What is the staff's responsibility when they suspect or receive a report of abuse?

• A. Ignore the report unless a supervisor approves.
• B. Report promptly to designated PREA officials, preserve evidence as applicable, and ensure the victim's safety.
• C. Document after the investigation has begun.
• D. Discipline the alleged victim.

Answer: (B)

When abuse is suspected or reported, staff must act immediately to protect the victim, preserve evidence, and report to designated PREA officials. Prompt reporting ensures the investigation can begin without delay and safety measures are put in place. Preserving evidence means avoiding any actions that could destroy or contaminate it (such as washing, changing clothes, or cleaning up) and following procedures to secure items and information. Ensuring the victim’s safety means removing the risk, providing medical or emotional support as needed, and maintaining confidentiality to protect the victim from retaliation. Choices that suggest ignoring the report, delaying documentation, or disciplining the victim do not uphold PREA standards and can endanger the person involved and compromise an investigation.