What is PREA?

The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) was passed in 2003 with unanimous support from both parties in Congress. The purpose of the act was to “provide for the analysis of the incidence and effects of prison rape in Federal, State, and local institutions and to provide information, resources, recommendations and funding to protect individuals from prison rape.” (Prison Rape Elimination Act, 2003). In addition to creating a mandate for significant research from the Bureau of Justice Statistics and through the National Institute of Justice, funding through the Bureau of Justice Assistance and the National Institute of Corrections supported major efforts in many state correctional, juvenile detention, community corrections, and jail systems.

PREA and Brighter Transition Youth Treatment Center (BTYTC) and Falls Academy

BTYTC and Falls Academy designates a PREA Compliance Officer with sufficient time and authority to develop, implement, and oversee agency efforts to comply with the PREA standards. BTYTC and Falls Academy investigates each incident of alleged or reported sexual abuse or sexual assault/rape to the fullest extent possible in cooperation with the South Dakota Department of Social Services.

How to Report

Brighter Transition/Falls Academy PREA Compliance Officer

Residents have the right to contact victim support services or an advocate following an allegation of abuse. Support services are available locally at The Compass Center at 605-339-0116 or Toll Free 877-IN-CRISIS, or by calling the Child Abuse Hotline at 877-244-0864.