Which action best supports the privacy and rights of victims and witnesses during PREA investigations?

• A. Providing privacy and sharing information only on a need-to-know basis.
• B. Sharing information with all staff.
• C. Posting case details publicly.
• D. Withholding all information from investigators.

Answer: (A)

Protecting privacy and rights during PREA investigations means sharing information only with people who need to know in order to conduct the investigation or ensure safety. This keeps sensitive details about victims and witnesses confidential, reducing the risk of retaliation, stigma, or re-traumatization, while still allowing investigators to do their job effectively.

In practice, information should be disclosed only to investigators, supervisors, and other authorized personnel directly involved in the case or in safety planning. Records should be kept secure, access logged, and details should be redacted or de-identified when possible. Victims should be informed about how their information will be used and who will have access.

Disclosing information to all staff or posting case details publicly would unnecessarily expose victims and witnesses and could jeopardize their safety and the integrity of the investigation. Withholding all information from investigators would hinder accountability and the investigation itself.

This approach best protects privacy while upholding the rights and safety of those who come forward.