pending for staff. The coach reviewed and made recommendations on the PREA training. A contract was approved to do camera connectivity upgrades at the Caliente facility. All other camera installations have been completed. The remainder of funds will be spent on body worn cameras to assist with video monitoring. A GAM will be submitted. The background check for Signs of Hope (victim advocacy organization) staff are complete and the training was created and is ready to be delivered.

During this reporting period, the agency conducted a review and revision of the PREA manual and the LGBTQ policy. PREA trainings have been reviewed and approved by the legal department. Since the PREA Coordinator is new to their role, they continue to increase their PREA knowledge and is working on completing the staffing plan. The grantee is gathering information and quotes for a camera upgrade. They are considering submitting a GAM to change budget and program activities.

During this reporting period, Kentucky Department of Corrections closed out their grant. By the end of the award, KY DOC secured a vendor to conduct a camera placement assessment and complete the system installation. The Department reviewed vendor quotes to determine the need for a phased approach to coordinate grant versus match funding. All equipment was ordered, and cables were installed around the facility. The PREA Coordinator worked with the vendor to ensure appropriate barriers, redaction, or pixelation was used in toilet and shower areas.

During this reporting period, the Fulton County PREA Coordinator (PC) updated the website to include enhanced PREA information. The coaches reviewed Fulton County website. The PREA information was easy to find and provides information on reporting, zero-tolerance and investigations. The team discussed in detail the PREA-related portion of the DOJ CRIPA investigation report. The report was released to the public and will be discussed at the November 20, 2024, Board of Commissioners meeting.