What is the core objective of PREA in correctional facilities?

• A. To prevent, detect, and respond to sexual abuse and harassment, and to promote a culture of zero tolerance.
• B. To regulate inmate visitation and cosmetic programs.
• C. To expand prison privatization and outsourcing.
• D. To increase inmate discipline metrics.

Answer: (A)

PREA is about preventing, detecting, and responding to sexual abuse and harassment in correctional facilities, and about promoting a culture of zero tolerance toward such conduct. This means implementing preventive measures like staff and inmate training, clear reporting channels, safe housing and supervision, and policies that reduce opportunities for abuse; ensuring confidential and accessible ways to report incidents; conducting prompt, thorough investigations; providing medical and mental health support to victims; and holding both staff and offenders accountable. The other options don’t address the purpose of PREA—regulating visitation and cosmetic programs, expanding privatization, or chasing discipline metrics—so they don’t align with the law’s aim to eliminate sexual abuse in confinement settings.